CSIR JRF Life Preparation Guide
NTA on behalf of CSIR
Your Complete Preparation Guide for CSIR JRF Life 2027 — strategy, study plan, tips & more.
Exam Overview
Mode
Online (CBT)
Frequency
Twice a year (June & December)
Next Exam Date
June 2027
EEligibility Criteria
MSc in Life Sciences with 55% marks (age 28 for JRF)
ANumber of Attempts
No limit (JRF: age limit applies)
Study Plan by Subject
Part A (General Aptitude)
Week 1-4: Foundation
Core concepts & basics
Week 5-8: Deep Practice
Advanced problems & revision
Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision
Full-length tests & weak-area focus
Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list
Part B (Core Life Sciences)
Week 1-4: Foundation
Core concepts & basics
Week 5-8: Deep Practice
Advanced problems & revision
Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision
Full-length tests & weak-area focus
Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list
Part C (Advanced Life Sciences)
Week 1-4: Foundation
Core concepts & basics
Week 5-8: Deep Practice
Advanced problems & revision
Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision
Full-length tests & weak-area focus
Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list
Expert Preparation Tips
Part C is the differentiator — requires PhD-level experimental reasoning
Focus on Molecular Biology mechanisms, Cell signaling, and Genetics deeply
Alberts, Lodish, and Lewin are essential references
Attempt fewer Part C questions with confidence rather than all with guesswork
Exam Pattern at a Glance
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A (General Aptitude) | 48 | 67 | 60 min |
| Part B (Core Life Sciences) | 48 | 67 | 60 min |
| Part C (Advanced Life Sciences) | 48 | 67 | 60 min |
| Total | 145 | 200 | 180 min |
Important Dates
Registration Opens
March 2027
Next Exam Date
June 2027
Conducted By
NTA on behalf of CSIR
Frequently Asked Questions
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