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The UGC NET Population Studies 2026 examination is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Population Studies, Demography, and related interdisciplinary fields. This subject focuses on population dynamics, demographic analysis, migration, fertility, mortality, and public policy.
Population Studies is analytical and data-oriented, requiring strong statistical understanding and conceptual clarity. At ANSS Academy, we have prepared this comprehensive guide to help aspirants understand the application process, eligibility criteria, syllabus overview, exam pattern, and career opportunities in UGC NET Population Studies 2026.
UGC NET Population Studies 2026 – Overview
The examination is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode and consists of two papers:
- Paper 1 – General Teaching & Research Aptitude
- Paper 2 – Population Studies (Subject-Specific)
Key Highlights:
- Mode: Online (CBT)
- Total Questions: 150
- Total Marks: 300
- Duration: 3 Hours
- No Negative Marking
Both papers are conducted in a single session.
UGC NET Population Studies 2026 Application Form
Candidates must apply online once the official notification is released.
Application Process:
- Visit the official UGC NET portal
- Complete registration
- Fill personal and academic details
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit and download confirmation page
Applicants should carefully verify all information before final submission.
UGC NET Population Studies 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Population Studies, Demography, Statistics, Sociology, Economics, or related discipline
- Minimum 55% marks for General category
- Relaxation for reserved categories as per official norms
Final-year postgraduate students may also apply.
Age Limit
- JRF: Upper age limit applicable as per official notification
- Assistant Professor: No upper age limit
Candidates should refer to the official notification for updated guidelines.
UGC NET Population Studies 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, reasoning, research methodology
Paper 2 (Population Studies)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Population Studies 2026 Syllabus (Brief Overview)
This is a brief overview of the syllabus. For detailed and official syllabus information, candidates should refer to the official UGC NET portal.
The Population Studies syllabus broadly includes:
Demographic Concepts and Theories
- Population growth theories
- Demographic transition
- Fertility and mortality theories
Fertility and Reproductive Health
- Fertility measures
- Family planning
- Reproductive health programs
Mortality and Morbidity
- Mortality indicators
- Life tables
- Health and survival analysis
Migration and Urbanization
- Internal and international migration
- Urban growth patterns
- Migration theories
Population and Development
- Population policies
- Human development
- Poverty and inequality
Population Data Sources
- Census data
- Sample surveys
- Vital statistics
Quantitative Techniques
- Statistical methods
- Population projections
- Data interpretation
Research Methods in Population Studies
- Survey methods
- Sampling techniques
- Data analysis
Conceptual clarity and strong quantitative skills are essential for success.
Importance of Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
At ANSS Academy, we strongly recommend solving previous year questions because they:
- Identify important demographic indicators
- Highlight recurring statistical concepts
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal exam trends
Population Studies questions often test numerical application and conceptual understanding.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistent revision and numerical accuracy are key to qualifying UGC NET Population Studies.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Population Studies
Qualifying UGC NET Population Studies opens diverse career opportunities:
Assistant Professor
Teaching positions in universities and colleges.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Financial support for Ph.D. and advanced research.
Research Institutions
Work in demographic and population research centers.
Government and Policy Planning
Roles in population policy and development programs.
International Organizations
Opportunities in global development and population initiatives.
Population Studies offers strong academic and policy-oriented career growth.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Population Studies 2026 examination requires strong conceptual clarity, statistical understanding, and consistent practice. With structured preparation and regular mock tests, qualifying this examination is achievable.
Before beginning preparation, review eligibility criteria, understand the exam pattern, and download the latest syllabus. Focus on theoretical foundations and quantitative skills.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Population Studies aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve academic success.
