NTA UGC JRF NET Political Science
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the National Eligibility Test (NET) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC) to determine eligibility for lectureship and award of JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) to Indian nationals to ensure minimum standards for the entrants in the teaching profession and research.
The NTA UGC NET exam for Political Science subject is conducted to shortlist candidates for recruitment as Assistant Professors or for the JRF in Political Science award.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the exam pattern, syllabus, best books for preparation, and expert tips to crack the NTA UGC NET Political Science exam.
For CSIR NET Life Science Exam Preparation Coaching, contact us at Mantram Study Group, SCO No. 80-81, First Floor, Sector 15-D, Chandigarh (Near Gate No. 2, Panjab University Chandigarh – Contact – 9779797575/ 9463049859)
NTA UGC NET Political Science: Overview
NTA UGC NET Political Science exam aims to assess a candidate’s comprehension of the subject, reasoning ability, divergent thinking, and general awareness. Some key aspects of the exam are:
- Conducting Body: National Testing Agency (NTA) for University Grants Commission (UGC).
- Exam Level: National Level Eligibility Test
- Exam Mode: Computer Based Test (Online)
- Exam Duration: 3 hours without any break
- Number of Papers: 1
- Maximum Marks: 300
- Negative Marking: No negative marking
- Official Website: ugcnet.nta.nic.in
- NTA UGC NET Political Science: Eligibility Criteria
The candidate must fulfill the following eligibility criteria to appear for NTA UGC NET in Political Science:
Minimum 55% marks (without rounding off) at a post-graduation level in Political Science or allied subjects from a recognized Indian University
Candidates in their final year of Master’s degree can also apply subject to meeting the above criterion
NTA UGC NET Political Science: Exam Pattern
NTA UGC NET Political Science exam consists of only one paper with two sections:
Section A: 50 Compulsory Objective Type Questions carrying 2 marks each. Total 100 marks.
Section B: 100 Objective Type Questions, out of which candidates must attempt 50 questions carrying 2 marks each. Total 100 marks.
All questions are compulsory and cover the entire Political Science syllabus
NTA UGC NET Political Science: Syllabus & Exam Blueprint
The NTA UGC NET Political Science syllabus includes broad topics from across major sub-domains of Political Science like political theory, comparative politics, public administration, international relations, and the Indian political system.
Paper II of the exam aims to assess the candidate’s reasoning ability, comprehension, divergent thinking, and general awareness. Here’s a high-level blueprint of the syllabus:
Section A:
- Political Theory: Concepts, Theories, Political Thought, Methodology
- Comparative Politics and Political Analysis
- International Relations: Theories and Major Events
- Public Administration in India
- Indian Political System: Constitution, Federalism, Democracy
Section B:
- Current National and International Events
- Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Techniques
- General Mental Ability
- Role of Political Science in National Development
- Data Interpretation and Analysis
NTA UGC NET Political Science: Best Books
Here is the list of best and most popular books for NTA UGC NET Political Science recommended by experts and toppers:
- A Comprehensive Guide for NTA UGC NET Political Science Exam by Pradip Kumar Sahoo
- UGC NET Political Science Previous Papers and Practice Test Papers by Mocktime Publication
- Objective Political Science & International Relations for UGC NET JRF by Taruna Garg
- Trueman’s UGC NET Political Science Guide by K.P. Mishra
- Indian Government & Politics Book by M. Laxmikanth
- An Introduction to Political Theory by O.P. Gauba
NTA UGC NET Political Science: Expert Tips
If you are preparing for the NTA UGC NET Political Science exam, here are some pro-preparation strategies and tips recommended by experts:
- Revise each topic from a recommended book and make your notes
- Solve previous years’ papers to understand exam patterns and trends of questions
- Practice mock tests to assess your knowledge gaps
- Read newspapers and magazines daily to update your GK and current affairs
- Work on your analytical skills, reasoning ability, and mental ability
- Sharpen your time management skills to complete the paper on time
- Appear for the exam with confidence and a positive mindset
Conclusion
In summary, the NTA UGC NET Political Science exam aims to gauge conceptual knowledge and assess candidates on various cognitive skills required in this domain.
Any aspirant can excel in this eligibility test by understanding the updated exam pattern and syllabus, following expert guidance, and diligently solving mock tests. Prepare systematically utilizing the resources suggested above and give your best shot with confidence.
FAQ
How do you qualify for NET JRF in political science?
Eligibility Criteria for NET JRF Political Science
To appear for the NET JRF political science exam, a candidate must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- Hold a Master’s degree in political science or allied disciplines with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for reserved categories)
- Candidates in the final year of post-graduation can provisionally appear
- No age limit to apply
- Exam Pattern of NTA UGC NET Political Science
- The NTA NET political science paper comprises two sections:
- Section A: Compulsory 50 questions carrying 2 marks each. Total 100 marks
- Section B: Attempt any 50 out of 100 questions, each worth 2 marks. Total 100 marks
- The paper is conducted in online mode for 3 hours. There is no negative marking.
NTA UGC NET Political Science Syllabus
The broad syllabus of the political science paper includes the following:
- Political Theory – Concepts, Theorists, Methods, Ideologies
- Comparative Politics and Political Analysis
- Public Administration and International Relations
- Indian Political System – Government, Administration, Issues
- Current National and International Affairs
Best Books for Preparation
Some best-selling books to refer to for NTA UGC NET political science are:
- A Comprehensive Guide for NTA NET Political Science by Pradip Sahoo
- Trueman’s UGC NET Political Science Guide by KP Mishra
- Objective Political Science for UGC NET/JRF/SET by Taruna Garg
- Indian Government and Politics by M. Laxmikanth
- Introduction to Political Theory by OP Gauba
Strategies to Qualify for JRF
To qualify for JRF in political science, follow these preparation strategies:
- Study from comprehensive guidebooks instead of general books
- Thoroughly revise previous years’ papers – analyze questions and pattern
- Read quality newspapers and journals daily for current affairs awareness
- Practice writing answers to meet word limit and improve speed
- Take timed mock tests to assess the preparation level
- Work on mental ability, reasoning, and data interpretation skills
- Identify knowledge gaps in the syllabus, create revision notes
- Appear for exams with confidence and a positive attitude
Target minimum 170+ score (85% aggregate) to qualify for JRF. Developing in-depth conceptual knowledge and practicing answering previous papers’ questions are key strategies to succeed.
How many marks are required to clear NET JRF in political science?
Exam Pattern
The NTA NET political science paper comprises:
- Section A – Compulsory 50 questions of 2 marks each. Total 100 marks
- Section B – Attempt any 50 out of 100 questions, each of 2 marks. Total 100 marks
- The entire duration is 3 hours. There is no negative marking in the exam.
Analyzing Previous Cutoffs
To understand the realistic cutoff range, it is vital to analyze previous years’ NET political science JRF cutoffs:
- 2022 June Session – 174 marks (87%)
- 2021 December Session – 169 marks (84.5%)
- 2021 June Session – 165 marks (82.5%)
The data reveals cutoffs have risen in recent attempts, indicating increased competition. Expect 170+ marks for JRF qualification.
Marks Required to Clear JRF
Based on past cutoffs, these are the approximate marks required to clear UGC NET political science JRF:
General Category – Target minimum 170 marks (85%)
OBC/EWS Categories – Minimum 159 marks (79.5%)
SC/ST/PWD Categories – Minimum 150 marks (75%)
Though official cutoffs change each attempt, aspirants must target over 170 marks (85%+) to comfortably clear JRF in the general category.
JRF Score Calculation
The NET political science score is calculated thus:
Section A: Out of 100 maximum marks
Section B: Out of 100 full marks
Aggregate Marks = Section A + Section B
For instance, if a general candidate scores 80 in Section A and 95 in Section B, the aggregate is 80 + 95 = 175 marks or 87.5% – comfortably crossing the JRF cutoff.
Strategies to Score High Marks
Experts recommend the following strategies to score 170+ marks in the UGC NET political science exam:
- Thoroughly revise the entire syllabus from the updated study material
- Rigorously practice answering previous years’ papers within the time limit
- Read quality newspapers/journals daily for current affairs awareness
- Methodically take mock tests to identify weak areas
- Improve reasoning, mental ability, and analytical skills
- Write at least 10 full-length mock tests, scoring 180+ marks in each
- Following a systematic approach is vital to achieve a high score consistently.
How to clear JRF in political science?
Analyze the Exam Pattern & Syllabus
First, thoroughly understand the NTA UGC NET political science exam pattern and syllabus:
- 2 sections – Section A compulsory 50 questions, and Section B attempt any 50 of 100 questions
- Each question carries 2 marks, a total of 3 hours duration
- No negative marking
The syllabus covers political theory, the Indian government, comparative politics, public administration, international relations, and current affairs. Download the syllabus from the official website to plan your studies accordingly.
Make Notes from Recommended Books
Refer to guidebooks for in-depth coverage of all key concepts across the vast syllabus. Some recommended titles are:
- A Comprehensive Guide for NTA UGC NET Political Science by Pradip Sahoo
- Trueman’s UGC NET Political Science Guide by KP Mishra
- Objective Political Science for UGC NET/JRF/SET by Taruna Garg
As you study from guidebooks, make your handwritten notes for quick revision. Underline key points for easy recall.
Practice with Previous Years’ Papers
Solving previous years’ question papers should be integral to JRF preparation. Analyze the frequently asked topics and the nature of tricky questions and understand the scoring areas to fine-tune your revision strategy.
