NTA shares fixes for UGC NET Dec 2026 live photo errors: apply by Oct 28

By TUF News Desk · Published 24 October 2026 · 4 min read

Fact-checked against 2+ independent sources · Editorial policy

With four days left to apply, the National Testing Agency has put out a fix list for the step tripping up UGC NET December 2026 applicants: the live photograph. In a post on X, the NTA set out what candidates should check when the camera step on the application form keeps failing, covering lighting, the background, and what to do when the page still will not cooperate.

The tips are straightforward. Sit in a well-lit area so the face is clearly visible, keep the background clean and uncluttered with enough light on it, and make sure no one else appears in the camera frame. If the capture still fails, candidates are told to clear the browser cache, switch to a different browser, or try the application in incognito mode, then reopen the form and take the photo again. The NTA added that applicants should check the lighting and background before retrying, so the same error does not repeat.

The live photograph is a mandatory part of the form this cycle, and it sits alongside the regular uploads. Candidates also need a recent scanned photograph (10 to 200 KB) and a signature (10 to 50 KB), with roughly 80 per cent of the face visible including the ears against a white background. The capture can be done with a webcam on the computer being used for the application, or by scanning the QR code shown on the portal with a mobile phone or tablet. Blurred images risk rejection, so it is worth getting the framing right on the first attempt.

Registration for UGC NET December 2026 closes on October 28, 2026, and NTA data shows 1,86,301 candidates have already submitted applications, with another 32,660 for the Joint CSIR-UGC NET December 2026. The Joint CSIR NET window stays open a week longer, till November 5. The application fee is Rs 1,150 for the General category, Rs 600 for General-EWS and OBC-NCL candidates, and Rs 325 for SC, ST, PwD and third gender candidates. Candidates yet to apply can register on the official NTA portal and should not leave the form to the last evening, when portal traffic is heaviest.

What comes after the application

The schedule from here is fixed. An application correction window runs from November 2 to 4, 2026. Exam city intimation slips will be released on November 23, admit cards from December 7, and the examination itself is scheduled for December 14 to 18 and December 21, 2026, in computer-based mode in two shifts. Keep the confirmation page downloaded after payment, since the application only counts as submitted once the fee is paid.

For applicants struggling at any stage, the NTA has pointed to its helpdesk at 011-40759000 and 011-69227700 and the email ugcnet@nta.ac.in. The NET score decides eligibility for assistant professor posts and, with the JRF, for PhD admissions and fellowships, which is why so many applicants each cycle are aiming at teaching posts in universities like Jawaharlal Nehru University or research programmes across the country. Our admission documents checklist covers the paperwork usually needed before starting any application form.

Frequently asked questions

What is the last date to apply for UGC NET December 2026?

October 28, 2026. The NTA has advised candidates to complete their applications on time to avoid delays.

What should I do if the live photo capture keeps failing?

Follow the NTA’s checklist: sit in a well-lit area so your face is clearly visible, use a clean and uncluttered background with good light, and keep only your face in the frame. If the problem continues, clear your browser cache, switch browsers or open the form in incognito mode, then capture the photo again.

When is the UGC NET December 2026 exam?

December 14 to 18 and December 21, 2026, in computer-based test mode across two shifts. City intimation slips release on November 23 and admit cards from December 7.

Frequently asked questions

Sources: Times Now, The Telegraph, Careerindia