Overview
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued the revised schedule for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test, or CTET 2026, covering Paper 1 and Paper 2. The examination is scheduled to be conducted on February 7 and February 8, 2026, subject to the paper-wise arrangements communicated to candidates. CTET is an eligibility examination and does not directly advertise recruitment posts; therefore, the total number of vacancies is not applicable.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Organization | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Post Name | Teacher Eligibility — Classes I to V and Classes VI to VIII |
| Total Vacancies | Not applicable; CTET is an eligibility test |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | ctet.nic.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Application Start | November 27, 2025 |
| Last Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Exam Date | February 7 and February 8, 2026 |
| Result Date | TBA |
Candidates should check their admit cards for the final examination date, reporting time, shift and allotted centre. The schedule printed on the admit card will be binding for each applicant.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Paper 1 — Classes I to V: Candidates should generally have passed Senior Secondary or Class 12 with the prescribed marks and completed, or be appearing in, a recognised Diploma in Elementary Education, Bachelor of Elementary Education or another teacher-training qualification permitted under applicable NCTE rules.
- Paper 2 — Classes VI to VIII: Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree along with a Diploma in Elementary Education, B.Ed or another approved teacher-education qualification.
- Candidates intending to teach both levels must appear for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 and satisfy the separate qualification requirements for each paper.
- Applicants awaiting the final result of an eligible teacher-training programme may apply where permitted under the prevailing CTET and NCTE regulations.
- Eligibility must be supported by valid academic and training documents during recruitment by the appointing authority.
Age Limit
- CBSE does not prescribe a specific upper age limit for appearing in CTET.
- Candidates must meet the educational and professional qualification requirements.
- Passing CTET does not override the age conditions fixed separately by a recruiting school, state government or other appointing authority.
Fees
- General/OBC-NCL: ₹1,000 for one paper and ₹1,200 for both papers.
- SC/ST/Differently Abled candidates: ₹500 for one paper and ₹600 for both papers.
- Applicable bank or payment-processing charges may be collected separately.
- The examination fee is generally non-refundable after successful submission.
Selection Process
- Computer/OMR-based eligibility examination: Candidates appear for Paper 1, Paper 2 or both, depending on the teaching level selected in the application.
- Qualifying assessment: Marks are evaluated against the CTET qualifying criteria. Relaxation, where applicable, is governed by recruitment policies and relevant rules.
- Certificate and recruitment verification: Successful candidates receive CTET eligibility documentation, which may be used while applying for teaching positions. Final appointment remains subject to document verification and the selection procedure of the recruiting institution.
How to Apply
- Visit the official CTET portal at ctet.nic.in and open the relevant CTET 2026 application link.
- Select the new registration option and enter the required personal details, including the candidate’s name, date of birth, mobile number and email address.
- Note the generated application number and create a secure password for future login.
- Complete the form by selecting Paper 1, Paper 2 or both, examination city preferences, language options and educational qualifications.
- Upload a recent scanned photograph and signature in the prescribed format and file size.
- Pay the applicable examination fee through the available online payment facility.
- Review all entries carefully before final submission. Candidates should ensure that their name and date of birth match their official documents.
- Download the confirmation page and retain a printed or digital copy of the application form, fee receipt and admit card.
- As the application window has closed, registered candidates should use the portal to access admit-card and examination-related updates rather than submit a fresh form.
Important Links
FAQs
1. When will CTET 2026 Paper 1 and Paper 2 be held?
The revised examination schedule covers February 7 and February 8, 2026. Candidates must follow the date and shift printed on their admit cards.
2. Is CTET 2026 a recruitment examination?
No. CTET is a teacher eligibility examination. Qualifying candidates must apply separately for vacancies advertised by schools or recruiting authorities.
3. Can a candidate apply for both papers?
Yes. Candidates meeting the required qualifications may appear for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 by selecting bo
