By Lawsection.in Editorial Team | February 19, 2026
If you are preparing for UGC NET Law, one question naturally comes to mind:
Is UGC NET Law really difficult?
The honest answer is: Yes, it is competitive — but it is absolutely crackable with the right strategy.
In this detailed guide, we will explain:
- The real difficulty level of UGC NET Law
- Actual success rate and cut-off trends
- Why many candidates fail
- How you can improve your chances
Let’s break it down clearly and practically.
What is UGC NET Law?
National Testing Agency conducts the UGC NET examination on behalf of University Grants Commission.
UGC NET Law (Subject Code 58) determines eligibility for:
- Assistant Professor
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
- PhD admissions (in many universities)
If you want to build a career in academics or research after LLM, clearing NET becomes highly important.
Is UGC NET Law Difficult?
UGC NET Law is conceptually moderate but competitively tough.
Here’s why:
- The syllabus is vast (covers almost entire LLB + parts of LLM)
- The competition level is high
- Cut-offs fluctuate every cycle
- Questions are increasingly conceptual and application-based
However, the exam is not impossible. In fact, candidates with strong basics in constitutional law, jurisprudence, IPC, and procedural laws perform consistently well.
Real Difficulty Level: Paper-wise Analysis
Paper 1 (General Paper – Teaching & Research Aptitude)
- Moderate difficulty
- Logical reasoning + comprehension heavy
- Time management is key
Most law students underestimate Paper 1. However, it can significantly boost your overall score.
Paper 2 (Law – Subject Code 58)
This is where the real challenge lies.
Syllabus includes:
- Constitutional Law
- Jurisprudence
- Public International Law
- IPC
- CPC & CrPC
- Company Law
- Environmental Law
- Administrative Law
- Human Rights
- IPR
- Comparative Law
Questions are:
- Conceptual
- Case law oriented
- Statement-based
- Often tricky
Therefore, superficial reading does not work.
What is the Success Rate of UGC NET Law?
Although exact yearly numbers vary, the approximate qualification rate is:
- 6–7% for Assistant Professor
- 1–2% for JRF
This means out of 100 candidates:
- Around 6–7 qualify NET
- Only 1–2 secure JRF
That’s why the exam feels difficult — not because the paper is impossible, but because the competition is intense.
Why Do Many Candidates Fail?
Several common mistakes reduce success rate:
1. Lack of Conceptual Clarity
Students memorize bare acts but ignore principles.
2. Ignoring Paper 1
Even 10–15 extra marks in Paper 1 can change your qualification status.
3. No Previous Year Question Analysis
NET repeats patterns — not exact questions.
4. Poor Revision Strategy
Without multiple revisions, retention drops drastically.
Is It More Difficult Than Other Law Exams?
Let’s compare:
| Exam | Nature | Difficulty Type |
|---|---|---|
| AIBE | Qualifying | Easy–Moderate |
| Judiciary | Analytical | Very Tough |
| CLAT PG | Speed + Concepts | Moderate |
| UGC NET Law | Conceptual + Competitive | Moderate but Competitive |
If you want clarity about how NET differs from other exams, you may also read:
- UGC NET LAW (Code-58): Full guide
- AIBE vs State Bar Enrollment – What’s the Real Difference?
- Can You Practice Law Without Clearing AIBE?
- What is BCI? Role of BCI in LLB & Legal Education
Cut-Off Trends: Why They Matter
Cut-offs depend on:
- Number of candidates
- Paper difficulty
- Reservation category
- Normalization process
General category cut-offs usually range between:
- 50–55% aggregate for Assistant Professor
- 60–65% for JRF
However, these are indicative — not fixed.
How to Crack UGC NET Law in First Attempt
Here is a practical roadmap:
✔ Strengthen Core Subjects First
Start with:
- Constitutional Law
- Jurisprudence
- IPC
- Administrative Law
✔ Solve 10+ Years PYQs
Patterns repeat conceptually.
✔ Make Short Revision Notes
Especially for case laws and doctrines.
✔ Practice Mock Tests
Time management decides rank.
✔ Revise Paper 1 Weekly
Do not leave it for the end.
So, Is UGC NET Law Difficult for Average Students?
If you:
- Have completed LLM seriously
- Understand basic legal principles
- Prepare for 4–6 months consistently
Then it is manageable.
However, if preparation is casual, the competitive nature will eliminate you.
Final Verdict
UGC NET Law is not academically impossible, but it is strategically demanding.
The exam rewards:
- Clarity over cramming
- Consistency over last-minute study
- Smart revision over bulky reading
If you prepare with direction, your chances improve significantly.
