UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025, administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is a critical exam for candidates aspiring for positions like Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professor. In 2025, the exam will consist of two papers, reduced from the previous three. The exam will include multiple-choice questions (MCQs) only, with no subjective questions, where candidates must select the correct answer from a set of options.
Paper 1 assesses general aptitude, covering subjects such as Mathematics, Reasoning, and English. Paper 2 focuses on subject-specific knowledge, with candidates choosing a subject based on their desired role, either JRF or Assistant Professor. The exam lasts three hours, and both papers are available in English and Hindi.
The UGC NET exam pattern evaluates a variety of skills, including general aptitude, teaching methods, knowledge of higher education, data interpretation, and information technology. Before 2019, the exam was held in two sessions of one and two hours, but since then, the format has been updated to a single three-hour session.
The UGC NET exam pattern has been shown in the above picture. Before discussing the UGC NET exam pattern, let us elaborate on the important structure of both papers, including the number of questions, marking scheme, subject coverage, and overall exam duration.
UGC net exam pattern was suggested by the National Educational Testing Bureau of the University
| Element | UGC Net Paper 1 2025 structure | UGC Net 2025 Paper 2 structure |
| Mode Of Examination | Online | Online |
| Duration | 180 Minutes (3 hours) | 180 Minutes (3hours) |
| Number Of Questions | 50 | 100 |
| Paper type | Common for the students | Specific questions from the subject (82 subjects) |
| Questions Type | MCQs with 4 options | MCQs with 4 options |
| Total Marks | 100 | 200 |
| Marking Scheme | +2 for the right answer and 0 for the wrong answer | +2 for the right answer and 0 for the wrong answer |
| Language | Hindi and English | Hindi and English |
NTA is conducting the UGC NET exam for the June 2024 session today, June 18, 2024. Prospective candidates must be well-versed with the latest UGC NET exam pattern and syllabus to plan their preparation effectively. The exam is conducted in computer-based mode and consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2, both of which are mandatory.
Paper 1 is designed to test teaching and research aptitude, covering topics such as reasoning ability, reading comprehension, data interpretation, communication, and general awareness. Paper 2 focuses on the candidate’s chosen subject, with 82 subjects available for selection. All questions in both papers are multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and there is no ugc net negative marking for incorrect answers.
The exam is conducted in a single session without breaks, and candidates must complete both papers within the allocated time. The ugc net syllabus is regularly updated, and candidates are advised to stay informed about any changes. To perform well, aspirants should practice previous years’ question papers, take mock tests, and revise key topics to strengthen their understanding.
Check the detailed UGC NET exam pattern for Paper 1 and Paper 2 below to align your preparation with the latest exam format.
As per the UGC Exam NET Pattern 2025, the examination was for two papers. Candidates had to complete both papers within three hours. The question paper consisted of objective-type multiple-choice questions for both papers. All questions were mandatory, and there was no ugc net negative marking. Paper 1 assessed teaching and research aptitude, while Paper 2 focused on the chosen subject.
| UGC net paper | Number of questions | Full Marks |
| UGC net paper 1 | 50 | 100 |
| UGC net paper 2 | 100 | 200 |
| Total | 150 | 300 |
Candidates need to attempt both the UGC net papers in one session (3 hours) without any recess. The questions in both papers are compulsory to attempt.
NTA has announced that in UGC NET Paper 1, the questions will be generic in nature to assess the research and teaching aptitude of the candidates. This section is designed to evaluate comprehension, reasoning skills, critical thinking, and general awareness. The questions are UGC NET Exam MCQ-based, requiring candidates to apply analytical and logical reasoning. Candidates must focus on time management, accuracy, and conceptual clarity to perform well. Regular practice with mock tests and previous papers can help improve problem-solving skills and overall exam performance.
| Sections | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
| Research Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
| Reading Comprehension | 5 | 10 |
| Communication | 5 | 10 |
| Reasoning (including Mathematics) | 5 | 10 |
| Logical Reasoning | 5 | 10 |
| Data Interpretation | 5 | 10 |
| Information and Communication Technology (ICT) | 5 | 10 |
| People and Environment | 5 | 10 |
| Higher Education System: Governance, Polity, and Administration | 5 | 10 |
| Total | 50 | 100 |
According to the official UGC NET notification, Paper 2 will be based on the subject chosen by the candidate. It will consist of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), all of which are mandatory.
