Impact of UGC-NET Exam Cancellation on Candidates’ Future Prospects: Testimonies of a Discouraged Candidate

“Students will not be able to take the exam for a prolonged period due to its cancellation. They are under prolonged pressure. Students are still torn between completing their research project and preparing for the exam,” said Dhivya Palanisamy, professor at the University Grants Commission-National Entrance Test, 2024 candidate (June session).

Due to irregularities, UGC-NET 2024 conducted on June 18 was canceled on the exam day. This has left many students uncertain about their careers. It was mentioned that the exam would be rescheduled, but as of now, no new date has been announced.

Talk to EdexLiveDhivya, who hails from Namakkal town in Tamil Nadu, said, “When I heard about the cancellation of the exam, I was demotivated. The UGC had recently issued a regulation requiring NET to be registered for a PhD. This is the first NET exam that the UGC has conducted since the new rule was issued, and it has been cancelled and rescheduled for an undisclosed duration. Some reputed universities have now opened seats for PhD programmes, and they prefer those who have already cleared NET and JRF.”

She added: “Before the introduction of this rule, students could apply through the entrance tests administered by the respective universities. However, some reputed universities now shortlist only NET/JRF candidates for admission or interviews. It would be beneficial if the UGC could direct higher education institutions to delay PhD admission after the results of the NET exam or administer entrance exams to all qualified candidates irrespective of their qualification NET. »

“I have been studying for the exam for the past two months, and the relief of finally being done with the exam was short-lived due to its cancellation. Additionally, the pressure of the exam has increased even more , leaving me unsure whether to focus on creating the research project or retaking the exam,” Dhivya told EdexLive.

In conclusion, she said, “Some students who clear the NET exam may not get admission to PhD programs due to weak research proposals. Preparation for the exam takes a lot of time and an additional half-year is spent working on the research proposal. Admission to a PhD program requires a strong research proposal aligned with the guide’s area of ​​interest, a reputable master’s degree and a good score in NET, JRF or GATE. Not having these qualifications can make it difficult to get into reputed colleges these days.”