The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) for December 2025 begins tomorrow, December 31 . The National Testing Agency (NTA) will hold this computer-based exam across India. Students taking the exam must bring their admit card and a photo ID to the exam centre. The test will continue until January 7, 2026 , covering 85 different subjects.
The UGC NET exam is for people who want to become assistant professors in Indian universities or get a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). A JRF provides money to do research. This is an important test for those looking to work in teaching and research in India.
UGC NET December 31 Exam Timings 2025
The UGC NET exam will be held in two shifts each day from December 31 to January 7, 2026. Candidates must reach the exam centre on time. The gates will close strictly at the times mentioned below.
| Shift | Gate Opening Time | Gate Closing Time | Exam Time | Duration |
| Morning (Shift I) | 7:15 AM to 7:30 AM | 8:30 AM | 9 AM to 12 PM | 3 hours |
| Afternoon (Shift II) | 1:15 PM to 1:30 PM | 2:30 PM | 3 PM to 6 PM | 3 hours |
If you arrive after the gate closing time, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall. Plan to reach your centre well in advance to avoid any issues.
What to Carry to the Exam Centre
All candidates must bring specific documents to the exam hall. Make sure you have these ready for verification:
- Printed Admit Card: You must have a clear printout of your UGC NET admit card. Showing a digital copy or screenshot on your mobile phone is not allowed.
- Government Photo ID: Carry one original and valid photo identification card. Accepted IDs are your Aadhaar card , PAN card , Passport , Voter ID , or Driving Licence .
- Passport-size Photograph: Bring one recent passport-size photograph. This photo should be the same as the one you used when you filled out your application form. You will need to paste this photo on the attendance sheet at the exam centre.
- PwD/Disability Certificate (if applicable): If you are a Person with Disability (PwD) and have applied under this category, make sure to carry your original disability certificate.
Important Rules for Exam Day
To ensure a smooth exam experience, candidates must follow these rules strictly:
- Reach on Time: Arrive at your exam centre well before the reporting time written on your admit card. This allows enough time for security checks and finding your seat.
- No Digital Admit Card: Only a printed admit card is accepted. Do not rely on showing it on your mobile phone or any other electronic device.
- Follow Staff Instructions: Listen carefully to all instructions given by the invigilators (the staff supervising the exam). They are there to help you and ensure the exam runs fairly.
- Submit Rough Sheets: You might receive paper for rough work or a virtual notepad on the computer during the exam. You must return all rough sheets to the invigilator before leaving the exam hall. Do not take them outside.
- Personal Items: Avoid carrying valuable personal items. While centres usually have a place to keep belongings, the NTA is not responsible for lost items. Only permitted items should be with you.
Read all instructions on your admit card carefully before December 31 . Following these guidelines will help you have a stress-free exam day. We wish you good luck for your UGC NET exam!