CTET Notification 2026 (Released): February Exam Date, Online Application Link & Syllabus PDF, the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is one of the most important national-level exams for aspiring teachers across India. Every year, thousands of candidates appear for this exam to achieve eligibility for teaching positions in schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, central government schools, and other institutions that recognise the CTET certificate. In late 2025, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) officially released the CTET Notification for the February 2026 session, marking the beginning of the next cycle for CTET aspirants.
CTET Notification 2026 (Released)-Overview
| Article on | CTET Notification 2026 (Released): February Exam Date, Online Application Link & Syllabus PDF |
| Exam Name | Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Exam Date | 8 February 2026 |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen & Paper Based) |
| Official Website | ctet.nic.in |
What Is CTET?
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Delhi, and is a mandatory eligibility exam for candidates who wish to become teachers for Classes I to VIII in central government schools and other educational institutions across India. The CTET certificate serves as proof of teaching eligibility and boosts job opportunities in government schools and some private institutions.
CTET Notification 2026
The official CTET 2026 notification was released on 27th November 2025, making it official and inviting candidates to apply online. According to the published information:
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release Date | 27 November 2025 |
| Start of Online Application | 27 November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 18 December 2025 |
| Correction Window | 23 – 26 December 2025 |
| CTET 2026 Exam Date | 8 February 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | January/early February 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Tentatively end of March 2026 |
CTET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
CTET eligibility conditions differ for Paper-I (for teaching Classes I to V) and Paper-II (for teaching Classes VI to VIII). The guidelines are set according to NCTE norms.
Eligibility for CTET Paper-I
Candidates must fulfil one of the following:
- Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed).
- Senior Secondary with 45% marks and passed or appeared in the final year of a 2-year D.El.Ed as per NCTE 2002 regulations.
- Senior Secondary with 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of 4-year B.El.Ed.
Eligibility for CTET Paper-II
To apply for Paper-II, candidates may fall into one of these categories:
- Graduation and passing or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education.
- Graduation with 50% marks and passed or appearing in a 1-year B.Ed (Special Education).
- Graduation with 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of Bachelor of Education (B.Ed).
How to Apply Online for CTET 2026
The application process for CTET 2026 is fully online via the official CTET website (ctet.nic.in). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply smoothly:
- Go to the official portal: https://ctet.nic.in.
- Choose “New Registration”.
- Fill in basic personal details like your name, date of birth, and contact information.
- Create a password and set a security question.
- Upon successful registration, you will receive an Application Number.
Fill the Application Form
- Login using your registration details.
- Fill in educational qualification details.
- Choose whether you are applying for Paper-I, Paper-II, or both.
- Enter your exam centre preferences (usually up to 4 cities).
Upload Required Documents
- Photograph (JPG/JPEG format, size as specified)
- Signature (JPG/JPEG format, size as per instructions)
Pay the Application Fee
The exam fee varies by category and number of papers chosen:
- ₹1000 (General/OBC) for one paper.
- ₹1200 (General/OBC) for both papers.
- Lower fees for SC/ST and PwD categories.
CTET 2026 Exam Pattern & Syllabus Overview
Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is core to effective preparation for CTET. The CTET test consists of two papers:
Paper-I (for Classes I to V)
Paper-II (for Classes VI to VIII)
Syllabus Highlights
Both papers contain core teaching-related topics, such as:
- Child Development & Pedagogy
- Language I & II
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies (for Paper-I)
- Science and Social Studies/Social Science (for Paper-II)
Why CTET 2026 is Important for Aspirants
Qualifying CTET has become essential for aspiring teachers. Some of the key benefits of CTET certification are:
- Mandatory eligibility for central government teacher recruitment.
- Enhances chances of selection in state and private schools.
- Lifetime validity of the CTET certificate offers flexibility to appear for job opportunities at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CTET Notification 2026 released?
Yes, the CTET 2026 notification has been officially released by CBSE.
When will the CTET 2026 exam be conducted?
The CTET 2026 exam is scheduled to be held on 8 February 2026.
What is the last date to apply for CTET 2026?
The last date to submit the CTET 2026 online application form is 18 December 2025.
Where can I apply for CTET 2026?
The last date to submit the CTET 2026 online application form is 18 December 2025.
Where can I apply for CTET 2026?
Candidates can apply online through the official website ctet.nic.in.
What is the mode of the CTET 2026 exam?
CTET 2026 will be conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode.