CTET: syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility
Central Teacher Eligibility Test. Eligibility to teach Classes 1-8 in central govt schools (KVS, NVS, CTSA) and some private/state schools
- Category
- Teaching
- Conducted by
- Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
- Level
- Professional eligibility
- Frequency
- Twice a year (2026 Sept exam shifted to Dec)
- Mode
- CBT (offline in some cycles; verify)
- Languages
- English, Hindi, + language options
Eligibility
- Education: Paper I: Class 12 + D.El.Ed/B.El.Ed; Paper II: Graduation + B.Ed/equivalent
- Age: No limit
- Attempts: Unlimited
Exam pattern
Paper I (Classes 1-5)
150 min · 150 questions · 150 marks
- Child Development & Pedagogy: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Language I: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Language II: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Mathematics: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Environmental Studies: 30 questions, 30 marks
Paper II (Classes 6-8)
150 min · 150 questions · 150 marks
- Child Development & Pedagogy: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Language I: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Language II: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Mathematics & Science / Social Studies: 60 questions, 60 marks
Syllabus
Child Development & Pedagogy
Development, learning, inclusive education, pedagogy
Languages
Comprehension, pedagogy of language
Mathematics
Number system, geometry, mensuration, data handling, pedagogy
EVS / Science
Family, food, shelter, water, travel, things we make, Science topics + pedagogy
Social Studies
History, geography, polity, pedagogy
Important dates (CTET 2026 (Dec cycle))
- CTET 2026 exam (shifted from Sept): 2026-12-12 and 2026-12-13
Selection process
Qualifying (60% = 90/150; relaxations) - certificate valid for life
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Pricing
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Frequently asked questions
What is CTET?
CTET stands for Central Teacher Eligibility Test. Eligibility to teach Classes 1-8 in central govt schools (KVS, NVS, CTSA) and some private/state schools. It is conducted by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Level: Professional eligibility.
Who is eligible for CTET?
Education: Paper I: Class 12 + D.El.Ed/B.El.Ed; Paper II: Graduation + B.Ed/equivalent. Age limit: No limit. Attempts: Unlimited.
What is the exam pattern of CTET?
Paper I (Classes 1-5): 150 minutes, 150 questions, 150 marks. Paper II (Classes 6-8): 150 minutes, 150 questions, 150 marks. Mode: CBT (offline in some cycles; verify).
How often is CTET held?
Twice a year (2026 Sept exam shifted to Dec).
When is CTET held?
CTET 2026 (Dec cycle) cycle: CTET 2026 exam (shifted from Sept) 2026-12-12 and 2026-12-13.
How are candidates selected through CTET?
Qualifying (60% = 90/150; relaxations) - certificate valid for life.
Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.