UGC will now facilitate PhD admissions through NET scores. As per UGC directives, universities no longer require separate entrance exams.
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PhD Admissions through NET Overview
PhD admissions will henceforth rely on UGC NET scores. This is in accordance with the directives of the University Grants Commission. This change comes as a result of the Commission’s guidelines. The UGC has stipulated that universities have the option to utilize NET scores for PhD program admissions. It seeks to replace the individual entrance tests conducted by various universities and higher education institutions (HEIs).
Implementation of UGC’s Directives
The University Grants Commission has announced that the UGC NET score will serve as a criterion for admission to PhD programs. This shall be applicable beginning in the in the academic year 2024–25. This change will replace the entrance tests conducted by various universities and HEIs. UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar took to Twitter regarding this change. He tweeted that the National Testing Agency (NTA) is in the process of launching the NET application process for the June 2024 session. This launch is expected to occur sometime next week.
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Reasons for Change according to NEP provisions
According to the notice issued, the UGC indicated that numerous universities conduct individual entrance tests for PhD program admissions. This necessitates that students undertake multiple tests. To simplify the process and aid students, the UGC established an expert committee. This aligns with the national entrance test model envisioned in NEP 2020. This committee had the task of assessing NEP provisions. The UGC concluded that NET scores could replace entrance exams. After carefully considering the committee’s findings, this decision was reached.
Categorization of NET Candidates
From June 2024 onwards, NET candidates will be categorized into three groups:
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Category 1: Eligible for admission to the Ph.D. with JRF and an appointment as an assistant professor.
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Category 2: Eligible for admission to the Ph.D. without JRF and appointment as an assistant professor.
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Category 3: Eligible for admission to the Ph.D. program only, without qualification for JRF or appointment as an assistant professor.
Admission Process and Validity of NET Scores
UGC stated that it would announce NET results in percentile alongside candidate marks. Universities will utilize these results for PhD program admissions. For students qualifying in Categories 2 and 3, admission to the PhD program will consider a 70 percent weighting for test scores. Additionally, universities will allocate 30 percent for interview performance. The combined merit of NET scores and marks obtained in the interview or viva voce will determine admission. NET scores for candidates in Categories 2 and 3 will remain valid for one year for PhD admissions.
