1. 🧭 Introduction

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level teacher-eligibility exam conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. CTET+2CTET+2
CTET is aimed at candidates aspiring to teach in the primary (Classes 1–5) and upper-primary (Classes 6–8) levels.
For the 2026 cycle, CTET continues to be a key eligibility test for becoming a teacher in central government schools (like KVS, NVS) and many state government schools.

2. ✅ Selection Process

Here is the standard selection process for CTET 2026:

Notification & Application – When the CTET notification is released, candidates apply online via the official CTET website. CTET+1
Examination – Depending on your target teaching level:
- Paper I: For teaching Classes 1–5
- Paper II: For teaching Classes 6–8
  Candidates may appear for one or both papers.
Result & Certificate Issuance – On achieving the minimum qualifying marks, candidates receive the CTET certificate which makes them eligible to apply for teaching posts.
Teacher Recruitment – CTET clearing does not guarantee a job. After eligibility, appointment depends on separate recruitment processes by schools/states.

3. 📘 Exam Pattern

Paper I – Primary Level (Classes 1–5)

Section	No. of Questions	Marks	Duration
Child Development & Pedagogy	30	30	2 h 30 m (150 min)
Language I (Compulsory)	30	30	―
Language II (Compulsory)	30	30	―
Mathematics	30	30	―
Environmental Studies (EVS)	30	30	―
Total	150	150	150 min

Key Points:

Each question carries 1 mark.
No negative marking.

Paper II – Elementary Level (Classes 6–8)

Section	No. of Questions	Marks	Duration
Child Development & Pedagogy	30	30	2 h 30 m (150 min)
Language I (Compulsory)	30	30	―
Language II (Compulsory)	30	30	―
Subject (Choose one): Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies/Social Science	60	60	―
Total	150	150	150 min

Key Points:

150 MCQs for 150 marks.
No negative marking.

4. 🧠 Detailed Section-wise Syllabus

Paper I (Classes 1–5)

Child Development & Pedagogy

Growth & development of children (physical, cognitive, social)
Principles of learning; teaching & learning processes
Theories (e.g., Piaget, Vygotsky, Skinner)
Inclusive education, children with special needs, classroom management
Assessment: formative, summative, school-based

Language I (Compulsory)

Grammar, vocabulary, sentence formation
Comprehension passages (prose/poetry)
Role of listening, speaking, reading, writing in language teaching
Methods of language teaching

Language II (Compulsory)

Similar to Language I but for second language component
Comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, pedagogy

Mathematics

Number system, operations, fractions, decimals
Geometry (shapes, spatial understanding), measurement (area, volume)
Data handling, ratio & proportion, averages
Pedagogical issues: error analysis, problem solving, teaching math to young children

Environmental Studies (EVS)

Family, friends, nutrition, shelter, water
Plants & animals; natural environment; air, water, weather
Community, safety, communication, travel
Pedagogical aspects: activity based learning, integrated approach

Paper II (Classes 6–8)

Child Development & Pedagogy

Development of children in age group 11-14 years
Pedagogy of teaching, inclusive education, guidance & counselling
Learning theories, assessment & evaluation, classroom discourse
Adolescent psychology, behaviour, socialisation

Language I (Compulsory)

Advanced grammar & comprehension
Literature (upper-primary level)
Language teaching methods: listening, speaking, reading, writing for older children

Language II (Compulsory)

Same as Language I but second language
Comprehension passages, grammar, vocabulary, teaching methodology

Subject Knowledge Section

If choosing Mathematics & Science:
- Maths: Number system, algebra, geometry, mensuration, statistics, data analysis
- Science: Living world, materials & their properties, physical phenomena, Natural resources, environment
- Pedagogy of teaching Maths & Science
If choosing Social Studies / Social Science:
- History (India & world, culture, heritage)
- Geography (physical & human), civics, political science, economics, environment
- Pedagogical issues in teaching Social Studies: multi‐disciplinary, projects, map‐work, resources

5. 🏁 Final Selection & Weightage

Clearing CTET makes you eligible for teacher recruitment in schools that recognize CTET certification.
Each paper is for 150 marks, with no negative marking.
Minimum qualifying marks are typically 60% for general category (i.e., 90/150), with relaxations for reserved categories (as per notification).
The CTET certificate is valid for life (or for the period as notified in the official bulletin).
Final appointment depends on school/authority recruitment: merit based on CTET score + other criteria like interview, document verification (per the recruiting body).

6. 💡 Practical Preparation Tips

Understand the latest pattern & syllabus thoroughly – Use the tables and syllabus outline above to plan.
Use fundamental textbooks – For subject knowledge (Maths/Science/Social), NCERT books (Classes 1–8) are highly recommended.
Give special focus to pedagogy & teaching‐methodology topics – These often carry significant weight but are less practiced.
Practice mock tests & previous year papers – Simulate exam conditions (150 questions in 2 h 30 m).
Time management – With no negative marking, attempt all questions. But don’t spend too long on one question; mark and revisit if time allows.
Language sections – Revise grammar rules, comprehension skills, teaching methodology for language learning.
Pick your subject knowledge section wisely – If opting for Maths & Science vs Social Studies, base it on your qualification and comfort level.
Revision & short notes – Make quick revision sheets for pedagogy topics, formulas in maths, key concepts in science/social.
Stay updated – Keep checking the official CTET website for notification, admit card, and changes.
Maintain a healthy routine – Balanced study with breaks, good sleep, and staying calm before and during exam day.

7. 🔗 Useful Resource Links

Official CTET website & Information Bulletin: CTET – Central Teacher Eligibility Test (includes syllabus, notification pdf) CTET+1

CTET Full Form: Central Teacher ...

🏫 CTET 2026 – Complete Guide to the Central Teacher Eligibility Test