CTET 2026 – Complete
Preparation Guide
CTET September 2026 (22nd Edition) exam confirmed for 6 September 2026 across 132 cities in 27 languages. Apply online from May 11 to June 10, 2026 at ctet.nic.in. Mandatory eligibility test conducted by CBSE for teaching posts in KVS, NVS, EMRS & Army schools. 150 MCQs, no negative marking, offline OMR-based, lifetime valid certificate.
1CTET 2026 – What is it?
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level eligibility examination conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi. It is a mandatory qualification for candidates aspiring to teach in Classes I to VIII in central government schools — including Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), Army Public Schools, and other centrally administered institutions.
CTET is held twice a year — typically in February/July and September/December. The 22nd edition (September 2026) will be conducted across 132 cities in 27 languages. The exam has two papers: Paper I for those who wish to teach Classes 1–5, and Paper II for Classes 6–8. Candidates who want to be eligible for both levels must appear in both papers. There is no limit on the number of attempts.
Since 2021, the CTET qualification certificate carries lifetime validity — once you clear it, you never need to re-appear. This makes CTET one of the most valuable certifications in India's government education sector.
2CTET 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| CTET Feb 2026 – Notification Released | 27 November 2025 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Feb 2026 – Application Window | 27 Nov – 18 Dec 2025 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Feb 2026 – Exam Date | 7 & 8 February 2026 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Feb 2026 – Result Declared | 30 March 2026 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Notification Released | 11 May 2026 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Application Opens | 11 May 2026 | ✓ Released |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Last Date to Apply | 10 June 2026 | 🔔 Scheduled |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Correction Window | 15–18 June 2026 | 🔔 Scheduled |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Admit Card | Late Aug / Early Sep 2026 (3–4 days before exam) | TBN |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Exam Date | 6 September 2026 (Sunday) | 🔔 Scheduled |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Additional Date (if needed) | 5 September 2026 (Saturday) – if candidate count is high | TBN |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Answer Key | Within 2–3 weeks of exam (TBN) | TBN |
| CTET Sep 2026 – Result | To be notified (TBN) | TBN |
| CTET Dec 2026 – Notification | Oct–Nov 2026 (Expected) | TBN |
3CTET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Paper I – For Classes 1 to 5 (Primary Teachers)
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 50% marks + passed/appearing in 2-year D.El.Ed |
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 45% marks + passed/appearing in 2-year D.El.Ed (under NCTE norms 2002) |
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 50% marks + 4-year B.El.Ed (Integrated) |
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 50% marks + 2-year Diploma in Education (Special Education) |
| Graduation | Any degree + 2-year D.El.Ed |
Paper II – For Classes 6 to 8 (Upper Primary Teachers)
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Graduation | Minimum 50% marks + passed/appearing in 1-year B.Ed |
| Graduation | Minimum 45% marks + 1-year B.Ed (under NCTE norms) |
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 50% marks + 4-year B.A.B.Ed / B.Sc.B.Ed (Integrated) |
| Graduation | Minimum 50% marks + 1-year B.Ed (Special Education) |
| Senior Secondary (Class 12) | Minimum 50% marks + 4-year B.El.Ed (Integrated) |
4CTET 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper I – Classes 1–5 (Primary Level)
| Section | Questions | Marks | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Language I (Medium of Instruction) | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Language II (Other Language) | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Environmental Studies (EVS) | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Total | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours |
Paper II – Classes 6–8 (Upper Primary Level)
| Section | Questions | Marks | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Language I (Medium of Instruction) | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Language II (Other Language) | 30 | 30 | Compulsory |
| Mathematics & Science (or) Social Studies | 60 | 60 | Choose 1 specialisation |
| Total | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours |
* Paper II candidates must choose one specialisation: either Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies / Social Sciences.
