NTA has released the ICAR AIEEA PG and PhD 2026 online admission forms! Check the step-by-step application process, fees, and eligibility.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially started the online registration process for the ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE-JRF/SRF (Ph.D.) entrance examinations for the 2026–27 academic session. Conducted on behalf of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), this national-level entrance exam is the ultimate gateway for students wanting to secure Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Agriculture and Allied Sciences across India.
The online registration window opened on May 8, 2026, and candidates can submit their forms until June 7, 2026. If you want to pursue higher studies in top agricultural universities, here is a complete, easy-to-understand guide regarding the application dates, eligibility, fees, and exam patterns.
ICAR PG & PhD Admission 2026: Key Dates
To ensure you don’t miss out on seat allotments, keep a close watch on the official schedule:
| Admission Event | Important Dates |
| Online Application Start Date | May 8, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | June 7, 2026 (up to 05:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Online Fee Payment | June 7, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Application Correction Window | June 9 to June 10, 2026 |
| ICAR Entrance Exam Date (CBT Mode) | July 4, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Admit Card & Result Declaration | To be announced soon |
Who Can Apply? Simple Eligibility Criteria
Before heading to the registration link, make sure you meet the baseline requirements set by NTA and ICAR.
1. For ICAR AIEEA (PG) Courses
- Age Limit: Minimum 19 years as of August 31, 2026.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a 4-year, 5-year, or 5.5-year Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Fisheries, Veterinary Sciences, or other related allied sciences from a recognized university.
- Minimum Marks: At least 60% marks (or equivalent OGPA) for General, OBC, and EWS candidates. For SC, ST, and PwD candidates, the requirement is 50% marks.
- Note: Graduates with standard 3-year degrees are generally not eligible, except for a few select courses at IARI and NDRI.
2. For AICE-JRF/SRF (Ph.D.) Courses
- Age Limit: Minimum 20 years as of August 31, 2026.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Master’s Degree in the relevant field of Agriculture or Allied Sciences from an ICAR-recognized or accredited institution.
Application Fee Details
The application fee varies depending on the course level and the category you belong to. The fee can be paid seamlessly via Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
AIEEA PG Course Fee Structure
- General: ₹1,300
- OBC (NCL) / EWS / UPS: ₹1,255
- SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender: ₹675
AICE JRF/SRF (Ph.D.) Course Fee Structure
- General: ₹2,000
- OBC (NCL) / EWS / UPS: ₹1,955
- SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender: ₹1,025
Exam Pattern: What to Expect?
The entrance exam is designed to test your core subject knowledge in a precise format.
- Mode of Exam: Computer Based Test (CBT) / Online.
- Type of Questions: Objective Type (Multiple Choice Questions – MCQs).
- Duration: 2 Hours (120 Minutes).
- Medium/Language: English Only.
- Marking Scheme: Each correct response adds +4 marks, while an incorrect response results in a negative deduction of -1 mark.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online
The application process is fully digital and can be completed via the official portal:
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official NTA ICAR examination hub at exams.nta.nic.in/icar.
- New Registration: Click on the registration link for either the PG or PhD program. Register using your primary mobile number and email ID to get your unique Application Number.
- Fill the Application Form: Log back in using your credentials. Complete your personal history details, choose your specific Core Subject Group, and select 4 preferred exam cities.
- Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-size photograph (with a clear background), your signature, and your thumb impression.
- Note: Ensure your uploaded photo is clear, as NTA utilizes high-security verification standards.
- Pay Examination Fee: Choose your payment gateway and process the application fee based on your category.
- Print Confirmation Page: Once the payment status turns successful, download and print the final Confirmation Page. Keep this document safe for the physical counselling rounds.
