CSIR NET Syllabus 2025-26 Exam

Author at PW
July 11, 2025
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CSIR NET Syllabus 2025: The CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) is a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for students who want to go into research or become Assistant Professors in Indian colleges and universities. The exam is usually held twice a year, in June and December. As per the latest official notice, the CSIR NET June 2025 exam will be held on 26th and 27th July 2025, due to HTET 2024, which is also scheduled on the same dates.

The exam is held in five science subjects: Chemical Sciences, Earth Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Physical Sciences. Paper 1 includes general aptitude and subject-related questions. For more details on topics, question types, and subject names, check the CSIR NET syllabus, CSIR NET subject list, and CSIR NET Paper 1 syllabus given below.

Check Out - CSIR NET Books

CSIR NET 2025 Exam Overview 

The CSIR NET 2025 exam will now be held on 28 July 2025, as announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Check out the table below for CSIR NET 2025 Exam Overview:- 

Feature

Details

Exam Name

CSIR NET 2025

Conducting Body

National Testing Agency (NTA)

Purpose

JRF & Assistant Professorship in Science

Exam Frequency

Twice a year (usually June and December)

2025 Exam Date (June Session)

28 July 2025 (rescheduled)

Exam Mode

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Subjects

Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Earth Sciences

Paper Structure

Paper 1 (General Aptitude) + Subject Paper

Official Website

csirnet.nta.ac.in

CSIR NET Exam Pattern 2025

Before starting preparation, every candidate needs to understand the CSIR exam pattern. The exam is conducted in online mode and includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

It is divided into three parts, Part A, Part B, and Part C. Part A is common for all subjects and includes General Aptitude questions. Parts B and C are based on the subject selected by the candidate. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours.

Part

Description

Marks

No. of Questions Asked / To Be Attempted

Negative Marking

Part A

General Aptitude (Logical Reasoning, Numerical Ability, Graph Interpretation)

30 marks

20 questions / Attempt 15

Yes (0.5 per 

wrong answer)

Part B

Subject-related MCQs (based on syllabus of CSIR NET)

70 marks

40 questions / Attempt 35

Yes (varies 

by subject)

Part C

Higher-level subject questions (analytical and application-based)

100 marks

75 questions / Attempt 25

Yes (varies 

by subject)

Total

200 marks

Varies (as per subject)

Yes

Duration

3 Hours (for all subjects)

CSIR NET 2025 Important Topics

Preparing for the CSIR NET 2025 exam becomes easier when you know which topics are most important. While the entire syllabus of CSIR NET is important, some topics are often repeated in the exam and carry more weightage. These topics help students get better marks if prepared properly.

Below is a subject-wise list of key topics based on the previous year trends and expected pattern for 2025. These are useful for both Part B and Part C questions. Whether you are preparing for Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, or Mathematical Sciences, focusing on these topics will help you score well in the exam.

Subject

Important Topics

Life Sciences

Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics,

 Ecology, Immunology, Biotechnology

Chemical Sciences

Organic Reaction Mechanism,

 Inorganic Complexes, 

Quantum Chemistry, Spectroscopy

Physical Sciences

Classical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, 

Electromagnetic Theory, Thermodynamics

Mathematical Sciences

Real Analysis, Linear Algebra, 

Group Theory, Calculus of Variations, PDEs

Earth Sciences

Geophysics, Oceanography, Meteorology, 

Environmental Earth Sciences, Remote Sensing

General Aptitude (Paper 1)

Logical Reasoning, Graph Interpretation, 

Numerical Ability, Series, Data Interpretation

Read More - UGC NET vs CSIR NET – Differences and Career Scope

CSIR NET Syllabus PDF

Check out the detailed CSIR NET Syllabus from the below table:- 

CSIR NET Syllabus PDF

Subjects

Download Link

CSIR NET Syllabus Life Sciences

Download PDF

CSIR NET Syllabus Mathematical Sciences

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CSIR NET Syllabus Chemical Sciences

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CSIR NET Syllabus Physical Sciences

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CSIR NET Syllabus Earth Sciences

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How to Prepare for CSIR NET 2025-26?

