Applications Open for CSIR-UGC NET December 2026; Check Exam Dates
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has commenced the application process for the CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 exam. Candidates can fill out the forms online. The examination is scheduled to be held in December.
Here is an important update for candidates aspiring to build a career in research and higher education. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has initiated the online application process for the Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026. Interested candidates can submit their applications via the official website.
Notably, there are changes to the subjects alongside the exam dates. Candidates specializing in Biotechnology, in particular, should carefully review the details of the new exam structure.
What is the application deadline?
Online applications for CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 began on October 7. Candidates can submit their application forms and pay the exam fee until 11:50 PM on November 5, 2026. Those unable to apply by the deadline will have an opportunity to apply between November 6 and November 9 with a late fee; an additional charge of ₹500 will apply in this case. A correction window will also be available from November 10 to November 12 for candidates to rectify any errors in their applications. To apply, candidates should visit the official website, access the application link for the December 2026 exam, complete the registration, fill in the required details, upload documents, and pay the fee. Do not forget to save the confirmation page after submitting the form.
When will the exam be held?
According to the schedule released by the NTA, the CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 exam will be conducted on December 19, 22, and 27. The exam will be computer-based, with a duration of three hours for each paper. It will be held in two shifts. The first shift is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and the second shift from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The examination will cover five subjects: Chemical Sciences; Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences; Life Sciences and Biotechnology; Mathematical Sciences; and Physical Sciences. The dates for the release of the exam city intimation slip and the admit card will be announced separately. Candidates are advised to keep checking the official website for the latest updates.
What changes have been made to the exam this time?
A significant change regarding Biotechnology has been introduced for the December 2026 exam cycle. The DBT-BET exam, which was previously conducted separately, has now been merged with the CSIR-UGC NET Life Sciences paper. Consequently, a new subject titled 'Life Sciences and Biotechnology' has been introduced. Due to this change, candidates preparing for Biotechnology should carefully review the new syllabus. Instead of relying solely on old notes or previous years' exam patterns, it is advisable to verify the subjects and eligibility criteria through the official information bulletin. The CSIR-UGC NET exam determines eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor positions, as well as opportunities for admission to PhD programs.
