CTET 2026: Complete Eligibility, Exam Date, and Application Guide

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially set the date for the 22nd edition of the CTET, which is scheduled for September 6, 2026. Aspiring educators aiming for roles in Central Government institutions—such as the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS)—must qualify for this examination to be considered for recruitment.

It is important to note that clearing the CTET does not guarantee immediate employment. Recruitment processes are handled by the specific authorities overseeing these institutions. To stay updated with the latest announcements, you can visit the CTET 2026 September Notification Released – Click to Check page.

CTET 2026 Examination Structure

The examination is divided into two distinct papers conducted by the CBSE. Paper 1 is designed for candidates aiming to teach classes 1 through 5, while Paper 2 is intended for those targeting classes 6 through 8. Regardless of the paper, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers, encouraging candidates to answer all questions.

Eligible Nationalities for CTET 2026

To participate in the examination, candidates must satisfy the following nationality criteria:

• A Nepalese subject
• A Bhutanese subject
• A Tibetan who arrived in India before January 1, 1962, to settle permanently
• Migrants from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Ethiopia, Vietnam, and Burma who reside permanently in India

How to Apply for CTET 2026

Following the official notification, candidates should proceed with the online application process. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure you meet the specified eligibility parameters for your chosen paper.
2. Prepare all required academic documentation.
3. Visit the official portal at https://ctet.nic.in/.
4. Submit the application online.

After submitting your application, keep a close watch on the official website for the release of admit cards and exam center details. Candidates should plan their travel and document preparation at least two weeks before the exam date.

Qualification and Scoring

There is no upper age limit or restriction on the number of attempts a candidate may make. Furthermore, students who are currently undergoing a Teacher Training Course (TTC) are classified as 'Pursuing' and are fully eligible to apply.

Minimum Qualifying Marks for CTET Exam 2026