I: What is UGC NET Political Science?
UGC NET Political Science is a national-level competitive examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC). It serves two primary objectives:
Determining Eligibility for Assistant Professorship in Indian colleges and universities.
Awarding Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) to candidates interested in pursuing Ph.D. and advanced research in Political Science.
This exam is the gateway for aspirants looking to engage with teaching, research, policy-making, international relations, governance, public administration, and other fields rooted in political analysis and democratic processes.
What Does It Test?
UGC NET Political Science evaluates a candidate’s understanding of political theory, Indian political system, international relations, governance, and contemporary political issues.
Key Areas Include:
Political Theory (Classical & Contemporary thinkers, ideologies)
Indian Government & Politics (Constitution, Parliament, federalism)
Comparative Politics (Political systems, institutions, development)
Public Administration (Theories, governance models, policy)
International Relations (Foreign policy, diplomacy, global politics)
Political Ideologies (Liberalism, Marxism, Feminism, Environmentalism)
Political Thought (Western and Indian thinkers)
Contemporary Global and Indian Issues
It emphasizes critical thinking, theoretical clarity, and analytical application of concepts to both national and international contexts.
Relevance of Political Science in Today’s World
Political Science is deeply connected to how societies are governed and how power is exercised, making it crucial for:
Policy analysis and formulation
Good governance and civil society
Human rights advocacy
Electoral reforms and democratic deepening
Conflict resolution and international diplomacy
UGC NET Political Science equips future scholars, educators, and professionals to engage meaningfully with contemporary challenges like nationalism, globalization, justice, liberty, and equality.
II: Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The UGC NET Political Science exam is best suited for individuals who aspire to:
Pursue a teaching career in colleges and universities
Engage in advanced research and pursue a Ph.D.
Contribute to policy development, governance, and public administration
Work with international organizations, think tanks, or civil services
Become subject experts, educators, writers, or analysts in the field of political science
This exam is not just for academic progression—it builds a solid foundation for meaningful work in governance, civil society, journalism, diplomacy, advocacy, and beyond.
Academic Qualification
Candidates must have a Master’s degree or equivalent from a UGC-recognized institution in Political Science or any of the following allied disciplines:
Public Administration
International Relations
Comparative Politics
Public Policy
Government Studies
Development Studies (with political theory modules)
South Asian/Global Studies (with political science orientation)
If your master’s degree includes substantial political science content, you may be eligible to appear under this category.
Minimum Marks Required
General/Unreserved (UR): Minimum 55% aggregate marks in the qualifying postgraduate degree.
OBC (non-creamy layer)/SC/ST/PwD/Transgender candidates: Minimum 50% aggregate marks.
Note: Marks are calculated across all semesters/years combined, not just the final year.
Final Year Students / Awaiting Results
Candidates currently in the final semester/year of their postgraduate program are also eligible to apply.
Such candidates are admitted provisionally, and must obtain the required percentage within 2 years of the result declaration of the UGC NET exam.
Failure to meet the criteria within this period will result in cancellation of eligibility.
Age Limit (Only for JRF Aspirants)
For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
Maximum age: 30 years as of the exam notification date.
Relaxation of up to 5 years for OBC/SC/ST/PwD/Women/Transgender and candidates with research or teaching experience.
For Assistant Professorship:
No upper age limit. Anyone meeting the academic qualifications may apply.
Additional Notes:
Degrees/diplomas/certificates obtained from distance education or online universities must be recognized by UGC-AICTE-DEB for eligibility.
Candidates with foreign degrees must ensure their qualifications are equivalent and recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
There is no cap on the number of attempts. Candidates can appear as many times as required, provided they meet the age/qualification criteria.
III. UGC NET Political Science Exam Pattern
The UGC NET Political Science examination is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, with two objective-type papers scheduled in a single session (no break in between). Both papers are compulsory, and all questions are multiple-choice (MCQs).