Take Regular Mock Tests
Ideally, write at least 15 full-length mock tests under timed conditions. Analyze where you need improvement – the core political science conceptual questions, current affairs, or mental ability questions. Work systematically on identified focus areas.
Improve Current Affairs Knowledge
Robust knowledge of the latest happenings is essential for scoring very high marks. Cultivate the habit of reading newspapers daily – The Hindu, Indian Express – for national/international news. Read magazines and journals for subject-specific affairs.
Sharpen Mental Ability & Writing
Practice model questions to build analytical thinking, logic, and reasoning skills. Write answer outlines within the stipulated time to gauge your speed and improve if needed. Work on bottlenecks hampering your score.
Appear Confidently
Stay motivated in the last weeks before the exam. Take timed full-length mocks for exam temperament. Revise quick notes to brush up on memory.
Appear on exam day with a positive mindset, aiming for the best. Recheck submitted responses. Maintaining focus and staying confident is key to cracking NET JRF in political science.
Is NET in political science tough?
In this detailed guide, we analyze NET political science as tough as perceived and what candidates can do to crack it.
Increasing Competition
Earlier political science was considered relatively less preferred and thus had fewer exam takers. However, in the past 4-5 years, the number of candidates sitting for political science papers has increased exponentially.
This is because arts and humanities graduates view it as a viable career option. Moreover, university expansion also necessitates more political science faculty. The outcome is intensified competition.
Updated Syllabus and Pattern
Another key reason behind toughness perception is the recent modifications in UGC’s NET political science exam structure and syllabus. More application and analysis-based questions with higher difficulty levels imply aspirants have to put extra effort into cracking the paper now. More than simply relying on generic guidebooks is required now.
What Makes it Challenging?
Some inherent aspects of the political science exam that make it challenging are:
- Vast syllabus – theoretical concepts to practical case studies
- Current affairs-related questions from dynamic situations
- Emphasis on logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Questions testing divergent thinking on political events
- Time management with 200 questions in just 180 minutes
So, what can aspirants do?
Strategies to Crack NET Political Science
It is certainly possible to crack political science papers with the right prep strategies:
- Thoroughly revise the full syllabus from the latest guidebooks multiple times
- Rigorously practice previous year’s papers to understand exact exam patterns and level
- Subscribe to current affairs magazines, join online mock groups
- Improve reasoning, data interpretation, and analytical abilities
- Write mock tests regularly under timed conditions. Analyze and improve.
- Perfect time management – practice solving questions quickly
- Stay motivated. Have confidence in the preparation level.
What is the scope of UGC NET Political Science?
Teaching Jobs after Qualifying
The prime reason most political science postgraduates appear for the UGC NET exam is to become eligible for teaching positions in various colleges and universities. Some profiles one can apply after clearing SET/NET include:
- Assistant Professor in government and private arts, science, and commerce colleges
- Guest lectureship in universities and degree colleges
- Professor/lecturer roles in state public service commissions
- Research Opportunities After Cracking NET JRF
Candidates who score very high marks in the UGC NET political science exam qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
This fellowship enables pursuing full-time doctoral and post-doctoral research projects in reputed universities and institutions under experienced supervisors.
Higher Studies Options
Besides JRF, those with good NET scores also gain provisional admission to Ph.D. programs in central universities like JNU, DU, and Jamia Millia without written tests and interviews.
Many state universities like Mumbai and Pune also recognize UGC NET scores for Ph.D. admission.
Jobs in Administration, Policy & Diplomacy
Good knowledge and analytical skills gained through NET exam preparation help political science graduates pursue the following career paths:
- Positions in think tanks and public policy organizations
- Consultants for government projects with organizations like UIDAI, election commission, etc.
- Jobs in Indian embassies, diplomatic missions, and in external affairs ministry
Thus, qualifying for UGC NET opens a wide choice of academic and administrative career opportunities for political science postgraduates with job stability, promotions, and career growth.
Higher Employability
Having the tag’ National Eligibility Test qualified’ significantly improves the job value of candidates.
College principals and selection committees in universities prefer NET-qualified candidates, even for temporary teaching roles. Opportunities for professional growth also multiply after gaining the NET certificate.
Thanks for visiting our website Mantram Study Group
You may also join Mantram for NORCET Coaching
CHECK OUR OTHER LINKS: –
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, ranking in CSIR NET is essential, particularly in securing Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) awards. A higher rank increases the chances of receiving a JRF and may influence eligibility for certain research positions or fellowships.
CSIR NET is challenging but can be managed with dedicated preparation and a solid grasp of the exam pattern and syllabus. The exam includes objective and subjective questions across three sections: Part A, Part B, and Part C, requiring thorough knowledge and strategic study.
No, JRF is not a permanent job. It is a temporary research position for up to five years, aimed at allowing candidates to conduct research and pursue a PhD. JRF scholars receive government funding for this period, but the role ends with completing the research project.