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UNUGC NET Delhi

Qualifying marks vs final cutoff: what is the difference?

Why reaching the qualifying minimum does not mean you have cleared UGC NET.

Published 2026-10-10Last reviewed 2026-10-10Cycle: Check current cycle on ugcnet.nta.ac.in

By UGC NET Delhi editorial team ยท Last reviewed 2026-10-10

Two different numbers are often confused.

Qualifying minimum

Recent bulletins require candidates to score at least 40% aggregate in both papers together (General/EWS), or 35% for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD and third-gender candidates. This only makes you considered.

Final cutoff

From those who reach the minimum, a limited top percentage in each subject and category is declared qualified for JRF or Assistant Professor. The final cutoff is set after the exam and varies by subject, category and cycle.

In short

  • Qualifying minimum: a gate.
  • Final cutoff: the actual line for selection, known only after results.

Sources