Preparing for the CSIR NET exam may feel difficult at first, but if you follow the right method and stay consistent, it becomes easier day by day. The exam is not only about hard work but also about smart planning. If you are confused about how to start your preparation, here are eight simple steps that can guide you in the right direction.

1. Understand the CSIR Exam Pattern Before You Start

Before opening any book, make sure you know the CSIR exam pattern properly. Every exam has its own structure, and CSIR NET is no different. It is divided into three parts, Part A, Part B, and Part C. Part A is common for all subjects and focuses on General Aptitude, while Part B and Part C are based on the subject you choose from the CSIR NET subject list.

  • The exam is conducted online (Computer-Based Test).

  • The total duration is 3 hours.

  • Part A has 20 General Aptitude questions, out of which you have to attempt 15.

  • Part B and Part C cover subject-based questions. The number of questions and marking may vary depending on the subject.

2. Go Through the Full CSIR NET Syllabus Carefully

Once you know the pattern, your next step should be understanding the CSIR NET syllabus. Many students ignore this and jump straight into studying. This creates confusion later.

  • The syllabus of CSIR NET is different for each subject, so download the correct syllabus for your chosen paper.

  • Break down the syllabus chapter by chapter and highlight important topics.

  • Don’t forget to check the CSIR Net paper 1 syllabus, which is the same for all students and includes questions on logical reasoning, numerical ability, and graphs.

3. Choose the Right Subject from the CSIR NET Subject List

The CSIR NET exam offers five subjects under the CSIR NET subject list: Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Earth Sciences. You must choose one subject based on your interest and background.

  • Select a subject in which you have completed your post-graduation or have deep understanding.

  • Go through the subject-wise syllabus and previous years’ papers before making your final decision.

  • Make sure you feel confident in studying and understanding the topics of your selected subject.

  • Don’t follow others blindly, pick the subject you are truly comfortable with.

4. Use the Right Books and Resources for Preparation

There are hundreds of books available in the market, but you only need a few quality ones. Using too many books will only confuse you. Check out the CSIR NET 2025 books below:- 

5. Make a Study Timetable That You Can Follow

Making a timetable is important, but what’s more important is following it regularly. Many students make a timetable to show and never stick to it. Your study plan should be simple and realistic.

  • Divide your time between Paper 1 and your subject paper.

  • Give more time to difficult chapters and less to topics you already know.

  • Keep time for revision and practice tests every week.

  • Don’t copy anyone else’s routine. Make a plan that suits your own daily schedule.

6. Practice with Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests

After finishing a few chapters, start solving previous year papers. This will help you understand the real exam format and the types of questions asked.

  • Solve at least 5 to 7 past year papers during your preparation.

  • Take full-length mock tests every weekend to check your speed and accuracy.

  • Go through the solutions and understand where you made mistakes.

  • Mock tests help you build confidence and also show how well you are prepared.

7. Don’t Ignore CSIR NET Paper 1 Preparation

Many students focus only on their subject paper and ignore Paper 1. But Paper 1 is very scoring and can make a big difference in your final result.

  • Practice General Aptitude questions daily, logical reasoning, graphs, puzzles, and simple math problems.

  • Follow the CSIR Net Paper 1 syllabus and focus on important areas like series, percentages, data interpretation, and number systems.

  • Use the PW General Aptitude book to learn shortcuts and tricks for solving questions quickly.

  • Even 20 to 30 minutes of daily practice in Paper 1 can help you score better.

Read More - 30 Days Study Plan for CSIR NET

CSIR NET Syllabus FAQs

1. What is CSIR NET?

CSIR NET is a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency, NTA, on behalf of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, CSIR. 

2. How many times is the CSIR NET exam conducted in a year?

The CSIR NET exam is usually held two times in a year, mostly in the months of June and December, depending on the official schedule.

3. What are the subjects available in CSIR NET?

According to the CSIR net subject list, there are five subjects, Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Earth Sciences, and Physical Sciences.

4. What is the exam pattern of CSIR NET?

The CSIR exam pattern includes three parts, Part A which is General Aptitude, Part B and Part C which are subject-based. The total marks are 200 and the duration is 3 hours.

5. Is Paper 1 same for all subjects?

Yes, CSIR NET paper 1 syllabus is common for all candidates. It includes questions on reasoning, numerical ability, graphs, data interpretation, and other general aptitude topics.

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