Teaching & Higher Studies · Updated 19 October 2026
CTET Paper I 2026Exam Date, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Cut-Off and Free Mock Test
Conducted biannually by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on behalf of the Ministry of Education, CTET is the mandatory national eligibility certification for appointment as Primary (Classes I–V) and Upper Primary (Classes VI–VIII) teachers in KVS, NVS, Central Tibetan Schools, and UT government schools. Both papers contain 150 multiple-choice questions with zero negative marking and lifetime validity.
- Type
- Eligibility & certification
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- Teaching
Start for free with CTET Paper I syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
Coming up: Exam city and date intimation, 15 days before the exam (around late November 2026). Every mock test you take before then shows you where you stand. See all dates
CTET Paper I exam overview and highlights
About CTET Paper I
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education to certify teachers for central government schools and other institutions that accept it. Paper I is for candidates who want to teach Classes I to V. Qualifying the test is a minimum condition for appointment and does not itself confer a job; the certificate is valid for life.
The examination process for CTET Paper I comprises 1 stage: Paper I (Classes I to V). The official syllabus tests candidates across 5 core areas — Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, Environmental Studies — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. CTET is a qualifying test, not a recruitment. A score of 60% or more counts as a pass. The bulletin does not set a lower pass mark for reserved categories; it says school managements may give concessions to SC, ST, OBC and differently abled candidates under their own reservation policy.
Key subjects
- Child Development and Pedagogy
- Language I
- Language II
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies
What clearing CTET Paper I leads to
- Eligibility to teach Classes I to V in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas and other central schools
- Eligibility for primary teacher posts in schools and states that accept CTET
- Certification & Career Benefit: Eligibility to apply for teaching posts for Classes I to V in central government schools such as KVS and NVS, and in schools that accept CTET
- Official qualifying certificate issued by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) recognised across recruiting boards
- Validity & Eligibility Window: CTET certificate is valid for life
- Mandatory eligibility credential required to apply for permanent teaching, lectureship, or professional recruitment notifications
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
- Frequency
- No fixed frequency. CBSE has held 21 editions since the test began; recent editions were December 2024 and February 2026, and the 22nd edition is on 12 and 13 December 2026.
- Exam mode
- Offline, pen and paper. Candidates mark answers on an OMR sheet with a blue or black ball point pen.
- Languages
- The main question paper is bilingual (Hindi and English). Language I and Language II can be chosen from 27 languages.
- Stages & papers
- 1 stage (1 paper total)
- Negative marking
- None
- Official website
- ctet.nic.in
CTET Paper I — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of CTET Paper I conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | CTET Paper I |
| Conducting Body | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Exam Category | Teaching & Higher Studies |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Eligibility & certification (Eligibility & Fellowship Certification) |
| Exam Frequency | No fixed frequency. CBSE has held 21 editions since the test began; recent editions were December 2024 and February 2026, and the 22nd edition is on 12 and 13 December 2026. |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Dates vary from edition to edition. Recent editions were held in December 2024 and February 2026; the 22nd edition was notified in May 2026 for September and then moved to 12 and 13 December 2026. |
| Mode of Application | Online on ctet.nic.in |
| Mode of Examination | Offline, pen and paper. Candidates mark answers on an OMR sheet with a blue or black ball point pen. |
| Medium / Exam Languages | The main question paper is bilingual (Hindi and English). Language I and Language II can be chosen from 27 languages. |
| Selection Stages | 1 Stage (1 Paper Total): Paper I (Classes I to V) |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Selection / Merit Process | CTET is a qualifying test, not a recruitment. A score of 60% or more counts as a pass. The bulletin does not set a lower pass mark for reserved categories; it says school managements may give concessions to SC, ST, OBC and differently abled candidates under their own reservation policy. |
| Educational Qualification | Senior secondary with at least 50% marks and a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education (passed or appearing), or a four-year B.El.Ed, or senior secondary with 50% and a two-year Diploma in Education (Special Education), or graduation with a Diploma in Elementary Education. A B.Ed holder is also eligible for Paper I subject to the conditions in the notification. |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Qualification & Fellowship Benefit | Eligibility to apply for teaching posts for Classes I to V in central government schools such as KVS and NVS, and in schools that accept CTET |
| Scorecard / Certificate Validity | CTET certificate is valid for life |
| Competition Scale | Several lakh candidates appear in each cycle for Paper I |
| Official Website | ctet.nic.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
CTET 22nd edition (originally CTET September 2026, now December 2026): important dates, vacancy and application process
Last verified on 19 October 2026 against the official notification. Always confirm dates on the official website before you apply.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Notification (public notice) | 8 May 2026 | Done |
| Online application (first window) | 11 May to 10 June 2026 | Done |
| Correction window (first) | 15 to 18 June 2026 | Done |
| Online application (reopened window) | 25 August to 1 September 2026 | Done |
| Correction window (second) | 7 to 10 September 2026 | Done |
| Exam city and date intimation | 15 days before the exam (around late November 2026) | Upcoming |
| Admit card | 2 days before the exam | Upcoming |
| Exam date (Paper I and Paper II) | 12 and 13 December 2026 | Upcoming |
- Vacancies
- Several lakh candidates appear in each cycle for Paper I. As a qualifying / fellowship examination conducted by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), all candidates who meet or exceed the category-wise qualifying marks / JRF merit cut-off earn certification.
