New Delhi, October 22, 2026: More than 2.19 lakh candidates have registered for the UGC NET and Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 examinations. The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the latest registration figures as applications continue for both national-level examinations.
According to the reported figures, the two examinations have received a combined total of 2,18,961 applications. Of these, 1,86,301 applications are for UGC NET, while 32,660 are for Joint CSIR-UGC NET.
Candidates planning to appear for either examination should complete their applications before the respective deadlines. The UGC NET December 2026 application window closes on October 28, while Joint CSIR-UGC NET registration remains open until November 5.
UGC NET December 2026 Registration: Latest Figures
The latest registration figures indicate strong interest in national eligibility examinations for higher education and research careers.
| Examination | Applications received | Last date to apply |
|---|---|---|
| UGC NET December 2026 | 1,86,301 | October 28, 2026 |
| Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026 | 32,660 | November 5, 2026 |
| Total | 2,18,961 | Separate deadlines apply |
Source: Registration figures reported on October 22, 2026. Candidates should check the respective official portals for the latest notifications.
UGC NET December 2026: Important Dates
The UGC NET examination determines eligibility for Assistant Professor positions, Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) and PhD admissions, depending on the candidate’s qualification category.
Candidates should keep the following application dates in mind.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UGC NET December 2026 registration begins | October 8, 2026 |
| UGC NET application deadline | October 28, 2026 |
| UGC NET late-fee payment window | October 29–31, 2026 |
| UGC NET application correction window | November 2–4, 2026 |
| Joint CSIR-UGC NET application deadline | November 5, 2026 |
Candidates should verify the latest schedule and any amendments through the official examination websites before completing the application process.
What Is UGC NET?
The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test, commonly known as UGC NET, is conducted by the National Testing Agency.
The examination assesses candidates seeking eligibility for academic and research opportunities in Indian universities and colleges.
Depending on their performance and eligibility, candidates may qualify for the following pathways:
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Eligible candidates can pursue research opportunities and may receive fellowship support under applicable rules.
- Assistant Professor: Candidates can qualify for eligibility for Assistant Professor positions in accordance with the applicable regulations.
- PhD admission: Candidates can qualify for PhD admission under the relevant category and institutional requirements.
Qualifying UGC NET does not automatically guarantee a teaching appointment, fellowship award or PhD admission. Candidates must satisfy the applicable eligibility conditions and selection requirements.
How to Apply for UGC NET December 2026
Eligible candidates can submit their applications online through the official UGC NET website.
Follow these steps to complete the registration process:
- Visit the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in.
- Open the UGC NET December 2026 application link.
- Complete the registration process using the required details.
- Fill in the application form with accurate personal and academic information.
- Upload the required documents, photograph and signature in the prescribed formats.
- Pay the application fee through the available online payment methods.
- Review the application carefully before submitting it.
- Download the confirmation page and retain a copy for future reference.
Candidates should ensure that their application details match their official documents. They should also verify the successful completion of the fee payment.
UGC NET December 2026: Application Deadline Approaching
Candidates who have not yet applied should complete the registration process well before the October 28 deadline.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the final day because heavy website traffic or payment-related issues may delay submission.
Candidates who have already registered should check their confirmation page and payment status. They should also monitor the official website for notifications concerning application corrections, examination dates and admit cards.
The Joint CSIR-UGC NET examination has a separate deadline of November 5, 2026. Candidates applying for that examination should follow its official schedule and instructions.
Official Websites for UGC NET and CSIR NET
Candidates can access application forms, information bulletins and official announcements through the following portals:
- UGC NET December 2026: https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in/
- Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026: https://csirnet.nta.nic.in/
- National Testing Agency: https://nta.ac.in/
Applicants should rely on official notifications for the latest information about eligibility, application fees, examination schedules and other requirements.
Conclusion
With 2,18,961 applications received across UGC NET and Joint CSIR-UGC NET, registration activity continues ahead of the December 2026 examination cycle.
UGC NET applicants should complete their applications by October 28, while CSIR NET candidates have until November 5. Early submission and careful verification of application details can help candidates avoid last-minute difficulties.
Students and research aspirants should regularly check the official NTA portals for further announcements and examination updates.
UGC NET December 2026: Over 2.19 Lakh Candidates Register added by AdminEdu on
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