CTET 2026 Notification Out: Registration Begins, Exam Date, Eligibility & Syllabus Update

Introduction 

The CTET 2025-26 notification has finally been released by CBSE, opening the registration window for the February 2026 session. With the application form now available online, teaching aspirants across India can begin their preparation. As the competition grows each year, staying informed about the CTET exam date 2026, eligibility criteria, syllabus updates and exam pattern becomes essential for every candidate.

This blog brings together all key details from the latest CBSE CTET Notification 2025-26, ensuring you understand the requirements, timelines and structure of the exam before applying. Whether you're planning to appear for Paper I, Paper II, or both, this guide will help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

CTET Notification 2025-26 Overview

·        The CTET 2025-26 notification has finally been released by the Central Board of Secondary Education, bringing relief and excitement for thousands of teaching aspirants across India.

·        According to the official notice, the application window for the CTET February 2026 session has opened, and all relevant details: exam date, application form, eligibility criteria, syllabus and exam pattern are now available.

·        The CTET serves as a national-level qualifying examination, required for appointment as teachers in central government and many private schools across India for Classes I to VIII.

CTET February 2026 Application Form

·        As per the notification, the online application for CTET 2026 began on 27 November 2025. The last date to submit the application form is 18 December 2025 (along with fee payment), so interested candidates must ensure they complete all formalities within this window. 

·        To apply, candidates need to visit the official CTET website - CTET.nic.in, fill in the form, upload necessary documents, pay the fee and submit before the deadline. This announcement of the application form has made the 2026 cycle of CTET officially live, prompting aspirants to gather documents and begin preparation.

CTET Exam Date 2026, Timing & Format

·        The 21st edition of CTET is scheduled to be held on 08 February 2026 i.e. Sunday. The exam will be There are two papers:

Paper I - for aspirants aiming to teach Classes I–V (Primary).

Paper II - for aspirants aiming to teach Classes VI–VIII (Upper Primary / Elementary). 

·        Each paper has duration of 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes), consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) carrying total 150 marks. The medium of examination is bilingual - English and Hindi.

·        There is no negative marking for wrong or unattempted answers. Every correct answer yields +1 mark, while wrong/unattempted questions get 0.

CTET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for CTET 2026, it is important to ensure that you satisfy the educational qualifications prescribed for either Paper I or Paper II (or both), as per CBSE norms.

For Paper I (Classes I–V)

Eligible candidates include those who have:

·        Passed Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with at least 50% marks, and

·        Passed or appeared in the final year of the two-year Diploma in Elementary Education (or equivalent), OR

·        Senior Secondary with at least 45% marks (for certain seats) plus the Diploma in Elementary Education (as per old norms), OR

·        Completed a four-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed), OR

·        Passed Senior Secondary with at least 50% and pursued a 2-year Diploma in Special Education.

For Paper II (Classes VI–VIII)

Eligible candidates may be:

·        Graduates (with at least 50% marks) plus passed or appearing in a one-year B.Ed course or equivalent, OR

·        Graduates with at least 45% marks plus B.Ed (in line with older norms), OR

·        Those with Senior Secondary plus a four-year B.El.Ed / B.A.Ed / B.Sc.Ed (or equivalent), OR

·        Graduates with 50% marks plus a Diploma in Special Education (in case of special education teachers).

·        Important to note: There is no upper age limit defined for CTET — as per existing norms, candidates of any age (who meet the educational criteria) can apply.

CTET Syllabus 2026

The syllabus for CTET 2026 follows the same structure as earlier editions: two papers (for Primary and Upper Primary levels), each covering relevant sections.

Paper I (For Classes I–V) includes sections:

·       Child Development & Pedagogy

·        Language I

·        Language II

·        Mathematics

·        Environmental Studies

Paper II (For Classes VI–VIII) includes:

·        Child Development & Pedagogy

·        Language I

·        Language II

·        Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies / Social Science — depending on whether candidate opts for Mathematical/Science teacher or Social Studies teacher.

The questions are based on the syllabus prescribed by the concerned bodies (linked with NCERT curriculum), but with pedagogical understanding and teaching methodology focus (especially in Child Development & Pedagogy).

CTET Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

Understanding the exam pattern and marking scheme is crucial for efficient preparation. Here is a quick breakdown:

Conclusion

The CTET 2025-26 notification sets the stage for thousands of aspirants preparing for the February 2026 exam. With the dates announced, this is the right time to align your preparation with the official syllabus and exam pattern. Whether you are targeting Paper 1 or Paper 2, a focused study plan and the right resources make all the difference.

For effective preparation, you can rely on Arihant’s CTET Study Guides, Solved Papers, and Practice Sets, which cover the complete syllabus, include exam-oriented questions, and provide previous years’ papers for thorough practice. Staying consistent and using well-structured material will help you approach the exam with confidence.

All the best to all candidates preparing for CTET 2026. 

FAQs

Q1. Has CTET February 2026 registration officially started?

Yes. The registration process for CTET February 2026 began on 27 November 2025 and the application window will remain open until 18 December 2025.

Q2. What Are The Eligibility Criteria For CTET 2026 Paper 1 And Paper 2?

·        Paper I (Classes I–V) — Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with 50% marks plus Diploma in Elementary Education (or equivalent); or other combinations such as four-year B.El.Ed or special education diploma as per norms.

·        Paper II (Classes VI–VIII) — Graduation (with 50% marks) plus B.Ed (or equivalent), or Senior Secondary + 4-year B.El.Ed / B.A.Ed / B.Sc.Ed, or other valid qualification combinations specified under CTET norms.

Q3. What Is The Exam Pattern And Marking Scheme For CTET 2026?

Each paper (Paper I and II) will have 150 MCQs, each carrying 1 mark - total 150 marks per paper. Duration of each paper is 2 hours 30 minutes. There is no negative marking.

Q4. Where Can I Find The Official CTET 2026 Syllabus PDF?

The official syllabus PDF will be available on the CTET official website (CTET.nic.in) once the information bulletin is updated. Candidates are advised to periodically check that website for the updated document.