The National Testing Agency (NTA) has started the registration process for the UGC-NET December 2026 examination. The notification was released on October 8, and interested candidates can apply online through the official website.
UGC-NET is an important examination for candidates who wish to pursue a career in teaching or research. It determines eligibility for Junior Research Fellowships (JRF), Assistant Professor positions and admission to Ph.D. programmes in Indian universities and colleges. The December session will cover 87 subjects and will be conducted in computer-based test mode.
Candidates can submit their applications until October 28, 2026. The examination fee must also be paid by the same date. Those who miss the deadline can still apply between October 29 and October 31 by paying an additional late fee of ₹500.
The application correction window will be available from November 2 to November 4. The examination is scheduled to be held from December 14 to December 19, 2026. The dates for the announcement of examination cities and the release of admit cards will be notified later by the NTA.
The application fee is ₹1,150 for General and Unreserved category candidates, ₹600 for General-EWS and OBC-NCL candidates, and ₹325 for candidates belonging to the SC, ST, PwD and Third Gender categories. Payment can be made through credit cards, debit cards, net banking or UPI.
Candidates should carefully check all the details before submitting their applications. The NTA has made it clear that only online applications will be accepted and that each candidate can submit only one application. Applicants should also ensure that their registered email address and mobile number remain accessible, as important updates will be communicated through them.
The application process has also been enabled through the Meri Pehchaan single sign-on service. Candidates are advised to read the official information bulletin before applying to avoid mistakes during registration.
Applications can be submitted through the official website, ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates who face difficulties can contact the NTA helpline at 011-40759000 or 011-69227700.
With the registration window now open, candidates preparing for the December session should keep track of the important dates and complete their applications on time.
Source: National Testing Agency public notice dated October 8, 2026.
Link for Application: https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in/
