UGC NET vs CSIR NET, both the national-level exams have their own pros and cons for candidates. The exam conducting body is different, and exam modes are different. Candidates choose between the exams based on their preference and suitability. Let’s understand the difference between the syllabus, eligibility, and career scope, so candidates can choose between the two through this article.
What is UGC NET vs CSIR NET?
UGC NET and CSIR NET are both national-level exams, conducted to qualify for the positions of assistant professor in colleges and universities. Several lakhs of candidates apply and appear for these exams every year. However, the qualified candidates amounts in thousands.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the UGC NET exam under the guidance of the University Grants Commission.
UGC NET vs CSIR NET Overview
Here is the overview of UGC NET vs CSIR NET for candidates wanting to appear for them:
| UGC NET | CSIR NET | |
| Exam Conducting Body | NTA | NTA |
| Exam Frequency | Twice annually | Twice annually |
| Exam Mode | Online | Offline |
| Language of Exam | Bilungual (English and Hindi) | Bilungual (English and Hindi) |
| Official website | https://ugcnet.nta.ac.in/ | https://csirnet.nta.ac.in/ |
Eligibilty for UGC NET vs CSIR NET
UGC NET Vs CSIR NET eligibility varies depending on the various criteria, be it age or qualification, or age relaxation. Check the table below for the comparison of eligibility for UGC NET 2025 vs CSIR NET:
| Criteria | UGC NET | CSIR NET |
| Age for JRF | 30 years | 28 years |
| Upper Age Limit | No upper age limit for Assistant Professor or PhD | No upper age limit for Assistant Professor or PhD |
| Age Relaxation | ST – 5
SC – 5 OBC-5 Females-5 Candidates who have done LLM-3 Armed forces personnel -5 |
ST – 5
SC – 5 OBC-5 Females-5 OBC NCL-3 PWD – Armed forces personnel -5 |
| Education Qualification | Pursuing or completed a master’s degree with 55% | The candidates who have secured at least 55% marks (General category) and 50% (SC/ST/PwD) (without rounding off) in M.Sc. / BS-4 Years / Integrated BS-M, BE/B-Tech / MBBS /B-Pharma. |
UGC NET Vs CSIR NET Exam Subjects
UGC NET vs CSIR NET exam subjects vary, as the focus of the CSIR NET is to select students for research work in the science area. Check the exam subject for both the exams below:
| Particulars | UGC NET | CSIR NET |
| Subjects | 85 subjects, including the traditional subjects. | Only % subjects are there, including:
Mathematical Sciences Chemical Sciences Ocean and Planetary Sciences, Earth, Atmospheric, Life Sciences Physical Sciences |
UGC NET Vs CSIR NET Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for the UGC NET exam and the CSIR NET is widely different. The UGC NET exam pattern is easier to understand and simple. However, the CSIR net exam pattern is a bit complex.
CSIR NET exam has a negative marking scheme; for part A, 0.5 marks will be deducted for every wrong answer. For Part B, a deduction of marks between 0.5 to 0.87 marks. Lastly, for part C, 1-1.32 marks will be deducted.
Other than the difference in the marking scheme, there is also a difference in the attempt at the question. Candidates are given the option to attempt any 15 questions out of the 20 given questions for Part A. And for Part B :
| No of questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | |
| UGC NET | Paper 1: 50 | 2 | Paper 1: 100 |
| Paper 2:100 | 2 | Paper 2: 200 | |
| CSIR NET | Part A: 20 | 2 | 40 |
| Part B: 25-50 | 2-3.5 | – | |
| Part C: 30-75 | 4-5 | – |
UGC NET Vs CSIR NET Similarities
Although there are differences between the two exams but there are some similarities as well:
- The purpose of both exams is to qualify candidates for the position of assistant professor.
- CSIR NET and UGC NET both have the same educational qualification criteria; candidates for both should have a master’s qualification(completed or pursuing)
- Both exams are conducted twice annually (June and December sessions) and are conducted by the same agency, i.e., National Testing Agency.
- The questions are asked for general knowledge to check the research and teaching aptitude. Additionally, there will be questions regarding the subjects of a master’s degree.
UGC NET Vs CSIR NET Career Scope
UGC NET qualifying candidates will be able to work with different organisations in association with UGC. Also, these qualifications are used in many PSUs as the eligibility or the screening test for hiring in corporate communication profiles and language experts etc.
And the candidates who have qualified for the CSIR NET will get the opportunity to work with CSIR research labs.
| Related Articles | |
| Tips to crack UGC NET | UGC NET Previous Year Question Papers |
| UGC NET Exam Pattern | |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques 1: What is the salary of a UGC CSIR net-qualified professor?
Ans 1: The salary of a CSIR NET ranges from 37k to 67k.
Ques 2: What is the difference between CSIR and UGC NET exam?
Ans 2: CSIR NET is inclined towards science and technology more where whereas UGC NET covers various traditional courses.
Ques 3: Which is tougher, UGC NET or CSIR NET?
Ans 3: Comparatively, UGC CSIR is more difficult than UGC NET.
Ques 4: What is the eligibility for UGC NET and UGC CSIR?
Ans 4: Candidates applying for the UGC NET or CSIR NET should have completed or be pursuing a master’s degree to be eligible.
Ques 5: Which is easier, UGC NET or CSIR NET?
Ans 5: UGC NET is easier in comparison to the CSIR NET.
Archna is a University of Delhi graduate. She has 2 years of experience as a Content Writer in education, finance, and tech writing. She aims to create informative, clear, and concise user-friendly content. For the SD campus, she writes for: Teaching exams, Government Jobs, and School Entrance exams.
