CSIR NET Exam Date 2026 : Eligibility, Age limits, Syllabus, Admit card, Application Form

CSIR NET Exam Date 2026 serves as a comprehensive guide highlighting eligibility criteria, age limit, syllabus, admit card process, application form steps, exam schedule, result timeline plus crucial updates issued by NTA for JRF or Lectureship roles in premier research institutes.
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CSIR NET Notification 2026 will serve as the official announcement for the upcoming examination cycle conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The notification will include key details such as eligibility criteria, important dates, application process, exam pattern, and official guidelines. Once released, aspirants will be able to apply online and begin their preparation according to the updated information.

CSIR NET 2025: เคœเฅ‚เคจ เคชเคฐเฅ€เค•เฅเคทเคพ เค•เฅ‡ เคฒเคฟเค เค†เคตเฅ‡เคฆเคจ เค•เคพ เคเค• เค”เคฐ เคฎเฅŒเค•เคพ, เคฐเคœเคฟเคธเฅเคŸเฅเคฐเฅ‡เคถเคจ เคกเฅ‡เคŸ เคฌเคขเคผเฅ€

you can also watch this –ย 

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Immunology Top 30 Questions | CSIR NET Dec 2025 | Biology Academy

CSIR UGC NET 2026 Aboutย 

The CSIR UGC NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research โ€“ University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is considered one of the most respected national examinations for students who aim to build a career in scientific research or academia. Conducted twice every year by the National Testing Agency (NTA), this exam serves as a gateway to Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor positions across India.

The test evaluates candidates in five core scientific disciplines:

  • Life Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Chemical Sciences
  • Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean & Planetary Sciences

With the 2026 cycle expected to introduce changes in the exam structure and difficulty level, aspirants are advised to begin their preparation early and adopt a strategic approach.

Qualifying CSIR NET opens access to top research and academic institutions, including:

  • CSIR laboratories
  • IITs
  • IISc Bengaluru
  • Central and state universities

CSIR NET Exam 2026 overviewย 

For candidates beginning their preparation journey, the first step is knowing the basics. Here is the complete CSIR NET 2026 Exam Overview with all crucial details summarized.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameCSIR UGC NET 2026
Conducting AuthorityNational Testing Agency (NTA)
Exam PurposeEligibility for JRF & Assistant Professor
Exam LevelNational
Subjects Covered5 science domains
Mode of ExaminationComputer-Based Test (CBT)
Exam FrequencyTwice a year (Tentative)
Total Marks200
Question TypeMultiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Medium of ExamEnglish & Hindi
Official Websitecsirnet.nta.ac.in

Also Check CSIR NET Syllabus

Also Check CSIR NET Previous Year Questions Link

Check CSIR NET Application Form 2025 details here

CSIR NET Exam Dates 2026ย 

To help candidates plan their preparation effectively, here is the complete schedule of CSIR UGC NET 2026 at a glance.

EventsCSIR NET Dates
CSIR NET 2026 Notification Release DateTo be announced
CSIR NET Application Form StartsTo be announced
CSIR NET Application Form Last DateTo be announced
CSIR NET Application Form Correction Window 2026To be announced)
CSIR NET Admit Card Release DateTo be announced
CSIR NET 2026 Exam Date (December Session)To be announced
CSIR NET 2026 Exam Date (June Session)To be announced
CSIR NET Answer Key Release DateTo be announced
CSIR NET Final Answer Key 2026To be announced
CSIR NET 2026 Result DateTo be announced

Also Check the CSIR NET 2025 Exam Day Guidelines

CSIR NET Application Form 2026 official website

The official website to apply for the CSIR UGC NET 2026 examination will be https://csirnet.nta.ac.in. All important updates, notifications, and the online application link will be available exclusively on this portal managed by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Also Check CSIR NET Syllabus

Click here to fill out the CSIR NET December 2025 Application Form

CSIR NET Application Fee 2026

You must pay the application fee to successfully submit your form. You can pay using Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI via SBI/ICICI payment gateways.

CategoryApplication Fee
Generalโ‚น1150/-
EWS / OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)โ‚น600/-
SC / ST / PwD / Third Genderโ‚น325/-

CSIR NET Application Form 2026 Important Dates

The CSIR NET 2026 application form dates for the June session are expected to follow the usual annual schedule. As per the tentative timeline, the official notification is likely to be released in January 2026, followed by the opening of the online application window in the first week of February 2026. Candidates may be able to submit their applications until the first week of March 2026. After the application process closes, the correction window is expected to be available in mid-March 2026, allowing applicants to edit certain details (if permitted by NTA).

