CTET EXAM PATTERN 2026 

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 is a national-level examination conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to determine the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions in Classes I to VIII across central government schools, state government schools, and private aided schools in India. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation, as it outlines the structure, subjects, marking scheme, and duration of the test.

CTET 2026 is divided into two papers: Paper I (for candidates aspiring to teach Classes I to V) and Paper II (for candidates aiming to teach Classes VI to VIII). The exam is conducted online or offline, depending on the official notification, and each paper consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The syllabus and question distribution are aligned with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and focus on Child Development & Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies/Subject-specific content.

The exam pattern specifies the number of questions, marks per section, total marks, and duration of the exam. This information helps candidates plan their time management strategies and focus on areas that carry higher weightage. Additionally, there is no negative marking, which encourages candidates to attempt all questions carefully.

In essence, the CTET 2026 exam pattern provides a clear roadmap for aspirants, enabling them to structure their preparation efficiently, identify strong and weak areas, and approach the examination with confidence. Understanding the pattern is the first step toward scoring well and qualifying for teaching positions at reputed schools across India.

Two Papers

• Paper I: For candidates aspiring to teach Classes I to V
• Paper II: For candidates aspiring to teach Classes VI to VIII

Mode of Exam

• Offline (Pen & Paper-based Test, PBT) or Online (Computer-Based Test, CBT), as per official notification.
• Language Medium: English and Hindi for most sections.

Duration

• Each paper is 2 hours 30 minutes

Question Format

• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Total Questions per Paper: 150
• Total Marks: 150
• No Negative Marking

Subject-wise Distribution

Paper I (Classes I–V)

Paper II (Classes VI–VIII)

CTET 2026 Exam Pattern FAQs

Q1. What is the CTET 2026 exam pattern?

Ans. CTET 2026 is divided into two papers: Paper I (Classes I–V) and Paper II (Classes VI–VIII). Each paper has 150 multiple-choice questions, 1 mark each, with a duration of 2 hours 30 minutes. There is no negative marking.

Q2. Who should appear for Paper I and Paper II?

• Paper I: Candidates aspiring to teach primary classes (I–V).
• Paper II: Candidates aspiring to teach upper primary classes (VI–VIII).
• Candidates eligible for both can appear for both papers.

Q3. What subjects are covered in Paper I?

• Child Development & Pedagogy – 30 questions
• Language I – 30 questions
• Language II – 30 questions
• Mathematics – 30 questions
• Environmental Studies – 30 questions

Q4. What subjects are covered in Paper II?

• Child Development & Pedagogy – 30 questions
• Language I – 30 questions
• Language II – 30 questions
• Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies – 60 questions (depending on teaching specialization)

Q5. What is the marking scheme?

• Each question carries 1 mark.
• No negative marking for incorrect answers.
• Total marks: 150 per paper.