The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the exam schedule for UGC NET December 2025. If you are planning to appear for this exam, now is the time to note down important dates and prepare your application.
The exam will determine eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship, Assistant Professor positions, and PhD admissions across Indian universities. Here is everything you need to know about the UGC NET December 2025 exam.
When Will the UGC NET December 2025 Exam Take Place?
NTA will conduct the UGC NET December 2025 exam in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode from 31 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. The exam will cover 85 subjects.
Candidates can download the complete exam schedule from the official website ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Make sure you check the specific date and time slot for your chosen subject.
Important Dates You Should Not Miss
Here are the key dates for UGC NET December 2025:
- Last date to submit applications: 7 November 2025 (till 11:50 PM)
- Correction window opens: 10 November 2025
- Correction window closes: 12 November 2025
- Exam dates: 31 December 2025 to 7 January 2026
The correction window gives you a short period to fix any errors in your application form. Do not miss this chance if you made a mistake while filling the form.
How to Apply for UGC NET December 2025
The application process is simple. Follow these steps to complete your registration:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to ugcnet.nta.nic.in on your computer or mobile browser.
Step 2: Click on Registration Link
On the homepage, find and click the registration link for UGC NET December 2025.
Step 3: Register Your Details
Enter your basic details like name, email address, and mobile number. You will receive a confirmation on your registered email and phone.
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
Log in with your credentials and fill in all sections of the application form. This includes your personal details, educational qualifications, subject choice, and exam center preferences.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Complete the fee payment through the available online payment modes. Keep the transaction receipt safe for future reference.
Step 6: Submit and Download
After payment, submit your application form. Download the confirmation page and take a printout for your records.
Who Can Apply for UGC NET?
UGC NET is open to Indian citizens who meet the educational qualifications. The exam serves three purposes:
- Award of Junior Research Fellowship and appointment as Assistant Professor
- Appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to PhD programs
- Admission to PhD programs only
Each category has specific eligibility criteria related to educational qualifications and age limits. Check the official notification for detailed eligibility requirements for your category.
What is the Exam Pattern?
The UGC NET exam will be conducted in CBT mode. This means you will take the exam on a computer at designated test centers across India.
The exam tests your knowledge in your chosen subject along with research aptitude and teaching methodology. Make sure you understand the exam pattern and syllabus for your subject before you start preparing.
Application Fee Structure
The application fee varies based on category and the number of subjects you choose. General category candidates pay a higher fee compared to reserved category candidates.
You can pay the fee through credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI. The fee is non-refundable, so fill your application form carefully before making the payment.
Need Help? Here is How to Contact NTA
If you face any problems while applying or have questions about the exam, you can reach out to NTA through these channels:
- Phone: 011-40759000 and 011-69227700
- Email: ugcnet@nta.ac.in
The helpline operates during working hours. Make sure you have your application number ready when you call for faster assistance.
Tips to Prepare for UGC NET December 2025
With the exam dates announced, you should start your preparation in full swing. Here are some practical tips:
Understand the Syllabus
Download the syllabus for your subject from the NTA website. Make a list of all topics and divide them based on difficulty and your comfort level.
Create a Study Schedule
With limited time, a study schedule helps you cover all topics systematically. Allocate more time to difficult topics but do not ignore easier ones.
Practice Previous Year Papers
Previous year question papers give you a clear idea of the exam pattern and types of questions asked. Try to solve at least five years of past papers.
Take Mock Tests
Mock tests help you manage time during the actual exam. They also highlight your weak areas so you can focus on improvement.
Stay Updated
Keep checking the official website for any updates or changes. NTA sometimes releases important notices that candidates need to be aware of.
Why is UGC NET Important?
UGC NET is one of the most recognized exams for academic careers in India. Clearing this exam opens doors to teaching positions in colleges and universities.
The Junior Research Fellowship that comes with UGC NET also provides financial support for research scholars. This makes the exam crucial for anyone looking to pursue research or an academic career.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Many candidates make simple mistakes that can be easily avoided:
- Not reading instructions carefully before filling the form
- Uploading photographs or signatures in incorrect format or size
- Choosing wrong exam centers that are far from home
- Missing the correction window to fix errors
- Not keeping a copy of the application form and payment receipt
Take your time while filling the form. Rush can lead to mistakes that might cause problems later.
What Happens After the Exam?
After you complete the exam, NTA will release the answer key on the official website. You can challenge the answer key if you find any errors. There is a fee for each challenge you make.
Based on the final answer key, NTA will prepare the results. The results usually come out a few weeks after the exam. You can check your result on the official website using your application number and date of birth.
Successful candidates receive a certificate that is valid for three years for Assistant Professor eligibility and for the fellowship award as per UGC guidelines.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of UGC NET December 2025 exam dates gives you a clear timeline to plan your preparation. With exams starting from 31 December 2025, you have roughly two and a half months to prepare.
Make sure you submit your application before 7 November 2025. Use the correction window if needed. Focus on consistent preparation rather than last minute cramming.
Stay calm and confident. With proper planning and regular practice, you can clear this exam and move ahead in your academic career. Good luck with your preparation.
