The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) opened registration for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026. Prospective teachers for Classes 1 to 8 can apply online at ctet.nic.in. The deadline for applications is December 18 . The examination is scheduled for February 8 .
CTET assesses candidates for teaching roles in central government schools. These include Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas. Other schools accepting CTET scores also use the examination for recruitment.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet specific academic and professional qualifications. Requirements differ for Paper I (Classes 1-5) and Paper II (Classes 6-8). A bachelor’s degree or education diploma is generally required.
For Paper I (Classes 1-5)
Minimum qualifications for the Primary Stage (Classes 1-5) include Senior Secondary education with at least 50% marks. This must combine with a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education. Other options are a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed) or a 2-year Diploma in Education (Special Education).
For Paper II (Classes 6-8)
For the Elementary Stage (Classes 6-8), a Bachelor’s Degree is required with a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education. A Bachelor’s Degree with at least 50% marks and a Bachelor in Education (B.Ed) is another path. Candidates with a 4-year B.El.Ed or a B.A./B.Sc.Ed are also eligible. Specific details are in the official information bulletin.
CTET Exam Structure
The CTET exam has two papers: Paper I and Paper II. Paper I is for candidates teaching Classes 1-5. Paper II is for those teaching Classes 6-8. Candidates can appear for both papers if eligible.
Paper I Details
Paper I consists of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Each question carries one mark. Subjects include Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies. The exam duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Paper II Details
Paper II also has 150 MCQs. Each question carries one mark. Compulsory subjects are Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, and Language II. Candidates choose between Mathematics and Science, or Social Studies/Social Science. The exam duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Application Process
Candidates must follow a clear online application process. Visit ctet.nic.in. Complete the registration form with personal details. Fill out the detailed application form. Upload scanned copies of required documents, including photograph and signature. Pay the application fee online. A confirmation page appears after submission.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Opens | Ongoing |
| Application Deadline | December 18 |
| Examination Date | February 8 |
CTET Score Validity
The CTET certificate holds lifetime validity. Qualified candidates do not need to retake the exam. This applies unless they seek score improvement. This change provides long-term eligibility.
Next Steps
CBSE will release admit cards after the application window closes. These cards contain exam center details and reporting times. Results will publish on the official website. Candidates should regularly check ctet.nic.in for updates.