University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a significant revision in the eligibility criteria for pursuing a PhD and appearing for the National Eligibility Test (NET). The Chairman of UGC, Jagadesh Kumar, revealed that students holding four-year undergraduate degrees can now directly embark on their PhD journey and participate in the NET, eliminating the prerequisite of obtaining a master’s degree.
Under the newly introduced guidelines, candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees must have achieved a minimum of 75% marks or equivalent grades in their bachelor’s course to qualify for PhD and NET. This alteration, a departure from the previous requirement of a master’s degree, aims to provide a streamlined path for students to enter the realm of research without the intermediary step of acquiring a master’s degree.
Kumar emphasized the inclusivity of this directive, highlighting that candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees can pursue PhD in their preferred subject, irrespective of the discipline of their bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, specific eligibility criteria were outlined, emphasizing the minimum percentage of marks required for consideration.
In a move to ensure equitable access to higher education opportunities, the UGC chairman underlined provisions for relaxation in marks for certain categories of candidates, including SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled individuals, economically weaker sections, and other designated groups.
The announcement comes as a significant step towards broadening access to doctoral studies and research opportunities, aligning with efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in higher education.
Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has disclosed the registration dates for UGC NET June 2024. As per the schedule, registration commenced on April 20, 2024, and will continue until May 10, 2024. Candidates aspiring to apply for NET can access the UGC NET official website – ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
Applicants have been advised to adhere to the examination fee submission deadline, falling between May 11 and May 12, 2024. Additionally, a correction window will be available from May 13 to May 15, 2024, for candidates to rectify any errors in their application submissions.
