Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026 – Notification, Eligibility, Application Form, Exam Date

📅 10 Oct 2026 📁 Admission Udham Singh By Udham Singh
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The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the official Information Bulletin for the Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 examination. The Joint Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test is conducted to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), appointment as Assistant Professor, and admission to Ph.D. programmes in specified science disciplines across Indian universities and colleges.

According to the official information bulletin, online applications can be submitted from 07 October 2026 to 05 November 2026. The Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 examination will be held in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode on 19, 22, and 27 December 2026 across various designated test cities in India. Interested and eligible science postgraduates and final-year students can register online through the official NTA portal (csirnet.nta.nic.in).

Key Alert: The last date to submit the online application form is 05 November 2026 (11:50 PM). A late application window with a late fee of ₹500/- will be available from 06 to 09 November 2026, followed by an online correction window from 10 to 12 November 2026. All examination dates are subject to change if required by the examination authorities.

National Testing Agency (NTA) & CSIR / UGC

Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026

JRF, Assistant Professor & Ph.D. Admission Eligibility Test : Short Details of Notification

WWW.SARKARIRESULTINS.COM

Important Dates

  • Online Application Begins : 07 October 2026
  • Last Date to Apply Online : 05 November 2026 (11:50 PM)
  • Last Date for Fee Payment : 05 November 2026 (11:50 PM)
  • Late Application Window : 06 to 09 November 2026
  • Last Date for Late Fee Payment : 09 November 2026 (11:50 PM)
  • Application Correction Window : 10 to 12 November 2026
  • Advance City Intimation : To Be Announced
  • Admit Card Available : To Be Announced
  • Exam Dates : 19, 22 & 27 December 2026
  • Answer Key & Responses : To Be Announced
  • Result Declaration : To Be Announced

Application Fee

  • General / Unreserved : ₹1,150/-
  • General-EWS / OBC-NCL : ₹600/-
  • SC / ST / PwD / PwBD / Third Gender : ₹325/-
  • Late Fee (if applying 06–09 Nov) : ₹500/- (Extra)
  • Pay the Examination Fee Through : Debit Card / Credit Card / UPI / Net Banking
  • Note: Applicable bank/payment gateway service charges are extra.
OBC-NCL Note: For OBC-NCL category benefit, candidates must belong to the Central List of OBCs maintained by the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC).

Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026 – Short Details

Particulars Information
Exam Name Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026
Conducting Authority National Testing Agency (NTA)
Examination Authority Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) / UGC
Application Mode Online Only (csirnet.nta.nic.in)
Online Application Dates 07 October 2026 to 05 November 2026 (11:50 PM)
Late Application Window 06 to 09 November 2026 (Late Fee: ₹500/-)
Correction Window 10 to 12 November 2026
Exam Mode Computer Based Test (CBT)
Exam Dates 19, 22 and 27 December 2026
Exam Duration 180 Minutes / 3 Hours (No Break Between Parts)
Question Type Objective Type Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
Total Science Subjects 5 Subjects
Official Portal csirnet.nta.nic.in

Note: The dates in the information bulletin are subject to change if required by the examination authority.

What is Joint CSIR-UGC NET?

The Joint CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) is conducted to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for:

  • Award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and appointment as Assistant Professor.
  • Appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to Ph.D.
  • Admission to Ph.D. only.

The examination is applicable to the science subjects specified by CSIR.

Joint CSIR UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2026

1. Master’s Degree Qualification:

Candidate Category Minimum Qualifying Marks (Master’s Degree)
General / Unreserved / General-EWS At least 55% marks (without rounding off)
OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD / PwBD / Third Gender At least 50% marks (without rounding off)

2. Candidates Appearing in Master’s Final Year (Result Awaited):

Candidates who are pursuing their Master’s Degree, appearing in the final year examination, awaiting their Master’s Degree result, or whose qualifying examination has been delayed may also apply provisionally.

  • Such candidates must subsequently complete their Master’s Degree with the required percentage.
  • For JRF eligibility: The Master’s Degree must generally be completed within two years from the date of declaration of the Joint CSIR-UGC NET result.
  • For Ph.D. admission only: Candidates must complete the required qualification within one year from the result date.

