NCERT Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 117 Professor & Assistant Professor Posts

NCERT has opened its 2026 academic recruitment (Advt. 177/2026) for 117 faculty and library posts—Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, Deputy Librarian and Assistant Librarian—across 52+ departments at its New Delhi HQ and units in Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru and Shillong, offering government pay scales (Levels 10–14) with DA, HRA, pension and other benefits.

Applications are online only from 31 Jan 2026 (10:00 AM) to 20 Feb 2026 (5:00 PM), with shortlisting based on UGC academic scores followed by interviews, UGC-aligned eligibility (PhD/NET as applicable), category-wise reservations and fee exemptions, document verification, and postings decided by organizational need, making this a major, highly competitive opportunity for scholars across sciences, education, humanities, vocational fields and library science to contribute to India’s national education research and curriculum ecosystem.

NCERT Academic Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to 117 Faculty Positions

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has announced Advertisement No. 177/2026, inviting online applications for 117 prestigious academic positions. This comprehensive recruitment drive spans Professor, Associate Professor, and Assistant Professor roles across multiple disciplines at NCERT’s headquarters in New Delhi and its constituent units in Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong.

With competitive salary structures, job security, and the opportunity to shape India’s educational research landscape, this represents one of the most sought-after recruitment cycles for academic professionals in 2026.

What You Need to Know: NCERT Recruitment 2026 Overview

NCERT, an apex body dedicated to educational research, teacher training, and curriculum development in school education, has launched one of its largest recruitment drives.

The organization seeks eminent scholars, experienced educators, and research professionals to fill positions across 52 academic departments and specialized areas. The application window is strictly limited: registrations open on January 31, 2026 at 10:00 AM and close on February 20, 2026 by 5:00 PM IST.

Key Recruitment Details:

• Total Posts: 117 academic positions
• Application Mode: Online only via www.ncert.nic.in
• Selection Process: Shortlisting based on academic score, followed by interview
• Locations: New Delhi (HQ), Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, Shillong
• Job Categories: Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, Deputy Librarian, Assistant Librarian

This recruitment presents exceptional career advancement for academics, educators, and subject matter experts across sciences, humanities, technology, and professional disciplines.

NCERT Academic Positions Available: Department-Wise Breakdown

Overview of 117 Posts

NCERT’s 2026 recruitment encompasses positions in 53 academic departments, with significant opportunities in:

Science and Technology Departments (highest concentration):

• Zoology: 7 posts (1 Professor, 2 Associate Professors, 4 Assistant Professors)
• Physics: 2 posts (1 Associate Professor, 1 Assistant Professor)
• Chemistry: 1 Professor
• Bio-Science/Bio-Technology/Health Science: 2 posts (Professor + Assistant Professor)
• Statistics: 1 Associate Professor
• Computer Education: 1 Assistant Professor

Education and Pedagogy Departments (expanding sector):

• Education (Teacher Education): 9 posts (Professor, 3 Associate Professors, 5 Assistant Professors)
• Education (Science Education): 8 posts distributed across all levels
• Education (Elementary Education): 3 posts
• Education (Educational Technology): 3 posts
• Education (Special Education): 4 posts
• Psychology (Educational Psychology): 2 posts

Humanities and Languages (14 departments):

• English: 6 posts (1 Professor, 3 Associate Professors, 2 Assistant Professors)
• Hindi: 2 Associate Professors
• History: 4 posts (1 Professor, 1 Associate Professor, 2 Assistant Professors)
• Geography: 1 Professor
• Political Science: 2 posts
• Economics: 3 posts (2 Associate Professors, 1 Assistant Professor)
• Sociology: 3 posts

Specialized and Vocational Fields:

• Agriculture (Animal Husbandry/Fisheries/Sericulture): 1 Professor
• Hospitality, Travel and Tourism: 1 Associate Professor
• Vocational Education: 2 posts
• Food Technology and Processing: 1 Associate Professor

Library and Information Science:

• Deputy Librarian: 1 post
• Assistant Librarian: 2 posts

Eligibility Criteria for NCERT Academic Recruitment

Understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial for shortlisting. NCERT follows UGC (University Grants Commission) guidelines with some provisions for outstanding professionals. Here’s the comprehensive breakdown:

