NTA CSIR UGC NET December 2026: Apply Online for JRF & Assistant Professor

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the notification for the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) for December 2026. This examination is conducted for determining the eligibility of Indian nationals for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and for appointment as Assistant Professor/Lectureship in Indian universities and colleges. The online application process commenced on 07 October 2026 and will remain open until 05 November 2026. Candidates are advised to read the official information brochure carefully before applying.

The CSIR UGC NET December 2026 examination will be conducted across five major science disciplines: Chemical Science, Earth Atmospheric Ocean and Planetary Science, Life Science, Mathematical Science, and Physical Science. This test is a gateway for candidates aspiring to pursue research careers in science and technology, as well as those aiming for teaching positions in higher education institutions. The examination is scheduled to be held on 19, 22, and 27 December 2026. Admit cards and exam city details will be made available before the examination.

Eligibility criteria require candidates to possess an M.Sc or equivalent degree with a minimum of 55% marks for General and OBC candidates, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates need a minimum of 50% marks. Candidates with integrated courses, B.E, B.Tech, B.Pharma, and MBBS degrees are also eligible to apply. The age limit for Junior Research Fellowship is a maximum of 30 years, while there is no upper age limit for Lectureship or Assistant Professor positions. Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms for reserved categories.

The application fee structure is as follows: General candidates are required to pay Rs. 1150, EWS and OBC candidates pay Rs. 600, and SC, ST, and PwBD candidates pay Rs. 325. A late fee of Rs. 500 is applicable for applications submitted after the regular deadline. The last date to pay the examination fee is 05 November 2026, and candidates can apply with a late fee until 09 November 2026. The correction window will remain open from 10 to 12 November 2026. Payments can be made through debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI modes.

The selection process involves a single computer-based test. Candidates qualifying the test will be awarded Junior Research Fellowship or considered for Lectureship/Assistant Professor positions based on their performance and category. The examination pattern includes multiple-choice questions covering various subjects within the chosen discipline. Detailed syllabus and examination scheme are available in the official notification.

To apply online, candidates must visit the official NTA CSIR NET portal and complete the registration process. They should carefully fill in personal details, educational qualifications, and subject preferences. Scanned photographs, signatures, and other required documents must be uploaded as per specifications. Before final submission, candidates should preview the application form to ensure all details are correct. After successful payment of the application fee, a confirmation page should be downloaded and printed for future reference. It is important to complete the application process well before the deadline to avoid any technical difficulties.

This examination is a prestigious opportunity for science graduates to establish a career in research and academia. The Junior Research Fellowship provides financial assistance to pursue doctoral research, while the Lectureship qualification opens doors to teaching positions in universities and colleges across India. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly and stay updated with official notifications regarding exam dates, admit cards, and results.