NET Score To Be Allowed For PhD Admissions, Says UGC

This decision aims to streamline the admission process under the National Education Policy, eliminating the need for multiple entrance exams.

New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at simplifying the admission process in higher education institutions, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced that the National Eligibility Test (NET) score will now be accepted for admission to PhD programs. This decision is set to replace the various entrance tests conducted by different universities and the Higher Education Information System (HEIS), offering students a streamlined pathway into doctoral programs.

"From the academic session 2024-2025, all universities can use NET scores for admission to PhD programmes in place of entrance tests conducted by the different universities and HEIs. The NTA is working on launching the NET application process for the June 2024 session sometime next week," posted UGC Chairman, Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar on X.

Now, PhD Admission Process Through UGC NET Scores; Official Notification with Major Changes Issuedhttps://t.co/I7QkIHkKB6

— Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar (@mamidala90) March 28, 2024

Implementation Under the National Education Policy

The decision comes in alignment with the objectives outlined in the National Education Policy, which seeks to rationalize and standardize educational practices across the country. By allowing the utilization of NET scores for PhD admissions, the UGC aims to eliminate the necessity for multiple entrance examinations, thereby reducing the burden on students and ensuring a more efficient and equitable selection process.

Transition Begins In 2024-2025 Academic Session

Commencing from the academic session 2024-2025, all universities will have the option to consider NET scores for PhD admissions instead of conducting their own entrance tests. This move marks a departure from the traditional approach of universities conducting individual admission tests and underscores a shift towards a unified national testing system.

NTA To Facilitate NET Application Process

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is tasked with facilitating the application process for the upcoming June 2024 session of the NET. This forthcoming initiative is expected to provide clarity on the procedural aspects and ensure a smooth transition towards utilizing NET scores for PhD admissions.

Expert Committee's Recommendations

The decision to integrate NET scores into the PhD admission process follows recommendations put forth by an expert committee appointed by the UGC. Through a thorough review of existing provisions and in line with the imperatives of the National Education Policy 2020, the committee advocated for a standardized approach to entrance examinations for doctoral programs.

The Outcome Of the Decision

With the UGC's directive, the NET score will now serve as a common benchmark for PhD admissions across participating universities and HEIS. Additionally, the NET result will be declared in percentile along with the candidate's marks, providing universities with comprehensive information for admission decisions.

Admission Criteria for JRF-Qualified Candidates

Furthermore, the notice emphasizes that candidates qualifying for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) will undergo admission into PhD programs through an interview process, adhering to the University Grants Commission regulations for the award of PhD degrees.