Candidates must select their subjects from 82 available subjects while filling out the UGC NET application form 2025. The subject chosen should align with the candidate’s post-graduation discipline. Those whose post-graduation subjects are not available in the list of 82 subjects can choose a related subject.
Paper 2 is designed to test in-depth knowledge of the subject, research skills, and application-based concepts. The difficulty level of Paper 2 is equivalent to a postgraduate degree. Candidates should focus on conceptual clarity, subject-specific theories, and practical applications. Regular revision, solving past papers, and taking mock tests will help improve accuracy and confidence.
The UGC NET exam is entirely MCQ-based, making conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy crucial for candidates. Regular mock tests, previous years’ papers, and time management can significantly enhance performance. For more details, refer to the official UGC NET notification 2025.
Paper II of the UGC NET Examination consists of subject-specific questions. Candidates can choose from the following subjects based on their master’s degree specialization.
| Code | Subject |
|---|---|
| 01 | Economics |
| 02 | Political Science |
| 03 | Philosophy |
| 04 | Psychology |
| 05 | Sociology |
| 06 | History |
| 07 | Anthropology |
| 08 | Commerce |
| 09 | Education |
| 10 | Social Work |
| 11 | Defense and Strategic Studies |
| 12 | Home Science |
| 14 | Public Administration |
| 15 | Population Studies* |
| 16 | Hindustani Music (Vocal/Instrumental) |
| 17 | Management (including Business Administration, Marketing, Industrial Relations, Financial Management, and Personnel Management) |
| 18 | Maithili |
| 19 | Bengali |
| 20 | Hindi |
| 21 | Kannada |
| 22 | Malayalam |
| 23 | Oriya |
| 24 | Punjabi |
| 25 | Sanskrit |
| 26 | Tamil |
| 27 | Telugu |
| 28 | Urdu |
| 29 | Arabic |
| 30 | English |
| 31 | Linguistics |
| 32 | Chinese |
| 33 | Dogri |
| 34 | Nepali |
| 35 | Manipuri |
| 36 | Assamese |
| 37 | Gujarati |
| 38 | Marathi |
| 39 | French (English Version) |
| 40 | Spanish |
| 41 | Russian |
| 42 | Persian |
| 43 | Rajasthani |
| 44 | German |
| 45 | Japanese |
| 46 | Adult Education/Continuing Education/Andragogy/Non-Formal Education |
| 47 | Physical Education |
| 49 | Arab Culture and Islamic Studies |
| 50 | Indian Culture |
| 55 | Labour Welfare/Personnel Management/Industrial Relations/Human Resource Management |
| 58 | Law |
| 59 | Library and Information Science |
| 60 | Buddhist, Jaina, Gandhian and Peace Studies |
| 62 | Comparative Study of Religions |
| 63 | Mass Communication and Journalism |
| 65 | Performing Art – Dance/Drama/Theatre |
| 66 | Museology & Conservation |
| 67 | Archaeology |
| 68 | Criminology |
| 70 | Tribal and Regional Language/Literature |
| 71 | Folk Literature |
| 72 | Comparative Literature |
| 73 | Sanskrit Traditional Subjects (including Jyotisha, Vyakarna, Mimansa, Nyaya, Sahitya, Puranotihasa, Agama, etc.) |
| 74 | Women Studies** |
| 79 | Visual Art (including Drawing & Painting, Sculpture, Graphics, Applied Art, and History of Art) |
| 80 | Geography |
| 81 | Social Medicine & Community Health |
| 82 | Forensic Science |
| 83 | Pali |
| 84 | Kashmiri |
| 85 | Konkani |
| 87 | Computer Science and Applications |
| 88 | Electronic Science |
| 89 | Environmental Sciences (EVS) |
| 90 | Politics (including International Relations, Strategic Studies, and Area Studies) |
| 91 | Prakrit |
| 92 | Human Rights and Duties |
| 93 | Tourism Administration and Management |
| 94 | Bodo |
| 95 | Santali |
| 100 | Yoga |
| 101 | Sindhi |
| 102 | Hindu Studies |
Subjects marked with a masterisk have specific eligibility conditions. Candidates should carefully check the official notification of the UGC NET before selecting their subject.
