UGC NET December 2026 Application Deadline Approaches

The application period for the UGC NET December 2026 exam is closing soon, with the final date for submissions set for October 28, 2026. Candidates can apply online and have the option to submit late applications until October 31, 2026, with an additional fee. The exam will be conducted from December 14 to 21, covering 87 subjects. Eligibility requirements include holding a Master’s degree with specific percentage criteria based on category. This article outlines the application steps and important deadlines for prospective candidates.

By Ambika Singh Oct 27, 2026, 21:51 IST

UGC NET December 2026: Important Application Details

UGC NET December 2026: The application window for the UGC NET December 2026 examination, organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is nearing its closure. Candidates interested in applying can do so online until 11:50 PM on October 28, 2026. This deadline also applies to the payment of the application fee.

For those who miss this deadline, a late application option will be available from October 29 to October 31, 2026, with an additional late fee of ₹500. A correction window will be open from November 2 to November 4, 2026, allowing candidates to amend their application forms as needed.

Examination Schedule
The UGC NET December 2026 examination is set to take place in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format from December 14 to 18 and again on December 21. This exam will evaluate candidates' eligibility across 87 subjects. The specific dates for the release of the examination city intimation slip and the admit card are yet to be announced.

Eligibility Criteria for UGC NET
To qualify for the UGC NET, candidates must possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field from a recognized institution. General and General-EWS category candidates need at least 55% marks in their postgraduate degree, while OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD (Persons with Disabilities), and Third Gender candidates require a minimum of 50% marks.

Students in their final year of a Master’s program can also apply, provided they meet the necessary conditions. There is no upper age limit for those seeking eligibility for the Assistant Professor role or for PhD admissions. However, the upper age limit for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is set at 30 years as of December 1, 2026, with age relaxation available for eligible categories as per regulations.

Application Process
To apply, visit the official website at ugcnet.nta.ac.in. Click on the registration link for UGC NET December 2026, register or log in, and fill in your personal and academic information. Choose your subject and examination city, then upload your photograph, signature, and necessary documents in the specified format. After paying the application fee, submit the form and download the confirmation page along with the fee payment receipt for your records.