CSIR NET 2025 Exam Day Checklist: Must-Have Essentials for Candidates

As of December 4, 2025, candidates appearing in the Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2025 must follow the official exam-day requirements and carry only permitted items to the test centre. The exam is scheduled for 18 December 2025 and will be held in two shifts; candidates should verify their admit card and centre details on the official portal before travelling.

CSIR NET December 2025 Reporting Time, Duration and Important Timings

Candidates are advised to check the official schedule carefully and reach the test centre as per the reporting instructions. The official schedule lists the date as 18 December 2025, the duration as 180 minutes, and reporting times for both shifts; candidates must follow the timings printed on their admit card. The checklist aims to ensure smooth entry and compliance with the National Testing Agency’s rules. Candidates should treat the CSIR NET Admit Card as the primary document and use the checklist to avoid last-minute omissions. Officials may deny entry for non-compliance, so adherence is essential. Confirm all details on the official CSIR NET portal on the morning of travel.

• Exam date: 18 December 2025.
• Duration: 180 minutes.
• Reporting time: As printed on the admit card (official schedule shows 07:30 a.m. for Shift 1 and 01:30 p.m. for Shift 2 as general reporting times).

CSIR NET 2025 Admit Card and ID Documents

The admit card and a valid photo ID are mandatory for entry. The admit card contains centre, date, shift and reporting time details; candidates must download and print the admit card from the official portal and carry the original ID specified in the information bulletin. The official FAQ clarifies which IDs are acceptable and any necessary undertakings. Keep copies handy for verification.

• Printed admit card downloaded from the official CSIR NET portal (exact printout as required by NTA).
• One recent passport-size photograph (same as uploaded during application), if specifically requested on the admit card/undertaking.
• Valid original photo identity proof (as per official list — Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID, PAN, etc.). Carry the same ID format as used for application.

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CSIR NET Dec 2025 Permitted Items and Exam-Room Essentials

Candidates should carry only those items expressly permitted by NTA. Any deviation may cause denial of entry or disqualification. Transparent, minimal items reduce security checks and speed entry. Follow the invigilator's directions for rough work, pens supplied, and seating instructions. Confirm permitted items on the admit card and the information bulletin.

• Transparent water bottle (plain, no label) if permitted by centre instructions.
• Pens/ballpoint only if explicitly allowed in the exam room instructions; otherwise, use stationery provided.
• Face mask and hand sanitiser when recommended by the centre, and any medical certificate if medical exemptions apply.

CSIR NET 2025 Prohibited Items and Security Rules

Prohibited items will not be allowed inside the test room and may lead to disqualification. Candidates must not bring electronic devices or study material. The testing agency enforces frisking, biometric/photograph capture, and other checks. Confirm the exact list in the official information bulletin and follow the centre staff instructions.

• Mobile phones, electronic gadgets, smart watches, calculators, Bluetooth devices — strictly prohibited.
• Bags, purses, study material, printed notes, or any written material are not allowed.
• Eating, drinking (other than permitted water), or carrying unauthorised food items unless medically necessary, with proof.

Also Check: UGC NET vs CSIR NET: Key Differences & Similarities Explained

Dress Code, Conduct and Health Precautions of CSIR NET 2025

The official instructions outline simple conduct and dress guidance to ease security checks. Candidates should avoid heavy jewellery, shoes with metallic components, or garments with hidden pockets. Follow centre notices about COVID-19 precautions if still active, and carry medical proof where necessary. Maintain decorum and follow the invigilator's directions at all times.

• Dress simply to speed security checks. Avoid metal accessories.
• Arrive well before the reporting time to complete entry formalities. Late arrivals may be refused entry as per centre rules printed on the admit card.
• Follow all instructions for rough work, marking answers, and leaving the hall as per the invigilator's guidance.

Travel, Pre-exam Preparation and Final Reminders for CSIR NET 2025

Travel planning and final-day calm prevent errors. Candidates should reconfirm city slip/admit card details, check transport options to the centre, and keep contingency time for unforeseen delays. Last-minute study should be limited to light revision; avoid heavy meals and sleep well. Keep emergency contact numbers from the official portal accessible.

• Reconfirm centre and reporting time on the official portal the night before.
• Pack all required documents and permitted items the previous night.
• Keep NTA/ CSIR helpline contacts or email (as listed in the official FAQ) handy for urgent queries.