Are you a Commerce postgraduate (M.Com, MBA, PGD) or preparing for NET/SET 2025 and feeling confused about which exam to give?
This blog will help you understand the difference between UGC NET and SET, which one suits your academic goals, and how to choose the right path — explained in simple, handwritten style just for you.
📘 What is UGC NET Commerce?
The UGC NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) is a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
It is meant for candidates who want to:
- Become an Assistant Professor anywhere in India
- Get Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) to pursue research or Ph.D.
🟢 Key Features:
- Valid in all states and universities in India
- Conducted twice a year (June and December)
- Recognized by UGC-approved universities and colleges
- Available in subjects like Commerce, Management, Accounting, Economics
📗 What is SET Commerce?
The SET (State Eligibility Test) is a state-level exam conducted by specific state authorities like MH SET, KSET, etc.
It is for those who want to:
- Become an Assistant Professor within their home state
- Teach in state universities or colleges only
🟢 Key Features:
- Valid only in that particular state
- Held by individual states
- No JRF option (Assistant Professor only)
- Follows a similar syllabus to UGC NET
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📄 UGC NET & SET Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)
Educational Qualification (Common for NET & SET):
- Master’s degree in Commerce or related subject
- Minimum 55% marks (General/EWS)
- 50% marks for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/Transgender
- Degree must be from a UGC-recognized university
Ph.D. Holders Special Case:
- If Ph.D. was completed before 19 September 1991, 5% relaxation applies = 50% marks
Final Year Students Can Apply:
- Must pass final exams with required %
- Must complete degree within 2 years of NET/SET result
Other Criteria:
- No upper age limit for Assistant Professor eligibility
- JRF age limit: 30 years (for UGC NET only)
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Should appear in the subject of their Master’s degree
🧠 UGC NET vs SET – Key Comparison Table
| Feature | UGC NET | SET |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | All over India | Only in conducting state |
| JRF Option | Yes | No |
| Conducted by | National Testing Agency (NTA) | State Agencies |
| Attempts | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Career Scope | National colleges & universities | State-level colleges only |
| Age Limit | JRF: Max 30 yrs, AP: No limit | No age limit |
🤔 Which Exam Should You Choose?
✅ Choose UGC NET if:
- You want to teach anywhere in India
- You plan to do a Ph.D. or get JRF
- You aim for better pay scales and wider academic exposure
✅ Choose SET if:
- You plan to settle in your home state
- You are focused only on Assistant Professor roles
- You want a less competitive alternative to NET
🏁 Final Thoughts for Commerce Students (M.Com, MBA, PGD)
Both exams are valuable and respected. What matters is your goal:
🎓 If you want to go national, aim for JRF or Ph.D., then go with UGC NET.
🏠 If you want to stay in your home state, and are focused on teaching only, SET is still a great option.
Choose smart. Start early. And prepare with a clear mind.
