About the NET-ARS-SMS-STO Exam

The Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB) conducts the National Eligibility Test (NET), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and Subject Matter Specialist/Senior Technical Officer (SMS/STO – T6) examinations in a combined schedule. These exams serve different purposes but share a common preliminary stage for efficiency.

The Combined Examination consists of three major exams:

• (A) National Eligibility Test (NET)

• (B) Agricultural Research Service (ARS)

• (C) Subject Matter Specialist (SMS-T6) & Senior Technical Officer (STO-T6)

Purpose

• Direct recruitment of Specialists (SMS-T6) and Officers (STO-T6) in ICAR Institutes and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) under ICAR.

Eligibility

• Age Limit: 21 - 35 years as on 01.08.2025

• Age Relaxation:

  • SC/ST: +5 years

  • OBC: +3 years

  • PwBD: +10 years

  • ICAR Employees: up to 45 years

• Educational Qualification: Master's degree in the relevant discipline (completed by 30.09.2025).

Exam Pattern

1. Preliminary Exam (CBT) – Qualifying

   • Duration: 2 hours

   • Questions: 150 MCQs

   • Marks: 150

   • Negative Marking: 1/3rd per incorrect answer

   • Qualifying Marks:

     • UR: 67.5 (45%)

     • OBC/EWS: 60 (40%)

     • SC/ST/PwBD: 52.5 (35%)

2. Mains Exam (Descriptive)

   • Duration: 3 hours

   • Marks: 300

   • Question Types:

     • 25 questions (5 marks each, 50 words)

     • 10 questions (10 marks each, 100 words)

     • 5 questions (15 marks each, 150 words)

   • Medium: English/Hindi

3. Personal Interview

   • Marks: 45

Final Merit List: Based on Mains + Interview