- Application fee
- General and OBC (NCL): ₹1,000 for one paper, ₹1,200 for both papers. SC, ST and differently abled: ₹500 for one paper, ₹600 for both papers. GST charged extra by the bank.
Latest updates
- 8 May 2026: CBSE announced the 22nd edition of CTET for 6 September 2026, with applications open from 11 May to 10 June 2026.
- 25 August 2026: CBSE reopened applications from 25 August to 1 September 2026 for eligible candidates who missed the first window, citing a Supreme Court review judgment on teachers acquiring the TET qualification. The 6 September date was dropped.
- 7 September 2026: A correction window ran from 7 to 10 September 2026 for all applicants, including those from the first window.
- 14 September 2026: CBSE fixed the new exam dates as 12 and 13 December 2026. Exam city details come 15 days before the exam and admit cards 2 days before.
- The test is held on OMR sheets (pen and paper), in 27 languages; each paper lasts 2 hours 30 minutes with no negative marking.
- The result of the previous (21st) edition, CTET February 2026, was declared on 30 March 2026.
The Information Bulletin was issued for the September 2026 date; its fee, pattern and eligibility rules still apply to the rescheduled December 2026 exam. CBSE has not yet announced a new result date.
Sources: CTET official website, CBSE public notice, CTET September 2026 (8 May 2026), CTET September 2026 Information Bulletin, CBSE public notice, correction window (12 June 2026), CBSE public notice, reopening of applications (25 August 2026), CBSE public notice, correction window till 10 September 2026 (7 September 2026), CBSE public notice, exam dates for 22nd edition of CTET (14 September 2026)
How to apply online for CTET Paper I
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit ctet.nic.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online on ctet.nic.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the CTET Paper I application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (The main question paper is bilingual (Hindi and English). Language I and Language II can be chosen from 27 languages.), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final CTET Paper I Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
CTET Paper I eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for CTET Paper I must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Teaching.
Educational qualification
Senior secondary with at least 50% marks and a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education (passed or appearing), or a four-year B.El.Ed, or senior secondary with 50% and a two-year Diploma in Education (Special Education), or graduation with a Diploma in Elementary Education. A B.Ed holder is also eligible for Paper I subject to the conditions in the notification.
Age limit & relaxations
No upper age limit.
Number of attempts
Candidates may appear in every scheduled examination cycle subject to meeting the academic year/passing window and age criteria in the official brochure.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizen.
Other conditions & standards
The pass mark is 60%. The bulletin gives no separate 55% mark; any concession for reserved categories is left to the recruiting school management.
CTET Paper I — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor / Teaching Eligibility (All Categories) | No upper age limit for eligibility certification (unless specified for state cadre posts) | Minimum 55% Master's / 50% D.El.Ed or B.Ed marks for Unreserved; 5% marks relaxation for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwBD. |
| Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) — Unreserved / EWS | No upper age limit. | Applies only to candidates opting for JRF fellowship; Lectureship/TET generally carries no upper age cap. |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwBD / Third Gender & Women Candidates | Up to 5 years upper-age relaxation for JRF + 5% relaxation in minimum qualifying degree marks | Additional relaxation up to 5 years for candidates with LLM or documented research/armed forces experience where applicable. |
CTET Paper I selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: None. Selection & Merit Weightage: CTET is a qualifying test, not a recruitment. A score of 60% or more counts as a pass. The bulletin does not set a lower pass mark for reserved categories; it says school managements may give concessions to SC, ST, OBC and differently abled candidates under their own reservation policy.