CSIR NET 2026 Tentative Dates June Session

ActivityExpected Timeline
Notification ReleaseJanuary 2026
Application Start DateFirst week of February 2026
Last Date to ApplyFirst week of March 2026
Application Form Correction WindowMid-March 2026

Note:
These dates are provisional and may change. Aspirants should visit the official NTA CSIR NET website frequently for the latest updates.

The exam is conducted twice a year, so a similar schedule will be released later for the December 2026 session as well.

Also Check CSIR NET Syllabus

Click here to fill out the CSIR NET December 2025 Application Form

Steps to Fill CSIR NET Application Form

The process for filling out the CSIR NET application form is straightforward but requires careful attention. Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Registration

  • Visit the official CSIR NET website.
  • Click on the โ€œApply for CSIR NETโ€ link to start the registration process.
  • You will be asked to create a new account by entering your basic details like name, email address, mobile number, and choosing a password.
  • After successful registration, you will receive a Registration Number and Password on your registered mobile number and email.

Step 2: Fill in the CSIR NET Application Form

  • Log in using the Registration Number and Password.
  • Fill out the application form by providing personal details such as:
    • Full Name
    • Date of Birth
    • Fatherโ€™s/Motherโ€™s Name
    • Address and Contact Information
    • Educational Qualification Details
    • Exam Centre Preferences
  • Make sure all the details are accurate and match the information on your academic certificates.

Step 3: Upload Documents

You will need to upload scanned copies of the following documents:

  • Photograph: A recent passport-sized color photograph with a white background.
  • Signature: A scanned copy of your signature.
  • Category Certificate (if applicable): For candidates belonging to reserved categories like SC, ST, OBC, or PwD.
  • Educational Qualification Documents: If applicable, proof of qualification or provisional certificate.

Ensure that all scanned documents meet the specified size and resolution requirements mentioned on the website.

Step 4: Payment of Application Fee

The application fee is an essential part of the application process. The fee varies according to the candidateโ€™s category:

Payment can be made through various modes, including:ย 

  • Credit/Debit Card
  • Net Banking
  • UPI
  • e-Challan

Step 5: Final Submission and Print Out

After completing the CSIR NET application form and payment, review all the details you have entered. Once satisfied, submit the form. You will be able to download and print a confirmation page for your reference. Keep a copy of the confirmation page safe, as it contains important details like your application number and exam center details.

CSIR NET Age Limit 2026

CSIR NET Age Limit differs for candidates applying for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and those applying for the Lectureship/Assistant Professor (LS) positions.

CSIR NET JRF Age Limit

The age limit for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) under the CSIR NET 2025 is specifically defined to ensure that only young and eligible researchers can apply for this fellowship program.

Post NameAge LimitReference Date
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)Maximum 30 yearsNot more than 30 years as on 1st December 2025

CSIR NET Notification 2026 upper Age Limitย 

CSIR NET 2026 provides relaxation in the upper age limit for candidates belonging to reserved and special categories. This relaxation aims to promote inclusivity and give equal opportunities to candidates from diverse backgrounds to pursue research and academic careers through the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) program.

CategoryUpper Age Limit (after relaxation)
SC / ST / PwD / Female35 years
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)33 years

CSIR NET Age Limit for Lectureshipย 

Post NameAge Limit
Lectureship / Assistant Professor (LS)No upper age limit

CSIR NET Reservation Criteria 2026

CSIR NET 2026 examination follows the Government of Indiaโ€™s reservation policy to ensure equal opportunity for candidates from all social categories. Under this policy, relaxation in qualifying marks, age limit, and application fees is provided to candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBCโ€“Non Creamy Layer), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Persons with Disabilities (PwD).ย 

CategoryRelaxation in Marks (from 55%)
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)5% (i.e., 50% marks required)
Scheduled Caste (SC)5%
Scheduled Tribe (ST)5%

CSIR NET Eligibility Criteria 2026 Important Points

Before applying for the CSIR UGC NET 2025, candidates must carefully go through the key eligibility guidelines mentioned in the official notification. Below are some important points to keep in mind:

Key PointExplanation
Dual Consideration (JRF + LS)If a candidate applies for JRF and meets the eligibility for Lectureship, they will be considered for both.
Over-age CandidatesCandidates found over-age for JRF will be automatically considered for Lectureship/Assistant Professorship only.
Final Year M.Sc. CandidatesCandidates awaiting results of M.Sc. or equivalent degree can apply for Lectureship, provided they meet all other eligibility conditions later.

