Important Frequently asked questions about UGC NET EXAM
#1. How tough is it to crack UGC NET?
It’s Tough! If you think it’s Tough! As its syllabus is big enough that can’t be prepared in a few months.
Try to get a comprehensive understanding of the exam process, its structure and various aspects related to the preparation.
Your success in Crack NTA-NET Exam depends on four D’s i.e Dedication, Determination, Discipline, and Drill.
Be ready to work tough like a sportsperson. Plan your syllabus distribution in a period and try to work it out within your set schedule. Set weekly/monthly targets and at the end of the week, do a self-appraisal or critical evaluation exercise.
You may find a lot of temptation to give up the attempt in the NET examination but never quit.
NET is like any other exam, if you are preparing well then no one can stop you from getting a great result. Actually, what happens is people make their perception about the exam only after listening to others and sometimes they didn’t even give their full efforts because they have a ready-made mindset about it that says “You will not be able to crack it, buddy.. leave it”.
If you will enter your preparation with such a mindset then I can say it will become difficult for you.
However, it is nothing like an impossible thing.
Yes, it, of course, needs your sacrifice. You need to sacrifice your luxury time. You will need seriousness and the most important is patience. It is not possible to qualify for this exam by reading one or two books. No single book can cover the whole syllabus of the net exam.
So, you need to dig the roots to find the best out of the rest. Take the help of your seniors, professors, online friends and of course quora in this task. And I am sure you will be able to qualify for it without any coaching guidance.
#2. How the CSIR UGC NET EXAM is different from the UGC NET EXAM?
Difference between CBSE UGC NET EXAM and CSIR NET EXAM:
There are the following factors which need to be considered.
Governing Body
UGC NET EXAM was conducted by CBSE on behalf of UGC while CSIR NET EXAM is conducted by HRDG(a division of CSIR)…however, going onward NET Will be conducted by NTA(Special Agency Setup for Competitive Exam )
UGC and CSIR are different agencies. UGC stands for University Grants Commission which is a statutory organization started by Union Government and CSIR stands for “Council of Scientific & Industrial Research” Primarily known for being a national R&D organization, is among the world’s largest publicly funded R&D organizations. Human Resource Development Group (HRDG), a division of CSIR realizes this objective through various grants, fellowship schemes etc.
UGC offers a limited number of fellowships in all disciplines viz. Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Commerce, etc., through its own (UGC-NET) exam and in five natural science disciplines like Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Sciences, Earth Sciences and Mathematical Sciences through Joint CSIR-UGC-NET exam held by CSIR twice a year, now they have added Engineering Sciences as one of the domain for CSIR-JRF.
Subject Covered
The difference primarily is that UGC NET is for Arts, Humanities and Commerce subjects, and CSIR NET is for science subjects.
UGC offers a limited number of fellowships in all disciplines viz. Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Commerce, etc., through its own (UGC-NET) exam and in five natural science disciplines like Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Sciences, Earth Sciences and Mathematical Sciences through Joint CSIR-UGC-NET exam held by CSIR twice a year, now they have added Engineering Sciences as one of the domain for CSIR-JRF.
Eligibility Criteria
In the National Eligibility Test conducted by UGC, the interested candidates must have completed their post-graduation or Ph.Ds. in the relevant subjects with not less than 55 per cent marks.
In NET conducted by CSIR, the interested candidates must have acquired their Master’s degree in the Science stream. They should have scored 55 per cent and above in the eligibility exam and should have done the course from a certified university.
#3. What will be my monthly salary if I clear UGC NET and get a lectureship?
Depending on your score you can apply for PhD or assistant professor posts. You might be required to attend the interview. You can apply for research leave vacancy posts, which will make you eligible for the same salary as that person.
University and college teaching is an inspiring, pleasing and rewarding career that provides ample opportunity to influence, manage and shape the lives of hundreds of students every year. With the expansion of higher education in India, there is a great demand for well-qualified and devoted teachers. As compared to others, higher education teachers enjoy a flexible and friendly learning condition which provides a genuine work/leisure balance. To be a good teacher, one must have a deep passion for exchanging ideas at an intellectual level.
For teaching in a college or university, one can earn at least Rs. 40,000 and above depending on education, experience and city. Indian market is always in need of competent teachers. With the emergence of private/ deemed universities and Global Institutes, the demand for lecturers and professors is at an all-time high.
15600-39100 (Pay Band – 3) with academic grade pay of Rs. 6000 (for an assistant professor)
#4. Which is the best coaching institute for NTA-NET?
