In a sweeping overhaul of eligibility criteria for the National Eligibility Test (NET) and PhD admissions, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has ushered in a landmark shift that promises to reshape the landscape of higher education in India. UGC Chairman, Jagadesh Kumar, announced the groundbreaking revision, which now allows students with a four-year undergraduate degree to directly pursue a PhD and qualify for the NET, provided they attain a minimum of 75% marks or equivalent grades in their undergraduate studies.
This significant departure from the previous norms, wherein NET candidates were required to hold a master’s degree with at least 55% marks, opens up a multitude of new pathways for aspiring scholars. By eliminating the prerequisite for a master’s degree, the UGC aims to democratize access to doctoral studies and empower a broader spectrum of students to embark on advanced research endeavors.
Chairman Kumar underscored the newfound flexibility inherent in these changes, emphasizing that candidates can now choose to sit for the NET in any subject of their preference, irrespective of their undergraduate specialization. This bold move not only liberates students from the constraints of disciplinary boundaries but also enables them to pursue research avenues aligned with their individual passions and career aspirations.
Furthermore, the UGC has incorporated provisions for a 5% relaxation in marks or equivalent grade for candidates hailing from reserved categories, including SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled, economically weaker sections, and other eligible groups, as part of its ongoing policy adjustments. This inclusive measure reaffirms the Commission’s commitment to fostering diversity and equal opportunity within the academic sphere.
In another notable development, the NET exam, a cornerstone for qualifying for roles such as junior research fellows, assistant professors, or direct PhD admissions, will transition from its traditional computer-based format to an offline mode this year. Scheduled for June 16, this shift reflects the UGC’s dedication to ensuring the integrity and accessibility of the examination process.
Prospective candidates eager to seize the newfound opportunities presented by these reforms have been granted a window to register for this year’s NET exam, with the application period commencing on Saturday and set to conclude on May 10. This strategic initiative by the UGC is poised to amplify access to higher education and research opportunities for students across the length and breadth of India, heralding a transformative era of inclusivity and innovation in academia.
