CTET 2026 Exam Scheduled for February 8; CBSE to Start Registration Soon

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has confirmed that the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The exam, which is mandatory for those seeking teaching positions in classes I to VIII in many schools, will be conducted in multiple cities across India in offline (pen-and-paper) mode. This national-level teacher eligibility examination is expected to open its registration window soon on the official website ctet.nic.in.

CTET is one of the most important qualifying exams for candidates aiming to become teachers in central government schools, including Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV), Navodaya Vidyalaya (NVS), and schools under the Union Territories. Many private schools also consider CTET scores for recruitment, making it a mandatory credential for aspirants looking to enter the teaching profession.

 

What is CTET?

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national examination conducted to determine the eligibility of candidates for teaching classes I to VIII. It is designed to ensure a standard level of teaching quality in schools across India.

The exam is conducted twice a year, and qualifying it enhances a candidate’s chances of securing teaching positions in government and government-aided schools.

 

Who Conducts CTET?

CTET is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

CBSE handles the entire process — from releasing the application form and exam schedule to setting exam papers, conducting the test in offline mode, and declaring results.

 

Purpose of CTET

 

• To certify the eligibility of candidates for teaching posts from classes I to VIII.
• To improve teaching standards in schools across India.
• To help schools recruit qualified and skilled teachers who meet the national teacher-quality benchmark.

 

CTET 2026 Exam Mode & Validity

• Mode: Pen-and-paper (offline) OMR-based exam.
• Validity of CTET Certificate: Lifetime – no expiry.
• Candidates can attempt CTET any number of times, as there is no attempt limit.

 

CTET 2026: Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for CTET 2026, candidates must satisfy the educational requirements set by CBSE depending on the paper they apply for.

Paper I (Classes I–V): 

 

• Candidates should have cleared Senior Secondary (12th) with at least 50% marks and have completed or be appearing in a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed.). 
• Other accepted qualifications include a 4-year B.El.Ed or a graduation with a 2-year D.El.Ed / B.Ed.

Paper II (Classes VI–VIII): 

 

• Applicants require a graduation degree plus a B.Ed / D.El.Ed / equivalent teacher-education qualification. 
• Integrated programmes and equivalent credentials recognised by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) are also acceptable.

Other norms: Indian nationality is required. There is no upper age limit. 

 

CTET 2026 Exam Pattern

The exam consists of two papers:

Paper I (For Classes I–V)

 

• 150 MCQs
• Subjects: Child Development, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, Environmental Studies

Paper II (For Classes VI–VIII)

 

• 150 MCQs
• Subjects: Child Development, Language I, Language II, and
  • Mathematics & Science OR
  • Social Studies / Social Science

No negative marking is applied.

 

CTET 2026 Application Fee

Steps to Apply for CTET 2026

Once registrations begin, follow these steps:

 

1. Visit the official website ctet.nic.in.
2. Click on “New Registration / Apply Online”.
3. Register by entering name, date of birth, email and mobile details.
4. Log in using the system-generated application number.
5. Fill the CTET application form with educational details and paper preference.
6. Upload scanned photograph and signature.
7. Pay the application fee online.
8. Submit the form and download the confirmation page.

 

Why CTET 2026 is Important

 

• It is a mandatory requirement for teaching jobs in many central and state-run schools.
• Many private schools also prefer CTET-qualified teachers.
• The lifetime validity means candidates can use their qualification throughout their career.

With the exam date announced, aspiring teachers are advised to prepare early and stay alert for the upcoming registration link on the official website.
 

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