Exam Structure Overview
Paper
Subject
Marks
No. of Questions
Duration
Paper I
General Teaching & Research Aptitude
100
50
1 Hour
Paper II
Political Science (Core Subject)
200
100
2 Hours
Total Marks: 300
Total Questions: 150
Total Duration: 3 Hours
Negative Marking: None
Question Type: All Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Mode of Exam: Online (CBT)
Detailed Breakdown of the Papers
Paper I: General Teaching & Research Aptitude
This paper is designed to test general skills and competencies expected from a teacher or researcher. It evaluates comprehension, reasoning, awareness of the education system, and analytical skills.
Key Topics:
Teaching Aptitude
Research Aptitude
Reading Comprehension
Communication
Reasoning (including Mathematical and Logical)
Data Interpretation
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Higher Education System: Governance, Policies, and Administration
People, Development, and Environment
Purpose: Establish foundational teaching and research capabilities.
Paper II: Political Science (Core Subject)
Paper II focuses exclusively on subject-specific knowledge in Political Science, assessing conceptual clarity, analytical depth, and academic familiarity with various subfields.
Core Areas Covered:
Political Theory and Western Political Thought
Indian Government and Politics
Comparative Politics and Political Analysis
Public Administration
International Relations and World Politics
Political Institutions and Governance
Indian Political Thought
Globalization and Political Economy
Contemporary Political Issues and Debates
Political Ideologies and Movements
Question Style: MCQs ranging from factual recall to analytical application, often inspired by previous years’ trends.
Key Highlights
Both papers are conducted on the same day in one continuous session.
There is no sectional timing between Paper I and Paper II.
Since there is no negative marking, candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions.
Paper II holds double the weightage of Paper I, emphasizing the importance of strong subject command.
IV. UGC NET Political Science Syllabus at a Glance
The UGC NET Political Science syllabus is comprehensive, combining classical political theory with contemporary global and Indian political issues. The curriculum is designed to test conceptual clarity, analytical reasoning, and subject application in real-world contexts. Below is a concise breakdown of the key units:
1. Political Theory
Explore foundational political ideas and concepts that shape governance and ideology.
Topics Covered:
Key Concepts: State, Sovereignty, Power, Rights, Citizenship, Justice
Political Ideologies: Liberalism, Marxism, Feminism, Communitarianism, Multiculturalism
Democracy: Classical and Contemporary Theories, Challenges, Participatory and Deliberative Models
2. Indian Government and Politics
This unit focuses on the constitutional framework, institutions, and political dynamics of India.
Topics Covered:
Indian Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles
Institutional Framework: President, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary
Federalism and Decentralization: Centre-State Relations, Panchayati Raj Institutions
Electoral Reforms, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Civil Society, Social Movements
3. Comparative Politics
Understand political systems, structures, and processes across countries.
Topics Covered:
Approaches: Institutional, Structural-Functional, Political Economy
Political Regimes: Democracies vs. Authoritarian Systems
Political Development, Political Culture, Modernization
Party Systems, Electoral Systems, Interest Groups, Civil Society
4. Public Administration
Focuses on bureaucratic theory, administrative functioning, and governance models.
Topics Covered:
Bureaucracy, Classical and Neo-Classical Theories
New Public Management and E-Governance
Accountability: RTI, Ombudsman, CVC, CAG
Thinkers: Woodrow Wilson, Max Weber, Taylor, Herbert Simon
5. International Relations
Analyze state behavior, diplomacy, and contemporary global politics.
Topics Covered:
Theoretical Approaches: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Constructivism
Global Governance: UN, IMF, World Bank, WTO
Indian Foreign Policy: Strategic Shifts, Neighbourhood Policy, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
Contemporary Issues: Terrorism, Climate Change, Migration, Globalization, Regional Integration
6. Political Thought
Explore key thinkers and schools of thought in both Western and Indian traditions.
Western Thinkers:
Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx, Rawls
Indian Thinkers:
Kautilya, Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, M.N. Roy, Ram Manohar Lohia
7. Contemporary Issues and Governance
This unit links political theory to current socio-political challenges in India and beyond.
Topics Covered:
Human Rights and Gender Justice
Sustainable Development and Environmental Politics
Role of Civil Society and Media
Governance Reforms and Transparency
Global Justice and Public Policy Debates
V. Career Scope After UGC NET Political Science
Clearing the UGC NET or JRF in Political Science is a gateway to dynamic academic, research, and policy-oriented careers. Whether you're aiming for a university post or envision a role in international diplomacy, this qualification builds a robust foundation for multiple prestigious career paths.
