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The UGC NET Social Work 2026 examination is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Social Work. This subject focuses on social welfare policies, community development, social justice, human rights, and professional social work practices.
Social Work is both theoretical and field-oriented, requiring conceptual clarity and practical understanding of social issues. 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 Social Work 2026.
UGC NET Social Work 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 – Social Work (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 Social Work 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 details before final submission.
UGC NET Social Work 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) 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 Social Work 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, reasoning, research methodology
Paper 2 (Social Work)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Social Work 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 Social Work syllabus broadly includes:
Social Work Profession and Practice
- History and philosophy of social work
- Values and ethics
- Methods of social work
Social Work with Individuals and Groups
- Case work
- Group work
- Counseling techniques
Community Organization
- Community development
- Participatory approaches
- Social action
Social Welfare Administration
- Social policies
- Welfare programs
- Project management
Social Justice and Human Rights
- Gender issues
- Child rights
- Rights of marginalized communities
Social Research
- Research methodology
- Data collection and analysis
- Program evaluation
Social Development and Policy
- Rural and urban development
- Poverty and inequality
- Government schemes
Conceptual clarity and understanding of field-based practice are essential for success.
Importance of Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
At ANSS Academy, we strongly recommend solving previous year questions because they:
- Identify important social work methods
- Highlight frequently asked policy topics
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal exam trends
Social Work questions often test theoretical knowledge along with practical application.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistent revision and conceptual understanding are key to qualifying UGC NET Social Work.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Social Work
Qualifying UGC NET Social Work opens diverse career opportunities:
Assistant Professor
Teaching positions in universities and colleges.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Financial support for Ph.D. and advanced research.
NGOs and Social Organizations
Roles in community development and advocacy.
Government and Welfare Departments
Opportunities in social policy implementation.
Research and Development Agencies
Work in social research and program evaluation.
Social Work offers strong academic and community-oriented career growth.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Social Work 2026 examination requires strong conceptual clarity, understanding of social policies, 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 field applications.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Social Work aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve academic success.
