The ASRB is the body under the Department of Agricultural Research & Education (DARE) that handles recruitment for key scientific, research and technical positions in agriculture and allied fields.
For 2025, the board is overseeing examinations for:
NET (National Eligibility Test) – for eligibility of Assistant Professor/Lecturer roles in agriculture/universities.
SMS (Subject Matter Specialist) (T-6) – a technical/expert role at certain pay level.
ARS (Agricultural Research Service) – research scientist positions.
STO (Senior Technical Officer) (T-6) – senior technical operations roles.
Why This Year’s Exam Is Important

2025 marks a critical cycle because:
There are many posts open (e.g., ARS, SMS, STO) across India.
The admit card release and exam schedule had changes and updates, meaning staying alert is key.
Proper preparation and timely download of the admit card will avoid last-minute hassles.
Key Posts Covered: NET, SMS (T-6), ARS & STO
NET (National Eligibility Test) Overview
The NET is the qualifying test for candidates aiming for faculty/lecturer roles in agriculture universities. It is administered by ASRB and involves a computer-based test.
SMS (Subject Matter Specialist) (T-6) Post Details
SMS (T-6) is a technical/expert role focused on specific subject areas within agriculture — the “T-6” refers to the pay level. Candidates need to qualify preliminary and mains (or descriptive) stages after NET or equivalent.
ARS (Agricultural Research Service) Details
For candidates aiming at a research-scientist track, ARS is the route. The 2025 notification includes ARS under the same combined exam structure.
STO (Senior Technical Officer) (T-6) Details
The STO (T-6) slot is for senior technical roles, tied to the same exam schedule as SMS and ARS in this cycle.
Important Dates for Admit Card & Exam 2025
Application Timeline
The online application login opened on 22 April 2025.
The last date to apply was 21 May 2025.
Admit Card Release Date
The admit card for NET, SMS, ARS, STO was officially released around 04 November 2025.
Some earlier sources indicated possible release dates in August/September, but were later revised.
Exam Dates (Prelims/CBT & Mains)
Preliminary/CBT exam for all posts is scheduled 11 to 13 November 2025.
Mains (Descriptive) exam for SMS/ARDS/STO is scheduled for 1 March 2026 (Sunday) according to latest update.
How to Download the Admit Card
Step-by-Step Guide
Look for the notice titled “Admission Certificate for Combined Computer Based Test for NET, ARS, SMS (T-6) & STO (T-6) Examination – 2025”.
Click the link for the admit card/download hall ticket.
Enter your registration number, date of birth/password/captcha as required.
Download the PDF and print a hard copy for future use.
Details You’ll Need
Registration number/application number that you received at the time of applying.
Date of birth as entered in the application.
Login password or candidate ID (if applicable).
Stable internet and printer for printing.
Admit Card: What Details to Check
Candidate Information
Your name, father/mother’s name, category (General/OBC/SC/ST/PwBD), photograph and signature must be correct.
Exam Centre, Date & Time
The exam venue address, shift, date and time of the exam must match what you expected. Double-check for any mismatches.
Photo/Signature and Category Details
Ensure your photo is visible, signature is present, and category details are mentioned correctly. A mismatch can result in issues at the exam centre.
Instructions for the Exam Day
The admit card also carries rules like reporting time, items to bring and items prohibited. Read them carefully
Exam Pattern & Selection Process (Brief)
NET Paper Format
Single paper of 150 MCQs, 150 marks.
Duration: 2 hours.
Negative marking: 1/3 mark for wrong answer.
SMS/ARS/STO Stages
After the preliminary/CBT stage, shortlisted candidates appear for mains (descriptive) and possibly interview or further selection stages depending on the post.
Important Instructions for Exam Day
What to Carry
Printed hard copy of the admit card (clearly printed).
Valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter card).
Two recent passport-size photographs (if required).
Transparent water bottle, mask, sanitizer (as per COVID norms / centre guidelines).
What Not to Carry
Mobile phones, tablets, calculators, smart watches, any electronic gadget.
Study materials, books, notes, papers.
Bags unless explicitly allowed by the centre.
Reporting Time and Conduct
Arrive at least 60 minutes before the reporting time (ideally earlier) to avoid surprises. Follow instructions, maintain silence, and adhere to the dress code or centre instructions.
Conclusion
Securing your admit card for the ASRB SMS and other posts’ exam in 2025 is your first concrete step toward the exam day. Think of it like the boarding pass for a flight — without it, you simply cannot board. Make sure you download it the moment it’s available, verify all details, print it, and prepare your day logistics. With your hall ticket in hand and everything ready, you can move into full preparation mode without the stress of last-minute chaos. Best of luck with your exam journey — you’ve got this!
Read also : NHAI Recruitment 2025 Latest News





