UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 is a structured process that ensures that the aspirants fulfil the eligibility requirements and show their academic knowledge via a computer-based test (CBT). The candidates must qualify the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) for positions such as Assistant Professors or Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in India.
This article covers all the key details of the UGC NET Selection Procedure for December 2025 exam, including the eligibility criteria, types of papers, the UGC NET selection process, and other important aspects that aspirants need to know.
Also Read: UGC NET 2025 Exam
UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 Eligibility
The candidates must fulfil the UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025 before beginning the UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025. The UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025 include aspects like educational qualification, minimum marks, and age limits. The eligibility requirements make sure that only qualified applicants can take the UGC NET exam and enter the UGC NET Selection Process for Assistant Professor and JRF positions.
| Eligibility Aspect | Details |
| Minimum Qualification | Master’s degree or equivalent with 55% marks (General/EWS), 50% (Reserved) |
| Final Year Candidates | Eligible to apply provisionally, subject to qualification by result declaration |
| Age Limit for JRF | Maximum 30 years (relaxations applicable for reserved categories) |
| Age Limit for Assistant Professor | No upper age limit |
| Attempts Allowed | Unlimited for Assistant Professor |
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025
What Types Papers in UGC NET Exam 2025?
The UGC NET exam comprises two papers, both conducted in a single three-hour computer-based session. The candidates are required to pass both Paper 1 and Paper 2 in order the qualify the UGC NET exam.
- Both papers contain objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
- Each correct answer awards +2 marks; no negative marking applies for wrong answers.
- Paper 1 is common for all candidates, whereas Paper 2 is based on the candidate’s subject specialization.
| Paper Number | Paper Name | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Description |
| Paper 1 | General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | Tests teaching, research aptitude, reasoning, comprehension, general awareness |
| Paper 2 | Subject-Specific Paper | 100 | 200 | Test the knowledge of the candidate’s chosen subject from 85 subjects |
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 Stepwise
The UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 for the December cycle is a multi-step process designed to ensure transparency, competitiveness, and adherence to reservation policies. Here we have provided the UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025:
Step 1: Verification of Eligibility
Candidates must first fulfill the UGC NET eligibility criteria 2025 to qualify for exam registration. This verification includes educational qualifications, minimum marks, and age criteria.
- Educational Qualification: The candidates must have a master’s degree from a UGC approved university.
- Age Limit: There is no age limit for Assistant Professor, whereas the age limit for JRF is 30 years, along with age relaxations.
Step 2: Application and Admit Card
Candidates apply online through the National Testing Agency (NTA) official portal. After a successful application, the candidates have to fill in all the documents and pay the fee.
- Fill in all the personal and academic details asked.
- Add scanned copies of the photo, signature, and category certificate.
- After that, they must pay the UGC NET application fee.
- The candidates will be able to download the admit card a week before the exam.
Also Read: UGC NET Application Form 2025
Step 3: Appearing for the Exam (CBT)
After the application form, the candidates have to appear for the computer-based test (CBT) consisting of Paper 1 and Paper 2 in one session.
- Paper 1: It is a general paper that is common for all and tests the candidates’ teaching & research aptitude.
- Paper 2: It is subject-specific. Based on the candidate’s graduation subject.
Step 4: Result Declaration
After the December 2025 exam, NTA will release the results based on the candidate’s performance. They must achieve the minimum qualifying cutoff marks to be able to qualify UGC NET.
Also Read: UGC NET Result 2025
Step 5: Cutoff and Merit List Preparation
The UGC NET cutoff marks vary by category and subject. Candidates clearing the cutoff are ranked on a merit list.
The candidates must clear the minimum qualifying marks :
- For General/EWS: 40% aggregate in both papers.
- For OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD: 35% overall in both papers.
Step 6: Final Selection and Certificate Issuance
Candidates who score high on the merit list receive UGC NET certificates and qualify for Assistant Professor and/or Junior Research Fellowship positions.
Also Read: UGC NET Expected Cutoff 2025
Tips to Navigate UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025
Before applying, the candidates must understand the complete UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025. The UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 is an important factor when applying for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor positions. Here we have provided the tips to navigate the UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025:
- Know the Eligibility Criteria Early: Firstly, make sure that you meet the academic and age requirements for UGC NET before investing in preparation.
- Understand Exam Pattern & Papers: Learn the exam pattern and format of Paper 1 and Paper 2.
- Prepare Strategically: Start preparation with the right study material, previous year question papers, and mock tests.
- Apply Within Deadlines: Fill the UGC NET application form and pay the fees on time before the last date.
- Track Official Notifications: Follow NTA’s official portal for the latest updates regarding the December 2025 exam.
- Focus on Cutoff Trends: Examine previous cutoffs to set target scores in order to prepare effectively.
Also Read: UGC NET 2025 Question Papers
Conclusion
The UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 is a well-defined process that ensures that only qualified candidates can apply for important academic roles such as Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Understanding the eligibility criteria, types of papers, and following the step-by-step UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 carefully can help you succeed in the December 2025 exam and beyond. With the complete understanding of the UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025, disciplined preparation, and consistent effort, the aspirants can achieve their goal of a fulfilling career in teaching and research.
UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025 FAQs
What types of papers are in the UGC NET exam 2025?
UGC NET consists of two papers — Paper 1 (General Aptitude) with 50 MCQs and Paper 2 (Subject-specific) with 100 MCQs, both of which are computer-based tests in a single session.
What are the steps involved in the UGC NET Selection Procedure 2025?
The UGC NET selection process involves eligibility verification, online application, CBT exam, qualifying cutoffs, merit list preparation, and final certificate issuance for Assistant Professor and JRF.
Is there an upper age limit for UGC NET Assistant Professor?
No, there is no upper age limit for candidates applying for the Assistant Professor position.
What is the validity of the UGC NET certificate?
The JRF certificate is valid for three years, while the Assistant Professor certificate is valid for a lifetime.
