NTA CSIR UGC NET Exam June 2026 - Download the provisional answer key and submit objections

The wait is over for science candidates who appeared in the Joint CSIR-UGC NET June 2026 session. The National Testing Agency (NTA) officially released the Provisional Answer Key and candidate response sheets on 16 August 2026. Aspirants who took the Computer Based Test (CBT) on 17 and 18 July 2026 can now log in to the official portal at csirnet.nta.ac.in to calculate their estimated scores and submit objections.

Source: Official NTA CSIR UGC NET Answer Key Notice, NTA, 16 August 2026. Download Notice PDF

NTA CSIR UGC NET June 2026 – Important Dates & Timeline

The examination cycle for the June 2026 session is nearing its conclusion. Below is the complete timeline of the events leading up to the answer key release.

How to Download CSIR UGC NET June 2026 Answer Key

Candidates can access their response sheets and the provisional answer key by following these steps on the official NTA portal:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Joint CSIR-UGC NET portal at csirnet.nta.ac.in.
2. Access the Login Link: Look for the "CSIR UGC NET June 2026 Answer Key / Challenge" link under the Candidate Activity section.
3. Enter Credentials: Log in using your Application Number and Date of Birth, along with the security pin displayed on the screen.
4. View Response Sheet: Once logged in, click on "View Question Paper" to see your recorded responses and the official answer key.
5. Download and Save: Download the PDF of the question paper and the answer key for your records and score calculation.

Video Guide: How to Check NTA Answer Key & Raise Objections

For a detailed walkthrough of the download and challenge process, watch this general NTA guide:

Note: Replace 'YOUR_VIDEO_ID' with the actual YouTube video ID when embedding a specific tutorial.

How to Raise Objections Against CSIR NET Answer Key 2026

The NTA provides a brief window for candidates who believe there is an error in the provisional answer key. To challenge a question, candidates must follow a formal process:

• Processing Fee: A non-refundable processing fee of ₹200 per question challenged must be paid online (via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI).
• Challenge Procedure: Within the candidate dashboard, select "Click to View / Challenge Answer Key". You will see the Question IDs and the correct Option IDs. Select the Option ID you believe is correct.
• Supporting Documents: You must upload a single PDF file containing all necessary supporting documents (textbook references, official scientific literature) justifying your challenge.
• Final Decision: Challenges made by candidates will be verified by a panel of subject experts. If a challenge is found valid, the answer key will be revised accordingly. The NTA's decision on the final answer key is absolute.

CSIR UGC NET Eligibility Recap & Subjects

The Joint CSIR-UGC NET determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and for the post of Lectureship (LS) / Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges in Science subjects.

Available Subjects

• Chemical Science
• Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Science
• Life Science
• Mathematical Science
• Physical Science

NTA CSIR UGC NET June 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions