Applications are open for the December 2026 University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test. Candidates can register online by October 28, while the late-fee facility is available until October 31.

Examination authority: National Testing Agency (NTA) | Registration announced: October 8, 2026

The National Testing Agency has initiated the online application process for the UGC NET December 2026 examination. Candidates interested in research fellowships, academic appointments and eligible PhD admission pathways can submit their applications through the official examination website.

As outlined in the public notice dated October 8, the examination will be conducted in computer-based test mode across 87 subjects. The scheduled examination period is December 14 to December 19, 2026.

Visit Official UGC NET Website

Purpose of the UGC NET Examination

UGC NET evaluates candidates for different higher-education and research opportunities. Depending on the applicable qualification category and results, the examination can establish eligibility for:

• Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
• Appointment as an Assistant Professor.
• Assistant Professor eligibility along with PhD admission.
• Admission to PhD programmes without the other eligibility categories.

UGC NET December 2026: Important Dates

Candidates should review the application timeline and complete each required step before the relevant deadline.

The stated closing time for application submission and fee payment is 11:50 pm on the respective deadline dates.

Application Fee for UGC NET December 2026

The examination fee differs by candidate category. Applicants should select the correct category when completing the online form.

Available online payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, net banking and UPI.

How to Apply for UGC NET December 2026

Applicants must complete registration through the official NTA portal. Only one application should be submitted by each candidate.

1. Visit the official website: ugcnet.nta.nic.in.
2. Find the December 2026 UGC NET registration section.
3. Create an account and access the online application form.
4. Enter the required personal and academic information.
5. Upload the requested documents according to the portal instructions.
6. Pay the examination fee using an available online payment method.
7. Check the entered information and submit the completed form.
8. Save a copy of the submitted application and payment confirmation.

Instructions Candidates Should Remember

The examination city notification and admit card schedule are expected to be announced separately. Candidates should follow official NTA communications for confirmed updates and any changes to the published timetable.