NET exam syllabus is released by University Grant Commission (UGC). NET is a national-level exam that is conducted to evaluate a candidate’s eligibility for the Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellow posts. It is a highly-coveted exam that attracts thousands of candidates.
The NET exam syllabus is disclosed for two major exams which are UGC NET and CSIR NET. UGC NET deals with humanities and language streams whereas CSIR NET deals with subjects in Science and Mathematics.
NET Exam Syllabus 2023
NET exam syllabus consists of a general paper along with subject-specific papers. UGC NET exam consists of more than 80 subjects and the CSIR NET exam consists of 5 disciplines. Candidates can choose their subject based on their Master’s degree. NET exam syllabus is known for its wide scope, hence, studying it to know the important topics is crucial to save time and maintain efficiency during the preparation process.
UGC NET Exam Syllabus
UGC NET exam is conducted for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellow posts. The exam consists of 2 papers. Paper 1 is generic and is common for all candidates. However, Paper 2 is subject-specific. Candidates can refer to the UGC NET exam pattern below for a better understanding.
Papers |
Number of Questions |
Marks |
Paper 1 |
50 |
100 |
Paper 2 |
100 |
200 |
Total |
150 |
300 |
UGC NET Syllabus Paper 1
NET exam syllabus for Paper 1 is common for all candidates. It consists of 10 units covering various topics deemed important for an academic career. Refer to the table below for the detailed syllabus.
Unit |
Topics |
Teaching Aptitude |
Teaching Concepts and Characteristics, Learner’s Characteristics, Learning Environment, Methods of Teaching, Evaluation, Teaching Aids, etc. |
Research Aptitude |
Meaning of Research, Types, and Characteristics of Research, Methodology, Research Ethics, Thesis Writing, Bibliography, etc. |
Communication |
Types of Communication, Characteristics of Effective Communication, Barriers to Communication, Mass Media, etc. |
Comprehension |
A comprehension passage consisting of 5 questions. |
Logical Reasoning |
Venn Diagram, Indian Logic, Analogies, Pramanas, Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, Arguments and its Structures, etc. |
Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude |
Type of Reasoning, Mathematical Aptitude, Number Series, Letter Series, Codes, etc. |
Data Interpretation |
Graphical Data, Sources and Classification of Data, Quantitative and Qualitative Data, etc. |
People, Development, and Environment |
Environment and Development, Types of Pollution, Types of Resources, Environmental Laws, Types of Disasters, etc. |
Information and Communication Technology |
Basics of the Internet, Governance and ICT, General Terminology, Abbreviations, etc. |
Higher Education System |
Evolution of Education in India, Different types of Education, Government Policies, Learning Programmes, etc. |
UGC NET Syllabus Paper 2
UGC publishes the NET exam syllabus for 82 disciplines. Candidates can choose their subject based on the discipline of their Master’s degree. Check out these subjects below.
- Humanity Streams: Political Science, Public Administration, Economics, Criminology, Sociology, Philosophy, Psychology, Management, Physical Education, English, Linguistics, Environmental Science, Geography, etc.
- Indian Languages: Sanskrit, Hindi, Dogri, Oriya, Bengali, Punjabi, Kannada, Manipuri, Malayalam, Bodo, Tamil, Singhi, Santali, etc.
- Foreign Languages: Spanish, Chinese, French, Russian, Persian, German, Japanese, etc.
- Cultures: Indian Culture, Buddhist, Jaina, Gandhian & Peace Studies, Hindu Studies, Arab Culture and Islamic Studies, Yoga, etc.
CSIR NET Syllabus
CSIR NET Syllabus is different for all subjects. The exam pattern also varies across disciplines.
The NET exam syllabus for CSIR is divided into 3 Parts. Part A consists of a test on General Aptitude, whereas Parts B and C will be subject-specific.
NET Exam Syllabus for CSIR Part A
Part A of CSIR NET is common for all candidates. It generally consists of 20 questions, with every question carrying two marks.
Subject |
Topics |
Numerical Ability |
Average, Percentage, Interest, Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Simplification, Logarithms, Profit and Loss, Surd and Indices, Mensuration, Partnership, etc. |
Reasoning |
Coding-Decoding, Series Formation, Puzzles, Ranking, Arrangements, Calendar and Clock, Distance, etc. |
Data Interpretation and Graphical Analysis |
Mean, Median, and Mode, Different Types of Charts, Tabulation, Dispersion Measures, etc. |
CSIR NET Part B and C Syllabus
NET exam syllabus for Part B and C of CSIR is based on the subject chosen by the candidate. The main subjects for which syllabi are released are as follows.
- Chemical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences
Tips to Prepare NET Exam Syllabus
The NET exam syllabus is known to be quite vast and tricky to prepare. However, following the tips below will help in optimal preparation.
- The first step is to be well-acquainted with the NET exam pattern and syllabus.
- Prepare a timetable for yourself. Start with complex topics in the NET exam syllabus so you can have time to revise them later.
- Solve previous question papers and mock tests to keep track of your progress.
- Stay consistent with the NET exam syllabus and follow it to keep the scope of your preparation realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions on NET Exam Syllabus
What is the NET exam syllabus?
The NET exam syllabus is released for two important exams UGC NET and CSIR NET. Both exams consist of general and subject-specific papers.
Who prescribes the NET exam syllabus?
NET Exam Syllabus is prescribed by University Grant Commission (UGC). The syllabus is designed to ensure that candidates have subject-matter knowledge and the ability to teach it.
What is the UGC NET exam syllabus for Paper 1?
UGC NET Syllabus for Paper 1 consists of subjects such as Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Comprehension, Communication, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, etc.
Is the NET exam syllabus tough?
The NET exam syllabus is moderately difficult to prepare. Although it consists of common topics, the questions can be quite complex.