Professor Position Eligibility

Option A: Academic Excellence Route

• Educational Qualification: Ph.D. degree in the concerned, allied, or relevant discipline
• Research Publications: Minimum 10 research publications in peer-reviewed or UGC-listed journals
• Research Score: Total research score of 120+ as per UGC Regulations-2018 criteria
• Teaching Experience: Minimum 10 years of teaching experience in university/college as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor
• Alternative: Research experience at equivalent level in University/National Level Institutions with evidence of successfully guiding doctoral candidates

Option B: Outstanding Professional Route (for non-academic professionals)

• Ph.D. from recognized academic institution or industry with significant contribution to knowledge
• Minimum 10 years of experience in relevant field
• Documentary evidence of substantial contributions to the discipline

Retirement Age: Superannuation as per Government of India norms (typically 65 years for university faculty)

Associate Professor Eligibility Requirements

• Educational Qualification: Ph.D. degree in the concerned, allied, or relevant discipline (mandatory)
• Master’s Degree: Minimum 55% marks (or equivalent grade) required
• Teaching/Research Experience: Minimum 8 years in academic/research positions equivalent to Assistant Professor level
• Research Publications: Minimum 7 publications in peer-reviewed or UGC-listed journals
• Research Score: 75+ as per UGC Regulations-2018 Table 2
• Research-Oriented Background: Evidence of active research engagement and contribution to the field

Assistant Professor Eligibility (Most Competitive Category)

Option A: UGC NET Clearance Route (Standard Path)

• Master’s Degree: Minimum 55% marks in concerned/relevant/allied subject from Indian or accredited foreign university
• NET/SLET/SET: Must have cleared National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) or equivalent recognized test
• Ph.D. Exemption: Ph.D. degree holders are exempted from NET requirement if registered prior to July 11, 2009, and meeting specific conditions:
  • Ph.D. awarded in regular mode
  • Thesis evaluated by 2+ external examiners
  • Open viva voce conducted
  • Minimum 2 published research papers (at least 1 in refereed journal)
  • Minimum 2 conference presentations at sponsored events

Option B: Foreign University Route

• Ph.D. from foreign university ranked in top 500 globally (by QS, THE, or ARWU rankings)
• Master’s degree with 55% marks

Deputy Librarian Requirements

• Master’s Degree: Library Science/Information Science/Documentation Science with 55%+ marks
• Professional Experience: 8 years as Assistant University/College Librarian
• Specialization: Ph.D. in library science, information science, or related documentation fields (desirable)
• Modern Skills: Evidence of innovative library services and ICT integration

Assistant Librarian Eligibility

• Professional Degree: Master’s in Library Science, Information Science, or Documentation Science (55%+ marks)
• Academic Record: Consistently good performance with computerization knowledge
• NET Requirement: Same as Assistant Professor (NET/SLET/SET clearance or Ph.D. with exemption conditions)

Salary and Pay Scales: NCERT Academic Positions 2026

One of the most attractive aspects of NCERT recruitment is the competitive compensation structure aligned with government standards:

Additional Benefits Include:

• Dearness Allowance (DA) as per government norms
• House Rent Allowance (HRA) based on posting location
• Medical and health insurance coverage
• Pension benefits under Government of India schemes
• Leave encashment and retirement benefits
• Professional development allowances
• Subsidized accommodation in some locations (Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, Shillong)

Category-Wise Reservation and Special Provisions

NCERT recruitment follows Government of India reservation policies:

Important Notes:

• SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD candidates are exempt from application fees
• UR/OBC/EWS candidates must pay Rs. 1,000 application fee (non-refundable)
• Women applicants get fee exemption
• Category certificates must be from competent authorities
• OBC candidates need additional “Non-Creamy Layer” certificate
• EWS candidates require income certificate

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Important Dates (Critical)

How to Apply: Detailed Process

Step 1: Account Registration

• Visit www.ncert.nic.in → Announcements → Vacancies → Academic Recruitment
• Click “Apply Online” for Advertisement 177/2026
• Create account with valid email ID and mobile number
• Verify OTP sent to registered mobile
• Set strong password with numbers, letters, and symbols