CSIR NET Eligibility for OBC Candidates

Candidates belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBCโ€“Non Creamy Layer) category are eligible to apply for the CSIR UGC NET 2025 examination, provided they meet the required educational and age criteria. The eligibility details for OBC candidates are as follows:

CategoryEducational QualificationAdditional Note
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)Masterโ€™s degree in Science or equivalent degree with at least 55% marks5 years age relaxation for female candidates and PwD candidates.

CSIR NET Eligibility for Female Candidates

Female candidates are equally encouraged and supported under the CSIR UGC NET 2026 scheme, with specific relaxations provided in age limit and other eligibility conditions to promote their participation in research and higher education. The detailed eligibility criteria are as follows:

GenderEducational QualificationAge Limit
FemaleMasterโ€™s degree in Science or Bachelorโ€™s degree in Engineering/Technology with 55% marks21 to 30 years (with 5 years relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates)

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Immunology Top 30 Questions | CSIR NET Dec 2025 | Biology Academy

  • JRF Age Limit: 30 years (with relaxation as per category)
  • Lectureship (LS): No age limit
  • Qualification: Masterโ€™s degree or equivalent with minimum 55% marks (50% for reserved categories)
  • Subjects Covered: Life, Chemical, Earth, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences

CSIR NET Eligibility Criteria 2026 Nationality

To be eligible for the CSIR NET 2025 examination, a candidate must be an Indian citizen. The exam is conducted by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with the National Testing Agency (NTA), exclusively for individuals holding Indian nationality.

Foreign nationals are not eligible to apply for this exam, as the CSIR NET is specifically designed to identify and support Indian candidates for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Lectureship/Assistant Professor (LS) positions in Indian universities, colleges, and research institutions.

Best CSIR NET Books 2025 For Chemical, Life, Physical, Earth & Math Sciences

CSIR NET Application Form 2026 Documents Requiredย 

For the CSIR NET Application Form 2026, candidates must upload and keep the following documents ready in the specified format and size:

Documents Required for CSIR NET Application Form 2026ย 
DocumentFormatFile SizeDescription
Recent PhotographJPG/JPEG10โ€“200 KBPassport-size, color or black & whiteย 
Candidateโ€™s SignatureJPG4โ€“30 KBSigned in black/blue ink on white background
Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS, if applicable)JPG/PDF50โ€“300 KBRequired for reserved category candidatesย 
PwD Certificate (if applicable)JPG/PDF50โ€“300 KBOnly if claiming PwD reservationย 
Duly Verified Result Awaited Attestation FormJPG/PDF50โ€“500 KBFor candidates awaiting resultsย 
Class 10th Certificate or Board/University CertificateJPG/PDFAs prescribedFor date of birth and verificationย 
Graduation & PG Certificates/Mark SheetsJPG/PDFAs prescribedRequired to confirm educational qualifications
Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)JPG/PDFAs prescribedFor identification and verificationย 

All documents must be clear, legible, and in the required file size and format to avoid rejection of the application form.

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

CSIR UGC NET Cut-Off

The National Testing Agency (NTA) publishes the CSIR UGC NET cut-off along with the official scorecard and result on the website. The cut-off varies for every subject and category, based on multiple factors such as the number of candidates appearing, exam difficulty level, and available JRF/Assistant Professor seats.

Minimum Qualifying Cut-Off (as per NTA rules)

CategoryMinimum Qualifying Cut-Off
General / OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)33%
SC / ST / PwD25%

CSIR NET 2026 Admit Card

Candidates who successfully submit the CSIR NET 2026 application form will be issued the CSIR NET Admit Card. The admit card will be released online on the official website โ€” csirnet.nta.nic.in.

To download the hall ticket, candidates must log in using their Application Number, Date of Birth, and Security Pin.

The CSIR NET Admit Card is a mandatory document to be carried to the exam centre. Candidates without the admit card and a valid photo ID will not be permitted to enter the examination hall.

you can also watch this –ย 

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

How to Download CSIR NET 2026 Admit Card?

Follow the steps below to download your admit card:

  1. Visit the official website: csirnet.nta.nic.in
  2. On the homepage, click on โ€˜CSIR UGC NET 2026 Admit Cardโ€™ link.
  3. Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth in the login window.
  4. Enter the Security Pin displayed on the screen.
  5. Click on Submit.
  6. Download and take a printout of the CSIR NET Admit Card.