Stage 1: Paper I (Classes I to V)
Offline (OMR sheet, pen and paper) • 1 Paper (Paper I) • 150 Questions • 150 Total Marks • Duration: 2.5 hours • A single objective paper of 150 questions covering child development and pedagogy, two languages, mathematics and environmental studies.
A single objective paper of 150 questions covering child development and pedagogy, two languages, mathematics and environmental studies. There is no interview; candidates above the qualifying mark receive the eligibility certificate.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Paper IFive sections of 30 questions each 150 150 2.5 hours Stage 2: Answer Key Challenge, Normalization & Category-Wise Merit Shortlisting
Official Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) evaluation • Provisional & final answer keys • Normalized score & category cut-off computation
After the examination, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) publishes the provisional answer key and invites representations before releasing the final answer key, normalized scores, and category-wise merit list.
CTET Paper I subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
Child Development and Pedagogy — Part I (Concept of development and its)
- Concept of development and its relationship with learning
- Piaget, Kohlberg and Vygotsky
- Multiple intelligence and individual differences
Child Development and Pedagogy — Part II (Inclusive education and children with)
- Inclusive education and children with special needs
- Learning and motivation
- Assessment and evaluation
Language I — Part I (Reading unseen passages)
- Reading unseen passages (prose and poems)
- Grammar and verbal ability
- Learning and acquisition of language
Language I — Part II (Role of listening and speaking)
- Role of listening and speaking
- Teaching-learning materials and remedial teaching
Language II: Comprehension of unseen passages & Pedagogy of language development
- Comprehension of unseen passages
- Pedagogy of language development
- Principles of language teaching
- Language skills and evaluation
Mathematics — Part I (Geometry and shapes)
- Geometry and shapes
- Numbers and operations
- Measurement, weight, time and volume
Mathematics — Part II (Data handling and patterns)
- Data handling and patterns
- Nature of mathematics and place in the curriculum
- Error analysis and diagnostic teaching
Environmental Studies: Family and friends, relationships, animals & Food, shelter, water and travel
- Family and friends, relationships, animals and plants
- Food, shelter, water and travel
- Things we make and do
- Concept and scope of EVS
- Approaches to presenting concepts and activities
- Continuous and comprehensive evaluation
CTET Paper I certificate validity, fellowship & career opportunities
Eligibility to apply for teaching posts for Classes I to V in central government schools such as KVS and NVS, and in schools that accept CTET. Clearing CTET Paper I establishes statutory eligibility for teaching, research, or professional recruitment across India.
Certification & Fellowship Scope
Eligibility to apply for teaching posts for Classes I to V in central government schools such as KVS and NVS, and in schools that accept CTET.
Issuing Body
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
Certificate / Score Validity
CTET certificate is valid for life
Applicable Recruiting Sectors
Central universities, KVS, NVS, EMRS, state education boards, colleges, and R&D institutions nationwide.
Key Benefits & Institutional Opportunities
- Official digital e-Certificate issued by the conducting authority after cut-off qualification
- Eligibility to apply directly against permanent government and aided recruitment notifications
- Monthly Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) stipend + HRA and contingency grant (for JRF-qualified candidates)
- Exemption from written entrance tests in Ph.D. admissions or added academic weightage in selection interviews
- Career advancement (CAS) and pay-scale elevation benefits in academic and professional cadres
Academic & Career Progression Roadmap
- Clear CTET Paper I Category Cut-Off & Download Official Digital Certificate
- Apply for Central / State Recruitment Notifications or University Ph.D. / JRF Admissions
- Clear Mains / Written Recruitment Test, Demo Teaching, or Selection Interview
- Permanent Appointment as Teacher / Assistant Professor / Research Fellow / Certified Professional
- Senior Scale / Selection Grade / Principal / Professor Progression via Career Advancement Scheme
CTET Paper I cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) publishes category-wise qualifying marks and/or aggregate percentile cut-offs alongside the CTET Paper I result. Candidates must secure both the minimum paper-wise qualifying percentage and the category merit threshold (where applicable for JRF or merit lists) to be declared qualified.
