UGC NET 2025 Eligibility Criteria Update: EWS Reservation Legal Challenge Explained

UGC NET 2025: Overview

The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET), administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), serves as the benchmark for determining the eligibility of candidates for Assistant Professor roles and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions across Indian universities and higher education institutions.

With lakhs of aspirants appearing for the exam annually, any adjustments to the eligibility criteria significantly impact preparation strategies. Currently, the primary point of contention involves the exclusion of qualifying mark relaxations for candidates under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category.

Why UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025 Is Being Debated

According to the official UGC NET December 2025 Information Bulletin, the existing eligibility standards are as follows:

• Candidates belonging to UR (General) and EWS categories must have at least 55% marks in their Master’s degree.
• Candidates from OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), SC, ST, PwD, and Third Gender categories must have 50% marks.
• The upper age limit for JRF is 30 years, with relaxation available to OBC, SC, ST, PwD, women, and third gender candidates—but not for EWS.

This discrepancy has sparked widespread concern among applicants and legal experts, who argue that the EWS category should receive equitable treatment consistent with its status as a reserved category under the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act (2019).

Practice with our Free UGC NET 2025 Mock Test

Rajasthan High Court Petition on UGC NET 2025

The legal challenge gained momentum when Advocate Lakshmikant Malpura, an EWS candidate who achieved 53% in his Master's degree, filed a petition with the Rajasthan High Court (Jaipur Bench).

The petitioner contends that EWS candidates are entitled to the same 5% relaxation in qualifying marks currently provided to OBC, SC, and ST categories. In response, the High Court has issued notices to the UGC and the Central Government, demanding clarification on the current policy that groups EWS candidates with the General category.

As an interim measure, the court has permitted the petitioner to submit his application for the UGC NET 2025 exam. The final verdict could lead to landmark changes in the eligibility norms for all future examination cycles.

Key Highlights of the Issue

Legal and Policy Implications

This ongoing case highlights critical questions regarding reservation policies in national competitive examinations. Any final ruling will have a far-reaching impact on recruitment policies and academic eligibility criteria throughout India.

• EWS Reservation Needs Proper Implementation: Although EWS reservation is approved by law, it’s not being applied equally in exams like UGC NET. The court’s action might help ensure that all exams follow a uniform rule for EWS candidates.
• EWS Students Losing Out on Eligibility: Candidates scoring between 50%-55% are missing eligibility because they don’t get the same 5% relaxation as OBC, SC, and ST categories. This affects their confidence and future opportunities.
• Unclear Rules Causing Confusion: EWS candidates are treated as reserved for quota but general for cutoffs. This unclear policy creates confusion and needs immediate correction by UGC and the government.
• Court Ensuring Fairness and Equality: The High Court is reviewing whether EWS candidates are being treated fairly. Its decision could make sure reservation benefits are used in the right way for all students.
• Possible Change in Future UGC NET Rules: If the verdict favors EWS candidates, UGC may revise its eligibility criteria before the June 2026 cycle, giving EWS students 5% relaxation in marks and possible age benefits.

Current UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025

What Students Should Do Now

• Follow current eligibility norms while applying for the UGC NET December 2025 cycle, as no official revision has yet been announced.
• Monitor updates from the UGC, NTA, and verified educational portals for court developments.
• Focus on preparation using available study resources rather than waiting for potential changes.
• Plan ahead for possible eligibility relaxations that might be introduced before the June 2026 cycle.

Is UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025 Revised Yet?

Currently, no official amendments have been made to the UGC NET 2025 eligibility criteria for the December cycle. Candidates should adhere to the guidelines provided in the official Information Bulletin until the UGC issues a formal notification following the High Court’s decision.