The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is one of India’s most prestigious eligibility exams for aspiring teachers. Conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), CTET certifies candidates for teaching positions in central government schools such as KVS, NVS, Central Tibetan Schools, and other schools under the Union Territories. The upcoming 21st Edition of CTET will be conducted in February 2026, as officially announced by CBSE.
According to the public notice, the CTET 2026 exam will be held on 8th February 2026 (Sunday) in two papers – Paper I and Paper II. The exam will be conducted in 20 languages across 132 cities in India. Candidates who aspire to teach at the Primary (Classes I–V) and Upper Primary (Classes VI–VIII) levels must appear for Paper I and Paper II, respectively.
CTET 2026 – Important Details
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Edition | 21st Edition |
| Exam Date | 8th February 2026 (Sunday) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Languages | 20 |
| Exam Cities | 132 across India |
| Papers Conducted | Paper I and Paper II |
| Official Website | https://ctet.nic.in |
CTET 2026 Exam Pattern
CTET 2026 comprises two papers, each designed for specific teaching levels:
- Paper I – for those who wish to teach Classes I to V (Primary Level)
- Paper II – for those who wish to teach Classes VI to VIII (Upper Primary Level)
CTET 2026 Exam Pattern – Paper I (Primary Level)
This paper is for candidates who intend to become teachers for Classes I–V.
| S.No. | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Child Development and Pedagogy | 30 | 30 |
| 2 | Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Language I | 30 | 30 |
| 4 | Language II | 30 | 30 |
| 5 | Environmental Studies (EVS) | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
- Duration: 150 minutes (2 hours 30 minutes)
- Nature of Questions: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
- Marking Scheme: 1 mark per question; no negative marking
CTET 2026 Exam Pattern – Paper II (Upper Primary Level)
This paper is for candidates who aim to teach Classes VI–VIII.
| S.No. | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Child Development and Pedagogy | 30 | 30 |
| 2 | Language I | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Language II | 30 | 30 |
| 4 | Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies/Social Science | 60 | 60 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
- Duration: 150 minutes
- Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- No Negative Marking
Choice in Subject 4:
- Candidates opting for Mathematics & Science should have specialized in these subjects at graduation level.
- Candidates opting for Social Studies/Social Science should have relevant background in history, geography, political science, or related fields.
CTET 2026 Syllabus Overview
The detailed syllabus will be mentioned in the CTET 2026 Information Bulletin, but broadly, it includes the following:
Paper I (Primary Level) Syllabus Highlights:
- Child Development and Pedagogy: Understanding learning, teaching methodology, child psychology, and inclusive education.
- Language I & II: Focus on comprehension, language development, and communication skills.
- Mathematics: Basic arithmetic, geometry, and pedagogy of mathematics.
- Environmental Studies (EVS): Concepts of environment, ecology, social and cultural life, and teaching methods.
Paper II (Upper Primary Level) Syllabus Highlights:
- Child Development and Pedagogy: Educational psychology for upper primary students.
- Language I & II: Grammar, comprehension, and pedagogy of language teaching.
- Mathematics and Science / Social Studies: Problem-solving, reasoning ability, and conceptual understanding of the chosen subject.
CTET Eligibility Criteria 2026
The eligibility criteria vary for Paper I and Paper II. Generally:
- For Paper I:
Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed). - For Paper II:
Graduation with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in B.Ed or equivalent teacher training program.
CTET 2026 Application Process
- Visit the official website: https://ctet.nic.in
- Click on “Apply for CTET 2026” link.
- Register with valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the application form carefully.
- Upload scanned photograph and signature.
- Pay the examination fee online.
- Submit and take a printout of the confirmation page.
The CTET 2026 (February 2026 Exam) is a golden opportunity for teaching aspirants across India to begin their career in central government schools. With a clear understanding of the exam pattern, syllabus, and preparation strategy, candidates can achieve success. Always refer to the official CTET website (https://ctet.nic.in) for authentic updates and
FAQ – CTET 2026
When will CTET 2026 be conducted?
On 8th February 2026 (Sunday)
How many languages will CTET 2026 be conducted in?
In 20 languages
Does CTET have negative marking?
No, CTET has no negative marking.
What qualification is required for CTET Paper I?
Senior Secondary with 50% marks + D.El.Ed.
What qualification is required for CTET Paper II?
Graduation with 50% marks + B.Ed.
Which website should candidates visit for CTET updates?
The official CTET website: https://ctet.nic.in
