UGC NET Exam Date 2025, Subject-Wise Schedule, Shift Timings

UGC NET Exam Date 2025 has been officially announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The exam for the December session is scheduled to be held from 31 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. This exam is a national-level test for candidates who want to become Assistant Professors or apply for Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in colleges and universities across India.

In this article, you will find full information about the UGC NET Exam Date 2025, subject-wise schedule, exam shift timings, exam pattern, and tips to help you prepare better.

UGC NET Exam Date 2025 December Session

NTA has officially released its notification for the December 2025 session and has also released the exam dates. The UGC NET 2025 exam is scheduled to be held between 31st December 2025 to 7th January 2026. The exam will be conducted online at different centers across India. There will be two shifts each day.

Here is a quick overview of the key dates:

UGC NET Exam Date 2025 Subject-Wise Schedule (Releasing Soon)

The subject-wise exam schedule will soon be released by NTA for the December 2025 cycle. Candidates should visit the official website regularly to check for the schedule release or any changes in the exam date.

UGC NET Admit Card 2025 Date

The UGC NET Admit Card 2025 is expected to be released in the last week of December 2025, a few days before the examination begins. Candidates who have completed the application process will be able to download their admit cards from the official NTA website using their login credentials. The admit card will contain important details such as the exam date, shift timing, exam center address, and candidate information. It is mandatory to carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID on the day of the examination. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates regarding the exact release date.

UGC NET Exam Date 2025 & Shift Timings

The exam will be held in two shifts each day. Candidates must check their admit card for shift details.

Arrive early as no entry is allowed after the gate closes.

UGC NET Answer Key 2025 Date

The UGC NET Answer Key 2025 is expected to be released a few days after the completion of the examination, likely in the first week of February 2026. The National Testing Agency (NTA) will first release the provisional answer key, along with the candidates’ recorded responses and question papers. Candidates will be given an opportunity to challenge the provisional key within a specific window by paying a nominal fee per question. After evaluating the objections raised, NTA will publish the final answer key, which will be used for calculating the results.

UGC NET Result Date 2025

The UGC NET Result 2025 is expected to be announced in February 2026 on the official website of NTA. The result will be based on the final answer key and will include the qualifying status of the candidates, subject-wise scores, and overall performance. Candidates can check their results by logging into the portal using their application number and date of birth. The result will determine eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), depending on the candidate’s performance and preferences selected during the application process.

Final Preparation Tips Before UGC NET Exam Date 2025

As the UGC NET December 2025 session exam date is approaching, candidates should focus on smart preparation rather than long study hours. Here are some useful tips:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus Clearly
   Read the official syllabus and exam format to reduce confusion during the test.
   
2. Give Time to Paper 1
   Paper 1 is scoring. Practice questions on teaching aptitude, reasoning, comprehension, and data interpretation.
   
3. Focus on Your Subject for Paper 2
   Study your chosen subject deeply using UGC NET books, last year’s papers, and topic-wise notes.
   
4. Solve Full-Length Mock Tests
   Practice mock tests under real exam conditions to improve speed, time management, and accuracy.
   
5. Revise Weekly
   Make a schedule for weekly revision of short notes and important topics.
   
6. Take Care of Your Health
   Get enough sleep, drink water, and avoid stress during the last few weeks of preparation.
   
7. Download Admit Card on Time
   Once the admit card is released, download it immediately and check your center, time, and instructions.
   

Exam Day Instructions for UGC NET December 2025

To avoid any confusion on exam day, follow these important instructions:

Documents to Carry

• Admit card (printed)
  
• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
  
• Passport-size photo (same as uploaded)
  
• PwD certificate (if applicable)
  

Allowed Items

• Transparent ball pen
  
• Admit card and photo ID
  
• Clear water bottle (without label)
  
• Assistive devices (for PwD candidates only with permission)
  

Items Not Allowed

• Mobile phones, smartwatches, headphones
  
• Calculators, rough sheets (will be provided)
  
• Bags, wallets, or food items (unless for medical reasons)
  

Rules Inside the Exam Hall

• Sit at the assigned seat number only
  
• Do not talk or disturb others
  
• Do not leave the exam room before the exam ends
  
• Read all on-screen instructions carefully

Conclusion

Now that the UGC NET Exam Date 2025 is officially out, it’s time to make your final strategy. The NTA will be conducting the exam between 31st December 2025 to 7th January 2026, so use this time wisely. Focus on mock tests, revise important topics, and stay calm and confident. Follow the official schedule, download your admit card early, and keep practicing. With a well-planned approach, you can achieve your goal of becoming an Assistant Professor or Research Fellow.

UGC NET Exam Date 2025 FAQs

1. When will the UGC NET 2025 exam be held?

The UGC NET Exam Date 2025 for the December session is scheduled from 31st December 2025 to 7th January 2026. The exam will be conducted in two shifts each day.

2. What are the shift timings for UGC NET 2025?

There are two shifts:

• Morning Shift: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  
• Afternoon Shift: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  Candidates must report at least 90 minutes before the exam starts.
  

3. How can I know my exact exam date and shift?

Your UGC NET Admit Card 2025, which will be released in the last week of December, will mention your exam date, shift timing, and exam center.

4. Will all subjects be conducted on the same day?

No. The UGC NET December 2025 exams are conducted on different dates based on subject groups scheduled between 31st December 2025 to 7th January 2026. 

5. What should I carry to the exam center on the UGC NET exam day?

Carry the following:

• Printed UGC NET Admit Card 2025
  
• A valid photo ID proof
  
• A passport-size photograph (same as uploaded)
  
• If applicable, PwD certificate