The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released its Examination Calendar for the December 2026 cycle onwards, providing candidates with the tentative schedule of several upcoming examinations. The calendar was published through a public notice dated September 16, 2026.
UGC NET December 2026 exam from December 14
According to the NTA examination calendar, the UGC NET (December Cycle) is scheduled to be conducted from December 14 to December 19, 2026. The examination has been allotted a duration of six days, with December 20 and 21, 2026, mentioned as buffer dates.
The UGC NET examination is conducted for candidates seeking eligibility for Assistant Professor and/or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates preparing for the December cycle can now use the tentative dates to plan their preparation and revision schedule.
NTA says dates are tentative
While the announcement provides an important timeline for UGC NET aspirants, candidates should note that the dates are not final. NTA has specifically stated that the dates in the calendar are tentative and may be changed due to administrative, academic, statutory, logistical or other unforeseen circumstances.
The agency has also clarified that publication of the examination calendar does not constitute a notification for any particular examination. A separate Information Bulletin and examination-specific notice will be issued at the appropriate time.
UGC NET December 2026: Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UGC NET December 2026 | December 14–19, 2026 |
| Duration | 6 Days |
| Buffer dates | December 20–21, 2026 |
| Official calendar released | September 16, 2026 |
The calendar also places the Joint CSIR UGC NET December Cycle on December 20–21, 2026.
What should candidates do now?
UGC NET aspirants should not wait for the detailed notification to begin their preparation. Candidates can use the tentative December 14–19 examination window to organise their study plan, complete the syllabus, practise previous-year question papers and take mock tests.
NTA has advised candidates to regularly check its official website and the respective examination portals for updates relating to the application schedule, examination city information, admit card, answer key and results.
Candidates are also advised to rely only on information published through the official NTA website and respective examination portals.
In short: UGC NET December 2026 is tentatively scheduled for December 14–19, 2026, while December 20–21 have been kept as buffer dates. The detailed examination notification and application schedule are expected to be announced separately by NTA.