UGC-NET: The University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman, Jagadesh Kumar, has announced a significant change in eligibility criteria for pursuing PhD and appearing for the National Eligibility Test (NET). 

Under the new guidelines, students with four-year undergraduate degrees are now eligible to directly pursue PhD and appear for NET, a departure from the previous requirement of a master’s degree, news agency PTI reported. This change opens up opportunities for students who have completed a four-year bachelor’s program to enter the research domain without the intermediary step of obtaining a master’s degree.

To qualify for PhD and NET, candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees must have attained a minimum of 75% marks or equivalent grades in their undergraduate course. This requirement applies regardless of the discipline in which the bachelor’s degree was obtained. Previously, NET candidates needed a master’s degree with a minimum of 55% marks, but this new directive expands access to doctoral studies.

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Mr Kumar emphasized that candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees can now pursue PhD in their chosen subject, irrespective of the discipline of their bachelor’s degree. Additionally, he outlined the specific criteria for eligibility, including the minimum percentage of marks required for consideration.

Furthermore, the UGC chairman highlighted the provision for relaxation in marks for certain categories of candidates, such as those belonging to SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled individuals, economically weaker sections, and other designated groups. This provision aims to ensure equitable access to higher education opportunities.

Overall, these changes represent a significant step towards broadening access to doctoral studies and research opportunities, aligning with efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in higher education.

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UGC NET- Dates Announced

The National Testing Agency has announced the dates for the registration for UGC NET June 2024. The registration begins on April 20, 2024, and the last application date is May 10, 2024. Candidates who want to apply for NET can visit the UGC NET official website – ugcnet.nta.ac.in.

The examination fee submission deadline is May 11 to May 12, 2024. The correction window will open on May 13 and be accessible until May 15, 2024.