Always confirm dates, fees and eligibility on the official notification before applying.
UGC NET Nursing exam centres 2026
If you are an M.Sc. Nursing graduate preparing for the UGC NET Nursing exam to become an Assistant Professor or secure a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), knowing the exam centre options is a crucial step. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this computer-based test (CBT) across numerous cities in India. This page provides the authoritative list of exam centres, explains how the allocation process works, and details what you must carry on exam day.
Complete list of cities
The NTA typically releases the full list of exam cities in the official notification for each cycle. Based on previous years, UGC NET Nursing exam centres are available in all major Indian states and union territories. Cities commonly include:
- North Zone: Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu, Srinagar, Dehradun, Lucknow, Patna, Varanasi
- South Zone: Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam
- East Zone: Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Ranchi, Siliguri
- West Zone: Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bhopal, Indore, Nagpur
- Central Zone: Raipur, Kanpur, Allahabad
For the exact and updated list of cities for the upcoming 2026 cycle, always refer to the official website: https://ugcnet.nta.ac.in/. The NTA also includes some tier-2 cities to reduce travel burden. If your preferred city is not listed, you can choose the nearest available option.
How centre allocation works
Centre allocation for UGC NET Nursing is not first-come-first-served. The NTA uses a computerised random allocation system. Here is what you need to know:
- Preference-based selection: During the application form, you will be asked to select up to four preferred cities (in order of priority). The system attempts to assign you to your first preference, but if seats in that city are full, it moves to your second preference, and so on.
- No guarantee of first choice: Because of capacity constraints in popular cities (e.g., Delhi, Bengaluru), you may be allotted a different city from your list. The NTA does not allow you to choose a specific centre within a city — only the city itself.
- Single shift exam: The exam is conducted in a single shift (typically 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM) depending on the cycle. Your centre and shift are printed on your admit card.
- Intimation via admit card: The final allocated centre is confirmed only when you download your admit card from the official portal. No separate notification is sent.
How to change exam centre
Once the NTA releases the admit card, the centre is final. However, there is a limited window to request a change under specific circumstances:
- During application correction window: The NTA usually opens a correction window for a few days after the application deadline. You can modify your preferred cities during this period. No changes are allowed after the window closes.
- Post admit card: In exceptional cases (e.g., natural disaster, exam centre closure), the NTA may permit a change, but this is rare. You must contact the NTA helpline or send an email with valid proof.
- Practical advice: Choose your cities carefully at the time of application. Select at least two cities that are within reasonable travel distance. Do not rely on the possibility of changing later.
Reporting time and rules
On the day of the UGC NET Nursing exam, strict rules apply. Follow these guidelines to avoid disqualification:
- Reporting time: Candidates must report at least 60–90 minutes before the scheduled start time. The gates usually close 30 minutes before the exam begins. Latecomers are not allowed entry.
- Identity verification: You will go through multiple checks — document verification, fingerprint scanning, and photograph capture. Keep your documents ready.
- Prohibited items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, electronic gadgets, bags, books, notes, and food items are strictly banned. Only a transparent water bottle (if allowed) and your documents are permitted.
- Exam hall conduct: You will be assigned a specific computer terminal. No talking, looking at another candidate's screen, or unauthorised movement is allowed. Violations lead to immediate cancellation of your candidature.
- Duration: The exam lasts 180 minutes (3 hours) with two papers — Paper I (General Teaching & Research Aptitude) and Paper II (Nursing subject). Both papers are conducted in a single sitting without a break.
Documents to carry on exam day
Carry the following items to the exam centre. Missing any of these can result in denial of entry:
- 1Admit card: Download from https://ugcnet.nta.ac.in/ and take a clear printout. Ensure the photograph and signature are visible.
- 2Photo ID proof: Original and valid — Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN card. Xerox copies are not accepted.
- 3Passport-size photographs: Carry 2–3 recent photographs (same as uploaded in the application form). Some centres may require an extra copy.
- 4PWD certificate (if applicable): If you are claiming disability benefits, carry the original certificate issued by a competent authority.
- 5Face mask (optional): Depending on health guidelines at the time, a mask may be required.
Important: Do not carry any stationery items. The NTA provides a rough sheet for calculations, which you must return at the end of the exam.
Preparation tips and mock tests
Knowing the centre rules is only half the battle. To maximise your score, practice with mock tests that simulate the real CBT environment. At PractiseExam.com, you can access subject-specific UGC NET Nursing mock tests that mirror the exact exam pattern — Paper I and Paper II with 150 questions each, no negative marking, and a 3-hour timer. Regular practice helps you manage time effectively and identify weak areas. Also, explore our detailed syllabus page and preparation strategy guide to build a structured study plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I select any city as my exam centre?
Yes, you can choose up to four preferred cities from the official list provided in the application form. The NTA will allocate one based on availability.
What if I am allotted a centre far from my home?
You cannot change the centre after the admit card is issued unless there is a valid reason and the NTA opens a correction window. Choose your cities wisely at the time of application.
Is there any negative marking in UGC NET Nursing?
No, there is no negative marking. Each correct answer gives +2 marks, and incorrect answers receive 0 marks. This is clearly stated in the official marking scheme.
Can I bring a water bottle inside the exam hall?
Some centres allow a transparent water bottle, but it is not guaranteed. Check the instructions on your admit card. Food and snacks are not allowed.
What happens if I forget my admit card?
You will not be allowed to enter the exam centre. Keep multiple printouts and store a soft copy on your phone as backup, though only the physical copy is accepted.
How long does it take to get the UGC NET Nursing result?
Results are typically released 4–6 weeks after the exam. Check the official NTA website for exact dates.