Key Dates for UGC-NET December 2024

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial for a successful application. Here’s the timeline for the December 2024 UGC-NET session:

  • Online Application Submission:
    Opens on November 19, 2024, and closes on December 10, 2024, by 11:50 PM. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

  • Fee Payment Deadline:
    The last date for payment of the application fee is December 11, 2024, until 11:50 PM.

  • Application Correction Window:
    A two-day window is available for corrections from December 12 to December 13, 2024. During this time, candidates can modify any errors in their submitted applications.

  • Examination Dates:
    The UGC-NET exam will be conducted in multiple shifts from January 1, 2025, to January 19, 2025.

  • Admit Card Release and Exam City Announcement:
    Details will be announced later on the official website. Candidates should regularly check for updates.

  • Results Declaration:
    The result will be published online after the exam. Exact dates will be shared on the NTA website.

1. Eligibility Criteria

Understanding eligibility is essential before applying. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Academic Qualifications

  • General/Unreserved/General-EWS:
    Candidates must have scored at least 55% marks in their Master’s Degree or equivalent examination. Eligible fields include Humanities, Social Sciences, Computer Science, and Electronic Science.
  • OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender:
    A minimum of 50% marks is required in the Master’s Degree or equivalent.
  • Candidates pursuing a Master’s degree or awaiting results can apply provisionally but must meet the eligibility criteria within two years of the result declaration.

2. Age Limit

  • Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
    Maximum age limit: 30 years as of January 1, 2025. Relaxations:
    • 5 years for OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender categories and women candidates.
    • Additional relaxations for candidates with L.L.M. degrees and those with research or armed forces experience.
  • Assistant Professorship/Ph.D. Admission:
    No upper age limit.

Application Process

Applying for UGC-NET December 2024 is entirely online. Follow these detailed steps to complete the process:

Step 1: Online Registration

  • Visit the official website: ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
  • Register using your email ID and mobile number to create a user account.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

  • Fill in personal, academic, and contact details.
  • Choose your subject and examination cities from the provided list.

Step 3: Upload Documents

  • Photograph: Must be recent, 80% of the face visible, file size 10-200 KB.
  • Signature: Scanned signature in running handwriting, file size 4-30 KB.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  • Use Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Keep proof of the payment for future reference.

2. Application Fees

The fee structure for UGC-NET December 2024 is as follows:

  • General/Unreserved: ₹1150
  • General-EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹600
  • SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: ₹325

Note: Additional GST or processing fees may apply, depending on the payment gateway.

3. Exam Structure

The UGC-NET exam evaluates candidates in two papers, conducted in a single session. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • Paper 1 (General Paper):

    • Purpose: Tests teaching/research aptitude, reasoning, comprehension, divergent thinking, and general awareness.
    • Marks: 100
    • Questions: 50
    • Duration: 1 hour
  • Paper 2 (Subject-Specific):

    • Purpose: Assesses in-depth knowledge of the subject chosen by the candidate.
    • Marks: 200
    • Questions: 100
    • Duration: 2 hours

Key Points:

  • The total duration of the exam is 3 hours, with no breaks between papers.
  • Marking Scheme: +2 for each correct answer; no negative marking.
  • Language: English and Hindi, except for language-specific papers.

4. Preparation Tips

A structured approach can significantly boost your chances of success. Here’s how you can prepare:

  1. Understand the Syllabus:
    Download the syllabus for your subject from the UGC website: Syllabus Download.
  2. Take Mock Tests:
    Use the CBT mock tests provided on the NTA website to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
  3. Time Management:
    Allocate equal time to Paper 1 and Paper 2. Focus on weaker areas while revising strong topics.
  4. Use Quality Resources:
    Refer to standard textbooks, previous years’ question papers, and online courses for subject-specific preparation.

5. Important Instructions

  • Single Application Rule:
    Submitting multiple applications will lead to disqualification.
  • Accurate Details:
    Ensure the accuracy of personal, academic, and contact information. Any mismatch may result in disqualification.
  • Stay Updated:
    Regularly visit the official website and check your registered email ID for updates regarding the exam.
  • Admit Card:
    Download your admit card once released. It is mandatory for entry to the examination center.

    6. Why UGC-NET Matters

    Clearing UGC-NET offers immense opportunities for academic and research careers:

    • Junior Research Fellowships (JRF):
      Financial support for pursuing research in recognized institutions.
    • Assistant Professorship:
      Eligibility to teach at universities and colleges in India.
    • Ph.D. Admissions:
      A valid NET score is often a prerequisite for enrolling in doctoral programs.

    7. Stay Updated

    For further updates and notifications, visit the official websites:

    For assistance, contact NTA’s helpline:

    8. Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What is UGC-NET, and why is it conducted?

    UGC-NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) is a national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to:

    • Determine eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
    • Qualify candidates for Assistant Professorship in Indian universities and colleges.
    • Enable admission to Ph.D. programs.

    2. What are the key dates for UGC-NET December 2024?

    • Application Submission: November 19 – December 10, 2024 (till 11:50 PM)
    • Fee Payment Deadline: December 11, 2024 (till 11:50 PM)
    • Application Correction Window: December 12 – December 13, 2024
    • Exam Dates: January 1 – January 19, 2025
    • Admit Card and Results: Dates will be announced on the official website.

    3. What is the eligibility criteria for UGC-NET December 2024?

    • Educational Qualification:
      • General/EWS candidates: Minimum 55% in a Master’s degree or equivalent.
      • OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender candidates: Minimum 50% in a Master’s degree or equivalent.
      • Final year Master’s students can apply provisionally.
    • Age Limit:
      • For JRF: Maximum 30 years (relaxations apply).
      • No upper age limit for Assistant Professorship or Ph.D. admission.

    4. How do I apply for UGC-NET December 2024?

    1. Visit the official website: ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
    2. Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
    3. Fill out the application form with accurate details.
    4. Upload required documents (photo and signature).
    5. Pay the application fee online using Net Banking, Credit Card, Debit Card, or UPI.

    5. What is the application fee for UGC-NET December 2024?

    • General/Unreserved: ₹1150
    • General-EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹600
    • SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: ₹325
    • Additional GST or processing fees may apply based on the payment method.

    6. What is the exam pattern and marking scheme?

    • The exam consists of two papers, both held in a single session:
      • Paper 1: General aptitude (50 questions, 100 marks).
      • Paper 2: Subject-specific (100 questions, 200 marks).
    • Duration: 3 hours (no breaks).
    • Marking Scheme: +2 for each correct answer, no negative marking.

    7. Can I make corrections to my application form?

    Yes, corrections can be made during the application correction window (December 12 – December 13, 2024). You can edit certain details like personal information and academic qualifications. Ensure you provide accurate information initially to avoid issues.


    8. How will the exam be conducted?

    The UGC-NET December 2024 exam will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Candidates will answer objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Exam centers and cities will be allotted based on the preferences provided during application.


    9. How can I download the admit card?

    Admit cards will be available for download on the official website (ugcnet.nta.ac.in) closer to the exam date. Candidates must:

    1. Log in using their application number and password/date of birth.
    2. Download and print the admit card, which must be presented at the exam center.

    10. What should I do if I face issues during the application process?

    If you experience difficulties, you can contact the NTA helpline for assistance: