Aadhaar not mandatory for UGC NET June 2026 registration, says NTA

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has clarified that the Aadhaar Card is not compulsory for candidates applying for the UGC NET June 2026 examination.

Applicants can complete the registration process using alternative identity documents such as PAN Card or Driving Licence through DigiLocker.

The clarification comes amid concerns raised by candidates regarding Aadhaar verification during the application process. According to the agency, candidates can select other valid identity proofs while filling out the online application form.

As per the latest update, the UGC NET June 2026 registration window will close on May 20, 2026, at 11:50 pm on the official website, ugcnet.nta.nic.in.

The NTA has advised candidates to complete both registration and fee payment before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.

Aadhaar Not Mandatory For Registration

In its official update, the NTA stated that applicants are free to use alternate identity documents instead of Aadhaar while registering for the examination.

The agency said candidates can choose options such as PAN Card or Driving Licence under the “Identity Type” section during registration.

The clarification was issued after several aspirants expressed concerns over difficulties linked to Aadhaar authentication.

The NTA also advised students to carefully verify all information before final submission of the application form.

Steps To Apply Without Aadhaar

Candidates registering for UGC NET June 2026 without Aadhaar can follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in and select the registration link.

Step 2: Enter the mobile number and complete OTP verification.

Step 3: In the “Identity Type” section, select alternative ID proof options, including PAN Card or Driving License.

Step 4: Fill in personal, academic, and other required details carefully.

Step 5: Complete the verification process and proceed with the application.

Step 6: Submit the application form after completing all remaining formalities.

The agency has advised candidates to visit the official website regularly for further instructions and updates related to the examination.

NTA Extends UGC NET June 2026 Registration Deadline

Separately, the National Testing Agency has also announced an extension of the application deadline for UGC NET June 2026 after receiving requests from candidates seeking additional time to complete registrations.

According to the public notice issued on May 20, the extension was granted after the agency received “various representations from candidates” requesting more time.

In the notice, NTA said, “NTA decided to extend the last date for submission of online application form for UGC-NET June 2026, enabling the aspiring candidate(s) to apply.”

The agency has also revised the fee payment schedule and application correction window timeline.

The correction facility will allow candidates to edit details submitted in their application forms through the official portal once the correction window becomes active.

Applicants have been advised to complete the process well before the revised deadline to avoid technical glitches or heavy traffic on the website.

The UGC NET June 2026 is conducted for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), appointment as Assistant Professor, admission to PhD programs, and admission to PhD-only courses in universities and colleges across India.