This change essentially removes a major barrier for aspiring scholars, allowing them to apply for the NET and dive into doctoral studies in their desired field, regardless of their bachelor's degree discipline. It's a move that's expected to open up opportunities for a wider range of candidates and promote diversity in academia.
With an aim to potentially reshape higher education in India, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a significant policy change under the leadership of Jagadesh Kumar, its Chairman. Now, individuals with four-year undergraduate degrees can directly pursue a PhD and take the National Eligibility Test (NET), breaking away from the previous requirement of holding a master's degree with at least 55 percent marks.
This change essentially removes a major barrier for aspiring scholars, allowing them to apply for the NET and dive into doctoral studies in their desired field, regardless of their bachelor's degree discipline. It's a move that's expected to open up opportunities for a wider range of candidates and promote diversity in academia.
The upcoming NET exam, scheduled for June 16, will see another significant change—it will be conducted offline, departing from the previous computer-based format. This shift aims to make the exam more accessible to candidates across different backgrounds and regions.
However, the new policy doesn't lower the bar for entry into doctoral programs. Candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees are required to have achieved a minimum aggregate of 75 percent marks or equivalent grades. There's also a slight relaxation, allowing a five percent margin for candidates from certain backgrounds, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC) (non-creamy layer), differently-abled individuals, and economically weaker sections.
The UGC-NET exam plays a crucial role in determining the eligibility of Indian citizens for academic positions and doctoral programs in universities and colleges across the country. This policy change is not just about opening doors—it's about creating a more inclusive and diverse academic environment where talent can thrive regardless of background. It's a step towards democratizing access to higher education and fostering a brighter future for aspiring scholars in India.