Which is better UGC or SET exam? Read details here

UGC NET and SET exams are the main teaching eligibility tests in India with different objectives. UGC NET, known as the National Eligibility Test, is conducted at the national level, while the SET exam, or State Eligibility Test, is conducted for specific states. The objective of both the examinations is to identify eligible candidates for the post of Assistant Professors, thereby enabling them to teach in their respective subjects in universities or colleges at the national or state level.

The eligibility criteria for these exams vary across universities, making the UGC NET or SET exam mandatory for the recruitment process. In this discussion, we will explore the importance and difference between these exams and ultimately determine which one can be considered better among UGC NET and SET.

Table of Contents

What is NET exam?

NET exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC). NET examination is conducted to determine the eligibility of a candidate for the post of Assistant Professor at college and university level and for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in their respective fields for Indian citizens.

What is SET exam?

State Eligibility Test (SET) is conducted by the respective state university or college in their respective state. Candidates who qualify for SET are only eligible for the post of Assistant Professor in the universities and colleges belonging to the state where they have qualified the SET exam. SET exam is conducted for the respective state which is valid only in their state.

How is SET different from NET?

As many candidates are preparing for NET and SET exam, they can check the difference between NET and SET exam. Candidates are advised to read below to know more differences about National Eligibility Test and State Eligibility Test.

differences of opinion	UGC NET (National Eligibility Test)	SET (State Eligibility Test)
governing authority	NTA (National Testing Agency)	SET is operated by the respective state agencies
Objective	NET focuses on maintaining minimum standards for teaching and research across the country	SET focuses on smoothly conducting the exam at the state level
Periodicity of Examination:	NTA UGC NET is conducted twice a year	These are held once a year
medium of examination	Being a national level examination, NET is conducted in only two languages English and Hindi.	SET is a state level examination conducted in English and local languages.
Syllabus	NTA NET syllabus is same for all states	Every state has its own syllabus for the SET exam.
participating areas	NET exam is conducted on the basis of PAN. Candidates from all over India can appear in this examination. There are no individual regional criteria for appearing in the examination.	Only candidates from the respective state can participate in the SET exam. Not every state conducts SET exam. There are only 15 states that conduct SET exams in different subjects.

Benefits of NTA UGC NET Exam

Here we are explaining the benefits and opportunities for the candidates to appear in the UGC NET exam, which will help them to understand the UGC NET exam.

career opportunities: UGC NET is an examination conducted to determine the eligibility of candidates for the role of Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Passing this exam can open many career opportunities in the field of education.
Competitive Advantage: UGC NET is a highly competitive exam, and qualifying it can give you an edge over other candidates in terms of career growth and job opportunities. After clearing UGC NET, candidates can also apply for public sector units
intellectual development: Preparing for the UGC NET exam requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of your chosen subject, which can lead to intellectual development and deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Personal Development: Studying for UGC NET can be a challenging but rewarding experience that can help you grow personally and professionally.
Reputation and Recognition: Qualifying the UGC NET exam can bring a sense of prestige and recognition to your career, as it is a highly respected and prestigious exam in India.
Support researchers financially: If the candidate qualifies UGC NET JRF then he can do research in his desired field. In addition, researchers will receive financial support in the form of stipend for five years.

Benefits of State Eligibility Test Set

State Eligibility Test (SET) is an examination conducted by the authorities of various state governments in India to determine the eligibility of candidates for the post of Assistant Professor in the colleges and universities of that state. Here we will learn about some of the benefits of appearing for the SET exam:

State Level Recognition: SET exam is conducted at the state level, which means that clearing this exam can make you eligible for the post of Assistant Professor in colleges and universities of that state. This can be especially beneficial if you want to work in a specific state or region.
effective cost:The application fee for SET exam is generally lower than that of UGC NET exam, making it a more cost-effective option for candidates.
Facility: Since the SET exam is conducted at the state level, candidates do not have to travel to different parts of the country to appear for the exam, which can be more convenient and less time-consuming.
Growth Opportunity: Passing the SET exam can open opportunities for growth and career advancement in education, especially at colleges and universities in that state.