5CTET 2026 Syllabus
Paper I Syllabus (Classes 1–5)
🧒 Child Development & Pedagogy (30 Qs)
- •Development of child (age 6–11): Piaget, Vygotsky, Kohlberg theories
- •Concept of inclusive education – children with special needs
- •Learning and pedagogy: how children learn and think
- •Individual differences: language, caste, gender, community, religion
- •Continuous Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) and assessment
- •Intelligence: theories of multiple intelligences (Gardner)
- •Motivation, emotion and behavioural challenges
- •Socio-cultural context of learning (Bronfenbrenner)
📐 Mathematics (30 Qs)
- •Numbers: whole numbers, LCM, HCF, fractions, decimals
- •Geometry: shapes, space, angles, symmetry
- •Measurement: length, weight, volume, time, money
- •Data handling: tables, graphs, bar charts
- •Patterns, algebra (basic), division, multiplication
- •Pedagogical issues: nature of maths, teaching methods, problem-solving
🌿 Environmental Studies – EVS (30 Qs)
- •Family & friends, food, shelter, water, travel
- •Things we make and do (work, industry)
- •Animals, plants and natural resources
- •Environmental concerns, conservation, biodiversity
- •EVS pedagogy: objectives, integration with science & social studies
- •Activities, experiments and hands-on learning
🔤 Language I & Language II (30 + 30 Qs)
- •Reading comprehension: two unseen passages (prose + poem)
- •Grammar: tenses, active/passive voice, reported speech
- •Language pedagogy: language acquisition and development
- •Challenges in diverse classrooms, language errors, disorders
- •Remedial teaching and language enrichment techniques
Paper II Syllabus (Classes 6–8)
🧠 Child Development & Pedagogy (30 Qs)
- •Development of children aged 11–14 years
- •Adolescence: characteristics, challenges, peer influence
- •Theories: Piaget (formal operational stage), Vygotsky, Kohlberg
- •Concepts of assessment and evaluation at upper primary stage
- •Inclusive education and children with special needs (11–14 yrs)
- •Learning disabilities: dyslexia, ADHD, autism – classroom strategies
- •Classroom management and creating inclusive environments
🔢 Mathematics & Science – Paper II (60 Qs)
- •Mathematics: Number system, algebra, geometry, mensuration, statistics
- •Mathematics pedagogy: nature of math, place of math in curriculum
- •Science: Food, materials, the world of the living, moving things
- •Science: How things work, natural phenomena, natural resources
- •Science pedagogy: scientific method, innovation, observation
- •Problems in teaching science; activities and experiments
🌏 Social Studies / Social Sciences – Paper II (60 Qs)
- •History: when, where, how; earliest cities; early states; new ideas
- •History: first empire, trade contacts, culture, political developments
- •Geography: our environment, inside our earth, natural vegetation
- •Geography: human environment, life in tropical/desert regions
- •Political Science: democracy, state government, women and gender
- •Economics: poverty, food security, markets, understanding media
- •Pedagogical issues: developing critical thinking and problem-solving
6CTET Qualifying Marks & Cutoff
| Category | Min. Marks (out of 150) | Min. Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 90 out of 150 | 60% |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 82 out of 150 | 55% |
| SC / ST | 82 out of 150 | 55% |
| PwD (Persons with Disabilities) | 82 out of 150 | 55% |
7How to Apply for CTET
The application process is fully online at ctet.nic.in. Here are the steps:
- 1Visit the official CTET website at ctet.nic.in
- 2Click "Apply Online" → complete new registration with name, email, and mobile number
- 3Fill the application form carefully – choose Paper I, Paper II or Both
- 4Choose your preferred language(s) for Language I and Language II
- 5Upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature (as per size/format specs)
- 6Pay the examination fee online (Debit/Credit card or Net Banking)
- 7Submit the form and save/print the Confirmation Page with Application Number
- 8Download Admit Card from ctet.nic.in approximately 3–4 days before the exam (city intimation slip released earlier)
📋 Application Fee (per notification):
- • One Paper – General / OBC / EWS: ₹1,000
- • One Paper – SC / ST / PwD: ₹500
- • Both Papers – General / OBC / EWS: ₹1,200
- • Both Papers – SC / ST / PwD: ₹600
8Career Opportunities After Clearing CTET
Clearing CTET opens the door to teaching jobs in central government schools. Here are the major employers:
| Organisation | Role | CTET Requirement | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) | PRT / TGT | CTET Paper I / II mandatory | ₹35,400 – ₹1,42,400/month |
| Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) | TGT / Misc Teaching | CTET Paper II mandatory | ₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400/month |
| DSSSB (Delhi) | PRT / TGT / PGT | CTET mandatory for PRT & TGT | ₹35,400 – ₹1,51,100/month |
| Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) | PRT / TGT / PGT | CTET Paper I / II mandatory | ₹35,400 – ₹1,51,100/month |
| Army Public Schools (AWES) | PRT / TGT / PGT | CTET required for lower classes | ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400/month |
| Central Tibetan Schools (CTS) | PRT / TGT | CTET mandatory | As per 7th Pay Commission |
| CBSE-affiliated Private Schools | PRT / TGT | CTET preferred / mandatory | Varies (₹25,000 – ₹60,000) |
| State School Service Commissions | Teacher posts | State TET or CTET accepted | As per state pay scales |
9CTET 8-Week Study Plan
Master all major theorists (Piaget, Vygotsky, Kohlberg, Gardner). Solve 200+ MCQs on CDP. This section is common to both papers — highest ROI.
Practice comprehension passages daily. Revise grammar rules and language pedagogy concepts. Aim for 80%+ accuracy here.
Cover NCERT textbooks Class 1–8 thoroughly. For Paper II, deep-dive into your chosen specialisation (Maths & Science OR Social Studies).
Attempt 2 full-length mock tests per week. Analyse mistakes. Revise weak chapters. Target 120+ marks out of 150 to ensure a safe qualifying margin.
