CSIR UGC NET December 2025 Registrations Begin at csirnet.nta.nic.in – Apply Online, Check Eligibility, Fees, and Important Dates
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (CSIR-UGC NET) is one of the most prestigious national examinations in India. Conducted twice a year by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the CSIR-UGC NET determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and for appointment as Assistant Professor in universities and colleges across the country.
For the December 2025 cycle, NTA has officially started the online registration process. Candidates aspiring to pursue a career in research or teaching in the fields of Science and Technology can now apply through the official portal – csirnet.nta.nic.in.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the exam including eligibility, application process, important dates, exam pattern, syllabus, and preparation tips – to guide aspirants step by step.
📅 Important Dates for CSIR UGC NET December 2025
The NTA has released the complete exam schedule for CSIR-UGC NET December 2025. Aspirants should carefully note these deadlines to avoid last-minute hassles:
- Start of Online Registration: September 25, 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: October 24, 2025 (till 11:50 PM)
- Last Date for Online Fee Payment: October 25, 2025 (till 11:50 PM)
- Correction Window: October 27 – October 29, 2025
- CSIR NET Exam Date: December 18, 2025
- Exam City Slip Release: To be announced
- Admit Card Release: To be announced by NTA
Applicants are advised not to wait until the last day and to complete their registration well before the deadline.
📝 Application Process – How to Apply for CSIR UGC NET 2025
The application procedure for CSIR NET December 2025 is completely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official portal – csirnet.nta.nic.in
- Register as a new candidate by providing basic details such as name, email ID, and mobile number.
- Fill out the online application form, including personal details, academic qualifications, and subject preferences.
- Upload scanned documents, including:
- Passport-sized photograph
- Signature
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Pay the application fee through debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Review the form carefully and submit it.
- Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
💰 Application Fees
The fee structure for CSIR NET 2025 is as follows:
- General Category: ₹1,150
- General-EWS / OBC-NCL: ₹600
- SC / ST / Third Gender / PwD: ₹300
The application fee is non-refundable and can only be paid through online modes.
📚 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure that they fulfill the eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have a Master’s degree in Science stream subjects such as Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, or Earth Sciences.
- The minimum marks required are 55% for General/EWS/OBC (NCL) candidates and 50% for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
Age Limit
- For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Maximum age is 30 years as of December 1, 2025. Relaxations are provided:
- 5 years for SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender candidates
- 3 years for OBC-NCL candidates
- For Assistant Professor: No upper age limit.
🖥️ Exam Pattern
The CSIR-UGC NET exam will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode in two shifts:
- Shift 1: 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
- Shift 2: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
The test is bilingual (English and Hindi). If there is any discrepancy between the two, the English version will be treated as final.
Structure of the Exam
- The exam will have three parts:
- Part A (General Aptitude): Questions on reasoning, numerical ability, and data interpretation.
- Part B (Subject-related): Core questions from the chosen subject.
- Part C (Analytical questions): Higher-level questions to test in-depth knowledge.
Each subject paper has a different marking scheme, so candidates must carefully check the official information bulletin.
📖 Subjects Offered
The CSIR-UGC NET covers five major subjects:
- Chemical Sciences
- Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
Candidates must choose one subject while filling out the application form.
🎯 Significance of CSIR NET
Clearing the CSIR-UGC NET opens multiple career opportunities:
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Offers financial assistance to pursue Ph.D. programs in top research institutions across India.
- Assistant Professor Eligibility: Qualifies candidates for teaching positions in universities and colleges.
- Career in Research: Opens pathways to join CSIR labs, IITs, IISc, and other reputed institutions.
- Higher Studies: Many universities require NET qualification for admission to doctoral programs.
🔑 Preparation Tips for CSIR NET 2025
Since the exam is highly competitive, aspirants should adopt a structured approach to preparation:
- Understand the Syllabus: Go through the official syllabus for your subject and mark important topics.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: This helps in understanding exam patterns and frequently asked questions.
- Focus on Part A (General Aptitude): Many candidates ignore this section, but it can be a game-changer.
- Time Management: Divide study hours between core subjects and aptitude practice.
- Mock Tests: Attempt online mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the NTA website for updates on admit card, exam city slip, and results.
📌 Important Instructions for Candidates
- Ensure the uploaded photo and signature are clear, otherwise your application may be rejected.
- Double-check category certificates and other supporting documents.
- Choose the correct exam city preference while applying.
- Do not provide false information; NTA can cancel applications at any stage.
- Keep the confirmation page and fee receipt safely for future use.
🔗 Direct Link to Apply
Candidates can apply online for CSIR-UGC NET December 2025 through the official website:
👉 Click here to Apply – csirnet.nta.nic.in
✅ Conclusion
The CSIR-UGC NET December 2025 is a golden opportunity for science graduates and postgraduates to secure their future in research and academia. With applications now open, eligible candidates should waste no time in completing the registration process.
Since the exam is known for its competitiveness, aspirants must plan their preparation carefully and use the remaining months effectively. A well-structured study plan, consistent practice, and timely application will be the key to success.