1. Assistant Professor / Lecturer Roles
Qualified candidates can teach Political Science at colleges and universities across India.
Eligible for permanent academic posts in UGC-recognized institutions
Engage in curriculum development, academic mentorship, and interdisciplinary teaching
Participate in national and international academic conferences
Guide student research projects and co-author papers
2. Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) & Doctoral Studies
Securing JRF means you can pursue a fully funded Ph.D. while receiving a monthly stipend.
Join high-impact research institutions
Publish research in UGC CARE and Scopus-indexed journals
Apply for international research fellowships and scholarships
Collaborate with professors, NGOs, and global policy groups on funded projects
3. Policy Analyst & Research Associate
Political Science graduates are in demand at policy think tanks and government advisory bodies.
Join institutions like PRS Legislative Research, NITI Aayog, Observer Research Foundation
Draft white papers, conduct field research, and analyse legislation
Provide data-driven insights to influence public policy
Write briefing papers and policy commentaries for stakeholders
4. Civil Services & Public Administration
UGC NET Political Science provides a strong base for UPSC, PSC, and allied civil services exams.
Political Science is a widely chosen optional subject in UPSC CSE
Enhances preparation for GS papers, especially in polity, governance, IR, and ethics
Openings in IAS, IPS, IFS, SSC, EPFO, RBI, and other public sector roles
5. International Organizations & Diplomacy
Explore global opportunities in international relations and development agencies.
Roles in United Nations, UNDP, UNESCO, Ministry of External Affairs, SAARC, WTO
Work in peacekeeping, human rights advocacy, conflict resolution, global diplomacy
Contribute to migration policy, climate action, and sustainable development goals
6. Political Journalism & Analysis
A growing number of scholars venture into media and political commentary.
Join news outlets, digital publications, and public policy platforms
Cover elections, political movements, foreign affairs, and public discourse
Create podcasts, opinion editorials, YouTube analysis shows, or freelance columns
Analyze political data and opinion trends
7. NGOs and Development Sector
Use your expertise to strengthen democratic governance and social accountability.
Engage in grassroots work with NGOs and international nonprofits
Manage voter education campaigns, civic participation initiatives
Monitor elections, conduct surveys, write policy briefs
Work in advocacy, rights-based development, and public communication
VI. How We Help You Crack UGC NET Political Science
At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we combine subject mastery with personalized mentoring to give you a competitive edge in UGC NET Political Science. Our approach is designed for clarity, consistency, and conceptual depth.
1. Topic-Wise Classes (Live + Recorded)
In-depth explanations of each unit and sub-topic
Language flexibility: Classes available in English & Hindi
Comprehensive coverage of both Paper I & II
Learn at your own pace with unlimited access to recorded lectures
2. PYQ Solving & Trend Analysis
Detailed walkthrough of previous 10 years’ UGC NET Political Science papers
Focus on trend prediction, pattern analysis, and elimination strategies
Identify factual vs conceptual questions and how to tackle both
Real-time problem-solving drills during class sessions
3. Mock Tests with Personalized Feedback
Simulated full-length mock tests for Paper I & II
Individual performance analysis and mentoring sessions
Learn where you lose marks: accuracy, time management, or concepts
Adaptive feedback system to improve with every test
4. Visual & Interactive Learning
Mnemonics, diagrams, mind maps, and comparative tables
Key concepts represented using infographics for better retention
Weekly visual revision slides and practice quizzes
5. Current Affairs & Political Case Studies
Real-world examples integrated into theory: India’s foreign policy, governance reforms, global institutions
Analysis of parliamentary bills, UN events, policy updates
Learn how to quote case studies in Paper II answers
6. Customized Study Plans
Personalized 30, 60, and 90-day study planners
Breaks down syllabus into manageable daily/weekly targets
Integrated tracker for lectures completed, tests attempted, and revisions
Adjust plans based on mock scores and concept clarity
7. 24/7 Doubt Support
Doubt clearing available via WhatsApp, Telegram, and student dashboard
Direct one-on-one support from subject mentors
Instant replies for urgent academic doubts
Every element of our coaching is designed with UGC NET Political Science success in mind. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or a repeater, you’ll get a roadmap tailored for your needs.
