The National Testing Agency (NTA) has reported a significant increase in registrations for the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) December 2026 session.
As of October 25, 2026, a total of 5,50,048 candidates had registered for the examination, while 3,73,419 candidates had completed their applications and paid the examination fee.
The regular registration window for UGC NET December 2026 will close on October 28, 2026, at 11:50 PM. Candidates who have not completed the application process should visit the official website, ugcnet.nta.nic.in, and submit their forms before the deadline.
UGC NET December 2026 Registration: Application Status
According to the registration figures shared for October 25, the examination has attracted more than 5.5 lakh applicants. The registration status details reported by NTA are provided below.
| Registration status | Number of candidates |
| Total registered candidates | 5,50,048 |
| Applications completed and fee paid | 3,73,419 |
| Photograph and signature pending, with fee payment also pending | 1,36,993 |
| Photograph and signature uploaded, but fee payment pending | 31,580 |
The figures indicate that many registered candidates still need to complete one or more application formalities. Applicants should check their individual application status and ensure that all required documents have been uploaded and the examination fee has been paid successfully.
UGC NET December 2026: Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of the following dates to avoid missing the application deadline.
| Event | Date |
| Registration commence | October 8, 2026 |
| Last date for regular registration | October 28, 2026 |
| Application with late fee | October 29-31, 2026 |
| Application correction window | November 2-4, 2026 |
| UGC NET December 2026 examination | December 14-19, 2026 |
Candidates who miss the regular deadline can use the late-registration window from October 29 to 31 by paying the prescribed additional fee. However, applicants are advised to complete their forms early rather than wait until the final day.
How to Complete UGC NET December 2026 Registration
Candidates can follow these steps to complete the online application process:
1. Visit the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on the UGC NET December 2026 application link.
3. Complete the registration process and enter the required details.
4. Fill in the application form with accurate personal and educational information.
5. Upload the photograph, signature and other documents required by NTA.
6. Pay the applicable examination fee through the available online payment options.
7. Review the details and submit the application form.
8. Download or print the confirmation page for future reference.
Applicants should verify their payment status and ensure that the final application submission is successful.
UGC NET December 2026 Examination Schedule
The NTA will conduct UGC NET December 2026 from December 14 to 19, 2026, in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across 87 subjects. The examination determines eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Assistant Professor positions and PhD admissions, depending on the category for which candidates qualify.
Candidates should regularly check the official portal for updates regarding examination city information, admit cards and other announcements.
Conclusion
With the regular UGC NET December 2026 registration deadline approaching on October 28, candidates should complete their applications, upload the required documents and pay the examination fee on time. Although a late-registration window is scheduled for October 29-31, applicants should check the official notification for the applicable additional fee and submission requirements. For the latest updates, visit ugcnet.nta.nic.in.