Step 2: Fill Application Form

• Complete all mandatory fields (marked with asterisk *)
• Enter personal details (name, father’s name, date of birth)
• Select category (UR/SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwD)
• Provide educational qualifications (degree, marks, institution, year)
• Upload research publications (for Professor/Associate Professor posts)
• Enter work experience with organization details and salary information
• Select up to 3 preferred posting locations

Step 3: Document Upload
Required documents (scanned color copies, PDF format):

• Recent color passport-size photograph (200×200 px minimum)
• Signature (clear, JPG/PNG format)
• Degree certificates (all qualifications from 10+2 onwards)
• Mark sheets of all university examinations
• Ph.D. degree and thesis completion certificate
• NET/SLET/SET certificate (if applicable)
• Research papers (first page and acceptance letter)
• Experience certificates from previous employers
• SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwD certificates (if applicable)
• NOC from current employer (if government/quasi-government employee)
• Self-declaration form (per Annexure-III)

Step 4: Fee Payment (if applicable)

• Choose payment method: Online banking, credit/debit card, UPI
• Pay Rs. 1,000 application fee (UR/OBC/EWS only)
• SC/ST/Women/PwD candidates are exempt
• Download payment receipt and keep for records
• Fee is non-refundable under any circumstances

Step 5: Submit and Verify

• Review all entered information carefully
• No corrections allowed after submission
• Check “I agree” to terms and conditions
• Click “SUBMIT” button
• Note your application reference number
• Download and save application PDF
• Print hard copy for records

Important: Keep login credentials safe; you may need to check application status.

Selection Process: From Application to Job Offer

NCERT employs a merit-based, transparent selection process:

Stage 1: Preliminary Scrutiny

• NCERT verifies eligibility on closing date of applications
• Incomplete or ineligible applications are rejected
• Notification of shortlisting emailed to candidates
• The organization may contact for clarifications on documents

Stage 2: Academic Score Calculation

• For Assistant Professor Posts:
  • Top 50 candidates per category (1st vacancy)
  • Top 5 candidates per additional vacancy
  • Minimum academic score of 60/100 required
  • Tied candidates at cutoff all called for interview
• For Professor/Associate Professor Posts:
  • Top 10 candidates per category (1st vacancy)
  • Top 5 candidates per additional vacancy
  • UGC minimum academic score guidelines followed
  • All tied candidates at cutoff score included

Stage 3: Interview

• Interview Importance: Selection based primarily on interview performance
• Panel: Constituted by NCERT leadership and external experts
• Duration: Typically 30-45 minutes
• Focus Areas:
  • Research contributions and publications
  • Teaching philosophy and methodology
  • Subject expertise and depth
  • Academic vision for the organization
  • Personality fit with NCERT culture
  • Response to scenario-based questions

Stage 4: Document Verification

• Shortlisted interview candidates submit original documents
• Verification of degrees, certificates, and credentials
• Salary slips and employment history verified
• PwD certificates authenticated
• Failure to produce originals may disqualify candidate

Stage 5: Final Selection and Offer

• NCERT publishes final results on website
• Selected candidates receive formal offer letter
• Medical examination as per government norms
• Appointment to finalize within specified period
• Joining formalities and posting location confirmation

Special Considerations and Important Guidelines

Travel Reimbursement for Shortlisted Candidates

• Non-local candidates: Eligible for train fare reimbursement
• Coverage: Up to 3rd AC or actual fare (whichever is less)
• Exclusions: Special trains (Rajdhani, Shatabadi) not covered
• Submission: Original tickets required with joining documents

Candidates from Government/Quasi-Government Sector

• Employees of government, PSU, autonomous organizations must apply through proper channel
• Mandatory: NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current employer
• Template provided in recruitment advertisement
• Certificate must be on official letterhead with seal
• Failure to submit may result in disqualification

Multiple Applications Policy

• Candidates can apply for multiple posts if eligible
• Separate application and fees required for each post
• Only one application per individual post will be accepted
• Eligibility criteria must be met for each position

Age Relaxation Provisions

• Central Government Employees: Up to 5 years relaxation
• SC/ST Candidates: As per government guidelines
• OBC Candidates: As per government guidelines
• PWD Candidates: Additional relaxation as per rules
• Widows/Divorced Women: Up to 5 years for Group C equivalents

Academic Conduct and Verification

• Provisional Registration: All applications registered provisionally
• Final Verification: At document verification and interview stage
• False Information: Any misrepresentation leads to immediate disqualification
• Post-Joining: Candidature liable to cancellation even after joining if discrepancies found
• Penalties: Canvassing in any form results in summary rejection

Department-Specific Opportunities: Where to Focus Your Application

Given 52 academic departments across 117 positions, understanding demand can help target applications strategically.