VII. Why Choose Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes?
When it comes to UGC NET Political Science preparation, thousands of students across India trust Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes for one reason — consistent results backed by unmatched academic support.
1. 15+ Years of UGC NET Political Science Expertise
Led by Dr. Sourav Sir, a pioneer in Political Science coaching for UGC NET
Known for simplifying complex topics with real-world relevance
Blends theoretical depth with smart exam strategies
Mentors students not just to qualify, but to rank in the top percentile
2. Highest Selection Rate in Political Science NET/JRF
Our alumni are now teaching in top universities and colleges across India
Every batch produces multiple NET qualifiers and JRF holders
Regular toppers in both Paper I and Political Science Paper II
3. Updated Study Material + Continuous Support
Access topic-wise handouts, PDFs of previous year questions, policy briefs, and scholarly references
Regularly updated content to reflect new political developments and academic changes
Revision notes delivered directly through Telegram and our Mobile App
Visuals, charts, and infographics to enhance long-term retention
4. Flexible Learning Options (Offline + Online)
Classroom coaching in Kolkata for those who prefer in-person learning
Pan-India access via live & recorded online classes — perfect for working professionals and rural aspirants
All sessions are recorded, so students can learn anytime, at their own pace
Mobile-friendly platform for easy access to videos, notes, and tests
5. Personalized Mentorship Approach
Individual doubt-clearing support via WhatsApp and scheduled one-on-one sessions
Custom study plans and mock test evaluations tailored to your preparation phase
Direct access to Dr. Sourav Sir and his academic team throughout the course
Whether you’re aiming to qualify UGC NET for lectureship or to secure a Junior Research Fellowship, Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes provides the roadmap, tools, and mentorship needed to make it happen.
VIII. Important Books for UGC NET Political Science Preparation
Success in the UGC NET Political Science exam requires a deep understanding of theoretical frameworks, Indian and international political systems, and analytical writing. The following is a curated list of must-read books, recommended by toppers and mentors, to help you build a strong foundation and excel in both Papers I and II.
1. Political Theory & Political Thought
Gain conceptual clarity and philosophical grounding with:
An Introduction to Political Theory – O.P. Gauba: Best for understanding basic political concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and state.
Political Ideologies – Andrew Heywood: Covers ideologies such as liberalism, socialism, feminism, environmentalism, and postmodernism.
Modern Political Theory – S.P. Verma: A classic reference that explores political theory in a historical and philosophical context.
2. Indian Government & Politics
Master the Indian political system with these essential titles:
Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth: Widely used for both UGC NET and UPSC; covers Constitution, governance, and public institutions.
Politics in India – Rajni Kothari: Deep analysis of India’s party politics, political culture, and democracy.
Indian Constitution at Work – NCERT Class XI: Highly recommended for conceptual clarity and basics.
3. Public Administration
Develop understanding of administrative theories and practices with:
Public Administration – Mohit Bhattacharya: Key topics like bureaucratic theory, governance models, and accountability mechanisms.
New Horizons of Public Administration – Mohit Bhattacharya: Updated with contemporary themes like good governance, e-governance, and new public management.
4. International Relations
Get insight into global politics and India’s foreign policy with:
International Relations – V.N. Khanna: Comprehensive coverage of theories and world affairs.
Global Politics – Andrew Heywood: An engaging take on globalization, global institutions, and contemporary IR issues.
5. Western & Indian Political Thought
Understand key thinkers and their impact:
Western Political Thought – Brian Nelson: Covers Plato to Marx, with clear interpretation of classical and modern thinkers.
Indian Political Thought – Himanshu Roy: Detailed chapters on Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru, and others in the Indian context.
6. UGC NET Political Science-Specific Books
These books are designed to prepare you for the actual exam:
Trueman’s UGC NET Political Science: Comprehensive guide with chapter-wise theory and questions.
Arihant Political Science Guide: Useful for quick revision, practice MCQs, and model test papers.
Upkar’s Solved Papers & Practice Sets: Previous year question papers with detailed solutions.