Last Verified: 2026-03-01 from official conducting body notifications.
Official Overview & Examination Scope
Purpose, Scope & Academic Impact
CTET is conducted by CBSE in accordance with the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) guidelines. It is a mandatory national eligibility benchmark for teachers teaching Classes 1 through 8 in Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), Delhi Directorate of Education (DSSSB), and premier CBSE private schools. CTET qualifying certificate has lifetime validity.
Eligibility Criteria & Academic Qualifications
Exam Pattern & Test Structure
Total: 150 Marks| Section / Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I / II: Child Development and Pedagogy | 30 MCQs | 30 Marks | Part of 150 Mins |
| Language I (Compulsory) | 30 MCQs | 30 Marks | Part of 150 Mins |
| Language II (Compulsory) | 30 MCQs | 30 Marks | Part of 150 Mins |
| Paper I: Mathematics & Environmental Studies | Math (30 Qs) + EVS (30 Qs) = 60 Qs | 60 Marks | Part of 150 Mins |
| Paper II: Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies | 60 MCQs (Discipline Specific) | 60 Marks | Part of 150 Mins |
+1 mark for correct answer, zero negative marking. Total 150 questions for 150 marks. Qualifying score is 60% (90 marks out of 150 for General; 82 marks for reserved).
Negative Marking Rule: No negative marking
Recommended Preparation Roadmap & Strategy
Cutoff Trends & Score Benchmark
A qualifying certificate examination; scoring 90+ out of 150 (60%) awards the CTET Certificate.
Participating Institutes / Career Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the validity period of the CTET qualifying certificate?
The validity period of the CTET qualifying certificate for appointment is for a lifetime for all categories.
Are B.Ed degree holders eligible for CTET Paper I (Classes 1-5)?
Following the Supreme Court judgment of August 2023, B.Ed candidates are eligible only for Paper II (Classes 6-8). Paper I is reserved for candidates holding a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed / JBT / BTC).
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