CSIR NET Physical Science Previous Years Question Papers serve as one of the most effective tools for aspirants aiming for JRF or Lectureship. Since the exam is highly competitive, understanding its pattern and frequently tested concepts becomes crucial for scoring well. Practicing these papers helps you decode the types of questions asked, the difficulty trend, and the examiner’s mindset, enabling you to plan your preparation more strategically.
Working through past papers also develops essential exam skills such as speed, accuracy, conceptual clarity, and time management. Repeated exposure to previous questions highlights important formulas, recurring topics, and problem-solving techniques that can significantly boost your performance in the upcoming 2025 exam.
Commonly asked question
CSIR NET Physical Science Previous Year Question Paper PDF
Solving CSIR NET Physical Science Previous Years Question Papers offers a real-exam simulation, helping candidates assess their preparation level effectively. These papers act as a roadmap to identify strong and weak areas, understand question distribution, and build confidence before the actual exam. To support your preparation journey, we have provided downloadable PDFs of past years’ question papers, allowing you to practice in a focused and result-oriented manner.
Also check – CSIR NET Life Science Question Papers Download Pdf 2025
CSIR NET Physical Sciences Previous Year Question Papers & Answer pdf
June & December Exam Cycles 2025 to 2017
| Exam Year | June – Question Papers | June – Answer Keys | December – Question Papers | December – Answer Keys |
| 2025 | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys | — | — |
| 2024 | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys |
| 2023 | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys |
| 2022 | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys | — | — |
| 2021 | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys | — | — |
| 2020 | – | – | Physical Sciences Question Papers | Final Answer Keys |
| 2019 | Physical Sciences A | B | C | Physical Sciences | ||
| 2018 | Physical Sciences Question Papers A | B | C | Final Answer Keys | Physical Sciences A | B | C | Physical Sciences |
| 2017 | Physical Sciences Question Papers A | B | C | Final Answer Keys | Physical Sciences Question Papers A | B | C | Final Answer Keys |
How to Use CSIR NET Physical Science Previous Year Papers Effectively
Using the last year’s question papers smartly can significantly boost your CSIR NET Physical Science preparation. Follow these structured steps to make the most of them:
Start by Understanding the Exam Pattern
Before solving any paper, take time to study the exam structure. Know how many questions come in Part A, Part B, and Part C, and understand the marking scheme. This helps you plan how much time and effort to invest in each section.
Practice with Proper Time Management
Use a timer while solving papers to create a real exam-like environment. Try to complete:
- Part A in 30 minutes
- Part B in 70 minutes
- Part C in 100 minutes
Go through multiple previous year papers and note down topics that appear frequently. These usually indicate high-weightage areas. Chapters like Thermodynamics, Statistical Physics, Quantum Mechanics, and other core concepts are regularly asked, especially in Parts B and C. Prioritize revising these themes thoroughly.
Review Solutions Thoroughly
After attempting the papers, spend time analyzing the solutions. Understand the logic, formulas, and shortcuts used in solving the numerical and conceptual questions. This helps you learn better techniques and avoid repeating mistakes.
Use the Papers as Full-Length Mock Tests
Solve each previous year paper as a complete mock test under strict exam conditions—no breaks or distractions. This will help you:
- Build exam stamina
- Improve accuracy
- Track your progress over time
Regular mock test practice also helps you adapt to the pressure and pace of the real CSIR NET exam.
Also check – How to Prepare CSIR NET Exam 2025: Complete Strategy, Books,Tips for
Exam.
CSIR NET Physics Exam Pattern 2025 Important Instructions
Before appearing for the CSIR NET Physics exam, candidates must carefully go through the exam pattern and the key guidelines issued by the authorities. These instructions help avoid mistakes and ensure smooth performance on exam day. Below are the important points, clearly arranged for better understanding:
Structure of the Exam Paper
The question paper is divided into three parts – Part A, Part B, and Part C.
- Part A is common for all subjects and includes questions on logical reasoning, quantitative comparison, series formation, puzzles, and analytical skills.
- Part B contains subject-specific MCQs from the Physical Science syllabus.
- Part C includes high-level questions that test the candidate’s understanding of scientific concepts and their applications.
Question Attempt Rule
Candidates must attempt only the allowed number of questions in each section.
If someone answers more than the permissible limit, only the first set of required questions will be evaluated, and the rest will not be considered.
Language of the Question Paper
The CSIR NET exam is available in both Hindi and English.
Candidates should select their preferred language carefully while filling the application or during the exam.
Mandatory Documents for Exam Day
Candidates must carry the following items to the examination center:
- CSIR NET Admit Card
- Two passport-size photographs
- A valid original photo ID proof (such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)
Understanding Part C Questions
For Part C, the questions require the applicant to apply scientific knowledge, analyze the situation, and derive the correct solution based on conceptual understanding.
CSIR NET Physics Exam Pattern 2025
A clear understanding of the exam structure helps you prepare smartly, so here is the detailed CSIR NET Physics Exam Pattern 2025.
