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The UGC NET Sociology 2026 examination is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Sociology. This subject explores social structures, institutions, culture, inequality, social change, and research methodology.
Sociology is analytical and theory-based, requiring conceptual clarity and understanding of contemporary 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 Sociology 2026.
UGC NET Sociology 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 – Sociology (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 Sociology 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 Sociology 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Sociology 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 Sociology 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, reasoning, research methodology
Paper 2 (Sociology)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Sociology 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 Sociology syllabus broadly includes:
Sociological Theory
- Classical thinkers
- Modern sociological theories
- Contemporary perspectives
Research Methods
- Quantitative and qualitative methods
- Survey and fieldwork
- Data analysis
Social Stratification
- Caste and class
- Gender and inequality
- Social mobility
Indian Society
- Social institutions
- Family and kinship
- Religion and social change
Rural and Urban Sociology
- Agrarian structure
- Urbanization
- Migration
Political Sociology
- Power and authority
- Social movements
- State and society
Sociology of Development
- Modernization
- Globalization
- Social policy
Sociology of Education and Religion
- Educational institutions
- Secularism
- Religious movements
Conceptual clarity and understanding of social realities 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 sociological thinkers
- Highlight recurring theoretical concepts
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal exam trends
Sociology questions often test interpretation and application of theory.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistent revision and analytical understanding are key to qualifying UGC NET Sociology.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Sociology
Qualifying UGC NET Sociology 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 social research and policy analysis.
Government and Development Agencies
Roles in social planning and welfare programs.
NGOs and International Organizations
Opportunities in social development and advocacy.
Sociology offers strong academic and social research-oriented career growth.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Sociology 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 contemporary relevance.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Sociology aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve academic success.
