🧾 UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 for Paper 1 and Paper 2, Marking Scheme Explained
📚 Overview
The UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 has been officially released by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for the December 2025 cycle. The National Eligibility Test (NET) is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode to determine candidates’ eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) across Indian universities and colleges.
The UGC NET 2025 Exam includes two papers – Paper 1 and Paper 2, conducted in a single session without any break. Both papers consist of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) designed to evaluate the candidate’s teaching aptitude, research ability, and subject-specific expertise.
🔍 UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025: Key Highlights
Here’s a quick snapshot of the UGC NET 2025 exam structure for both papers:
| Feature | Paper 1 | Paper 2 | 
|---|---|---|
| Type | Common for all candidates | Subject-specific | 
| Number of Questions | 50 | 100 | 
| Total Marks | 100 | 200 | 
| Duration | 1 hour | 2 hours | 
| Question Type | Multiple Choice (MCQs) | Multiple Choice (MCQs) | 
| Marks per Question | 2 marks | 2 marks | 
| Negative Marking | No | No | 
👉 Total Exam Duration: 3 Hours (Both papers combined without any break)
🧠 UGC NET Paper 1 Exam Pattern 2025
Paper 1 is designed to assess the candidate’s teaching and research aptitude, along with general awareness and reasoning ability. This section is common for all candidates, regardless of their subject specialization.
Detailed Structure for Paper 1
| Aspect | Details | 
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | 
| Duration | 1 Hour (60 Minutes) | 
| Question Type | Objective (MCQs) | 
| Number of Questions | 50 | 
| Total Marks | 100 | 
| Marking Scheme | +2 marks for each correct answer, no negative marking | 
| Syllabus Topics | Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Communication, Mathematical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, ICT, People & Environment, Higher Education System | 
This paper evaluates your overall ability to think critically, analyze data, and apply reasoning to teaching and learning contexts.
📖 UGC NET Paper 2 Exam Pattern 2025
Paper 2 tests candidates on their subject-specific knowledge based on the discipline they choose during the application process. This paper is more in-depth and analytical.
Detailed Structure for Paper 2
| Aspect | Details | 
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | 
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) | 
| Question Type | Objective (MCQs) | 
| Number of Questions | 100 | 
| Total Marks | 200 | 
| Subjects Offered | 85 Subjects | 
| Marking Scheme | +2 marks for each correct answer, no negative marking | 
| Syllabus Coverage | Comprehensive subject-based questions from your chosen discipline | 
Paper 2 requires deep conceptual clarity and subject command. It directly assesses the candidate’s academic and research potential in their chosen field.
🧮 UGC NET Marking Scheme 2025
The marking scheme for the UGC NET 2025 exam is simple and transparent. Every correct answer adds to your total score, while there’s no penalty for wrong or unattempted questions.
| Aspect | Details | 
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +2 marks | 
| Incorrect Answer | No negative marking | 
| Unanswered Question | No marks deducted | 
| Total Marks (Paper 1 + Paper 2) | 300 Marks | 
| Aggregate Score | Sum of marks obtained in both papers | 
✅ Pro Tip: Attempt all questions — since there’s no negative marking, guessing smartly can boost your overall score.
🖥️ Mode of Examination
The UGC NET 2025 exam will be conducted entirely in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Candidates must report to their designated centers with valid ID proof and admit card. The interface allows easy navigation between questions, bookmarking, and reviewing answers before final submission.
📄 Download UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 PDF
Candidates can download the official UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 PDF for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 directly from the official website.
👉 Click Here to Download UGC NET Exam Pattern PDF
This official PDF helps you understand the structure, syllabus, and topic weightage in detail.
🎯 How to Prepare for UGC NET 2025
- Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Go through both Paper 1 and Paper 2 syllabi carefully.
- Focus on Conceptual Clarity: Especially for your subject paper (Paper 2).
- Practice Mock Tests: Regularly attempt full-length mocks to manage time.
- Revise Frequently: Make short notes for last-minute revision.
- Analyze Past Year Papers: Identify repeating question patterns and important topics.
🔑 Final Thoughts
The UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 is designed to evaluate not only subject knowledge but also the candidate’s analytical and teaching abilities. Understanding the detailed pattern, marking scheme, and structure of both papers will help you plan a focused preparation strategy.
Whether you’re aiming for Assistant Professorship or JRF, a clear understanding of the exam structure is your first step toward success!
🏷️ Quick Summary
- Total Papers: 2 (Paper 1 + Paper 2)
- Total Marks: 300
- Total Duration: 3 Hours
- Mode: Computer-Based Test
- Marking: +2 per correct answer, No negative marking
📢 Parakh Path Tip
“Preparation begins with clarity — and clarity starts with understanding the pattern.”
Stay tuned to Parakh Path for the latest UGC NET updates, study plans, and free PDF notes to help you qualify in your first attempt.
