The UGC NET Psychology 2026 examination is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Psychology. This subject focuses on human behavior, mental processes, psychological theories, research methods, and applied psychology.
Psychology is both theoretical and practical in nature, requiring analytical thinking 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 Psychology 2026.
UGC NET Psychology 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 – Psychology (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 Psychology 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 details before final submission.
UGC NET Psychology 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Psychology 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 Psychology 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, reasoning, research methodology
Paper 2 (Psychology)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Psychology 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 Psychology syllabus broadly includes:
Foundations of Psychology
- History and schools of psychology
- Research methods and statistics
- Experimental psychology
Biological Basis of Behavior
- Nervous system
- Brain and behavior
- Neuropsychology
Cognitive Psychology
- Learning and memory
- Perception and attention
- Thinking and problem-solving
Social Psychology
- Attitude and persuasion
- Group dynamics
- Social influence
Developmental Psychology
- Lifespan development
- Cognitive and emotional growth
- Personality development
Personality and Individual Differences
- Personality theories
- Intelligence
- Assessment techniques
Abnormal Psychology
- Psychological disorders
- Diagnosis and classification
- Therapeutic approaches
Applied Psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Organizational psychology
- Health psychology
Conceptual clarity and strong understanding of research methods are essential for success.
Importance of Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
At ANSS Academy, we strongly recommend solving previous year questions because they:
- Identify frequently asked psychological theories
- Highlight recurring research method concepts
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal exam trends
Psychology questions often test application-based understanding rather than rote memorization.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistent revision and conceptual understanding are key to qualifying UGC NET Psychology.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Psychology
Qualifying UGC NET Psychology 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 behavioral and psychological research.
Clinical and Counseling Fields
Opportunities in mental health and therapeutic services.
Organizational and Industrial Psychology
Roles in HR, training, and performance analysis.
Psychology offers strong academic and applied career growth.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Psychology 2026 examination requires strong conceptual clarity, analytical thinking, 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 applied understanding.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Psychology aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve academic success.

