UGC NET December 2026 registration opens, apply by October 28

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened registration for the UGC NET December 2026 examination, giving aspirants until October 28 to submit their applications. Candidates who miss the deadline can apply with a late fee until October 31.

According to the public notice issued on October 8, applications must be submitted online through the official website, ugcnet.nta.nic.in. The examination will be held in computer-based test (CBT) mode for 87 subjects from December 14 to 19.

The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) determines candidates’ eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), appointment as Assistant Professor, admission to PhD programmes, or admission to PhD programmes alone, depending on the category of qualification.

UGC NET December 2026 important dates

Candidates should keep the following deadlines in mind to complete the application and fee payment process on time.

Application submission and fee payment deadlines close at 11.50 pm on the respective dates.

UGC NET December 2026 application fee

The examination fee varies by category:

• General/Unreserved: ₹1,150
• General-EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹600
• SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: ₹325

Candidates can pay the fee using a credit card, debit card, net banking or UPI.

How to apply for UGC NET December 2026

Candidates must submit only one application form through the official website. Applications submitted through any other mode will not be accepted.

Follow these steps to complete the registration:

1. Visit ugcnet.nta.nic.in.
2. Open the registration link for UGC NET December 2026.
3. Register and fill in the online application form.
4. Enter personal and academic details accurately.
5. Upload the required documents and pay the examination fee.
6. Submit the form and save a copy for future reference.

NTA issues key instructions for applicants

The NTA has advised candidates to provide their own or their parents’ or guardians’ accessible email address and mobile number during registration, as official communications will be sent through these channels.

Applicants should verify all details carefully before submitting the form, as changes will not be permitted after final submission, according to the notice.

The agency will announce the examination city intimation slip and admit card release dates separately. Candidates should check the official website regularly for updates and further instructions.