UGC NET December 2026: NTA Changes Rules – Check Out the Latest Update

If you are preparing for the UGC NET December 2026 examination, take note of the updated information bulletin released by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The NTA has introduced changes to several rules concerning the examination.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an updated information bulletin for the UGC NET December 2026 exam. The new bulletin, updated on October 16, includes revisions regarding exam dates, the process for selecting exam cities, entry into examination centers, the evaluation of answers, dress codes, prohibited items, and other essential instructions. According to the updated schedule, the UGC NET December 2026 examination will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode on December 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 21.

These changes by the NTA come at a time when the application process is underway, and candidates are busy preparing for the exam while gathering the necessary documentation and information. Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to be aware of the details in the updated bulletin, rather than relying on the previous version or older rules.

UGC NET Examination to be Held Over Six Days

As per the updated schedule, the UGC NET December 2026 examination will take place on December 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 21. The exam will be conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. This examination is held to determine eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Assistant Professor positions, and admission into PhD programs. The application process began on October 8, and the deadline for submitting applications is 11:50 PM on October 28, 2026. A provision for late submission—subject to a late fee—is also available.

Changes to the Rule for Selecting Four Exam Cities

Previously, candidates were required to select four examination cities from the state or Union Territory (UT) of their permanent or current address. Now, if fewer than four cities are available in the respective state or UT, candidates will be able to choose from the options displayed on the screen. Furthermore, candidates will be permitted to modify their city preferences during the correction window. This change is particularly significant for candidates residing in states where the number of available examination center options is limited.

Clear Rules for Evaluating 'Marked for Review' Questions

The updated bulletin includes significant changes regarding the evaluation of questions. If a candidate has saved an answer to a question and subsequently marked it as 'Marked for Review,' that answer will be evaluated. Conversely, questions for which no answer has been provided will not be evaluated. There is no negative marking in the UGC NET examination.

Exam Center Gates to Close 30 Minutes Before the Start

According to the new rules, the gates of the examination center will close 30 minutes before the commencement of the exam. The NTA has advised candidates to arrive at the center well in advance; the bulletin recommends reporting to the center approximately two hours before the exam begins.

Changes Regarding Footwear

There are also new updates concerning the dress code. Candidates are permitted to wear regular shoes, slippers, or low-heeled sandals; however, long boots are prohibited. Additionally, there has been a change regarding the provision of pens at the examination center; therefore, it is advisable for candidates to carefully review the list of prohibited items.