Welcome to our PET Exam Guidance page
Are you planning to pursue a Ph.D. in Social Work but don’t know how to get started?
You’ve come to the right place. We are here to help you prepare confidently for the PET exams held all over India
PET Exam Overview
What is PET Exam?
PET exam is the first step in the Ph.D. admission process. The purpose of this exam is to assess the candidate's research aptitude and subject knowledge.
Why is PET important?
Most universities conduct PET eligibility test for PhD admission. This test is conducted before the interview and research proposal screening and evaluation. Therefore, this test is given importance. Some universities exempt candidates with NET/SET/GATE from this.
Who can apply for PET?
Postgraduate degree (minimum 55%, or 50% for reserved categories), final year students of Postgraduate degree may also be eligible (varies by university)
Who conducts the PET?
Each university conducts its own PET exam, the pattern and syllabus are mostly similar but may vary slightly.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus
| Paper | Learn more |
|---|---|
Paper 1 Research Methodology | |
Paper 2 Social Work | |
Download Syllabus PDFs |
PYQ Paper
Practice previous year question paper with answer keys
| Question Paper | View |
|---|---|
2021 Question Paper | |
2022 Question Paper | |
2023 Question Paper | |
2024 Question Paper |
Mock Test
Access free practice Series
| Mock Test | Start Test |
|---|---|
Full Syllabus Simulation: Research Methodology Essentials | |
Research Designs, Hypothesis & Sampling Drill | |
Data Collection, Tools and Analysis Practice | |
Qualitative Vs Quantitative Methods Quick Test | |
Ethics, Validity and Reliability Review |
Recommended books
Ph.D. Entrance Test - Research Methodology Guide for All Streams
This book is specially designed for the aspirants preparing for the IGNOU Ph.D. Entrance Examination. It is also useful for research methodology in all academic streams. It includes theory, practice questions and model papers which help the candidates to understand the key research concepts and examination methods.
Anyone Can Do a Ph.D - Prof. Raghu Korrapati
This inspiring book by Prof. Raghu Korrapati guides you through practical steps to confidently complete your Ph.D. program. It includes detailed discussions on research planning, time management, and proposal writing. The book empowers readers to overcome challenges and achieve their Ph.D. goals.
Ph.D. Entrance & UGC NET in Social Work MCQ Guide
This book contains a collection of multiple choice questions and answer keys, especially for UGC NET and Ph.D. Entrance Examinations in Social Work. It is designed for quick revision and practice. This book helps candidates to assess their knowledge, identify weak areas and improve accuracy.
Ph.D. Common Eligibility Test Paper I - Upkar Publication
This book is a perfect resource for candidates preparing for the state-level Ph.D. Entrance Examination (Paper 1). It covers essential topics like research aptitude, theory, reasoning, general awareness and practice questions. It serves as a reliable guide to crack the Ph.D. qualifying examination with confidence.
Popular Courses
PET Full Preparation - 3 Month Intensive Course
Best for: First Time PET Aspirants
Duration: 12 Weeks
Mode: Online (Live + Recorded)
Includes:
- Complete Coverage of Paper 1 & Paper 2
- 30+ Live Interactive Classes
- Weekly Topic-wise Tests
- 5 Full Length Mock Tests
- Downloadable Notes & Revision PDFs
Fee: ₹499/-
PET Crash Course - 1 Month Fast Track
Best for: Repeaters
Duration: 4 Weeks
Mode: Online (Live + Recorded)
Includes:
- Rapid revision of key topics from Paper 1 & 2
- 12+ Fast-Track Sessions
- 3 Full Mock Tests
- Practice MCQs & Topic Quizzes
Fee: ₹299/-
PET Paper 1 Research Methodology - Concept Builder
Best for: Students trom non-research backgrounds or weak in Paper 1
Duration: 6 weeks
Mode: Online (Live + Recorded)
Includes:
- Complete Research Methodology Coverage
- 15+ Concept-Based Sessions
- Topic-wise MCQ Practice
- 2 Paper 1 Mock Tests
Fee: ₹299/-
PET Mock Test Series + Evaluation Pack
Best for: Self-study students who just need practice
Duration: 5 weeks
Mode: Online (self-paced)
Includes:
- 5 full-length mock tests (Paper 1 & 2)
- 10 topic-wise quizzes
- Answer keys with explanations
- Weekly feedback on test performance
- Telegram group for test discussion
Fee: ₹199/-
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PET Exam and why is it important?
The Ph.D. Entrance Test (PET) is conducted by many universities to test the readiness of students for research. This exam assesses both the subject knowledge and research aptitude of the students. This makes it an important step towards getting admission in Ph.D. programs.
Who can apply for PET exam?
Anyone with a post-graduate degree is generally eligible for PET with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories). Some universities also accept applications from students in the final year of their postgraduate programme. Carefully check the eligibility criteria of the university you are applying to.
Can I apply for PET without NET, SET, GATE?
Yes, you can! PET is an exam designed for candidates who have not cleared NET, SET or GATE. If you have cleared any of these exams, many universities may completely exempt you from giving PET. So it is always better to check the rules of the university you are applying to.
Can I take the PET exam more than once?
Yes, you can! There is no limit to the number of attempts for the PET exam. You are free to try again until you succeed.
Is the PET syllabus the same in every university?
It is mostly the same (especially Paper 1 – Research Methodology), but Paper 2 topics may vary from university to university. So always check the official syllabus of each university.
What is the format of the PET exam?
The PET exam mainly consists of two papers:
Paper 1: Research Methods
Paper 2: Subject-specific (such as Social Work)
Most of the exam is multiple choice, but some universities may also include descriptive questions. Therefore, it is important to check the pattern set by the university of your choice.
How to prepare for PET exam?
You should prepare for the exam as per the syllabus prescribed by the University Grant Commission because mostly all the universities plan the exam as per UGC. Also, revise the major subjects of your postgraduate education thoroughly. Practicing mock tests and solving previous years question papers will definitely help you in getting success in the exam.
Is there an interview after passing the PET exam?
Yes, in most universities, passing the PET is just the first step. You are usually invited for an interview or asked to submit a research proposal as part of the final admission process for a Ph.D. program.