Difference Between UGC NET and SET 2025 is a significant consideration for people who want to be researchers and lecturers in India. While UGC NET is a national-level examination that provides opportunities in the entire country, SET is a state-level exam that restricts it to a single state. Being aware of the variances in eligibility, patterns of the exams, scope of careers, and levels of difficulty can help you choose the right path for your academic and professional goals. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about UGC NET and SET to make an informed decision.
UGC NET vs State Eligibility Test Overview
The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) and SET (State Eligibility Test) are two highly popular exams in India for securing assistant professorships or research faculties. Even though both tests aim for the same objectives, the two differ immensely in terms of scope, conduct bodies, validity, and scope. Here’s a comprehensive overview to enable you to know the main differences:
Feature | UGC NET | SET |
Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Conducted by respective state authorities |
Coverage | Nationwide | State-level only |
Purpose | Eligibility for Assistant Professor and JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) | Eligibility for Assistant Professor within the respective state |
Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Online/Offline (Varies by state) |
Frequency | Conducted twice a year | Conducted once a year |
Syllabus | Common syllabus across India | State syllabus may include regional-specific content |
Language Medium | English & Hindi | Regional language options available |
Validity of Certificate | Lifetime (For Assistant Professor) | Lifetime (For Assistant Professor) |
UGC NET and SET Exam Eligibility Criteria 2025
The eligibility criteria for UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) and SET (State Eligibility Test) are almost the same, but with some differences based on the conducting body and state requirements. Following is a point-wise explanation of the eligibility criteria for both the tests:
Aspect | UGC NET | SET |
Educational Qualification | Master’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university. | Master’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university. |
Minimum Marks | 55% for general category; 50% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD. | 55% for general category; 50% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD. |
Final-Year Candidates | Can apply, but must complete the degree within the specified time frame. | Can apply, but must complete the degree within the specified time frame. |
Age Limit for JRF | Maximum 30 years (relaxation up to 5 years for SC/ST/OBC/PwD and women). | Not applicable (no JRF in SET). |
Age Limit for Assistant Professor | No upper age limit. | No upper age limit. |
Domicile Requirement | Not required. | Required in some states (e.g., Maharashtra SET). |
Subject Selection | Choose from 85 subjects provided by UGC. Must match postgraduate degree. | Choose from subjects listed by the respective state. Must match postgraduate degree. |
Number of Attempts | No restriction. | No restriction. |
Validity | Across India. | Within the specific state where the exam is conducted. |
Career Scope After UGC NET and SET 2025
Qualifying the UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) or SET (State Eligibility Test) provides an extensive array of career prospects for prospective lecturers, researchers, and academic professionals. Nevertheless, the scope of career varies drastically between the two examinations because of their validity and the scope of opportunities provided by them. Following is a detailed overview of the career prospects after qualifying UGC NET and SET in 2025:
Career Scope After UGC NET 2025
Assistant Professor in Universities and Colleges:
- UGC NET certification entitles you to become an assistant professor in universities and colleges in India.
- It is accepted by all central, state, and private universities and colleges affiliated with UGC.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
- Being qualified with UGC NET with JRF enables you to go for research in the subject of your interest.
- You get a monthly stipend (presently ₹31,000 for the initial two years and ₹35,000 for the last three years) and research project funding.
PhD Admissions:
- UGC NET qualifiers are often exempted from entrance examinations for PhD admissions in the majority of universities.
- JRF holders can be directly admitted to PhD with scholarship.
Government Employment:
- Government jobs are also considered for education department, research institutes, and public sector undertaking (PSU) employment using UGC NET qualification.
Career in Research Institutions:
- You can be employed in research institutions such as NCERT, ICSSR, CSIR, and others as a researcher or academic consultant.
Academic Consultancy and Writing:
- UGC NET qualifiers can be employed as academic consultants, content developers, or writers for educational publications.
Career Prospect After SET 2025
Assistant Professor in State Colleges and Universities:
- The SET qualification entitles you to the position of assistant professor in state universities and colleges of the respective state where the exam is being held.
- It does not apply to central universities or colleges outside the state.
State Government Teaching Jobs:
- SET qualifiers are eligible for teaching jobs in state government colleges and universities.
- Certain states might also consider SET qualification for educational department employment.
Private Colleges in the State:
- SET qualifiers are eligible to work in private colleges and institutions in the state.
Limited Research Opportunities:
- In contrast to UGC NET, SET has no fellowship as in JRF, which means limited opportunities in research and PhD admissions.
