As per the existing CSIR NET examination scheme, the Chemical Sciences paper consists of three sections: Part A, Part B, and Part C. The examination carries a total of 200 marks and has a duration of three hours.
The CSIR NET December 2026 examination is scheduled for 19, 22, and 27 December 2026. Candidates should consult the latest official Information Bulletin to verify the examination pattern and marking scheme applicable to their subject and session. For official updates, visit the CSIR NET website
​Part​ | ​Total Questions​ | ​Questions to Attempt​ | ​Marks per Question​ | ​Maximum Marks​ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Part A | 20 | 15 | 2 Marks | 30 |
Part B | 40 | 35 | 2 Marks | 70 |
Part C | 60 | 25 | 4 Marks | 100 |
Total | 120 | 75 | — | 200 |
Candidates must carefully follow the maximum attempt limit. Attempting additional questions does not necessarily result in additional marks, as the evaluation is carried out according to the rules mentioned in the official information bulletin.
IFAS Highlights
The marking scheme differs according to the section. Parts A and B carry two marks per question, whereas Part C carries four marks per question.
​Part​ | ​Marks for Correct Answer​ | ​Negative Marks for Wrong Answer​ | ​Marks for Unattempted Question​ |
|---|---|---|---|
Part A | +2 Marks | -0.50 Mark | 0 |
Part B | +2 Marks | -0.50 Mark | 0 |
Part C | +4 Marks | -1 Mark | 0 |
There is a negative marking of 25% of the marks assigned to a question for every incorrect response. Therefore, 0.50 marks may be deducted for an incorrect answer in Parts A and B, while one mark may be deducted for an incorrect Part C answer.
Candidates should avoid random guessing because repeated incorrect answers can significantly reduce the final score.
A practical attempt strategy may include:
- Start with the section in which you are most confident.
- Solve easy and direct questions during the first round.
- Mark lengthy or doubtful questions for review.
- Follow the maximum attempt limit in every section.
- Allocate sufficient time to Part C because it carries 100 marks.
- Do not spend excessive time on one numerical problem.
- Avoid attempting questions based only on guesswork.
- Reserve the final 10–15 minutes for reviewing marked answers.
- Check calculations, signs, units and selected options carefully.
- Practise full-length mock tests in a three-hour exam environment.
Candidates should develop their final attempt strategy through mock tests instead of experimenting with a new approach on the examination day.