UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 for Paper 1 and Paper 2

If you want to become a college teacher or researcher in India, you need to clear the UGC NET exam. The UGC NET exam pattern 2025 is important to understand before you start your preparation. It will help you know what to expect and how to study better. UGC NET stands for University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test. It is conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency). The exam is for people who want to become Assistant Professors or get a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).

The UGC NET pattern includes two papers – Paper 1 and Paper 2. Both papers are held on the same day in a single sitting. The total time to complete the exam is three hours. All questions are multiple-choice and the exam is conducted online. Let’s look at the full UGC NET exam pattern and marking system in detail.

UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025 

Here is a quick overview of the UGC NET pattern:

• Duration: 3 hours (no break between the papers)

• Mode: Online (Computer Based Test)

• Type of Questions: All are multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

• Language: English and Hindi

• Marking: Each correct answer = +2 marks

• UGC NET negative marking: There is no negative marking for wrong answers.

UGC NET Paper Pattern – Paper 1

Paper 1 is common for all candidates. It checks your ability to teach and do research. It also checks your thinking and awareness. The ugc net paper pattern for Paper 1 includes 10 sections.

Here’s how it looks:

Paper 1 is very important as it checks your thinking and general knowledge. You must score well in this section to increase your overall score.

Check Out: 66 UGC NET Paper 1 Previous Year Solved Papers

UGC NET Paper Pattern – Paper 2

Paper 2 is based on the subject you studied during your Master’s degree. You can choose from 85 subjects provided in the application form. If your subject is not listed, you can pick a related one.

This paper has:

• 100 MCQs

• Each question is 2 marks

• Total marks: 200

All questions are compulsory.

This paper checks your deep knowledge of your subject. You must prepare your UGC NET syllabus 2025 carefully for this paper. Read each topic properly, make short notes, and revise often.

UGC NET Marking Scheme

Understanding the UGC NET marking scheme helps you plan better.

There is no negative marking. So, it’s good to attempt all the questions, even if you’re not 100% sure. You won’t lose any marks for wrong answers.

This ugc net negative marking policy gives you a chance to guess smartly if needed.

Check Out - CTET Books

UGC NET Total Marks and Time

• Total Questions: 150 (Paper 1 + Paper 2)

• Total Marks: 300

• Time: 180 minutes (3 hours)

• No Break: You must complete both papers in one go.

Managing time during the exam is very important. Spend the first 40–50 minutes on Paper 1. Use the remaining time for Paper 2.

Important Features of UGC NET 2025

• No Breaks: You must complete both papers within the 3-hour time limit without any break.

• All Questions Compulsory: You should attempt all questions in both papers.

• Language Choice: You can take the exam in either English or Hindi. This choice must be made while filling out the application form.

• No Negative Marking: The ugc net total marks are calculated by adding only the marks for correct answers. Wrong answers don't result in mark deductions.

Check Out: 63 UGC NET Paper 1 Previous Year Solved Papers

Preparation Tips for UGC NET 2025

For Paper 1:

1. Focus on building general awareness and reasoning skills

2. Practice comprehension passages regularly

3. Work on data interpretation and mathematical reasoning

4. Understand current trends in higher education and ICT

5. Review previous years' UGC NET paper 1 questions to understand the pattern.

For Paper 2:

1. Master the complete ugc net syllabus 2025 for your chosen subject

2. Focus on fundamental concepts and their applications

3. Practice subject-specific MCQs regularly

4. Refer to standard textbooks and study materials

5. Keep up with recent developments in your field

Time Management Strategy

With 150 questions to be answered in 180 minutes, you'll have a little over a minute per question. Here's a suggested time allocation:

• Paper 1 (50 questions): 60 minutes

• Paper 2 (100 questions): 120 minutes

However, if you find Paper 1 easier, you might finish it quicker and have more time for Paper 2, or vice versa.

Understanding the ugc net pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The exam tests both your general aptitude and subject expertise, with a total of 300 marks at stake. With no ugc net negative marking, you should attempt all questions even if you're unsure of some answers.

Remember that the key to success lies in consistent practice, thorough understanding of concepts, and smart time management during the exam. Start your preparation early, focus on the complete UGC NET syllabus 2025, and you'll be well-positioned to achieve your goal.

Read More: UGC NET Previous Year Question Paper with Solution PDFs

UGC NET Exam Pattern FAQs

1. What is the total duration of the UGC NET 2025 exam?

The total duration is 3 hours (180 minutes) for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 combined, with no break in between.

2. Is there negative marking in UGC NET 2025?

No, there is no negative marking in the ugc net exam pattern. You get +2 marks for correct answers and 0 for incorrect ones.

3. In which languages is the UGC NET exam conducted?

The exam is available in English and Hindi only. You must select your preferred language while filling out the application form.

4. How should I divide my time between Paper 1 and Paper 2?

A recommended strategy is to allocate 60 minutes for Paper 1 (50 questions) and 120 minutes for Paper 2 (100 questions), but you can adjust based on your strengths.

5. What is the passing score for UGC NET 2025?

The passing score varies by category. Generally, candidates need to score at least 40% (General category) or 35% (Reserved categories) of the total marks.