NTA releases provisional answer keys for UGC-NET and CSIR-NET exams

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the provisional answer keys for the UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, and ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE (PhD) June 2026 examinations on August 16. Candidates can access these keys along with their response sheets and question papers through the official NTA websites to estimate their scores.

An objection window has been opened, allowing candidates to challenge discrepancies in the provisional answers. For CSIR-NET, the challenge period is scheduled from August 16 to August 18, 2026, with a non-refundable fee of ₹200 per question. The NTA will review all submitted evidence and subject expert assessments before releasing the final answer keys, which will serve as the basis for official results.

The release follows period of criticism from student unions, including the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU), regarding delays in the examination cycle. Students expressed concern that the uncertainty had disrupted PhD admissions, recruitment, and research opportunities across Indian universities.