UGC NET Political Science MahaPack (UGC NET PAPER 1 & Paper 2 Political Science) with PYQ, Mock Papers and Guide with Complete Syllabus Coverage (2 E-books) (PDF Format)
Are you looking or in search for how to prepare for UGC NET Political Science exam 2026? If so, then you want to stay tuned within this article to get detail information about the latest syllabus and exam pattern for the UGC NET Political Science exam. The UCG has already introduced major updates and changes to the syllabus for Political Science UGC NET exam 2026. Here, in this post you will find something more in a well prescribed manner. This will really surprise you and will be helpful for your upcoming 2026 UGC NET Political Science exam preparation. Most of the brilliant candidates yet fail in the exam because they totally underestimate the Political Science UGC NET exam.
The UGC NET Political Science examination is one of the most prestigious national-level competitive exams in India for students aspiring to build a career in teaching and research in Political Science. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC), the exam determines eligibility for the posts of Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Every year, thousands of postgraduate students appear for the UGC NET Political Science exam, making it highly competitive and academically demanding.
Political Science is among the most popular optional subjects in the UGC NET exam because of its relevance to civil services preparation, academic research, and higher education careers. A clear understanding of the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and detailed syllabus is essential for effective preparation. This comprehensive guide provides in-depth information on the UGC NET Political Science exam, covering all major aspects in a structured and friendly manner.
What is UGC NET Political Science Exam?
The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is a national examination conducted twice a year, usually in June and December, to assess the eligibility of candidates for teaching and research positions. The Political Science subject in UGC NET evaluates a candidate’s understanding of political theory, Indian politics, comparative politics, international relations, public administration, political thought, and contemporary global issues.
Likh Padh also provide Previous Year Solved Question Papers free PDF PYQ download for UGC NET Political Science examination. Likh Padh Test App provides superb online mock tests, sample paper and PYQ. It is best for the preparation of UGC NET Political Science examination 2026. Moreover, the Likh Padh Test App can be download for Android and IOS Platforms.
The exam is conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode and consists of two papers: Paper I, which tests general teaching and research aptitude, and Paper II, which focuses entirely on Political Science. Clearing the exam qualifies candidates for Assistant Professor, while high scorers may also be awarded the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
Importance of UGC NET Political Science
The UGC NET Political Science exam holds immense academic and professional value. Qualifying the exam opens up career opportunities in higher education institutions, research organizations, think tanks, and policy institutions. The JRF award also provides monthly fellowship support to pursue a PhD from recognized universities.
Additionally, the syllabus overlaps significantly with UPSC Civil Services, State PCS, and other competitive examinations, making UGC NET Political Science a strategic exam for aspirants aiming for multiple career paths.
UGC NET Political Science Exam Pattern
Understanding the UGC NET Political Science exam pattern is the first step toward effective preparation. The exam pattern is uniform for all subjects, with subject-specific questions appearing in Paper II.
The UGC NET exam consists of two papers conducted in a single session with a total duration of three hours (180 minutes). Both papers are compulsory and there is no break between them.
Structure of the Exam
Paper I is common for all candidates and assesses general aptitude, while Paper II evaluates subject knowledge in Political Science. Hence the exam is entirely objective in nature, with multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Marking Scheme
Each correct answer carries two marks, and there is no negative marking for incorrect or unattempted questions. This allows candidates to attempt all questions without the fear of penalty.
Detailed Exam Pattern
Paper I contains 50 questions for a total of 100 marks. The questions test teaching aptitude, research methodology, reading comprehension, communication skills, logical reasoning, data interpretation, ICT, people and environment, and higher education system.
Paper II consists of 100 questions from the Political Science syllabus, carrying a total of 200 marks. The questions are designed to test conceptual clarity, analytical ability, and application of political theories and concepts.
The total marks for the UGC NET Political Science exam are 300 marks.
Medium of Examination
The UGC NET Political Science exam is conducted in English and Hindi. Candidates can choose their preferred language while filling out the application form. However, the selected medium cannot be changed later.
UGC NET Political Science Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the UGC NET Political Science exam, candidates must ensure that they meet the prescribed eligibility criteria set by the UGC and NTA. The eligibility conditions are based on educational qualification and age limit, particularly for JRF.
Educational Qualification for UGC NET Political Science
Candidates must have completed a Master’s degree in Political Science or a related subject from a recognized university.
General category candidates must secure at least 55% marks in their postgraduate degree. Candidates belonging to OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), SC, ST, PwD, and Transgender categories are given a relaxation of 5%, requiring a minimum of 50% marks.
Candidates who are in the final year of their Master’s degree or awaiting results are also eligible to apply provisionally. However, they must complete their degree with the required percentage within the stipulated time frame.