CSIR NET 2026 Exam Centres

Candidates are required to select the CSIR UGC NET exam centre while filling out the online application form. NTA allows candidates to choose up to four preferred exam centres based on their convenience and proximity. The final allotted exam centre will be mentioned on the CSIR NET Admit Card.

you can also watch this – CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

Documents to Carry at the Exam Centre

On the day of the examination, candidates must report to the centre with the following documents:

  • Printed copy of the CSIR NET Admit Card
  • One recent passport-size photograph (same as uploaded on the application form)
  • A valid Government-issued photo ID (any one of the following):
    • PAN Card
    • Aadhar Card (with photograph) / Aadhar Enrolment ID
    • Passport
    • Voter ID
    • Driving License
  • PwD / PwBD certificate, if applicable

Candidates without the required documents will not be allowed to enter the examination hall.

you can also watch this – CSIR NET June 2025 Life Sciences Answer Key & Full Paper Solutions | Fastest & Most Accurate

CSIR NET 2026 Result

The CSIR NET 2026 result will be announced online on the official website โ€” csirnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can check their results by logging in with their Application Number, Date of Birth, and Security Pin.

The result is prepared on the basis of the final answer key, and no further objections are accepted after the final key is released. Candidates involved in any unfair practices or those who fail to meet the eligibility criteria will have their results withheld.

CSIR NET 2026 Subject-wise Syllabus PDF

Candidates can download the detailed subject-wise syllabus PDF for the CSIR UGC NET from the official Council of Scientific & Industrial Research.ย 

Subject NameDownload Syllabus PDF (Link)
Chemical SciencesDownload PDF
Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean & Planetary SciencesDownload PDF
Mathematical SciencesDownload PDF
Life SciencesDownload PDF
Physical SciencesDownload PDF

How to Start Preparing for CSIR NET Exam 2026

The biggest mistake aspirants make is starting preparation without a proper plan. Follow these steps to begin smartly:

  1. Understand your subject syllabus deeply.
  2. Divide topics into easy, moderate, and difficult levels.
  3. Create a practical timetable (not a fancy one).
  4. Set weekly and monthly targets.
  5. Start with conceptual clarity before jumping into MCQs.

Preparation Strategy Step-by-Step

A clear preparation plan is the foundation of success in any competitive exam. Below is a comprehensive, step-by-step strategy designed to help aspirants prepare systematically for the CSIR NET 2025 examination.

Step 1: Understand the Exam Pattern & Weightage

  • Focus 40% time on Part C (analytical questions)
  • Part A (Aptitude): Practice daily 1โ€“2 questions
  • Part B: Revise NCERT + graduation basics

Step 2: Topic-Wise Study Plan

  • Divide syllabus into Units โ†’ Subtopics โ†’ Micro concepts
  • Make short notes and formula sheets
  • Use standard books (VedPrepโ€™s recommended list)

Step 3: Practice

  • Solve previous 10 yearsโ€™ CSIR papers
  • Attempt mock tests & topic-wise PYQs
  • Analyze weak areas weekly

Step 4: Revision

  • Make mind maps / flowcharts
  • Use spaced repetition for memory retention
  • Weekly revision cycles

Step 5: Smart Time Management

  • 3 hours daily = 1 hr theory + 1 hr PYQ + 1 hr notes/mocks
  • Increase gradually to 6โ€“8 hours near exam

ย CSIR NET Dec 2025 Application Form | Step-by-Step Guide & 5 Mistakes to Avoid

CSIR NET Exam 2026 Study Plan

Planning your preparation is as important as studying itself. Below is a detailed CSIR NET 2026 study plan, designed to help aspirants manage time, track progress, and maximize their performance in the final exam.

PhaseDurationFocus AreaKey Actions
Phase 13โ€“4 monthsSyllabus CoverageRead concepts, make short notes
Phase 22 monthsStrengthening ConceptsSolve topic-wise MCQs, revise theory
Phase 31 monthFull RevisionAttempt mocks, analyze mistakes

Daily Routine Example:

  • 2 hours โ€“ Concept study
  • 2 hours โ€“ Practice MCQs
  • 1 hour โ€“ Revision
  • 30 mins โ€“ Aptitude practice

Bonus Tip: Make your own handwritten short notes for formulae, reactions, and diagramsย  they help during final revision.

Also Check CSIR NET Important Questions for Life Scienceย 

CSIR NET 2025 Preparation Timetable Subject-Wise Study Plan

To crack the CSIR NET Exam 2025, a well-structured and consistent study plan is key.
Below are expert-curated subject-wise timetables for all five CSIR NET subjectsย  designed to help you cover the syllabus completely with systematic revisions.

How to prepare for CSIR NET General Aptitude (Part A)ย  31-Day Study Plan

Even though Part A (General Aptitude) carries lesser weightage (30 marks), itโ€™s a scoring section. Prepare it alongside your main subject using this 31-day micro-plan.

