The National Testing Agency (NTA) has revised the schedule for the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) December 2024 session. Initially scheduled for January 1 to 19, 2025, the exams will now take place from January 3 to 16, 2025. Registered candidates can find the detailed subject-wise schedule on the official website.
According to the notification from NTA, “The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct UGC-NET December 2024 for (i) ‘award of Junior Research Fellowship and appointment as Assistant Professor’, (ii) ‘appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to PhD’, and (iii) ‘admission to Ph.D. only’ for 85 subjects in CBT mode from January 3, 2025, to January 16, 2025.”
UGC NET DECEMBER – PATTERN
This year’s exams will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) format across two daily shifts: the first shift from 9 am to 12 pm, and the second shift from 3 pm to 6 pm. The UGC NET December 2024 session will cover 85 subjects. Candidates can expect the exam city intimation slip to be released a week before the exams start, allowing applicants to plan their travel arrangements in advance of the admit card release.
For more updates and information, applicants are advised to check the official website regularly.
Direct link to check the full notice
1. Who is the Organizing Body of UGC NET ?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the UGC NET examination.
The UGC entrusts the NTA to conduct this exam in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
The NTA ensures a transparent, efficient, and standardized examination process.
2. What is the Purpose of conducting UGC NET Exam?
The UGC NET exam serves the following purposes:
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): To award scholarships to candidates who wish to pursue advanced research in their chosen field.
Assistant Professor Eligibility: To determine the eligibility of candidates for appointment as Assistant Professors in universities and colleges across India.
Ph.D. Admissions: It is also a criterion for admission to doctoral programs in certain universities.
This ensures a high standard of teaching and research in Indian universities and colleges.
3. What is the Process of the Exam UGC NET ?
The UGC NET exam is conducted in the following manner:
Eligibility Criteria:
Educational Qualification: A Master’s degree or equivalent with a minimum of 55% marks for General category candidates and 50% for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD).
Final-year postgraduates can also apply.
Candidates for JRF must be under 30 years of age (relaxation for reserved categories).
Application Process:
Online registration is done through the official NTA UGC NET portal.
Applicants are required to pay an exam fee, upload necessary documents, and choose their exam cities.
Exam Format (CBT Mode):
Paper 1: General Paper (Teaching and Research Aptitude). It tests reasoning ability, comprehension, general awareness, and divergent thinking.
Number of Questions: 50
Total Marks: 100
Duration: 1 Hour
Paper 2: Subject-Specific Paper based on the candidate’s choice of subject (out of 85 subjects).
Number of Questions: 100
Total Marks: 200
Duration: 2 Hours
There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
Result Declaration:
The NTA releases the result on its official website. Candidates can download their scorecards.
The qualifying marks are:
General Category: 40% aggregate
Reserved Categories: 35% aggregate
4. What Knowledge is Required for the UGC NET Exam?
To excel in UGC NET, candidates need a robust understanding of:
Paper 1:
Teaching aptitude, research methodology, reasoning, comprehension, and data interpretation.
Awareness of higher education systems in India and global developments.
Paper 2 (Subject-Specific):
In-depth knowledge of the subject chosen (e.g., Commerce, English, History, Education, etc.).
Master’s-level expertise and familiarity with the latest advancements in the chosen field.
General Knowledge:
Updates on Indian policies related to education, research, and development.
5. What was the Last Exam Analysis and Cut-Offsin UGC NET ?
The results for UGC NET June 2023 provide valuable insights into cut-offs and competition.
Exam Statistics:
Total Candidates Registered: Over 8.3 lakh
Total Candidates Appeared: Approx. 6.4 lakh
Candidates Qualified for JRF and Assistant Professor: Around 43,246
Cut-Offs (June 2023):
General Category:
Commerce: 58.67% (JRF), 50.67% (Assistant Professor)
English: 61.33% (JRF), 53.33% (Assistant Professor)
OBC Category:
Commerce: 52.67% (JRF), 45.33% (Assistant Professor)
Education: 52.67% (JRF), 44.67% (Assistant Professor)
Trends:
The cut-off percentages vary by subject and category, with subjects like English, Commerce, and Political Science having higher competition.
Candidates qualifying for JRF are fewer than those qualifying for Assistant Professor.
Must read the tips for Exam Preparation: 5 Tips for Last-Minute Success in CBSE X/XII Board Exams.
Conclusion
The UGC NET exam is critical for anyone aspiring to a career in research or teaching at the university level. Its rigorous process ensures that only the most qualified individuals are selected. Proper preparation with a focus on subject knowledge, teaching aptitude, and current affairs is key to success.
For any updates or notifications, candidates are advised to regularly visit the official NTA website or the UGC NET portal.
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