The UGC NET Syllabus 2025 has been released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for the December 2025 examination cycle. This comprehensive syllabus covers 83 subjects across two papers: General Teaching and Research Aptitude (Paper 1) and subject-specific content (Paper 2). Understanding the updated syllabus is crucial for effective preparation for both Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions.
On this page
- UGC NET Exam Overview
- UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
- Marking Scheme
- UGC NET Paper-1 Syllabus
- UGC NET Paper-2 Syllabus
- Subject-wise & Topic-wise Weightage Analysis
- FAQs
UGC NET Exam Overview
Before diving into the syllabus, let’s look at the key highlights of the UGC NET examination.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UGC National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) December 2025 |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Purpose of Exam | Determine eligibility for Assistant Professor & Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) |
| Eligibility | Master’s Degree (55% for General / 50% for Reserved) |
| Papers | Paper 1 + Paper 2 |
| Total Subjects | 85 subjects across various disciplines |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Duration | 180 minutes (03 hours) No break between Paper 1 & Paper 2 |
| Attempts | No limit |
| Language | Hindi & English |
| Frequency | Twice a year |
UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
Understanding the UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 is crucial for time management and scoring well. The exam consists of two papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2) conducted in a single 3-hour session without any break.
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Teaching / Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) – Combined for Paper 1 & 2 |
| Paper 2 | Subject-specific | 100 | 200 | No break between Paper 1 & 2 |
| Total | 150 | 300 | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) | |
Key Features of the Exam Pattern:
- No Negative Marking: This is a major relief! There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so you should attempt all 150 questions.
- CBT Mode: The exam is conducted entirely online (Computer-Based Test).
- Bilingual: The question paper is available in both English and Hindi, except for language-specific papers.
- Objective Type: All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- 03 hours (180 minutes) without any break.
- All the questions are compulsory.
Marking Scheme
The NTA UGC NET marking scheme is straightforward and candidate-friendly.
| Response | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +2 Marks |
| Wrong Answer | 0 marks (No negative marking) |
| Unattempted | No marks |
- Dropped Question: If a question is found to be incorrect or is dropped by NTA, full marks (+2) are typically awarded to all candidates who attempted that question.
UGC NET Syllabus 2025
1. Paper 1 Syllabus 2025 (General Paper)
The UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus is designed to test the teaching and research capabilities of the candidate. It is common for all subjects. The syllabus is divided into 10 units, with Five questions each carrying 2 marks are to be set from each module.
UGC NET Paper 1 Marking Scheme
| Unit No. | Unit Name | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 | Teaching Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 2 | Research Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 3 | Comprehension | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 4 | Communication | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 5 | Mathematical Reasoning & Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 6 | Logical Reasoning | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 7 | Data Interpretation | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 8 | Information & Communication Technology (ICT) | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 9 | People, Development & Environment | 5 | 10 |
| Unit 10 | Higher Education System | 5 | 10 |
UGC NET Detailed Unit-wise Topics for Paper 1
| Topics | Marks |
|---|---|
|
Unit 1
Teaching Aptitude |
|
|
Unit 2
Research Aptitude |
|
|
Unit 3
Comprehension |
|
|
Unit 4
Communication |
|
| Unit 5 Mathematical Reasoning & Aptitude |
|
|
Unit 6
Logical Reasoning |
|
|
Unit 7
Data Interpretation |
|
| Unit 8 Information & Communication Technology (ICT) |
|
| Unit 9 People, Development & Environment |
|
| Unit 10 Higher Education System |
|
Download UGC NET Syllabus 2025 PDF for Paper 1 (English & Hindi)
Download the latest NTA UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus 2025 PDFs in both English and Hindi directly from the official sources. Access the official UGC NET website for syllabus updates and exam details.
| Purpose | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Download UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus 2025 PDF | Download UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus 2025 PDF (English) |
| Download UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus 2025 PDF (Hindi) | |
| Official Website — NTA UGC NET Portal | Visit Official UGC NET Website (ugcnetonline.in) |
Note: The UGC NET Syllabus 2025 PDFs for Paper 1 cover the mandatory 10 units of Teaching and Research Aptitude topics as per the latest Syllabi of UGC-NET. Candidates are advised to download and carefully review the syllabus structure before commencing their focused preparation.
UGC NET Paper 2 Syllabus 2025 (Subject-Specific)
Paper 2 is based on the subject selected by the candidate, which should be their post-graduation subject. It tests the in-depth knowledge and expertise in the chosen discipline. There are 85 subjects to choose from, ranging from Economics and History to Computer Science and Management.
