NTA Releases Revised Information Bulletin for UGC NET December 2026: Key Updates and Exam Schedule

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released a revised information bulletin for the upcoming University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) December 2026 session. This updated document introduces several critical changes to the examination guidelines, ranging from revised scheduling to specific protocols for the day of the test. Candidates preparing for the examination are encouraged to review these modifications thoroughly to ensure compliance with the new requirements.

The examination is now scheduled to take place over six days: December 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 21, 2026. Prospective candidates have until October 28, 2026, to submit their application forms through the official NTA website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Following the application phase, the NTA will release the advance examination city intimation slips on November 23, 2026, with admit cards scheduled to be available for download starting December 7, 2026.

Key Procedural Changes and Examination Guidelines

The revised bulletin clarifies several operational procedures, most notably regarding the evaluation of questions marked for review. The NTA has confirmed that any questions that have been answered or attempted will be evaluated, even if they were flagged for review by the candidate. Conversely, questions that remain unanswered or unattempted will not be considered for evaluation. Additionally, the NTA has updated the instructions regarding stationery; while ball-point pens were previously listed as barred items, the agency will now provide pens to candidates directly at the examination centers.

Significant updates have also been made to the examination city selection process. Candidates are now required to select their preferred cities from options within their permanent or present state or Union Territory. In instances where fewer than four cities are available in a candidate's home region, they may select from the additional options displayed by the NTA system. Candidates will have the opportunity to adjust these preferences during the designated application correction window.

Regarding examination-day logistics, the NTA has implemented a strict gate-closing policy, with center gates closing 30 minutes before the start of the exam. The dress code has also been clarified, with low-heeled shoes, slippers, and sandals now permitted, while long boots remain prohibited. Furthermore, the NTA has updated the scribe undertaking format, now located in Annexure VII, and has revised the payment gateway and service charge structure. Candidates are advised to consult the latest version of the information bulletin to ensure they are using the correct documentation and fee payment procedures for the December 2026 session.