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Papers | 5 (Earth Sciences, Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences) |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Exam Duration | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Total Questions in Physical Science Paper | 75 Questions |
| Language of Paper | English and Hindi |
| Negative Marking | Part A: 0.5 marks deducted per wrong answer
Part B: 0.85 marks deducted per wrong answer Part C: 1.25 marks deducted per wrong answer |
| Part A | General Aptitude – reasoning, graphical analysis, numerical ability, series, puzzles, etc. |
| Part B | Subject-related MCQs from the CSIR NET Physical Science syllabus |
| Part C | Higher-order analytical and concept-application questions in Physical Science |
Commonly asked question
Does solving previous papers improve CSIR NET Physics score?
Yes, consistent practice with previous papers boosts speed, conceptual clarity, topic selection skill, accuracy, plus enhances overall score potential.
CSIR NET Physics Exam Pattern 2025 Marking Scheme
Understanding the marking scheme is essential for planning your CSIR NET Physical Science preparation. Each part carries a different weight, making it important for candidates to focus on sections strategically.
Part A – General Aptitude
- This section contains 20 questions, out of which candidates must attempt 15 questions.
- Topics include General Science, Quantitative Reasoning, Research Aptitude, and analytical skills.
- Each question carries 2 marks, making the section worth 30 marks.
- Negative Marking: 0.5 marks deduction for every wrong answer.
Part B – Subject-Specific MCQs
- This part includes 25 MCQs, of which candidates must answer 20 questions.
- Questions cover the core topics of the Physical Science syllabus.
- Each correct answer awards 3.5 marks, and the section carries a total of 70 marks.
- Negative Marking: 0.875 marks deduction for every wrong answer.
Part C – Higher-Level Analytical Questions
- This section consists of 30 questions, and candidates must attempt 20 questions.
- Questions focus on advanced concepts and the application of scientific principles.
- Each correct answer gives 5 marks, contributing 100 marks to the total.
- Negative Marking: 1.75 marks deduction for every wrong answer.
You can also check – CSIR NET Syllabus 2025 : Part A, B, C, Download Subject Wise Syllabus PDF
CSIR NET Physical Science Marking Scheme
| Subject | Total Weightage | Negative Marking | Marking Scheme |
| Physical Science | 200 Marks | Part A: –0.5
Part B: –0.875 Part C: –1.75 |
Part A: +2 marks for each of 15 questions (30 marks total)
Part B: +3.5 marks for each of 20 questions (70 marks total) Part C: +5 marks for each of 20 questions (100 marks total) |
CSIR NET Physical Science Exam Pattern 2025 Minimum Qualifying Marks
To be considered for JRF or Assistant Professor, candidates must secure at least the minimum qualifying percentage. Check the category-wise requirement below:
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
| General / EWS / OBC | 33% |
| SC / ST / PwD | 25% |
CSIR NET Exam Pattern 2025 for Physical Sciences
The CSIR NET Physical Sciences paper consists of 75 multiple-choice questions, out of which candidates must attempt only 55.
- Part A questions carry 2 marks each.
- Part B questions carry 3.5 marks each.
- Part C questions carry 5 marks each.
- Negative marking is 25% in all three sections.
CSIR NET Physical Science Exam Pattern 2025
| Particulars | Part A | Part B | Part C | Total |
| Total Questions | 20 | 25 | 30 | 75 |
| Maximum Questions to Attempt | 15 | 20 | 20 | 55 |
| Marks for Each Correct Answer | 2 | 3.5 | 5 | 200 |
| Negative Marking (25%) | 0.5 | 0.875 | 1.25 | – |
Preparation Strategy for CSIR NET Physics Exam
Preparing for the CSIR NET Physics exam requires a structured plan and consistent effort. Here are some expert-recommended strategies that will help you score well and stay ahead in your preparation:
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Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus Clearly
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- Begin your preparation by going through the latest exam pattern and syllabus. Knowing the weightage of each section and the type of questions asked will help you prepare a focused study plan.
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Create a Realistic and Balanced Study Schedule
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- Divide your time wisely so that every topic gets proper attention. A well-planned timetable ensures that you cover the entire syllabus gradually without feeling overwhelmed.
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Use Quality Study Material
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- Choose reliable books, coaching notes, and online resources recommended by toppers. Avoid switching between too many sources, as it may lead to confusion and slow down your preparation.
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Practice Mock Tests Regularly
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- Mock tests play a major role in boosting your performance. Solve full-length tests and previous years’ papers to improve your speed, accuracy, and question selection skills.
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Revise Consistently
- Continuous revision helps you retain concepts for a longer time. Make short notes, highlight formulas, and revisit difficult topics frequently to strengthen your preparation.
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Related Topics |
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| important topics for csir net Physical Science | important topics for csir net Life Science |
| important topics for csir net Chemistry | important topics for csir net Mathematics |
CSIR NET physics Science Previous Years Question Papers FAQs
Where can I download CSIR NET Physical Science Question Papers PDF for 2025 to 2017?
You can download PDFs for June and December exam cycles directly from official CSIR NET sources or trusted exam preparation websites that host year-wise papers.
How many questions must be attempted in CSIR NET Physical Science exam?
You must attempt 55 questions out of 75 total questions across Part A, Part B, Part C as per official guidelines.
Is there negative marking in the CSIR NET Physics exam?
Yes, negative marking is applied in all sections: Part A has 0.5 marks deduction, Part B has 0.875 deduction, Part C has 1.75 deduction per wrong response.
What is the minimum qualifying mark for CSIR NET Physical Science?
General, EWS, OBC need 33 percent while SC, ST, PwD need 25 percent as the minimum qualifying percentage.