- But if you are eligible according to the university, you can still pursue a PhD.
State-Level Academic Positions:
- SET qualifiers are eligible for positions like academic coordinators, trainers, or educators in state-level educational institutes.
Aspect | UGC NET | SET |
Validity | Across India. | Within the specific state where the exam is conducted. |
Assistant Professor | Eligible in central, state, and private universities/colleges across India. | Eligible only in state universities and colleges within the state. |
Research Opportunities | Offers JRF for research and PhD with financial support. | No fellowship; limited research opportunities. |
Government Jobs | Eligible for national-level educational and research jobs. | Eligible for state-level educational jobs. |
PhD Admissions | Often exempts candidates from entrance exams. | Depends on the university’s eligibility criteria. |
UGC NET vs SET Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) and SET (State Eligibility Test) have different exam patterns, which the candidates need to learn in order to prepare well. Although both the exams test teaching and research aptitude, they differ in their structure, the number of papers, and marking schemes. Following is a detailed comparison of the exam patterns of UGC NET and SET in tabular form:
Aspect | UGC NET | SET |
Number of Papers | Two Papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2). | Three Papers (Paper 1, Paper 2, and Paper 3). |
Paper 1 | General Paper (Teaching and Research Aptitude). | General Paper (Teaching and Research Aptitude). |
Paper 2 | Subject-Specific Paper (Chosen subject). | Subject-Specific Paper (Chosen subject). |
Paper 3 | Not applicable. | Subject-Specific Paper (Advanced level). |
Total Questions | 150 Questions (Paper 1: 50; Paper 2: 100). | 175 Questions (Paper 1: 50; Paper 2: 50; Paper 3: 75). |
Total Marks | 300 Marks (Paper 1: 100; Paper 2: 200). | 350 Marks (Paper 1: 100; Paper 2: 100; Paper 3: 150). |
Duration | 3 Hours (No break between papers). | 4.5 Hours (Breaks between papers). |
Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT). | Offline (OMR Sheet). |
Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). |
Marking Scheme | +2 for correct answer; No negative marking. | +2 for correct answer; No negative marking. |
Language | English and Hindi (for Paper 1). | English and the state’s official language (for Paper 1). |
Difficulty Level of UGC NET and SET 2025
UGC NET Exam 2025
- Higher Level of Difficulty: UGC NET is rated tougher because it involves national-level competition and a wider syllabus.
- Research Aptitude Emphasis: Paper 1 focuses on research and teaching aptitude, which involves analytical reasoning.
- Depth of Subject: Paper 2 seeks detailed knowledge of the subject selected.
SET Exam 2025
- Moderate Level of Difficulty: SET is comparatively easier than UGC NET because of state-level competition.
- State-Specific Syllabus: The syllabus can be adjusted according to the educational needs of the state and hence is a bit less comprehensive.
- Teaching Aptitude Emphasis: SET lays more emphasis on teaching aptitude than research.
Aspect | UGC NET | SET |
Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) | State Governments |
Validity | Across India | Within the specific state |
Fellowship | JRF available | No fellowship |
Exam Pattern | 2 papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2) | 3 papers (Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3) |
Difficulty Level | Higher | Moderate |
Career Scope | National and research opportunities | State-level teaching opportunities |
Which Exam Should You Choose?
- Select UGC NET if you wish to have a career at the national level as a teacher or researcher, or if you want to pursue a PhD with the advantages of JRF.
- Select SET if you wish to remain in your home state and are interested in teaching positions in state universities and colleges.
Conclusion
Both UGC NET and SET 2025 provide great opportunities for future lecturers and researchers, but they serve different career aspirations and geographical interests. While UGC NET provides a wider scope with national validity and research opportunities, SET is best suited for those who want to establish a teaching career in their state. Being aware of the variance in eligibility, pattern of the exam, and career prospects will enable you to make a sound choice and prepare adequately for your desired exam. All the best!
UGC NET and SET 2025 FAQs
Yes, you can attempt both exams in case you are eligible. But ensure that you can prepare for both simultaneously.
No, there is no negative marking in UGC NET or SET.
Yes, final-year students are eligible to apply, but they should finish their Master’s degree within the given time.
A few states allow application by non-residents, though domicile candidates are normally preferred. Check the state’s eligibility requirements.
- UGC NET: 4–6 months of regular study.
- SET: 3–4 months of rigorous practice, as per the syllabus of the state.
