As the CSIR UGC NET December 2025 exam approaches on December 18, 2025, candidates across India are gearing up to compete for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor eligibility in Indian universities. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for aspirants to strategize preparation and optimise performance in this highly competitive national-level test.The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the examination in a single online session lasting 3 hours, divided into three sections: Part A, Part B, and Part C. The total marks for the exam are 200, with questions distributed across multiple disciplines including Chemical Sciences, Earth Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Physical Sciences.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Total Marks: 200
- Mode:
Computer-based test (CBT) - Shifts: 9 am–12 noon and 3 pm–6 pm
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern
Familiarity with the exam pattern is the first step in effective preparation for the CSIR NET 2024. Understanding the structure, marking scheme, and question types helps candidates strategize their preparation efficiently. Below is a detailed breakdown of the exam pattern for each subject.
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern for Chemical Science
- Total Questions: 120 MCQs
- Questions to Attempt: 75 (Part A: 15, Part B: 35, Part C: 25)
- Marks per Question: Part A & B = 2 marks, Part C = 4 marks
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for wrong answers in Parts A & B
- Instructions: Each question has four options; select the correct one.
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern for Earth Science
- Total Questions: 150
- Questions to Attempt: Part A = 15, Part B = 35, Part C = 25
- Marks per Question: Part A & B = 2 marks, Part C = 4 marks
- Negative Marking: 0.5 marks deducted in Parts A & B; 1.32 marks in Part C
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern for Life Science
- Total Questions: 145
- Questions to Attempt: Part A = 15, Part B = 35, Part C = 25
- Marks per Question: Part A & B = 2 marks, Part C = 4 marks
- Negative Marking: 0.5 marks in Parts A & B; 1 mark in Part C (25% deduction across all sections)
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern for Mathematical Science
- Total Questions: 120
- Questions to Attempt: Part A = 15, Part B = 25, Part C = 20
- Marks per Question: Part A = 2, Part B = 3, Part C = 4.75
- Negative Marking: Part A = 0.5, Part B = 0.75, Part C = none
CSIR NET 2024 exam pattern for Physical Science
- Questions to Attempt: Part A = 15, Part B = 20, Part C = 20
- Marks per Question: Part A = 2, Part B = 3.5, Part C = 5
- Negative Marking: Part A = 0.5, Part B = 0.875, Part C = 1.25
This structured breakdown allows candidates to quickly compare the patterns across subjects and plan their preparation strategy effectively, keeping in mind the marks distribution and negative marking scheme.
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