High-Demand Departments (Multiple Openings)

1. Education (Science Education): 8 positions
   • Ideal for: Science educators, pedagogy researchers
   • Skills needed: Knowledge of modern science curriculum, research methods
2. Education (Teacher Education): 9 positions
   • Ideal for: Teacher trainers, educational researchers
   • Focus: Curriculum design, teacher development programs
3. Zoology: 7 positions
   • Ideal for: Life science researchers, ecology experts
   • Strength needed: Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
4. Education (Education/General): 11 positions combined
   • Largest category
   • Most competitive due to volume
5. English: 6 positions
   • Ideal for: Literature scholars, linguistic experts
   • Requirement: Strong publication in humanities journals

Emerging Opportunity Areas

• Computer Education & Educational Technology: Growing sector, fewer applications expected
• Vocational Education: Niche area, less competitive
• Agriculture & Food Technology: Specialized disciplines
• Special Education: Dedicated inclusion focus

Strategic Selection Tip

Apply for multiple positions if you meet criteria for 2-3 departments. This increases chances without significant additional effort (primary cost is application fee).

Common Mistakes to Avoid in NCERT Recruitment

Documentation Errors That Lead to Rejection

• Incomplete degree certificates: Ensure all pages of certificates uploaded
• Illegible scans: Use high-quality color scans (minimum 300 DPI)
• Outdated certificates: Use current certificates without alterations
• Missing pages: Ensure all mark sheets pages included
• Wrong document format: Only PDF or JPG accepted; ensure correct size

Application Form Mistakes

• Blank category field: Leaving caste/category blank causes automatic rejection
• Mismatched qualification details: Ensure consistency across all documents
• Vague employment history: Clearly specify dates, organizations, salaries
• Incorrect publication citations: Ensure proper format for research papers
• Typos in personal details: Name, email, phone – triple-check spelling

Timing and Procedural Errors

• Last-minute applications: Technical issues near deadline can cause loss of data
• Wrong login credentials: Use email and phone registered at start
• Forgetting application reference number: Save immediately after submission
• Missing deadline: Even 1 second after 5:00 PM = rejection
• Payment failures: Ensure successful transaction; screenshot proof

Academic Record Issues

• Low marks/GPA: For SC/ST/OBC/EWS, relaxation available but declare category properly
• Insufficient research publications: Be realistic; don’t claim publications you don’t have
• Weak research score: Utilize all credible publications; ensure proper indexing
• NET exemption issues: If claiming exemption, submit proper university certification

How to Prepare for NCERT Interview Success

Research and Publication Strategy

• Compile comprehensive CV: Include all publications, conferences, seminars
• Organize research papers: Categorize by peer-reviewed, UGC-listed, indexed
• Prepare research summary: 2-minute explanation of your main research contributions
• Gather proof documents: Acceptance letters, publication proofs, impact metrics
• Citation analysis: Know your h-index, citation count (use Google Scholar)

Interview Preparation Framework

1. Subject Matter Expertise
   • Review latest developments in your discipline
   • Prepare for 5-10 advanced questions in your specialization
   • Know current curriculum standards and reforms
   • Be ready to discuss how you’d update/improve subject teaching
2. NCERT Mission Alignment
   • Familiarize with NCERT’s role in Indian education system
   • Study recent NCERT initiatives and publications
   • Prepare examples of how you’d contribute to research/curriculum development
   • Discuss vision for educational excellence in India
3. Teaching Philosophy
   • Articulate clear teaching methodology
   • Provide examples of innovative teaching practices
   • Discuss student-centered learning approaches
   • Be ready for scenario questions: “How would you handle…?”
4. Research Vision
   • Define your 5-year research plan if selected
   • Discuss how research contributes to education improvement
   • Show awareness of interdisciplinary research trends
   • Prepare collaborative research proposals

Mock Interview Practice

• Conduct 3-4 practice sessions with colleagues
• Record yourself to check body language, speech pace
• Practice answering unexpected/difficult questions
• Prepare questions to ask interview panel
• Dress professionally; maintain eye contact

Post-Selection: What Happens Next?