3. Eligibility Through Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree:

Candidates who have completed a four-year / eight-semester Bachelor’s Degree Programme can also appear subject to the conditions specified in the bulletin:

  • Must have at least 75% marks in aggregate or equivalent grade.
  • A 5% relaxation may be applicable to SC, ST, OBC-NCL, PwBD, EWS, and other categories as specified.
  • Important Condition: Candidates qualifying through a four-year Bachelor’s Degree can be eligible for JRF and Ph.D. admission, but are NOT eligible for appointment as Assistant Professor through this qualification route.

Joint CSIR UGC NET Age Limit 2026

Category / Post Age Limit Rules
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) Maximum 30 Years (calculated as on the 1st day of the month in which examination concludes, i.e., 01 December 2026).
JRF Age Relaxation Up to 5 years relaxation for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD/PwBD, Third Gender, and Women applicants.
Relaxation also available for candidates with research experience and armed forces service (total relaxation on these grounds cannot exceed 5 years).
Assistant Professor No Upper Age Limit
Admission to Ph.D. Only No Upper Age Limit

Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026 – Subjects & Codes

The examination is conducted in five core science subjects:

Code Subject Name Subject Specializations & Areas
701 Chemical Sciences Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Others
702 Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences Geology, Geophysics, Meteorology, Oceanography, Physical Geography, Others
703 Life Sciences and Bio-Technology (LS-BT) Biochemistry, Biodiversity and Taxonomy, Biotechnology, Botany, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, Zoology, Others
704 Mathematical Sciences Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Statistics, Others
705 Physical Sciences Atomic & Molecular Physics, Classical & Molecular Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Electromagnetism, Experimental Design, Electronics, Nuclear & Particle Physics, Quantum Physics, Thermodynamics, Others

Joint CSIR UGC NET Exam Pattern 2026

The examination will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. The question paper consists of three parts – Part A, Part B and Part C. All parts contain objective-type multiple-choice questions, and there is no break between the parts.

Chemical Sciences (Code 701) Exam Pattern:

Part Total Questions Questions to Attempt Marks / Question Negative Marking
Part A 20 15 2 25%
Part B 40 35 2 25%
Part C 60 25 4 25%
Total 120 75 200 Marks

Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean & Planetary Sciences (Code 702) Exam Pattern:

Part Total Questions Questions to Attempt Marks / Question Negative Marking
Part A 20 15 2 25%
Part B 50 35 2 25%
Part C 80 25 4 33%
Total 150 75 200 Marks

Life Sciences & Bio-Technology (Code 703) Exam Pattern:

Part Total Questions Questions to Attempt Marks / Question Negative Marking
Part A 20 15 2 25%
Part B 50 35 2 25%
Part C 75 25 4 25%
Total 145 75 200 Marks

Mathematical Sciences (Code 704) Exam Pattern:

Part Total Questions Questions to Attempt Marks / Question Negative Marking
Part A 20 15 2 each 25%
Part B 40 25 3 each 25%
Part C 60 20 4.75 each No Negative Marking
Total 120 60 200 Marks

Note for Mathematical Sciences Part C: A question may have one or more correct options. Credit is awarded only when all correct options are identified.

Physical Sciences (Code 705) Exam Pattern:

Part Total Questions Questions to Attempt Marks / Question Negative Marking
Part A 20 15 2 each 25%
Part B 25 20 3.5 each Negative Marking Applies
Part C 30 20 5 each Negative Marking Applies
Total 75 55 200 Marks

Structure of Part A, Part B and Part C

Part A – General Aptitude: Common to all subjects. It tests areas such as Logical Reasoning, Graphical Analysis, Analytical Ability, Numerical Ability, Quantitative Comparison, Series Formation, and Puzzles.
Part B – Subject Knowledge: Contains conventional subject-related MCQs generally covering topics specified in the respective CSIR syllabus.
Part C – Higher-Order Questions: Contains higher-order analytical questions designed to test scientific concepts, practical application of scientific principles, critical analysis, and problem-solving using scientific knowledge.

