UGC Net Passing Marks 2025: Minimum Passing Marks

Physics Wallah Academic Expert
December 04, 2024

UGC NET Passing Marks 2025: Minimum Passing Marks: The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is an important examination for candidates who aspire to become assistant professors or to secure Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in Indian universities. So, the passing marks for the UGC net change every year. Knowing the passing marks for UGC NET is essential for candidates preparing for the exam in 2025. 

We will provide a complete analysis of the minimum passing marks in the UGC net exam, category-wise requirements, and factors influencing the cut-off scores.

Check out: UGC-NET Books

UGC NET Passing Marks 2025

Acknowledgment of the passing marks criteria is crucial for candidates to plan their preparation effectively and assess their performance relatively. It provides a clear reference for success in this highly competitive examination.

For the UGC NET 2025, several updates have been made to enhance the examination process and align it with current academic standards. These include revised syllabus content, updated question formats, and streamlined application procedures.

Important Examination Details:

  1. Examination Periods: June and December 2025 (Bi-annual)

  2. Tentative June Session: June 10-20, 2025 (Specific dates to be confirmed)

  3. Result Declaration: Within 45 days of examination completion

  4. UGC NET official website: https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in/

  5. National Testing Agency (NTA) portal: https://nta.ac.in/

  6. UGC official notifications and circulars

Also check, UGC NET Paper 1 Previous Year Solved Papers Book

UGC NET 2025 Examination Structure

Key Changes in the UGC NET 2025 Examination Structure

Exam Dates and Frequency

The UGC NET 2025 exam will be conducted twice a year, generally in June and December. The specific dates for the June session are might set for the second week of June 2025.

Component

Marks

Duration

Content

Paper 1: General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude

100

2 hours

- Teaching aptitude, Research methodology, Comprehension, Communication, Reasoning, Data interpretation

Paper 2: Subject-specific Assessment

200

3 hours

-In-depth knowledge of the chosen subject, Application of concepts, Critical analysis skills

Total Aggregate

300

5 hours

- No negative marking applied

General Category Passing Marks Criteria

Component

Criteria

UGC net passing marks for general

40% (120 marks out of 300)

Passing Marks for UGC net paper 1

No specific cut-off contributes to the aggregate score

Passing Marks for UGC net paper 2

No specific cut-off contributes to an aggregate score

Category-wise Passing Marks Criteria

Category

Minimum Aggregate

Marks Required (out of 300)

OBC (Non-creamy layer) candidates

36%

108

SC/ST candidates

35%

105

PwD (Persons with Disabilities)

35%

105

The difference between paper and paper 2 is

Aspect

Paper 1

Paper 2

Purpose

General assessment of teaching and research aptitude

Subject-specific knowledge and expertise

Content

Covers various topics related to teaching and research

Focuses on the candidate's chosen subject area

Number of Questions

50 questions

100 questions

Total Marks

100 marks

200 marks

Question Type

Objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

Objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

Duration

Part of a combined duration of 3 hours

Part of a combined duration of 3 hours

Weightage

Each question carries 2 marks

Each question carries 2 marks

Topics Covered

Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Comprehension, Communication, Reasoning, Data Interpretation, ICT, People & Environment, Higher Education System

Based on the specific syllabus of the chosen subject (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, etc.)

Language Options

Available in both English and Hindi

Available in both English 

and Hindi

Candidates should focus on developing their general aptitude skills for Paper 1 while also going deeply into their specific subject matter for Paper 2. It is also required to remember the criteria for the passing marks.

Buy PW Teaching Exam Books!

Factors Influencing UGC NET Cut-Off Marks

The cut-off marks fluctuate each year based on several factors:

  • Number of candidates: A higher number of applicants typically leads to increased competition, which may increase cut-off marks.

  • Difficulty Level: If the exam is perceived as more challenging, cut-offs may decrease due to lower overall performance.

  • Previous year trends: Historical cut-off data provides a benchmark that influences current expectations.

  • Reservation Policies: The allocation of slots according to government policies affects how many candidates qualify from various categories.

Expert Analysis on Minimum Passing Marks

Based on recent trends and expert predictions, candidates should consider the following:

  1. Increased competition may lead to slightly higher cut-offs

  2. Subject-specific variations in Paper 2 cut-offs are likely

  3. Emphasis on practical knowledge and application-based questions may influence marking patterns

Strategies to Meet Passing Criteria

  1. Aim for at least 50% minimum to ensure a comfortable margin

  2. Focus on high-weightage topics in both papers

  3. Practice time management to attempt maximum questions

  4. Stay updated with the latest UGC NET syllabus and pattern changes

Understanding the UGC NET passing marks for 2025 is vital for efficient preparation. While the minimum passing marks serve as a baseline, candidates should aim higher to secure better chances of qualification. Stay updated with official announcements and focus on a comprehensive preparation strategy to excel in both Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Remember, the UGC NET examination evaluates not just subject knowledge but also teaching and research aptitude. A balanced approach to preparation, focusing on both papers equally, will significantly enhance your chances of success.

Read More: UGC Net Preparation Tips with Previous Year Question Paper

UGC Net Passing Marks 2025 FAQs

1: What are the minimum passing marks for UGC NET in 2025?

The minimum passing marks are 120 out of 300 for General category candidates and 105 out of 300 for OBC/SC/ST/PWD/Transgender candidates.

2: How are UGC NET cut-off scores determined?

Cut-off scores are determined by considering factors such as the number of candidates appearing for the exam, the difficulty level of question papers, and previous year cut-off trends.

3: Is there a difference between qualifying marks and cut-off marks?

Yes, qualifying marks refer to the minimum scores required to pass, while cut-off marks indicate the scores achieved by candidates who qualify based on overall performance and competition.

4: Can I check previous years' cut-off scores?

Yes, previous years' cut-off scores are available on the official NTA website and can provide insights into expected performance levels.

5: How often is the UGC NET exam conducted?

The UGC NET exam is conducted twice a year, typically in June and December.

6:How are the passing marks for UGC NET determined? 

The UGC determines passing marks based on factors such as overall candidate performance, difficulty level of the examination, and available positions for JRF and Assistant Professorship.

This site uses cookies to improve your experience. By clicking, you agree to our Privacy Policy.