It is completely okay if you do not pass the UGC NET exam. You studied hard, gave your time and effort, and hoped to clear it. So, it is obvious to feel a little upset. If you want to qualify for UGC NET to become an assistant professor, then it is not the only way; there are many alternatives to explore.
Many students do not clear the exam on their first or even second attempt. Some decide to try again, and some choose other career options, and both ways can lead to success.
This blog will help you to know what to Do After Failing UGC NET. Whether you want to prepare again or look for different choices, or appear for a different exam, here are your best alternatives to explore. So, let’s start.
Why Is the UGC NET Exam So Difficult?
The UGC NET exam is a little difficult because it tests both your subjective knowledge and your understanding of teaching, research and logical abilities, etc. To qualify for this exam, you need to study a wide syllabus, and the questions are not always direct. Many times, even if you know the topic, the way questions are asked can confuse you.
Also, the competition is very high. As per the data of the December 2024 session, a total of 6,49,490 candidates appeared for the exam, but only 5,158 candidates qualified for JRF, 48,161 candidates qualified for the post of assistant professor and 1,14,445 candidates qualified for only PhD.
Now you can imagine the toughness of the examination. You also need to manage your time well during the exam to strengthen your preparation. Another reason is that students often prepare while doing other things, like jobs, research, or higher studies. Balancing everything together makes it harder to focus fully on the exam preparation.
So, if you found the exam tough, you are not alone. Many students face the same challenge, and it does not mean you are not good enough. It only means you now have a chance to try again or explore other good options.
What to Do After Failing UGC NET? A Step-by-Step Guide
After failing the exam now take a short break and give yourself time to relax. It’s normal to feel upset after not clearing an important exam. If you want to appear for the exam again, then before starting your preparation, you need to analyse your mistakes and weak topics. Many students clear the exam in their second or third try with better planning and more practice.
If you don’t want to appear for the exam, then you can look for other good options that match your interests and educational qualifications. There are several exams and career paths that can also help you build a strong future in teaching, research, or even outside academics.
In the next sections, we will talk about some of the best alternatives you can think of. These options are useful and respected, just like UGC NET.
Best Alternatives to UGC NET
If you did not clear the UGC NET exam, then don’t worry, there are other exams and career paths that can help you achieve your goals. Many of these options also lead to teaching, research, or government jobs. Let’s look at some of the best alternatives you can consider:
1. SET Exam
SET, also known as State Eligibility Test, is like UGC NET, but is conducted by different states for teaching jobs in colleges and universities within that state. If you want to become an assistant professor in your state, then clearing the SET exam can be a good step.
Each state has their own rules, syllabus, and examination dates. You need to check the website of your state’s education board to find the right information.
Who can apply?
Anyone who has completed or is in the final year of a master’s degree can apply, just like UGC NET. But you must check the specific eligibility criteria of the state you are applying in, as they may differ slightly.
Benefits of the SET Examination
- It is usually a bit easier than UGC NET.
- The competition is lower because it is state-level, not national.
- If you want to teach in your home state, SET is a direct path.
Popular SET Exams:
- MH SET (Maharashtra and Goa)
- WB SET (West Bengal)
- AP SET (Andhra Pradesh)
- TS SET (Telangana)
- KSET (Karnataka)
2. GATE
GATE is another option for you if you want to take admission in PhD programs in top IITs. The GATE exam is offered in a few humanities subjects, but it is a good alternative to the UGC NET exam, as it allows you to pursue your degree from one of the best educational institutions in India.
Who can apply?
To appear for the GATE examination for PhD, you must have a master’s degree in relevant subjects. If you are in the second year of your master’s degree, then you can also apply for the entrance exam. There are many subjects available, so you should choose one based on your background. The syllabus of the GATE examination is comparatively easier than UGC NET exam.
Why consider GATE?
- It is not limited to teaching—GATE helps in both higher education and job opportunities.
- A good GATE score can help you get into PhD programs, even without UGC NET.
- It is accepted by many top institutions and companies across India.
3. University-Based Examination
If UGC NET didn’t work out for you, you can still build a strong academic career by applying to PhD programs or teaching posts through university-level entrance exams. Many universities in India conduct their exams for admission into PhD or for hiring Assistant Professors and Guest Faculty.
What is the purpose of the University-Based Examination?
