If you’re planning on becoming an educator in the central government schools then you must know concerning the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026. It is the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has declared that the 21st version of the CTET will take place on February 8, 2026 across 132 cities throughout India. This test is the way to teaching positions at top institutions such as Navodaya Vidyalayas, Kendriya Vidyalayas and other schools run by central government.
The CTET certification is now mandatory for those who want to teach in these institutions, which makes CTET one of the crucial tests for teachers who are aspiring. With the official notification set to be published on the 25th of October 2025, you must prepare now to secure your position as a teacher. The application process will start right after the release of the notification and you need to be sure that you meet the requirements for eligibility before submitting your application.
CTET 2026 Application Form
CBSE has revealed the crucial times for CTET 2026. You must note down on your exam calendar. The announcement was made on the 24th of October 2025. It was followed by the more detailed announcement on the 25th of October 2025. The process for applying will start shortly after the release of the notification which gives you ample time to finish your registration prior to the date of the deadline.
Be aware that there will not be a CTET examination in 2025, since the next exam will be held in February 2026. This allows you plenty of time to study for the test and make sure that you satisfy all requirements for eligibility before submitting your application.
CTET 2026 Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Exam Name | Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Exam Date | February 8, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Notification Release | October 25, 2025 |
| Application Mode | Online at ctet.nic.in |
| Exam Cities | There are 132 cities across India |
| Languages Available | 20 languages |
| Papers | Paper I (Classes 1-5), Paper II (Classes 6-8) |
CTET Eligibility Criteria
Paper I Eligibility (Classes 1-5)
To be eligible for Paper I, you must satisfy any of these requirements. You must have completed your Senior Secondary examination with at minimum 50% marks, and have completed or be during the last year of a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education. Alternately, you may be eligible with the score of 45% for Senior Secondary, if you are from reserved category and have the appropriate diploma.
You may also be eligible with an undergraduate degree that is combined with an B.Ed degree or if you’ve earned 50 percent marks in Senior Secondary and plan to pursue the 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education program. The flexible eligibility criteria allows candidates with diverse backgrounds are eligible to teach in elementary classes.
Paper II Eligibility (Classes 6-8)
To be successful in Paper II, you must possess a degree from a recognized university along with the appropriate teaching qualifications. The most commonly required requirements are an academic degree with at least 50 marks and having continuous or completed B.Ed program. You may also be eligible with 40% marks for graduation if you’ve completed the B.Ed as per NCTE guidelines.
Alternate qualifications include having a Senior Secondary with at least 50 percent marks and working towards the 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education or specific degrees like B.A.Ed, B.Sc.Ed, or equivalents.
CTET Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Guide
You must visit CTET’s Official web site ctet.nic.in to start the registration process. Start by click “New Registration.” link and fill the your essential information, which includes your complete name, birth date email address, your mobile number. Note down password and registration number to use in the future.
After completing your registration , login using your credentials. Provide detailed about your education background, contact details and your preferred city for the examination. Select whether you wish to sit for Paper I, Paper II or both papers, according to your career and eligibility.
Document Upload Requirements
Upload scans of your most recent passport-sized photograph as well as your signature, with your signature in JPG or JPEG format within the size limitations. Be sure that the photos are clear and comply with the technical requirements in order to prevent rejection in an examination. The photo should be up-to-date and professional in accordance with the guidelines given.
Keep your certificates of education or identity proofs, as well as category certificates prepared in digital format prior to starting applying. This will allow you to complete the application form with no interruptions and ensure that all information required is correctly entered.
CTET Exam Pattern and Structure
Paper I Pattern
Paper I is comprised of 150 multiple-choice questions, which are divided into five sections that include Children’s Development, Pedagogy (30 questions) , Language I (30 questions) as well as language II (30 questions) Mathematical (30 questions) and Environmental Studies (30 questions). It takes two hours and 30 minutes to finish the test every correct answer gaining you one mark and no negative marks for incorrect answers.
The test is conducted on an online platform and can be taken to candidates in English in addition to Hindi languages. You can select the language you prefer when filling out your application, which makes it available to applicants with different backgrounds in the country.
Paper II Pattern
Paper II is also comprised of 150 questions. However, it is divided into four sections that include Children Development and Pedagogy (30 questions), the Language I (30 questions), Language III (30 Questions) and Maths & Science (60 Questions) or Social Studies/Social Science (60 question). The time frame remains the same, at two hours, 30 minutes.
You must choose between Mathematics and Science or Social Studies according to the subject you want to teach in the classes 6-8. The choice you make should be in line with the subject you will be graduating from and your preferences in teaching for your next job.
Application Fees
The fees for applications vary depending on the category you belong to and the amount of papers you choose. If you are General and OBC applicants, the cost is Rs 1,000 for one paper and $1200 on both papers. SC/ST and disabled candidates pay a lower cost of Rs 500 for one paper, and 600 to for both paper.
You may pay the fee for the application online by using a variety of payment options, including debit or credit card, internet banking or UPI. Check the exact amount prior to making the payment. Keep the receipt of your transaction for future use.
CTET 2026 offers a unique opportunity for students to be hired in the most prestigious central government schools all over India. The exam is scheduled for February 8th 2026 and applications open shortly after the 25th of October 2025, you will have plenty of time to study thoroughly and then submit your application. The life-long duration of CTET certification makes this exam a an excellent investment in your teaching career, and opens opportunities to work in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas as well as various other institutions of central importance. Be sure to visit on the CTET official site ctet.nic.in regularly for updates and make sure that you meet all the eligibility criteria prior to submitting your application.
FAQ’s
Q1. Do I have to submit an application for Paper I and Paper II in CTET 2026?
Yes, you can apply for both papers provided you meet the eligibility requirements to be eligible for both papers.
Q2. What is the validity of CTET Certificate?
It is important to note that the CTET certification issued by CBSE is valid for life time.
Q3. In how many languages are the CTET 2026 test available?
The CTET 2026 test will be held in 20 languages across the 132 cities of India.