DaysTopics / Focus Areas
Day 1โ€“2Number & Simplification, Bar Graph, Line Graph
Day 3โ€“4LCM & HCF, Mean, Median, Mode
Day 5โ€“6Average, Quadratic Equations, Coding-Decoding
Day 7Revision of Days 1โ€“6
Day 8โ€“9Sequence & Series, Series Formation, Pie-chart
Day 10โ€“11Surds & Indices, Logarithms, Percentages
Day 12โ€“13Profit & Loss, Tabulation, Direction-Distance
Day 14โ€“15Revision of Days 1โ€“13
Day 16โ€“17Simple & Compound Interest, Calendar & Clock
Day 18โ€“19Ratio-Proportion, Ranking, Seating Arrangement
Day 20โ€“21Partnership, Mixtures, Time & Work
Day 22โ€“23Revision of Days 1โ€“21
Day 24โ€“25Speed-Time-Distance, Geometry
Day 26โ€“27Permutation & Combination, Mensuration
Day 28โ€“29Probability, Trigonometry
Day 30Major Revision of Days 1โ€“29
Day 31Full Revision + Sectional Mock Test

Tip: Practice 10โ€“15 aptitude questions daily alongside subject preparation.

Key Preparation For All Subjects

No matter which subject you choose for CSIR NET, certain preparation principles remain the same. Here are some key preparation insights for all subjects to help you plan your study routine efficiently and stay exam-ready

AspectStrategy
Daily Study Hours6โ€“8 hours (split between theory, PYQs, and revision).
Weekly Routine5 days study + 1 day revision + 1 day test.
Mock TestsAttempt 1 full mock per subject every 2 weeks.
Note MakingMaintain formula sheets, concept charts, and short notes.
Revision CycleRevise each topic 3 times before the exam (7-day, 30-day, final cycle).

Also, Check Important Topics for Physical Science

CSIR NET Exam Importance of Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

To crack the CSIR NET 2025 exam, theory alone isnโ€™t enough โ€” consistent practice through previous year question papers and mock tests is the key. Below, we explain the importance of solving CSIR NET PYQs and full-length tests for effective exam preparation.

StepWhy It Matters
1. Analyze PYQsIdentify repeated topics & important chapters
2. Practice Mocks WeeklyBuilds accuracy and speed
3. Review MistakesStrengthens weak areas
4. Simulate Exam ConditionsReduces anxiety on actual exam day

Solve at least 10 previous year papers and 15โ€“20 mock tests before the exam.

you can also watch this –ย 

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Immunology Top 30 Questions | CSIR NET Dec 2025 | Biology Academy

CSIR NET Life Sciences Dec 2025 | Protein Targeting Lecture 5 | Nucleus and Peroxisome |Cell Biology

CSIR NET June 2025 Life Sciences Answer Key & Full Paper Solutions | Fastest & Most Accurate

Related Articles
CSIR NET Previous Year Question PapersCSIR NET Cut Off
CSIR NET Eligibility CriteriaCSIR NET Chemistry Preparation
CSIR NET Time TableCSIR NET Books
CSIR NET NotesCSIR NET Mock Tests

CSIR NET Exam Date FAQs

Loader image

ย The CSIR NET application form will be available right after the notification release, tentatively in February 2026. Once the registration link is activated, candidates will be able to apply online by filling in basic details, uploading required documents, and paying the application fee. Applicants are advised to keep scanned documents ready to avoid last-minute errors.

ย Yes. CSIR NET is expected to be conducted twice in 2026 โ€” June and December cycles. Although the schedule may vary depending on administrative reasons or national-level exams, historically NTA aims to conduct CSIR NET every six months, allowing students to appear for multiple attempts within the same year.

ย Candidates can check their exact exam date, shift timing, and allotted exam city through the City Intimation Slip, which is released approximately 10โ€“15 days before the exam. This slip can be downloaded from the official CSIR NET login portal using the application number and date of birth. The exam city slip is NOT the admit card โ€” it simply informs candidates in advance so they can plan travel.

ย No. CSIR NET is held on multiple days and in multiple shifts, depending on the subject. Each subject (Life Science, Chemical Science, Mathematical Science, Physical Science, Earth Science) may have a different exam date and shift. Candidates should carefully check their admit card to confirm the date, shift, and reporting time.

ย After the application form submission, only limited fields can be edited during the correction window. Critical fields like exam city, subject choice, and category are usually NOT editable. Therefore, students must review the form carefully before final submission.

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