The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for candidates aspiring to become teachers in Classes 1 to 8 across central government and CBSE-affiliated schools. Candidates preparing for CTET 2026 should thoroughly understand the latest exam pattern to prepare effectively for the examination.
The CTET Exam Pattern 2026 explains the structure of Paper 1 and Paper 2, including the number of questions, marking scheme, duration, and subject-wise distribution. A proper understanding of the exam format helps candidates improve time management and develop a better preparation strategy.
CTET Exam Pattern 2026
The CTET examination consists of two separate papers conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. Paper 1 is for candidates who want to teach Classes 1 to 5, while Paper 2 is for candidates aiming to teach Classes 6 to 8.
| Exam Name | Central Teacher Eligibility Test |
| Conducting Authority | Central Board of Secondary Education |
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Number of Papers | Paper 1 & Paper 2 |
| Total Questions | 150 Questions in Each Paper |
| Total Marks | 150 Marks |
| Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | No Negative Marking |
CTET Papers and Teaching Levels
The CTET examination is divided into two papers based on the teaching level candidates wish to apply for.
| Paper | Teaching Level | Classes |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Primary Level | Classes 1 to 5 |
| Paper 2 | Upper Primary Level | Classes 6 to 8 |
Candidates interested in teaching Classes 1 to 8 can appear for both papers.
CTET Paper 1 Exam Pattern 2026
CTET Paper 1 is conducted for candidates aspiring to become Primary Teachers for Classes 1 to 5. The paper focuses on child pedagogy, language proficiency, mathematics, and environmental studies.
The examination contains five sections carrying equal weightage.
| Subjects | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | 30 | 30 |
| Language I | 30 | 30 |
| Language II | 30 | 30 |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| Environmental Studies | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
Highlights of CTET Paper 1
Candidates should note the following important details before appearing for the examination.
| Total Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Question Type | Objective Type Questions |
| Marks Per Question | 1 Mark |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Total Sections | 5 |
CTET Paper 2 Exam Pattern 2026
CTET Paper 2 is conducted for candidates who want to become Upper Primary Teachers for Classes 6 to 8. This paper tests candidates on pedagogy, language skills, and subject-specific knowledge.
Candidates must choose either Mathematics & Science or Social Studies based on their teaching preference.
| Subjects | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | 30 | 30 |
| Language I | 30 | 30 |
| Language II | 30 | 30 |
| Mathematics & Science or Social Studies | 60 | 60 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
Highlights of CTET Paper 2
The important exam details for Paper 2 are provided below.
| Total Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Marks Per Question | 1 Mark |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Total Sections | 4 |
CTET Marking Scheme 2026
The CTET examination follows a simple marking scheme without any negative marking. Candidates are awarded one mark for every correct answer.
| Response Type | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +1 Mark |
| Incorrect Answer | No Deduction |
| Unattempted Question | 0 Mark |
Since there is no negative marking, candidates are advised to attempt all questions carefully.
CTET Language Selection Rules
The CTET examination includes two language sections to assess candidates’ language proficiency and teaching abilities.
Language I
Language I focuses on the medium of instruction chosen by the candidate.
Language II
Language II assesses communication skills and comprehension abilities in another language.
Candidates should choose languages carefully while filling out the CTET application form.
CTET Qualifying Marks 2026
Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by CBSE to qualify the CTET examination.
| Category | Minimum Marks | Qualifying Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| General Category | 90 out of 150 | 60% |
| SC/ST/OBC/PwD | 82 out of 150 | 55% |
Candidates qualifying CTET become eligible to apply for teaching positions in central government and CBSE-affiliated schools.
CTET Exam Duration and Timing
Both Paper 1 and Paper 2 are conducted separately, with each paper carrying a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes.
| Papers | Duration |
|---|---|
| CTET Paper 1 | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| CTET Paper 2 | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
Candidates appearing for both papers should plan their exam strategy accordingly.
Important Subjects for CTET Preparation
Candidates preparing for CTET 2026 should focus on the major subjects included in the examination.
Paper 1 Important Subjects
- Child Development & Pedagogy
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies
- Language I
- Language II
Paper 2 Important Subjects
- Child Development & Pedagogy
- Mathematics & Science
- Social Studies
- Language I
- Language II
CTET Preparation Tips 2026
Candidates preparing for CTET should follow a proper preparation strategy to improve their performance in the examination.
- Understand the latest exam pattern and syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers regularly
- Attempt mock tests for better time management
- Focus more on Child Development & Pedagogy
- Revise important concepts frequently
- Practise language comprehension daily
Consistent practice and proper understanding of the CTET Exam Pattern 2026 can significantly improve candidates’ chances of qualifying the examination successfully.