The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an updated Information Bulletin for the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) scheduled for December 2026. This revised document introduces significant changes and clarifications to various examination-related provisions. Candidates are encouraged to consult the updated bulletin, which is accessible on the official UGC NET website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in, to ensure they are informed of the latest requirements.

Among the key revisions are alterations to the evaluation process for questions marked for review, the selection of examination city preferences, and guidelines regarding entry times at examination centres. Additionally, there are updated footwear regulations and other essential instructions for candidates. The changes are designed to streamline the examination process and enhance clarity for all participants.

It is crucial for candidates to familiarise themselves with these changes, as they directly impact the examination experience. The updated guidelines supersede those outlined in the original bulletin released on October 8, 2026, and candidates should pay close attention to the specifics before the examination date.

Details of Changes in the Updated Bulletin

The revised bulletin outlines several notable changes from the earlier version. For instance, regarding the evaluation of questions, the original guidelines stated that questions marked for review without a saved answer would not be assessed. The updated instructions clarify that answered questions marked for review will be evaluated if the response has been saved, while unanswered questions will not be considered.

Additionally, candidates are now required to select four examination cities within the state of their permanent or present address. In cases where fewer than four cities are available, candidates may choose from the options that are available. Furthermore, candidates will have the opportunity to revise their preferences during the correction window.

The updated bulletin also specifies that examination centre gates will close 30 minutes before the examination begins, a change from the earlier directive that prohibited entry after a specified closing time. Footwear guidelines have also been amended; while slippers and low-heeled sandals are permitted, heavy shoes and long boots are prohibited. The undertaking for candidates using their own scribe has been relocated from Annexure IX to Annexure VII.

Examination Schedule and Application Process

The updated bulletin states that the UGC NET examination will take place on December 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 21, 2026. The examination will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. The application window opened on October 8 and will remain open until October 28, 2026. Candidates requiring additional time may submit their applications with a late fee within the specified period.

The timeline for key events related to the examination includes the application submission with a late fee from October 29 to 31, 2026, and the application correction window from November 2 to 4, 2026. Candidates will receive their examination city intimation slip on November 23, 2026, and the admit cards will be available from December 7, 2026.

It is essential for candidates to stay updated on these timelines and ensure they complete their applications promptly to avoid any complications. The UGC NET serves as a crucial assessment for determining eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), appointment as Assistant Professor, and admission to PhD programmes, in accordance with relevant qualification categories.

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