Introduction
The Joint CSIR-UGC NET Examination is an essential milestone for researchers and academicians in India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), this exam determines eligibility for Junior Research Fellowships (JRF), Assistant Professorships, and Ph.D. program admissions. It opens doors to prestigious academic and research opportunities nationwide.
This guide simplifies the CSIR NET Dec 2024 session details, offering clear steps for applicants. Whether you are a first-time candidate or seeking tips for improvement, this article has all the answers you need.
Key Dates and Information
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Start Date | 9th December 2024 |
| Registration End Date | 30th December 2024 |
| Fee Payment Deadline | 31st December 2024 |
| Application Correction | 1st – 2nd January 2025 |
| Examination Dates | 16th – 28th February 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
For updates, visit: NTA CSIR NET.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications
- General/EWS: Master’s degree with at least 55% marks.
- OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: Master’s degree with 50% marks.
- Final Year Students: Provisionally eligible; must meet criteria within two years.
- Ph.D. Degree Holders: 5% relaxation for degrees completed before 19th September 1991.
Age Limits
- JRF: Maximum age 30 years (as of February 2025). Relaxations: OBC-NCL, SC/ST, PwD, women applicants (5 years).
- Assistant Professor/Ph.D. Admission: No age limit.
Degree Equivalence
- Four-year bachelor’s degree holders need 75% aggregate marks.
- Foreign degrees must be verified by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
PwD Candidates
- Candidates with benchmark disabilities under RPwD Act, 2016, are eligible.
Examination Structure
Mode of Examination
The exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.
Exam Pattern
| Subject | Part A | Part B | Part C | Total |
| Chemical Sciences | 15/20 | 35/40 | 25/60 | 75/120 |
| Life Sciences | 15/20 | 35/50 | 25/75 | 75/145 |
| Mathematical Sciences | 15/20 | 25/40 | 20/60 | 60/120 |
| Physical Sciences | 15/20 | 20/25 | 20/30 | 55/75 |
| Earth, Atmospheric Sciences | 15/20 | 35/50 | 25/80 | 75/150 |
Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +2 to +5 marks.
- Negative Marking: 0.25 to 1.32 marks deducted per incorrect answer.
Syllabus
Access detailed syllabus for all subjects on the CSIR HRDG website.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Register: Create an account on the official website using email and mobile.
- Complete the Form:
- Provide personal and academic details.
- Choose subject and exam center preferences.
- Upload Documents:
- Recent Photograph (10KB–200KB), resize your CSIR photo with our Image Resizer Tool.
- Signature (4KB–30KB), resize your CSIR Signature with our Photo Resizer Tool.
- Certificates (Category, PwD, etc.)
- Pay the Fee:
- General: ₹1150
- OBC/EWS: ₹600
- SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: ₹325
- Submit and Save: Generate and save the confirmation page.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect email or mobile details.
- Uploading unclear or non-compliant images.
- Missing fee payment deadlines.
Important Links
PwD Candidates: Special Provisions
- Scribe Facility: For candidates with blindness, cerebral palsy, or severe locomotor disabilities.
- Extra Time: Additional 20 minutes per hour.
- Choice of Scribe: Bring your own or request one from NTA.
- Certification: Upload valid PwD certificate during registration.
Examination Day Instructions
Essential Items to Carry
- Printed Admit Card.
- Government-issued Photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport).
- Passport-size photograph.
- PwD Certificate (if applicable).
Prohibited Items
- Electronic gadgets (phones, smartwatches, calculators).
- Bags, wallets, stationery items.
Exam Center Protocol
- Arrive 30 minutes early.
- Undergo biometric verification.
- Use rough sheets provided for calculations.
Post-Exam Procedures
Score Normalization
Scores are normalized for fairness across shifts using the Equi-percentile Method.
Answer Key Challenge
- Provisional answer keys will be published.
- Challenge incorrect answers for a nominal fee.
Result Declaration
Results will be published on the NTA website with detailed percentile scores.
FAQs
1. What is the validity of the Assistant Professor certificate?
It is valid for a lifetime.
2. Can I apply for both JRF and Assistant Professor?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for JRF.
3. What is the JRF stipend?
- ₹37,000 per month for the first two years.
- Upgraded to ₹42,000 per month in subsequent years after assessment.
Conclusion
The CSIR-UGC NET December 2024 Examination is a crucial opportunity for academic and research excellence. Follow this guide for a smooth application and preparation process. Stay informed, stay prepared, and aim high!
Call to Action
Have questions? Drop them in the comments! Share this guide with peers preparing for the CSIR-UGC NET.