I would like to answer the question a little bit differently. I want to answer this question as if someone is asking “Is it really important to go for coaching classes or one can crack this giant by self-study as well”
Here is the answer:
I generally got queries regarding whether we should opt for coaching or can go for self-studies. My below answer would enable and act as guidelines for the students to choose between Coaching vs. Self-Study.
Moreover one has to fathom that self-study and coaching classes are not the sole criteria and deciding factors as far as success in the professional examination is concerned. You may find various examples around you. Many students have cleared their exams quite easily just by doing self-study and some of the students who have taken coaching are still struggling or vice versa. So the main decisive factor is your honest efforts and commitment towards your preparation and nothing else. Let us discuss certain pre-conditions for self-study entirely based on my observation.
ROLE OF TEACHERS/SENIORS IN SELF-STUDY
Proper guidance regarding how to start your study from your teacher or some senior student is very much important rather I would say it is indispensable. The main reason behind this point is a lot of theory content or material in the study module and reference books are irrelevant from the exam point of view and only someone senior can guide you regarding this vital and energy-saving point.
Have regular discussions with your friends or seniors regarding exam-oriented topics which you simply failed to understand during self-study. In my personal opinion, this point is very important and plays a decisive role during self-study and gives you and the other person a very good chance to interact with each other prolifically.
The selection of correct reference books is another essential pre-condition for self-study. It is also advisable to collect all the reference books well in advance. Along with the selection of reference books in advance, it is also advisable to collect exam-oriented notes from the very beginning and stick to them.
Kindly consider this point as serious advice. During self-study most of the time you study alone without interaction with anyone else. So self-study may be a failure if you continue your preparation without interaction with anybody else. Remember a healthy and light chit-chat can give your brain much-awaited relaxation and energy.
Another pre-condition for self-study is the availability of time. Going for self-study may be a bit risky when there is a lack of time like you are preparing for other professional courses simultaneously or busy with your job etc. In other words, an ample amount of time to study and superior time management plays an important role in self-study.
Time Schedule: Study routine/Time Table also plays an important role during self-study. If you are not able to follow a set routine of study then in that case self-study may be a complete disaster as in self-study there is always a danger of lack of discipline.
The main reason behind this probable lack of discipline is that there is no fear of coaching classes or tuition work and you are the sole ruler of your wish. So in self-study, 100% commitment and study routine are very essential.
OTHER QUICK FAQ ABOUT UGC NET EXAM
What is the NTA UGC NET EXAM?
NTA UGC NET is a national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to determine the eligibility of candidates for the post of Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges.
What are the eligibility criteria for NTA UGC NET exam?
The eligibility criteria for NTA UGC NET exam include a Master’s degree or its equivalent with a minimum of 55% marks for the general category and 50% marks for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/Transgender candidates.
What is the age limit for JRF in NTA UGC NET exam?
The upper age limit for JRF in NTA UGC NET exam is 30 years. However, there is no upper age limit for the post of Assistant Professor.
How many times is the NTA UGC NET exam conducted in a year?
THE NTA UGC NET exam is conducted twice a year in the months of June and December.
What is the application fee for NTA UGC NET exam?
The application fee for the NTA UGC NET exam varies according to the category of the candidate. For the general category, the fee is Rs. 1000, while for OBC-NCL and EWS, it is Rs. 500. For SC/ST/PwD/Transgender candidates, the fee is Rs. 250.
What is the mode of payment for the NTA UGC NET exam application fee?
The application fee for NTA UGC NET exam can be paid through online mode using credit card, debit card, or net banking.
What is the syllabus for NTA UGC NET exam?
The syllabus for NTA UGC NET exam varies according to the subject chosen by the candidate. However, the exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 is a general aptitude test, while Paper 2 is subject-specific.
What is the exam pattern for NTA UGC NET exam?
NTA UGC NET exam consists of two papers. Paper 1 consists of 50 objective type questions, each carrying 2 marks. Paper 2 consists of 100 objective type questions, each carrying 2 marks.
Is there any negative marking in NTA UGC NET exam?
No, there is no negative marking in NTA UGC NET exam.
How many marks are required to qualify for NTA UGC NET exam?
To qualify for the NTA UGC NET exam, a candidate needs to score a minimum of 40% marks in Paper 1 and Paper 2 combined. However, for candidates belonging to the reserved categories, the qualifying marks are relaxed to 35%.
What is the validity period of NTA UGC NET exam score?