Medical Examination Requirements

• Mandatory for all selected candidates
• Conducted at government hospital as per NCERT direction
• Standard checkup: general health, vision, hearing
• Results must be “fit for duty”
• Some minor conditions may not disqualify; depends on position

Joining Formalities

• Appointment letter specifying posting location and joining date
• Reporting requirements: Usually within 3-4 weeks of selection
• Documentation: Aadhar, PAN, bank account details required
• Online onboarding: Training modules and orientation programs
• Probation period: Typically 2 years for academic positions

Posting Locations

• New Delhi: NCERT Headquarters, South Delhi, prime location
• Ajmer, Rajasthan: NCERT Constituent Unit, Rajasthan
• Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh constituent unit
• Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Eastern India constituent unit
• Mysuru, Karnataka: Southern India constituent unit
• Shillong, Meghalaya: North-Eastern India constituent unit

Location advantage: Express your preferences during application; NCERT considers but final decision organizational need-based.

FAQs: NCERT Recruitment 2026

Q1: Can I apply if I’m currently pursuing my Ph.D.?
A: No. Ph.D. must be completed and awarded as on the closing date of application (Feb 20, 2026). Provisional certificates are not acceptable.

Q2: Is NET exemption valid for positions where NET wasn’t conducted in my subject?
A: Yes. If your subject doesn’t have NET/SLET/SET conducted by UGC, CSIR, or similar bodies, NET is not required. Submit proof of your subject area.

Q3: Can I apply for both Professor and Assistant Professor posts?
A: Yes, if you meet eligibility for both. Submit separate applications with separate fees (if applicable). NCERT will consider you for the position where you’re best suited based on qualifications.

Q4: What if I have publications in languages other than English?
A: Translations to English or Hindi must be submitted along with originals. Ensure authenticity and proper formatting.

Q5: How does NCERT calculate research score?
A: As per UGC Regulations-2018, scores are based on publications, conference presentations, authored books, patents, funded research, and fellowships. Check Appendix-II of the official notification for detailed scoring.

Q6: Can government employees apply without NOC?
A: Technically you can apply, but you must submit NOC at the time of online application. Without it, even if shortlisted, document verification will be failed.

Q7: What’s the interview pattern? Any written test?
A: No written test for academic positions. Selection is purely merit-based + interview. Interview is comprehensive, testing subject knowledge, teaching aptitude, research vision, and fit for NCERT mission.

Q8: If selected for multiple positions, can I choose which one to join?
A: Final posting is decided by NCERT based on organizational need and merit. You can express preference, but the organization has final authority.

Q9: Is there any age limit relaxation for candidates with research excellence?
A: No specific relaxation based on research alone. Age limits follow government norms with relaxation only for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD/Government employees.

Q10: Can I modify my application after submission?
A: No modifications allowed after final submission. Review carefully before clicking submit. Only registered applications can proceed; incomplete applications are automatically rejected.

Conclusion: Your Path to NCERT Academic Career

The NCERT recruitment 2026 represents a rare opportunity to join India’s premier educational research organization. With 117 positions across diverse disciplines, competitive salaries, job security, and the meaningful work of shaping India’s education system, this recruitment cycle attracts top academic talent nationwide.

Key Success Factors:

1. Early application: Don’t wait until deadline; apply within first week
2. Complete documentation: Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and properly formatted
3. Honest information: Provide accurate details; NCERT verifies thoroughly
4. Strategic focus: Apply to 2-3 departments where you best qualify
5. Interview readiness: Prepare comprehensively on subject, teaching philosophy, and NCERT mission

Timeline Summary:

• Registration opens: Jan 31, 2026
• Last date to apply: Feb 20, 2026
• Shortlisting: March-April 2026 (expected)
• Interviews: April-May 2026 (expected)
• Results: June 2026 (expected)
• Joining: July-August 2026 (expected)

For the most current information, regularly visit www.ncert.nic.in and check the Announcements → Vacancies → Academic section. Contact: advt177ncert@gmail.com for any queries.

For academics and educators committed to excellence, NCERT represents not just employment—but a calling to contribute to India’s educational renaissance.