Over 1.5 Lakh Candidates Take CSIR UGC-NET Exam; Answer Key Soon

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has successfully concluded the Joint CSIR-UGC NET June 2026 examination, with 1,50,057 candidates appearing across two days, July 17 and 18. This marks an attendance rate of 79.9% out of the 1,87,739 registered candidates. Aspirants are now eagerly awaiting the release of the provisional answer key, which is expected within 10 to 15 days based on past trends.

Key Eligibility Test for Research and Academia

The Joint CSIR-UGC NET is a critical examination for determining eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Assistant Professorships, and admissions to PhD programmes in universities and higher education institutions nationwide.

The test was conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format across five science disciplines: Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences. According to the NTA, the sessions were conducted smoothly, with robust arrangements for candidate verification and security.

Life Sciences Leads in Participation

Life Sciences attracted the highest number of candidates, with 67,650 appearing out of 83,546 registered, reflecting an attendance rate of 81%. Chemical Sciences followed with 30,885 appearances from 38,740 registrations. Mathematical Sciences saw 24,964 candidates out of 31,574 registered, while Physical Sciences recorded 21,810 participants from 27,791 registrations. Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences had the smallest turnout, with 4,748 candidates appearing from 6,088 registrations, marking a 78% attendance rate.

Provisional Answer Key and Next Steps

The provisional answer key, along with candidates’ recorded responses and question papers, will soon be uploaded on the official website, csirnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can access these documents using their application number and login credentials. An objection window will also be opened, allowing candidates to challenge any discrepancies in the answer key by paying a prescribed fee per question.

Once the objection window closes, subject experts will review all valid challenges. If any objections are upheld, the answer key will be revised, and the final version will be used to prepare the results. Candidates are advised to regularly monitor the official website for updates on the answer key, objection process, and result declaration.

Source: Indian Express