The validity period of NTA UGC NET exam score is three years from the date of declaration of result.
Is there any age relaxation for reserved category candidates in NTA UGC NET exam?
Yes, there is age relaxation for reserved category candidates in NTA UGC NET exam. The upper age limit is relaxed by 5 years for candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwD categories.
Can a candidate apply for both JRF and Assistant Professor in NTA UGC NET exam?
Yes, a candidate can apply for both JRF and Assistant Professor in NTA UGC NET exam.
What is the cut-off score for NTA UGC NET exam?
The cut-off score for the NTA UGC NET exam varies according to the subject chosen by the candidate and the category to which he/she belongs.
Can a candidate with a degree from a foreign university apply for NTA UGC NET exam?
Yes, a candidate with a degree from a foreign university can apply for the NTA UGC NET exam if the degree is recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
Is there any limit on the number of attempts for NTA UGC NET exam?
No, there is no limit on the number of attempts for NTA UGC NET exam.
What are the documents required for the NTA UGC NET exam application?
The documents required for the NTA UGC NET exam application include a scanned copy of the candidate’s photograph, signature, and educational certificates.
What is the duration of NTA UGC NET exam?
The duration of NTA UGC NET exam is 3 hours.
Can a candidate change the subject of NTA UGC NET exam after submitting the application form?
No, a candidate cannot change the subject of NTA UGC NET exam after submitting the application form.
What is the process of selection for the NTA UGC NET exam?
The selection process in the NTA UGC NET exam is based on the candidate’s performance in Paper 1 and Paper 2. Those who qualify are eligible for Assistant Professor or JRF.
What is the salary of an Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges?
The salary of an Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges varies according to the institution and the location. On average, the salary ranges from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 70,000 per month.
What is the salary of a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)?
The salary of a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is Rs. 31,000 per month plus allowances.
Can a candidate apply for JRF after the age of 30 in NTA UGC NET exam?
No, a candidate cannot apply for JRF after the age of 30 in NTA UGC NET exam.
Is there any reservation for OBC-NCL candidates in NTA UGC NET exam?
Yes, there is reservation for OBC-NCL candidates in NTA UGC NET exam. The reservation percentage is 27%.
Must you have the Aadhaar number during the NTA UGC NET EXAM application?
As much as the Aadhaar number can be crucial when applying for the exams, it is not mandatory. On the contrary, you can use any other valid identity number, including your bank account number, passport number, or ration card number.
How difficult is the NTA UGC NET EXAM?
As far as the difficulty level of this exam is concerned, the NTA UGC NET EXAM can be termed to be between high and moderate.
What if the first attempt at the NTA UGC NET EXAM doesn’t go well?
If you don’t succeed after your exams, you have no reason to worry or give up. After all, you can always give it another shot whenever you feel ready to do it again. If you are interested in becoming an assistant professor, you can do it as many times as you want. Nevertheless, you can only attempt to join the Junior Research Fellowship thrice. After that, you are expected to give up.
Which mode of examination has the NTA UGC NET EXAM adopted?
The mode of exam is the Computer Based Mode. Therefore, you can only do the NTA UGC NET EXAM online.
How long does the Junior Research Fellowship award letter remain valid upon passing the NTA UGC NET EXAM?
If you pass your exams for the Junior Research Fellowship, your award letter remains valid for a period of up to three years. The time is counted concerning the date of issue.
How long does it take to complete your NTA UGC NET EXAM?
The total period of the two papers you have to sit for is 3 hours. Within that period, you will have completed the exam, which will determine whether you qualify to become a lecturer in Indian educational institutions such as colleges and universities or not.
What are the benefits of qualifying for the NTA UGC NET EXAM?
Upon passing these exams, the candidates stand a chance of benefitting in various ways. For instance, one gets the Junior Research Fellowship. One can also become a research scholar or assistant professor. It may also mean getting a promotion if already working or getting an opportunity in PSUs.
What is the eligibility for applying for the NTA UGC NET EXAM for the Junior Research Fellowship?
First and foremost, your age must be 30 years and below. In addition to that, you need an aggregate of at least 55% from your master’s degree. However, the minimum for PWD, St, and SC among other vulnerable groups is 50%
Is a PG diploma graduate eligible for the application of the NTA UGC NET EXAM?
The answer is a resounding yes because it is usually considered equivalent to a master’s degree. However, you must have done it from a recognized university.
4 comments
thank you for such a detailed article and valuable information