Medium, Shifts & Examination City Choices

Aspect Details
Medium of Examination The question paper is Bilingual (Hindi and English). Candidates must answer in the medium chosen during registration. In case of translation ambiguity, the English version will be treated as final.
Exam Duration 180 Minutes / 3 Hours (continuous test without any break).
Shift Timings Shift 1: 09:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
Shift 2: 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM
(Exact shift, date, and venue allotted will be mentioned on the admit card)
Examination City Choices Candidates must choose four examination cities in order of preference during application. NTA will endeavor to allot a preferred centre, but reserves the right to assign an alternative city for administrative reasons.

Joint CSIR UGC NET Qualification Categories

The examination can result in eligibility determination under three distinct categories:

Category JRF Assistant Professor Ph.D. Admission
Category 1 – JRF + Assistant Professor Yes Yes Yes
Category 2 – Assistant Professor + Ph.D. No Yes Yes
Category 3 – Ph.D. Only No No Yes

Ph.D. Admission Mechanism Through Joint CSIR-UGC NET:

  • For Category 2 and Category 3 candidates, the NET qualification serves as an entrance examination for Ph.D. admission in place of separate university entrance tests.
  • The NET marks for Category 2 and 3 remain valid for one year from the date of declaration of result.
  • Weightage Formula: 70% weightage is assigned to the Joint CSIR-UGC NET CBT examination marks, and 30% weightage is assigned to the interview/viva voce conducted by the respective University/HEI.

JRF Fellowship Stipend & PwD Facilities

Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) Stipend:

  • Candidates qualifying for JRF receive ₹37,000/- per month for the first two years.
  • An annual contingent grant of ₹20,000/- is also provided.
  • Upon completion of two years and successful assessment/Ph.D. registration, the fellowship may be upgraded to Senior Research Fellow (SRF-NET) with a monthly stipend of ₹42,000/- per month for the 3rd and subsequent years.
  • Fellowships available in each subject are limited and subject to CSIR guidelines.
Scribe & PwD / PwBD Candidate Provisions:

  • Scribe Facility: NTA provides the scribe facility if requested by an eligible candidate during online registration. A valid Disability Certificate / UDID card must be uploaded.
  • Compensatory Time: Eligible candidates under disability provisions are granted 20 minutes per hour of examination as compensatory time (1 hour extra for a 3-hour test).

How to Fill Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026 Online Application Form

  1. Step 1 – Online Registration: Visit the official website csirnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can also register through the MeriPehchaan National Single Sign-On (NSSO) portal. Enter your own active Mobile Number and Email Address to receive your Application Number and Password.
  2. Step 2 – Fill Application Form: Log in with credentials and enter personal details, educational qualifications, category details, subject code (701–705), and preferred four examination cities. Verify all information carefully.
  3. Step 3 – Upload Documents: Upload scanned photograph, signature, and applicable certificates (Disability/UDID, Category certificate, Result Awaited Attestation Form) in the prescribed format and dimensions.
  4. Step 4 – Pay Examination Fee: Pay the prescribed application fee via Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Save and print the payment receipt and Confirmation Page for future reference.
Online Correction Window (10 to 12 November 2026): Candidates can edit specified particulars (Name, Father’s/Mother’s name, DOB, Category, PwD status, Choice of cities, Photo, Signature) strictly within this window. No requests for corrections will be accepted after 12 November 2026.

Preparation Strategy & Examination Guidelines

Top Preparation Strategies:

  • 1. Understand Your Subject Pattern: Negative marking and number of questions vary among the five subjects. Familiarize yourself with the exact structure of your subject.
  • 2. Prepare Part A Separately: General Aptitude is common to all subjects. Regularly practice reasoning, series, numerical ability, graphs, and puzzles.
  • 3. Master Part B Concepts: Covers core syllabus MCQs. Review foundational textbooks and undergraduate/postgraduate syllabi.
  • 4. Prioritize Part C Problem Solving: Part C carries the highest marks and evaluates deep scientific comprehension. Focus on multi-step analytical and research problems.
  • 5. Manage Negative Marking: Because 25% or 33% penalty applies, attempt questions with high certainty.
  • 6. Take Full-Length CBT Mock Tests: Practice within the 3-hour test timeframe to build stamina and speed.