CTET Paper I — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 40% to 60% Aggregate (as per paper rules) | 65%+ Aggregate Marks for comfortable qualification / JRF contention |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) & GEN-EWS | 35% to 55% Aggregate (5% relaxation) | 60%+ Aggregate Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 35% to 55% Aggregate (5% relaxation) | 55%+ Aggregate Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
Because CTET Paper I is evaluated on a uniform single-session paper scale under none, raw score accuracy directly determines your rank on the official merit list.
Factors Determining CTET Paper I Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across participating cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the CTET Paper I cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
CTET Paper I admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
CTET Paper I Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official CTET Paper I Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on ctet.nic.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the CTET Paper I e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
CTET Paper I Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on ctet.nic.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
CTET Paper I Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) declares the CTET Paper I result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on ctet.nic.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official CTET Paper I Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
CTET Paper I mock tests
Practice in the official CTET Paper I pattern on the Free plan, and unlock 10 full or sectional mocks every month, unlimited chapter and topic tests, and the CBT Exam Simulator with SmartRank Pass.
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CTET Paper I Full Mock Test 1
Paper I (Classes I to V) · 150 questions · 2.5 hours
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CTET Paper I Full Mock Test 2
Paper I (Classes I to V) · 150 questions · 2.5 hours
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CTET Paper I Full Mock Test 3
Paper I (Classes I to V) · 150 questions · 2.5 hours
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CTET Paper I Full Mock Test 4
Paper I (Classes I to V) · 150 questions · 2.5 hours
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CTET Paper I Full Mock Test 5
Paper I (Classes I to V) · 150 questions · 2.5 hours
CTET Paper I previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all CTET Paper I previous year papers by year
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Recent CTET Paper I question papers
Included on the Free plan with step-by-step solutions
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Complete 10-year CTET Paper I paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for CTET Paper I
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for CTET Paper I
- There is no negative marking, so attempt every question in all five sections.
- Child Development and Pedagogy concepts recur across sections, so study them deeply rather than memorising definitions.
- Use NCERT textbooks of Classes I to V for Mathematics and EVS, since content questions are set from that level.
- Choose Language I and Language II carefully at the time of application, as they cannot be changed later.
- Solve previous CTET papers to learn the pedagogy question style, which is different from content questions.
- Go through the official CTET Paper I syllabus and the qualifying rules, since clearing the category cut-off is your primary goal.
CTET Paper I FAQs
What is the validity of a CTET certificate?
The CTET qualifying certificate is valid for life.
What is the passing mark in CTET Paper I?
You need 60%, that is 90 out of 150, to pass. The bulletin does not fix a relaxed mark; school managements may give concessions to reserved categories as per their own reservation policy.
Can a B.Ed candidate appear for CTET Paper I?
Yes, B.Ed holders are eligible for Paper I subject to the conditions given in the notification, which may include a bridge course after appointment.
Is there negative marking in CTET?
No. There is no negative marking in either paper of CTET.
How many times can I attempt CTET?
There is no limit on the number of attempts, and there is no upper age limit.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for CTET Paper I?
CTET Paper I is conducted by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) across 1 stage: Paper I (Classes I to V). CTET is a qualifying test, not a recruitment. A score of 60% or more counts as a pass. The bulletin does not set a lower pass mark for reserved categories; it says school managements may give concessions to SC, ST, OBC and differently abled candidates under their own reservation policy.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for CTET Paper I?
Educational Qualification: Senior secondary with at least 50% marks and a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education (passed or appearing), or a four-year B.El.Ed, or senior secondary with 50% and a two-year Diploma in Education (Special Education), or graduation with a Diploma in Elementary Education. A B.Ed holder is also eligible for Paper I subject to the conditions in the notification. Age Limit: No upper age limit.
What is the validity and career benefit of the CTET Paper I certificate?
Eligibility to apply for teaching posts for Classes I to V in central government schools such as KVS and NVS, and in schools that accept CTET. Validity: CTET certificate is valid for life.
When is the CTET Paper I notification released and how can I apply online?
CTET Paper I is held no fixed frequency. CBSE has held 21 editions since the test began; recent editions were December 2024 and February 2026, and the 22nd edition is on 12 and 13 December 2026 (Dates vary from edition to edition. Recent editions were held in December 2024 and February 2026; the 22nd edition was notified in May 2026 for September and then moved to 12 and 13 December 2026). Online on ctet.nic.in.
Where can I practice free CTET Paper I mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select CTET Paper I as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact CTET Paper I pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for CTET Paper I on SmartRank?
Select CTET Paper I as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact CTET Paper I pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.