UGC NET Paper 2 Syllabus Subjects and Download Links
| Subject Name | Subject Code | Syllabus PDF (English) | Syllabus PDF (Hindi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics | 01 | Download | Download |
| Political Science | 02 | Download | Download |
| Commerce | 08 | Download | Download |
| Education | 09 | Download | Download |
| History | 06 | Download | Download |
| Geography | 80 | Download | Download |
| Sociology | 05 | Download | Download |
| Computer Science & Applications | 87 | Download | |
| Management | 17 | Download | Download |
| English | 30 | Download | |
| Hindi | 20 | Download |
Note: You can find the complete list of all 85 subjects and their codes on the official UGC NET syllabus page
UGC NET Syllabus: Topic-wise Weightage Analysis
While NTA does not release an official weightage, we can analyze previous years’ papers to understand the expected distribution of questions.
Paper 1 Unit-Wise Weightage (Expected)
This is the most predictable part. NTA strictly follows the pattern of 5 questions from each of the 10 units.
Paper 2 Subject-Wise Weightage
For Paper 2, the syllabus for all 83 subjects is also divided into 10 units.
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Units: 10
- Expected Weightage: You can expect 8-12 questions from each of the 10 units of your subject-specific syllabus.
It’s crucial to cover all 10 units of your Paper 2 syllabus, as NTA generally ensures a balanced paper. Do not skip any unit.
EXAM CHECKLIST: Ensure your preparation is complete. Before the exam, make sure you download your UGC NET Admit Card 2025 from our dedicated status page to verify your centre details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UGC NET Syllabus 2025
Here are answers to the most common queries regarding the NTA UGC NET Syllabus.
Is the UGC NET Syllabus the same for Assistant Professor and JRF?
Yes, the syllabus and exam pattern are exactly the same for candidates appearing for ‘Assistant Professor only’ or ‘JRF & Assistant Professor’. The only difference is the cut-off marks, which are higher for JRF.
Are there any changes in the UGC NET Syllabus 2025?
The core structure of 10 units remains the same. However, the UGC is gradually aligning the syllabus with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing a Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF). This shift focuses more on critical thinking, analytical skills, and the integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) rather than rote memorisation.
Is there any negative marking in the UGC NET 2025 exam
No, there is absolutely no negative marking in either Paper 1 or Paper 2 of the UGC NET exam. Candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions.
How many subjects are available for UGC NET Paper 2?
There are a total of 85 subjects available for Paper 2. Candidates must choose the subject of their post-graduation.
What is the detailed syllabus for UGC NET Paper 1?
The UGC NET Paper 1 Syllabus consists of 10 units: Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Comprehension, Communication, Mathematical Reasoning & Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, ICT, People, Development & Environment, and Higher Education System.
Can I get the UGC NET Syllabus 2025 PDF in Hindi?
Yes, the NTA officially provides the syllabus PDF for both Paper 1 and all 83 subjects in both English and Hindi.
What is the difficulty level of the UGC NET exam?
The overall difficulty level of the UGC NET exam is generally considered to be Moderate to Difficult. Paper 1 is moderate, while the difficulty of Paper 2 depends on the subject chosen and the candidate’s preparation level.
How many questions are in Paper 1 and Paper 2?
Paper 1 has 50 questions (100 marks), and Paper 2 has 100 questions (200 marks).
What is the total duration of the UGC NET exam?
The total duration is 3 hours (180 minutes) for both papers combined. There is no separate time limit or break between Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Can I choose a different subject other than my Master’s subject?
Not recommended; degree-relevant subject should be selected.
Is UGC NET bilingual?
Yes, the question papers for all subjects (except the language papers) are bilingual – available in both English and Hindi.
What is the qualification for UGC NET?
Master’s degree with 55% (General) & 50% (Reserved categories).
Can final-year students apply?
Yes, provisionally.
How many attempts allowed?
Unlimited attempts for Assistant Professor.
Where can I download the official UGC NET Syllabus 2025 PDF?
The official syllabus PDF for all subjects can be downloaded from the NTA’s official website for UGC NET: https://www.ugcnetonline.in/syllabus-new.php
How should I start my preparation for UGC NET 2025?
Begin by thoroughly understanding the syllabus and exam pattern. Create a study plan that covers all units of Paper 1 and the entire syllabus of your chosen subject for Paper 2. Use standard books, practice previous years’ question papers, and take mock tests regularly.
Start Your Preparation Today!
With the UGC NET December 2025 session approaching, a thorough understanding of the UGC NET Syllabus 2025 is your first step towards success. Download the PDFs, plan your strategy, and study consistently. Good luck!
For more expert guidance and study resources for the UGC NET exam, keep following GovtJobsNet.com.
Plan Your Success: Download Official Exam Calendars (UPSC, SSC)
Planning your preparation for other major competitive exams? Stay ahead with the official exam calendars for UPSC and SSC.
- ✅ UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 – Check upcoming UPSC 2026 exam dates.
- ✅ SSC Exam Calendar 2025-26 – Check upcoming SSC exam dates.
- ✅ UPSC Exam Calendar 2025 – Check upcoming UPSC 2025 exam dates.
Ameer M, founder of GovtJobsNet.com, helps job seekers with accurate govt job updates and exam tips. | அரசு வேலை வழிகாட்டி, நம்பகமான தகவல்களை வழங்குபவர்.