Preparing for CTET 2026? You’re in the right place. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the CTET 2026 exam—including the official notification, important dates, eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, and exam-day guidelines. This complete guide will help you understand the exam structure and plan your preparation with confidence.
Brief overview of CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test)
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level exam conducted by CBSE to assess the teaching eligibility of candidates who aim to work in schools from Class I to VIII. It is held twice a year and consists of two papers—Paper I for primary level and Paper II for upper primary level.
CTET serves as an essential qualification for teaching jobs in central schools like KVS and NVS and is also accepted by many state and private institutions. The exam evaluates core teaching abilities and ensures that qualified teachers enter the education system.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for CTET, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications required for teaching posts. These qualifications follow a few key rules:
- NCTE Regulations: The educational requirements for teachers at all levels—Pre-Primary to Senior Secondary—must follow the latest rules issued by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).
- Government/KVS/NVS Rules: The qualifications should also match the recruitment rules set by the State/UT Government where the school is located, or the rules followed by KVS and NVS.
- Check your eligibility yourself: Candidates must ensure they meet all criteria before applying. Being allowed to appear for CTET does not mean that eligibility has been confirmed or that they are guaranteed a job. Final eligibility is checked later by the recruiting authority.
- Relaxation for reserved categories: SC, ST, OBC, and differently-abled candidates get a 5% relaxation in the minimum qualifying marks required for eligibility.
Candidates are advised to check the official NCTE website (https://ncte.gov.in) to confirm their eligibility.
CTET Exam Structure
The CTET consists entirely of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). Each question has four options, and candidates must select the most suitable answer. Every correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is no negative marking. The exam has two separate papers:
- Paper I – For those who want to teach Classes I to V
- Paper II – For those who want to teach Classes VI to VIII
Candidates who wish to teach both levels must appear for both papers.
Paper I Structure (Classes I to V – Primary Stage)
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Paper I includes five compulsory sections, each carrying 30 marks:
- Child Development & Pedagogy – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Focuses on teaching and learning psychology for children aged 6–11 years.
- Tests understanding of learners’ needs, diversity, classroom interaction, and qualities of an effective teacher.
- Language I – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Tests proficiency in the chosen medium of instruction.
- Language II – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Focuses on language skills, communication, and comprehension.
- Must be a different language from Language I. Candidates can choose from the list of available languages.
- Mathematics – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Includes basic concepts, problem-solving, and teaching methods.
- Questions cover topics taught in Classes I–V, based on NCERT syllabus.
- Environmental Studies – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Tests understanding of EVS concepts, applications, and pedagogy.
- Content follows the NCERT syllabus for Classes I–V.
Total: 150 Questions | 150 Marks
Though the content is based on primary-level topics, the difficulty may extend up to the secondary level to test deeper understanding.
CTET Paper II Exam Structure (Classes VI to VIII – Elementary Stage)
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Paper II is designed for candidates who wish to teach at the upper primary level. All sections are compulsory, except for the subject-area choice (Maths & Science OR Social Studies).
- Child Development & Pedagogy – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Focuses on teaching and learning concepts for students aged 11–14 years.
- Tests understanding of learners’ needs, developmental stages, and classroom strategies.
- Mathematics & Science – 60 Questions (60 Marks)
- For candidates applying as Maths or Science teachers.
- Includes subject knowledge and teaching methods., OR
- Social Studies / Social Science – 60 Questions (60 Marks)
- For candidates planning to teach Social Studies.
- Covers History, Geography, Civics, and related pedagogy.
- Language I – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Tests command over the medium of instruction selected by the candidate.
- Language II – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
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- Focuses on comprehension, communication skills, and language understanding.
- Must be different from Language I.
Total: 150 Questions | 150 Marks
Teachers applying for subjects other than Maths, Science, or Social Studies may opt for either subject-area option based on suitability.
DOWNLOAD INFORMATION BULLETIN CTET 2026
CTET 2026 Important Dates
| CTET 2026 Notification Released | 27 November 2025 |
| Online Application Window | 27 November 2025 to 18 December 2025 |
| Admit Cards Available | February 2026 |
| CTET Examination | February 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key | 8 February 2026 |
| Declaration of Result | April 2026 |
CTET 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
Before You Leave for the Exam
- Admit Card: Make sure to download and print your CTET admit card beforehand. You will not be allowed inside without it.
- Photo ID: Carry a valid government-issued ID (Aadhar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.) for identity verification.
- Stationery: Bring your own blue or black ballpoint pens for filling the OMR sheet. Avoid carrying items like pencils or erasers unless specifically allowed.
- Reach Early: Try to arrive at the center well before reporting time so you can complete checking and entry formalities calmly.
During the Exam
- Mode of Exam: The CTET is conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode, with questions in the MCQ format.
- Paper Timings:
- Paper I: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (for Classes I–V)
- Paper II: 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM (for Classes VI–VIII)
- Marking System: Each correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is no negative marking, so attempt all questions.
- Syllabus Focus:
- Paper I: Child Development, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, and EVS
- Paper II: Child Development, Language I, Language II, and either Maths & Science or Social Studies
General Tips for Exam Day
- Read Instructions Carefully: Take a few minutes to go through the directions given on the question booklet and OMR sheet.
- Avoid Prohibited Items: Do not bring mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any electronic devices into the exam hall.
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress simply and comfortably to avoid any inconvenience during checking.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Keep yourself well-rested, hydrated, and relaxed so you can give your best effort throughout the exam.
Is CTET Mandatory for Teaching Jobs?
Yes, CTET is mandatory for most teaching jobs in central government schools such as KVS, NVS, Central Tibetan Schools, and schools under the UT administrations. Many state governments and private schools also accept CTET as a valid eligibility test for teacher recruitment.
While CTET qualifies you to apply for teaching posts, it does not guarantee a job. You still need to meet other recruitment requirements set by the respective school or government body.
Conclusion
The CTET 2026 exam is an important opportunity for aspiring teachers who want to build a strong career in the education sector. With clear eligibility rules, a well-defined exam structure, and a transparent selection process, CTET helps ensure that qualified and capable teachers enter classrooms across the country. Candidates should stay updated with official notifications, follow the exam guidelines carefully, and prepare strategically for both papers.
By understanding the syllabus, exam pattern, and key dates in advance, you can plan your preparation effectively and increase your chances of qualifying. Stay focused, stay consistent, and make the most of the resources available. Best wishes for your CTET 2026 journey!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on official notifications and publicly available sources. For the most accurate and updated details, candidates should always refer to the official CTET website or contact the concerned authorities directly.