10Best Books for CTET 2026 Preparation
| Book | Author | Subject | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | Disha Experts | CDP | — |
| Examcart All Subjects Pedagogy Textbook (CTET, KVS, NVS, DSSSB & All TETs) | Prateek Shivalik | Pedagogy (All Papers) | Buy |
| Arihant Success Master CTET 2026 Paper 1 (Class 1–5) | Arihant Publications | Paper I (Complete) | Buy |
| PW CTET Paper 1 – 24 Previous Year Solved Papers (2026–2011) | PW (Physics Wallah) | Paper I (PYQ) | Buy |
| Examcart CTET Paper 1 – 15 Solved Papers (Class 1–5) | Prateek Shivalik | Paper I (Solved Papers) | Buy |
| Oswaal CTET 19 Previous Years' Solved Papers – Paper 2 (Social Science) | Oswaal Editorial Board | Paper II (Social Science) | Buy |
| Oswaal CTET 19 Previous Years' Solved Papers – Paper 2 (Maths & Science) | Oswaal Editorial Board | Paper II (Maths & Science) | Buy |
| CTET & TETs English Language & Pedagogy (Class 1–5 & 6–8) | Arihant Publications | English Language | Buy |
| Mathematics & Pedagogy for CTET Paper 1 | RS Aggarwal / Pearson | Maths | — |
| Environmental Studies for CTET Paper 1 | Arihant Experts | EVS | — |
| NCERT Books Class 1–8 (All Subjects) | NCERT | Core Study Material | — |
💡 Most Important: NCERT textbooks for Classes 1–8 in all subjects are the primary source for CTET questions. Always read them before any guide book.
11Expert Tips to Crack CTET 2026
12CTET 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is CTET and who conducts it?
CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test) is a national-level eligibility exam conducted by CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education). It is a mandatory qualification for anyone seeking teaching posts in central government schools like KVS, NVS, and Army Public Schools for Classes I to VIII.
Q2. When is the CTET September 2026 exam date?
CTET September 2026 is officially scheduled for 6 September 2026 (Sunday), as per the notification released on 11 May 2026. This is the 22nd edition of CTET. Paper II (Classes 6–8) will be held in the morning shift (9:30 AM to 12:00 Noon) and Paper I (Classes 1–5) in the evening shift (2:30 PM to 5:00 PM). If candidate numbers are very high, 5 September 2026 (Saturday) may also be used as an additional exam date.
Q3. Can I apply for CTET September 2026 now?
Yes! The CTET September 2026 application window is open from 11 May to 10 June 2026 at ctet.nic.in. A correction window will also be available from 15 to 18 June 2026 for editing submitted applications. Do not miss the deadline.
Q4. Is there negative marking in CTET?
No. CTET has no negative marking for wrong answers. Both Paper I and Paper II consist of 150 MCQs worth 150 marks, with no deductions for incorrect responses. You should attempt all questions.
Q5. What are the qualifying marks in CTET?
General / EWS candidates must score at least 60% (90 out of 150). OBC, SC, ST, and PwD candidates need at least 55% (82 out of 150). Candidates qualifying this threshold receive a CTET Eligibility Certificate.
Q6. Is the CTET certificate valid for life?
Yes. As per the CBSE amendment effective June 2021, the CTET qualification certificate is now valid for lifetime. Previously it was valid for only 7 years. A single qualifying score is sufficient for all future teaching job applications.
Q7. What is the age limit for CTET?
CTET has no upper age limit. The minimum age is 18 years. There is no age relaxation or category-based age distinction because it is an eligibility test, not a direct recruitment exam.
Q8. How many times is CTET conducted in a year?
CBSE conducts CTET twice a year — typically a February/July session and a September/December session. Both cycles follow a similar pattern of notification, application, exam, and result declaration. There is no limit on the number of attempts — candidates can appear as many times as they wish to qualify or improve their score.
Q9. Does clearing CTET guarantee a teaching job?
No. Clearing CTET makes you eligible to apply for teaching posts but does not guarantee a job. You still need to apply and clear the recruitment process (written test, interview, demo class) for specific organisations like KVS, NVS, DSSSB, or state boards that require CTET scores.
Q10. What is the application fee for CTET?
For one paper: General/OBC candidates pay ₹1,000 and SC/ST/PwD candidates pay ₹500. For both papers: General/OBC candidates pay ₹1,200 and SC/ST/PwD candidates pay ₹600. Fees may be subject to revision per official notification.
📅 Last Updated: 1 June 2026
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information on this page has been compiled from official CBSE notifications, the CTET information bulletin, and other publicly available government sources for general informational purposes only. While every effort is made to keep the content accurate and up-to-date, candidates are strongly advised to verify all details — including dates, eligibility criteria, fees, and exam patterns — from the official CTET website (ctet.nic.in) before making any decisions. TaiyarHo.in is not affiliated with CBSE or any government body. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall not be liable for any loss arising from reliance on it.