These exams are usually for:
- PhD admissions
- Temporary or permanent teaching jobs
- Research fellowships
Some universities might include just a written test, while others also take interviews or ask for a research proposal.
Benefits of University-Based Examination
- You don’t need to wait for national-level exams.
- You can directly apply to multiple universities and increase your chances.
- If selected for a PhD, you may also get a stipend or fellowship from the university.
Popular Universities conduct this Exam:
- JNU Entrance for PhD
- DUET (Delhi University Entrance Test)
- University of Hyderabad PhD Entrance
- State or central university faculty recruitment notifications
UGC NET Preparation Tips
Below are the preparation tips if you are preparing for SET, GATE or any university-based entrance exam:
- Understand the Syllabus Clearly
You need to go through the latest syllabus of the exam you are targeting by downloading the official syllabus from the website and making a list of important topics. This helps you avoid wasting time on things that are not relevant.
- Make a Simple Study Plan
You don’t need to study all day. Even 4–5 hours daily of preparation is enough if you stay consistent. Divide your time between reading, practising MCQs, and revising old topics.
- Use Standard Books and Materials
Prefer some of the best books. Studying from too many sources can confuse you. You can also prefer online lectures or coaching materials if you find them helpful.
- Solve Previous Year Papers
Solving past year papers is a good idea, it will help you understand the question style and difficulty level. Try to solve at least 5–10 papers and analyse your weak areas.
- Stay Calm and Take Breaks
It is okay to take small breaks when you feel tired. Over-stressing will not help you; instead, studying with a fresh mind can benefit you in focusing on important topics and in increasing your memory.
- Join a Study Group (if possible)
Sometimes, studying with a group of friends or online peers can keep you motivated. You can also discuss doubts and share useful resources.
Top Career Options After Failing UGC NET
Below are the alternative career options UGC candidates can prefer:
- Teaching in Private Colleges or Coaching Institutes
Many private colleges and coaching centres hire teachers based on their qualifications, like a master’s degree or teaching experience, even if they haven’t cleared the UGC NET. If you have a great interest in teaching, then this can be a great career to get into. It also helps you gain experience while preparing for future exams.
- Content Writing and Publishing
If you are good at explaining topics clearly, then you can work as a content writer, academic editor, or question paper creator for ed-tech platforms and publishers. Many companies often hire postgraduates to write content for school, college, or competitive exams like UPSC, SSC and many more.
- Research Assistant or Project Fellow
Various universities and government research projects hire candidates as Project Fellows or Research Assistants. These roles offer hands-on research experience and may lead to PhD opportunities later. You will find such openings on university websites or platforms like UGC or ICSSR.
- Civil Services and Other Government Exams
If you are interested in government jobs, you can prepare for UPSC, State PSC, SSC, IBPS, or Railways exams. Many UGC NET aspirants shift to these paths because they offer job security and good career growth.
- Corporate Sector and NGOs
Depending on your subject, you can explore roles in HR, data analysis, market research, training, CSR work, and more. Some NGOs also look for people with academic or research backgrounds to join their education or development teams.
Related Blog
Last Words
In conclusion, After Failing UGC NET, you can appear again for the exam with better preparation, or you can appear for some other exam like SET, a university-based exam or the GATE exam to become eligible for a PhD program or the post of assistant professor.
If you are looking for some other career options, then you can consider a career in content writing and publishing field, enter the research field, prepare for civil services exams or join the corporate sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What is the future after clearing UGC NET?
Ans:It is important to note, by qualifying for the UGC NET exam, a candidate becomes eligible to teach in colleges, universities, or educational institutions as a professor or an academician. Moreover, if they can qualify with exceptionally good scores, they also qualify for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
Q.2 What is the duration of PhD?
Ans:A PhD typically takes between 3 to 6 years to complete, but can sometimes extend to 7 or 8 years, depending on factors like the field of study, the university, and the individual student's progress.
Q.3 What are my options after failing UGC NET?
Ans:You can explore alternative academic and career paths, such as research positions, industry jobs, or other competitive exams like SET, GATE, or civil services.
Q.4 How can I stay motivated after failing UGC NET?
Ans:Set new goals, seek support from peers or mentors, and focus on building your skills and experience. Use failure as a learning opportunity to grow and improve.
Q.5 What resources can help me prepare for UGC NET re-exam?
Ans:Utilize online study materials, coaching classes, and peer study groups to enhance your preparation.