CSIR UGC NET December 2026 – Eligibility Criteria & Application Form

📋 CSIR UGC NET December 2026 – Eligibility Criteria & Application Form — Overview

About This Opportunity

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the notification for the Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 examination. This prestigious national-level test determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for Junior Research Fellowships, appointment as Assistant Professor, and admission to Ph.D. programs in universities and research establishments across the country. Eligible candidates can apply online through the official NTA portal to secure fellowships, academic positions, or research opportunities.

Important Dates

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Limit for JRF: Candidates must not be more than 30 years of age as on the 1st day of the month in which the examination concludes (December 2026). A relaxation of up to 5 years is applicable for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, Third gender categories, and women applicants.
• Age Limit for Assistant Professor and Ph.D.: There is no upper age limit for applying for Assistant Professor or admission to Ph.D. through the Joint CSIR UGC-NET.
• Educational Qualification for General/EWS: Candidates must have secured at least 55% marks (without rounding off) in a Master's Degree or equivalent examination from a recognized university or institution.
• Educational Qualification for Reserved Categories: OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, and Third gender category candidates need at least 50% marks (without rounding off) in their Master's degree or equivalent examination.
• Appearing Candidates: Students pursuing their final year Master's degree or awaiting results may apply provisionally, provided they complete their degree with the required percentage within the stipulated timeframe after the net result.

Salary / Financial Benefits

• Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) Stipend: Selected candidates receive Rs. 37,000/- per month for the first two years, along with an annual contingent grant of Rs. 20,000/- reimbursed directly.
• Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) Stipend: Upon completing two years as a JRF and registering for a Ph.D., the fellowship upgrades to SRF with a raised stipend of Rs. 42,000/- per month for the 3rd and subsequent years.

Application Fee

Selection Process

• Computer Based Test (CBT) conducted over 180 minutes in Hindi and English.
• Final qualification and award based on performance scores determining eligibility for JRF, Assistant Professor, and Ph.D. admissions.

How to Apply

• Navigate to the Important Web-Links section and click on the Online Application Form link.
• Fill in all required personal and educational details accurately on the NTA portal.
• Upload all necessary scanned documents and certificates.
• Pay the applicable application fee online using net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.
• Submit the completed form and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.

Important Links

1. Click the Apply Now button below to visit the official website.
2. Register / Login on the official portal.
3. Fill in the application form carefully.
4. Upload required documents (photo, signature, certificates).
5. Pay the application fee: Rs 1150/-.
6. Submit and save/print your application for future reference.
7. Last date to apply: 05 Nov 2026.