The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is one of the most important exams for aspiring teachers in India. Every year, thousands of candidates register to become eligible for teaching posts in primary (Classes I–V) and upper primary (Classes VI–VIII) levels in schools that follow central rules (for example, KVS, NVS and many private schools that accept CTET scores). This blog explains the latest registration news, who can apply, how to apply, exam pattern, and easy tips to prepare — all in simple language. Official details are published on the CTET website. (CTET)
What’s new: Registration started (or expected) — key dates
According to the official CTET site and media reports, registration for the latest CTET cycle opened in late November 2025. The application window was announced to start on 27 November 2025 and remain open until 18 December 2025. Candidates must complete the form and pay the fee by the closing date. The exam for this cycle is scheduled in early February 2026 (reported as 8 February 2026 by several reliable education portals). Always check the official CTET website for any last-minute updates or changes. (CTET)
Where to apply (official website)
Apply only on the official CTET website: ctet.nic.in. The website hosts the official notification, information bulletin, online application link, and important PDFs such as the exam schedule and public notices. Do not trust unofficial links that ask for payment outside the official portal. (CTET)
Which paper should you choose? Paper I, Paper II or both
-
Paper I is for aspirants who want to teach Classes I to V.
-
Paper II is for those who want to teach Classes VI to VIII.
-
If you want to be eligible for both levels, you can apply and appear in both Paper I and Paper II (separate fees apply).
The choice depends on your training and qualification (see next section). The exam duration is 2 hours 30 minutes for each paper, and the test follows a multiple-choice (objective) pattern. (Testbook)
Who is eligible? (Educational qualification and age)
CTET has clear eligibility rules that vary a bit between Paper I and Paper II. The main points in simple language:
-
Minimum age: Generally, the minimum age is 17 years. There is no upper age limit for CTET itself. (Testbook)
-
For Paper I (Primary teachers): Typically you need Senior Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% marks and a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (or equivalent) OR a Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed) or similar qualifications as mentioned in the official notification.
-
For Paper II (Upper Primary teachers): Usually a graduate (with at least 50% marks in many cases) with a 1-year or 2-year B.Ed / B.El.Ed or specific recognized teacher training. Specific acceptable combinations are given in the information bulletin. (Testbook)
Important: These are summary points. Always read the full eligibility section in the official CTET information bulletin before applying — it lists exact qualifying courses and percentage requirements for each category.
Application fee and correction window
The application fee differs for Paper I only, Paper II only, and both papers. Payment is made online on the CTET portal. After submission, the board normally offers a short correction window during which candidates can fix mistakes in certain fields. Keep your documents (mark sheets, certificates, ID proof) ready before you apply to avoid mistakes. (CTET)
Exam pattern in plain words
-
Each paper has 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
-
Each question carries one mark. There is no negative marking (confirm in the latest bulletin).
-
The paper includes sections such as Child Development & Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, and Mathematics / Environmental Studies (for Paper I) or Subject-specific topics for Paper II.
-
Total time is 2 hours 30 minutes per paper. (Testbook)
Documents you should keep ready before applying
-
Scanned copy of your passport-size photograph (as per CTET specs).
-
Scanned copy of your signature.
-
ID proof details (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID) to fill in the application.
-
Educational certificates (to check eligibility and to fill correct details).
-
A valid email ID and mobile number for registration and alerts. (CTET)
Simple step-by-step how to apply online
-
Visit ctet.nic.in and click “Apply Online” for the relevant cycle.
-
Register with an email and mobile number to get a login.
-
Fill the application form carefully (name, DOB, qualification, category, exam city choices).
-
Upload photo and signature in the right format and size.
-
Pay the application fee online (card/netbanking/UPI).
-
Download or print a copy of the submitted form and the payment receipt for future reference. (CTET)
Preparation tips in simple language
-
Know the syllabus: Start with the CTET syllabus and weightage of each section. Focus more on pedagogy and child development — many candidates underrate this part. (Testbook)
-
Daily plan: Make a study schedule with small daily goals — for example, 1 hour of Child Development, 1 hour of language practice, 1 hour for subject concepts.
-
Practice tests: Take previous years’ papers and mock tests to get used to question style and timing.
-
Short notes: Make small revision notes for definitions, teaching methods, and important examples.
-
Time management: In the exam, don’t spend too long on any one question. Move on and return if time permits.
-
Revision: Reserve the last 2–3 weeks for complete revision and mock test practice.
After you apply: admit card and result
The admit card (hall ticket) will be available for download on the CTET website a few weeks before the exam. Keep your application number and password safe to log in and download the admit card. Results and scorecards are also published on the official site — keep checking ctet.nic.in for updates. (CTET)
Final advice
-
Apply only through ctet.nic.in and read the information bulletin carefully before filling your form. (CTET)
-
Double-check all your entries (name spellings, date of birth, qualification details).
-
Start preparing early — CTET rewards steady preparation and strong pedagogy knowledge.
All the best!