Crucial Examination Guidelines & Unfair Means Rules:

  • Apply only through the official portal. Submit only one application form (duplicate forms for same subject will be rejected).
  • Do not send physical documents/confirmation page to NTA by post, hand, or email.
  • Strict prohibition of unfair means: Carrying electronic devices, mobile phones, study material, impersonation, or creating disturbances will lead to debarment and criminal action.
  • Always verify details printed on the admit card and follow reporting times strictly.
Online Application Closes on 05 November 2026 at 11:50 PM. Apply Early to Avoid Portal Rush.

SOME USEFUL IMPORTANT LINKS

Particular Link
Apply Online (Registration / Login) Click Here
Download Official Information Click Here
Download Syllabus & Subject Details (CSIR HRDG) Click Here
Download Admit Card To Be Announced
Check Answer Key & Challenge To Be Announced
Download Result / Score Card To Be Announced
Join WhatsApp Channel Join Now
Join Telegram Channel Join Now
NTA Official Website nta.ac.in
CSIR NET Official Portal csirnet.nta.nic.in
FAQ

FAQs – Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026

Frequently Asked Questions and verified answers regarding Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 Exam

Q.1 When does the CSIR UGC NET December 2026 application start?+

The online application process begins on 07 October 2026 through the official NTA CSIR-NET portal (csirnet.nta.nic.in).

Q.2 What is the last date to apply for CSIR UGC NET December 2026?+

The last date to submit the online application form is 05 November 2026 up to 11:50 PM. A late application window with ₹500 fee is also available from 06 to 09 November 2026.

Q.3 What is the CSIR UGC NET December 2026 exam date?+

The Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 Computer Based Examination is scheduled to be held on 19, 22 and 27 December 2026 across India.

Q.4 What is the application fee for Joint CSIR UGC NET 2026?+

The application fee is ₹1,150/- for General, ₹600/- for General-EWS/OBC-NCL, and ₹325/- for SC/ST/PwD/PwBD/Third Gender candidates. A late fee of ₹500/- applies during the late submission window.

Q.5 What is the JRF age limit for CSIR NET December 2026?+

For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), the maximum age limit is 30 years as on 1 December 2026. Relaxation of up to 5 years is available for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, Third Gender, and Women candidates.

Q.6 Is there an age limit for Assistant Professor eligibility?+

No, there is no upper age limit for candidates applying for Assistant Professor eligibility or Ph.D.-only admission through Joint CSIR-UGC NET.

Q.7 How many science subjects are available in Joint CSIR UGC NET?+

There are five subjects: Chemical Sciences (701), Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences (702), Life Sciences and Bio-Technology (703), Mathematical Sciences (704), and Physical Sciences (705).

Q.8 Is the CSIR UGC NET exam conducted online?+

Yes. The Joint CSIR-UGC NET examination is conducted entirely online in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.

Q.9 What is the duration and shift timing of the exam?+

The exam duration is 3 hours (180 minutes) without any break between Parts A, B, and C. It is conducted in two shifts: Shift 1 (09:00 AM – 12:00 Noon) and Shift 2 (03:00 PM – 06:00 PM).

Q.10 Can a four-year Bachelor’s Degree candidate apply for Joint CSIR NET?+

Yes. Candidates with a four-year/eight-semester Bachelor’s Degree Programme having at least 75% marks (5% relaxation for reserved categories) can apply. They are eligible for JRF and Ph.D. admission, but are not eligible for Assistant Professor appointment.

Q.11 When will the CSIR UGC NET answer key be released?+

The display of recorded responses and tentative answer keys will be announced on the official NTA website after the completion of the computer-based examination.

Q.12 When will the Joint CSIR UGC NET December 2026 result be declared?+

The official information bulletin does not specify a fixed result declaration date. NTA will declare the results along with scorecards on the official portals (csirnet.nta.nic.in and nta.ac.in) following the challenge verification process.

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Notice to Candidates

Information published on this page is compiled directly from authorized recruitment boards and employment gazettes. Please verify all terms, age limits, and fees on the official recruitment portal before submitting your application.

Udham Singh
Published & Fact-Checked By: Udham Singh (BCA, MCA, LLB)

Senior Recruitment Analyst with 8+ years experience verifying official Central & State government employment notifications, exam schedules, and eligibility rules against authorized departmental gazettes.

🛡ī¸ Editorial Review: Deepak Kumar ⏱ī¸ Last Updated: 10 Oct 2026