CBSE Sets February 8, 2026 for CTET Examination
The Central Board of Secondary Education has officially announced the schedule for the 21st edition of the Central Teacher Eligibility Test. CTET 2026 will take place on February 8, 2026. This national-level examination aims to assess teaching aspirants across India.
Exam Conducted in Offline Mode Across Multiple Centers
CBSE will conduct the CTET 2026 exam in traditional pen-and-paper format. The board has designated examination centers in 132 cities throughout the country. Officials expect a substantial number of candidates to participate in this important teaching eligibility test.
Detailed Schedule for Paper 1 and Paper 2
The examination will feature two separate shifts for different teaching levels. Paper 1 targets candidates seeking eligibility to teach Classes 1 to 5. This paper will run from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Candidates must report by 7:30 AM, with entry gates closing precisely at 9:30 AM.
Paper 2 is designed for those aspiring to teach Classes 6 to 8. This session will occur from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Aspirants need to report by 12:30 PM, and gates will close at 2:30 PM.
Admit Card Release Timeline and Download Process
CTET 2026 admit cards will likely become available seven to ten days before the examination. Candidates can expect the release by late January or early February 2026. The official websites for downloading admit cards are ctet.nic.in and cbse.gov.in.
To access their admit cards, candidates must provide their application number, date of birth, and security pin. Each admit card will display crucial information including the candidate's name, birth date, exam center details, shift timing, and selected paper.
Examination Pattern and Marking Scheme
The CTET 2026 question paper will contain 150 multiple-choice questions. Each question carries one mark, making the total score 150. Candidates have two and a half hours to complete their papers. Importantly, there is no negative marking in this examination.
The test places significant emphasis on Child Development and Pedagogy. This section forms an essential component of the main paper. Questions are specifically designed to evaluate teaching ability, subject knowledge, and comprehension skills.
Qualification Marks and Examination Requirements
To qualify in CTET 2026, General category candidates must secure at least 60% marks. This translates to 90 marks out of 150. Candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC, and PwD categories need to obtain a minimum of 55% marks, equivalent to 82 marks out of 150.
All aspirants must bring specific documents to the examination hall. These include a printed copy of their admit card, valid original photo identification proof, and a passport-sized photograph. The board strictly prohibits electronic devices, baggage, and books within examination premises.
Important Documents and Examination Guidelines
Candidates should note that the admit card serves as a critical entry document. It contains essential information about the candidate and their examination session. Without this document, entry to the examination center will not be permitted.
The board will soon publish additional details on its official website. These will include the complete scheme of examination, precise reporting times, and qualifying mark specifications. Registered candidates should regularly check the official websites for updates.
