Expected Timeline & Application Window
- The official notification for the December 2025 cycle is expected to be released around September 2025, following the typical biannual pattern. This includes application and eligibility details.
- Tentative key milestones are:
- Notification Release & Application Start: Mid September 2025
- Application Deadline: Mid October 2025
- Correction Window: One to two days following application closure
- Exams Conducted: Between 1 January and 19 January 2026, online mode (Computer-Based Test), two shifts per day according to subject allocation
Note: Exact dates will be confirmed on the NTA website once the notification is released.
Exam Structure & Pattern
The UGC NET 2025 December exam follows the same pattern as its six-month counterpart:
Component | Details |
---|---|
Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test – CBT) |
Papers | Two Papers to be completed in a single 3-hour session |
Paper I (General) | 50 MCQs |
Paper II (Subject-Specific) | 100 MCQs |
Marking Scheme | +2 for correct; No negative marking |
Language Options | English and Hindi (varies for some languages) |
Subjects Covered
An aspirant can choose from 85 subjects available under the UGC NET December 2025 cycle. Paper II focuses exclusively on the subject you select based on your postgraduate study.
Important to Know
- No Break Between Papers: The exam is conducted continuously without intermissions.
- Key Dates to Watch: Keep checking the official NTA UGC NET portal for notification release, city-intimation slip, admit card, and exam schedule.
- Result Timeline: Based on June 2025 trends, results typically drop by late July or early August. You can expect a similar timeline for December session, likely in August 2026.
Why This Matters for You
- Plan Ahead: Knowing that application opens around September 2025 allows you to smoothly gear up your documents and documents.
- Focused Prep: When you start practicing, plan your study timeline around the three-hour format, without interruptions.
- Strategize Paper II: Choose your subject wisely—early preparation gives you an edge in the exam.
In Summary
- Notification & Applications: Expected in September–October 2025
- Exam Dates: Likely held between 1–19 January 2026
- Exam Format: Two papers (150 MCQs, 3 hours, no negative marking) – CBT mode
- Subjects Offered: 85 Paper II options
- Result Announcement: Possibly by August 2026
As soon as the official notification is released, I can help you break it down—covering application steps, fee structure, eligibility fine print, and preparation strategy tailored for the December 2025 UGC NET cycle.