Age Limit for UGC NET Political Science
For the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), the upper age limit is 30 years as of the specified cutoff date mentioned in the official notification. Consequently age relaxation is provided to candidates belonging to reserved categories, women candidates, and those with research experience, as per UGC norms.
On the other hand there is no upper age limit for candidates applying only for the post of Assistant Professor.
Number of Attempts
There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the UGC NET Political Science exam, provided the candidate fulfills the eligibility criteria.
UGC NET Political Science Syllabus Overview
Moreover the UGC NET Political Science syllabus is extensive and interdisciplinary, covering both classical and contemporary dimensions of politics.
UGC NET Political Science exam is conduct at a regular interval of time. Every year lakhs and lakhs of students appear for this examination. Those who wants to shape and make his/her career in the government sector. Here we will talk about UGC NET Political Science exam free Online Mock Test. UGC NET Political Science exam free last year question paper PDF download and Previous Year Question Papers PYQ.
Detailed UGC NET Political Science Syllabus
The syllabus is divided into ten broad units, each addressing a core area of Political Science. A thorough understanding of the syllabus is essential for structured and strategic preparation.
Likh Padh online mobile test App provides free online mock tests for UGC NET Political Science examination. It is design according to the latest examination pattern of Political Science UGC NET examination. The free online PYQ download and mock tests for Political Science UGC NET is design according to the UGC NET examination.
Political Theory
This unit focuses on the foundations of political ideas and concepts. It includes political theory, political philosophy, and key concepts such as liberty, equality, justice, rights, democracy, power, authority, legitimacy, and sovereignty. The unit also covers ideologies like liberalism, socialism, Marxism, feminism, environmentalism, and post-modernism.
Political Thought
Political thought examines the ideas of major political thinkers from both Western and Indian traditions. Western political thought includes Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Hegel, Marx, and contemporary thinkers. Indian political thought covers Kautilya, Manu, Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru, and other modern Indian thinkers.
Indian Government and Politics
This unit focuses on the Indian Constitution, its features, amendments, and functioning. Topics include federalism, parliament, judiciary, executive, political parties, pressure groups, electoral politics, center-state relations, and public policy. Contemporary political developments and challenges to Indian democracy are also included.
Comparative Politics and Political Analysis
Comparative politics involves the study of political systems across countries. This unit includes approaches to comparative politics, political development, political culture, state and non-state actors, and comparative analysis of developed and developing political systems.
International Relations
International Relations examines relations among states and global actors. Topics include theories of international relations, foreign policy, international organizations, globalization, regional organizations, security studies, international political economy, and India’s foreign policy.
Public Administration
Public administration deals with the theory and practice of administration. This unit covers administrative theories, organization, personnel administration, financial administration, administrative reforms, development administration, governance, and public policy.
Governance and Public Policy in India
This unit emphasizes governance structures, transparency, accountability, public service delivery, regulatory institutions, and public policy formulation in India. It also covers issues related to good governance, civil society, and social welfare.
Political Sociology
Political sociology explores the relationship between society and politics. Topics include power, authority, legitimacy, political culture, social movements, nationalism, identity politics, caste, class, gender, and ethnicity.
Research Methodology
This unit focuses on research techniques and methodologies used in political science. It includes qualitative and quantitative methods, research design, hypothesis formulation, data collection, sampling, and interpretation.
Contemporary Political Issues
This unit addresses current global and national political challenges such as globalization, environmental politics, human rights, terrorism, migration, digital governance, and emerging political trends.
Preparation Strategy for UGC NET Political Science
Due to the vast syllabus, aspirants should adopt a unit-wise preparation strategy, focusing on conceptual clarity, regular revision, and practice of previous year question papers. In addition standard textbooks, NCERTs, and reference books by reputed authors should be used.
Hence, the mock tests and online test series help in improving time management and exam temperament. Keeping track of current political developments is crucial, especially for Indian politics and international relations.
Conclusion
Since the UGC NET Political Science exam is a gateway to a rewarding academic and research career. With a well-defined exam pattern, clear eligibility criteria, and a comprehensive syllabus, aspirants can plan their preparation effectively. Indeed consistent study, conceptual understanding, and strategic revision are the keys to success in this competitive examination.
A strong command over political theory, Indian politics, international relations, and contemporary issues not only helps in clearing the UGC NET Political Science exam but also builds a solid foundation for higher academic pursuits and competitive exams.
Lastly, the Likh Padh provide all our aspirants candidate a well structured latest and updated mock test series. The sample paper and PYQ for UGC NET Political Science exam along with all UGC NET exams with free PDF PYQ, sample papers, mock test and previous year question papers bank download. Likh Padh free online test series, mock test, sample paper, PYQ for Political Science UGC NET exam based on the trend analysis of UGC NET exam updates previously asked questions in the UGC NET exam.