CBSE NET 2018 : Steps to Check Your Score Online
The CBSE NET 2018 was a significant examination for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors and Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in India. Conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the National Eligibility Test (NET) aimed to evaluate candidates’ eligibility for teaching and research positions in various universities and colleges. The exam was held on July 8, 2018, and saw participation from over 11.5 lakh candidates across the country.
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CBSE NET 2018 Exam Pattern and Changes
The CBSE NET 2018 exam pattern underwent a major revision. Previously, the exam consisted of three papers, but from 2018, it was restructured into two papers to make the process more efficient and manageable for candidates.
| Paper | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 50 (Compulsory) | 100 | 1 Hour | General Teaching & Research Aptitude |
| Paper 2 | 100 (Compulsory) | 200 | 2 Hours | Subject-Specific Questions |
This change simplified the process while maintaining the difficulty level to ensure only deserving candidates cleared the exam. The total marks for the exam were 300, and there was no negative marking, making it easier for candidates to attempt all questions without fear of penalty.
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Age Limit and Eligibility Criteria for CBSE NET 2018
One of the key modifications in CBSE NET 2018 was the increase in the upper age limit for candidates applying for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Previously, the limit was 28 years, but it was raised to 30 years, thereby offering more opportunities to young researchers. This change not only expanded eligibility for aspiring scholars, but it also encouraged more candidates to pursue advanced research without the constraint of a strict age limit.
For the Assistant Professor position, there was no upper age limit, ensuring that candidates of any age could apply as long as they met the academic qualifications.
The educational eligibility criteria remained the same. Candidates needed a master’s degree with at least 55% marks from a recognized university. A relaxation of 5% was granted to SC, ST, and OBC candidates.
CBSE NET 2018 Registration and Exam Centers
The registration for CBSE NET 2018 began on March 6, 2018, and candidates had to submit their applications through the official CBSE NET website. In addition, the exam was conducted in over 2,000 centers across India, ensuring greater accessibility for candidates from different regions. As a result, aspirants from both urban and rural areas had an equal opportunity to appear for the exam and pursue their academic goals.
The examination took place in 84 different subjects, covering a wide range of academic disciplines. Candidates were required to select their subject based on their postgraduate qualification.
Release of CBSE NET 2018 Answer Keys
The CBSE NET 2018 answer keys were officially released on July 24, 2018, much earlier than expected. The answer keys allowed candidates to check their responses and calculate their expected scores before the final results were announced.
Candidates also had the option to challenge the official answer keys by paying a fee of ₹1,000 per question. The objections were reviewed by CBSE, and if any errors were found, corrections were made before publishing the final results.
How to Check CBSE NET 2018 Answer Keys
Candidates had to follow these steps to access the answer keys:
Visit the official CBSE NET website: cbsenet.nic.in.
Click on the “Answer Key and Recorded Response Challenge” link.
Log in using the registered credentials.
View and download the answer key.
By analyzing the CBSE NET answer keys, candidates could estimate their scores and understand their chances of qualifying.
CBSE NET 2018 Result Declaration
The results for CBSE NET were released in August 2018, much earlier than previous years. The early declaration helped universities and institutions proceed with hiring and admissions for JRF positions.
To qualify for CBSE NET, candidates had to secure a minimum percentage as per their category:
| Category | Paper 1 | Paper 2 | Aggregate Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 40% | 40% | 50% |
| OBC/SC/ST/PWD | 35% | 35% | 45% |
The top 6% of candidates who appeared for the exam and met the eligibility criteria were considered for Assistant Professorships. For JRF selection, candidates with the highest scores were considered based on their rankings.
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Impact of CBSE NET 2018 on Higher Education
The CBSE NET 2018 was a crucial gateway for candidates aspiring to enter academia. By restructuring the exam format and increasing the age limit for JRF, CBSE made the process more inclusive and competitive.
After clearing CBSE NET, candidates had two career options:
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
Qualified candidates received a monthly stipend to pursue Ph.D. research in Indian universities.
JRF recipients had the opportunity to work on government-funded research projects.
Assistant Professorship:
Candidates who qualified for this category were eligible to apply for teaching positions in colleges and universities.
This opened doors for thousands of aspiring professors in government and private institutions.
Why CBSE NET 2018 Was Important
The CBSE NET exam was one of the largest conducted exams in India, offering valuable opportunities to thousands of postgraduate students. Moreover, it was a highly competitive test with strict eligibility criteria, which meant that only the most deserving candidates secured positions in academia and research. Consequently, the exam played a crucial role in shaping the future of higher education by selecting the best talent for teaching and research positions.
The modifications in CBSE NET 2018, including exam pattern changes and increased JRF age limit, made the process smoother and more transparent. The early release of answer keys and results also helped candidates plan their future career paths effectively.
Conclusion
The CBSE NET marked an important step in India’s education system. Not only did it standardize the selection process for professors and researchers, but it also ensured quality education at the university level. Furthermore, the exam format changes, along with the increased JRF age limit and transparent evaluation process, made the exam more efficient and fair for all candidates. As a result, it provided a better opportunity for aspiring educators and researchers to advance in their careers.
For those who participated in CBSE NET 2018, it was a defining moment in their academic journey. Whether they pursued a career in teaching or research, clearing CBSE NET was a major milestone toward success in the education sector.
