CTET 2026
Central Teacher Eligibility Test · केंद्रीय शिक्षक पात्रता परीक्षा
What is CTET?
CTET is the teacher eligibility test conducted by CBSE for teaching posts in central government schools such as KVS and NVS. Paper I qualifies for Classes 1–5 and Paper II for Classes 6–8.
Qualifying CTET is an eligibility condition, not a job. The certificate is valid for life.
- Conducting body
- CBSE
- Qualification
- Paper I: Class 12 with 50% plus a diploma in elementary education (D
- Age limit
- Varies by post
- Exam stages
- 2 stages: Paper I (Classes 1–5), Paper II (Classes 6–8)
- 2026 vacancies
- Vacancies to be notified
- Negative marking
- None
CTET September 2026 (22nd edition): important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online application starts | 11 May 2026 |
| Applications reopened | 25 Aug 2026 |
| Reopened window closes | 1 Sep 2026 |
| Exam (rescheduled) | 12 Dec 2026 (tentative) |
Latest CTET updates
No CTET updates have been published yet. We check the official website twice a day.
How to apply for CTET
- 1Open ctet.nic.in and click 'Apply Online' when the CTET information bulletin is released
- 2Register with your details and note the application number
- 3Choose Paper I, Paper II or both, language options and exam city
- 4Upload photograph and signature, then pay the fee online
- 5Submit and print the confirmation page
CTET eligibility
- Educational qualification
- Paper I: Class 12 with 50% plus a diploma in elementary education (D.El.Ed) or equivalent. Paper II: graduation plus a B.Ed. or D.El.Ed, or other qualifications listed in the bulletin.
- Age limit
- Varies by post
- Nationality
- As per the information bulletin.
Application fee
| Category | Application fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC — one paper | ₹1,000 |
| General / OBC — both papers | ₹1,200 |
| SC / ST / Differently abled — one paper | ₹500 |
| SC / ST / Differently abled — both papers | ₹600 |
CTET exam pattern
| Stage | Mode | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I (Classes 1–5) | Offline / computer-based (as notified) | 150 | 150 | 150 min |
| Paper II (Classes 6–8) | Offline / computer-based (as notified) | 150 | 150 | 150 min |
CTET syllabus
Papers I & II
Child Development and Pedagogy
Child development, Concept of inclusive education, Learning and pedagogy
Papers I & II
Language
Comprehension, Pedagogy of language development
Papers I & II
Mathematics
Content (Class 1–8 level), Pedagogical issues
Papers I & II
Environmental Studies / Science / Social Studies
Content, Pedagogical issues
Selection process
- 1CTET exam
- 2CTET certificate (lifetime validity)
- 3Apply for teacher recruitment (KVS, NVS, etc.)
How to prepare for CTET
- Child Development and Pedagogy appears in both papers — it is the highest-return subject.
Practice for CTET
Reading the syllabus is step one. Timed practice under the real CTET pattern is what moves your score. Our partner platform EduJha offers practice with instant scoring and explanations.
CTET: frequently asked questions
What is the educational qualification for CTET?
To apply for CTET: Paper I: Class 12 with 50% plus a diploma in elementary education (D.El.Ed) or equivalent. Paper II: graduation plus a B.Ed. or D.El.Ed, or other qualifications listed in the bulletin.
What is the selection process of CTET?
The CTET selection process is: CTET exam → CTET certificate (lifetime validity) → Apply for teacher recruitment (KVS, NVS, etc.).
Is there negative marking in CTET?
No, CTET does not have negative marking as per the current pattern.
How to apply for CTET?
Apply online on the official portal (https://ctet.nic.in): 1) Open ctet.nic.in and click 'Apply Online' when the CTET information bulletin is released; 2) Register with your details and note the application number; 3) Choose Paper I, Paper II or both, language options and exam city; 4) Upload photograph and signature, then pay the fee online; 5) Submit and print the confirmation page.
How long is a CTET certificate valid?
The CTET certificate is valid for life.