Teaching Aptitude
The candidates may refer to UGC NET strategies for drafting their daily routine to prepare for the UGC NET exam. They can also solve UGC NET mock tests for further preparation. For more subjects, the candidate may search for the strategies needed to prepare for the UGC NET exam.
The UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 consists of two papers, both conducted in a single session of three hours without a break. The exam is computer-based (CBT) and is designed to assess candidates’ teaching and research abilities. Each correct answer carries two marks, and there is no negative marking. Candidates must attempt all questions, as no optional questions are provided. The exam evaluates subject knowledge, analytical skills, reasoning ability, and general awareness.
| Paper | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Duration | Subjects Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 50 | 100 | 3 hours (combined) | Teaching & Research Aptitude, Reasoning, Data Interpretation, General Awareness |
| Paper 2 | 100 | 200 | 3 hours (combined) | Subject-specific questions based on the candidate’s chosen subject |
| Response Type | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +2 |
| Incorrect Answer | 0 (No Negative Marking) |
| Unattempted Question | 0 |
For more details regarding the UGC NET exam pattern, application process, syllabus, and admit card, refer to the official UGC NET notification 2025.
The UGC NET Exam Pattern consists of a computer-based test with objective-type multiple-choice questions. The exam is divided into two papers, both of which are mandatory. Paper 1 assesses teaching and research aptitude, while Paper 2 is subject-specific.
Candidates preparing for specific subjects can refer to the detailed UGC NET exam patterns for their respective fields, such as UGC NET Life Science, Mathematics, Education, Physics, Commerce, Computer Science, Management, English, and other disciplines. Understanding the subject-wise paper pattern helps candidates plan their preparation more effectively.
As per the UGC NET Exam Pattern, the marking scheme is structured, with each correct answer carrying a fixed score. There is no negative marking, allowing candidates to attempt all questions without deductions. The exam is conducted in a single session, covering both papers within a fixed duration.
Since the exam is conducted in online mode, candidates should familiarize themselves with computer-based test-taking strategies. Regular mock tests, previous year papers, and effective time management play a crucial role in achieving a high score. Staying updated with the latest ugc net syllabus, sectional weightage, and exam notifications is essential for effective preparation.
In summary, understanding the UGC NET exam pattern for 2025 is essential for effective preparation. Knowing the exam structure, marking scheme, and syllabus enables candidates to create a focused study plan. Regular practice, time management, and comprehensive review are key to strengthening your readiness. By concentrating on each section of the exam, improving accuracy, and solving previous papers, you can significantly boost your performance. With the right strategies and a disciplined approach, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the UGC NET exam and achieve your academic goals. Stay consistent, stay motivated, and approach the exam with confidence and determination.
Also Read:-
UGC NET Previous Year Question Paper 2025: Free PDFs
UGC NET Exam 2025: Latest News, Dates, Salary & Vacancies
Ans. The passing marks for UGC NET for the general category are 40% in Papers 1 and 2, while the passing marks for SC/ST/PwD /Transgender//OBC-NCL categories are 35% in Papers 1 and 2.
Ans. UGC NET exam has two papers that are to be written in a single session of three hours. In Paper 1 and Paper 2, in the first paper, candidates have to answer 50 MCQs, while in the second paper, candidates have to answer 100 MCQs.
Ans. UGC NET exam is conducted in Papers 1 and 2. It has MCQs for each of the papers. It is mandatory to answer each question. The NET exam is conducted in a single session of three hours. The allotted marks for Paper 1 are 100, while for Paper 2, it is 200.
Ans. The net is valid for three years. Candidates may appear twice annually. The attempts are not restricted to the candidates.
The UGC NET exam is completely MCQ-based, with both Paper 1 and Paper 2 consisting of objective-type multiple-choice questions designed to assess candidates’ teaching aptitude, research skills, reasoning ability, and subject knowledge.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.