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The UGC NET Women Studies 2026 examination is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Women’s Studies and Gender Studies. This subject focuses on gender theories, feminist thought, women’s rights, social justice, and policy frameworks related to women and marginalized communities.
Women Studies is interdisciplinary in nature, combining sociology, history, political science, law, and cultural studies. 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 Women Studies 2026.
UGC NET Women 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 – Women 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 Women 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 Women Studies 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Women Studies, Gender Studies, Sociology, Political Science, Social Work, 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 Women Studies 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, reasoning, research methodology
Paper 2 (Women Studies)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Women 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 Women Studies syllabus broadly includes:
Feminist Theories
- Liberal, Marxist, Radical feminism
- Postmodern and intersectional feminism
- Gender and power relations
Women in Indian Society
- Gender roles and socialization
- Women and development
- Women’s movements in India
Gender and Law
- Constitutional provisions
- Legal rights of women
- Protection laws and policies
Women and Work
- Informal and formal sectors
- Wage inequality
- Globalization and labor
Health and Reproductive Rights
- Maternal health
- Reproductive justice
- Public health issues
Violence and Gender-Based Discrimination
- Domestic violence
- Trafficking
- Sexual harassment
Media and Representation
- Gender portrayal in media
- Cultural narratives
- Identity and representation
Research Methods in Women Studies
- Gender-sensitive research
- Field studies
- Policy analysis
Conceptual clarity and sensitivity to gender issues 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 feminist theories
- Highlight recurring policy-related topics
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal exam trends
Women Studies questions often test theoretical understanding along with contemporary relevance.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistent revision and conceptual understanding are key to qualifying UGC NET Women Studies.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Women Studies
Qualifying UGC NET Women 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.
Policy Research and Advocacy
Roles in gender policy and development programs.
NGOs and International Organizations
Opportunities in women empowerment and social justice initiatives.
Research and Consultancy
Work in gender studies and community development projects.
Women Studies offers strong academic and social justice-oriented career growth.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Women Studies 2026 examination requires strong conceptual clarity, awareness of gender issues, 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 gender debates.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Women Studies aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve academic success.
