CTET 2026 Registration: Complete Guide With Dates, Fees & Easy Application Steps

The date is significant for individuals who will be taking the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) in 2026 because it marks the start of the online registration period set out by the CBSE. On November 27, 2022, the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) opened its online registration for all interested individuals who wish to register for CTET 2026 in month of February 2026.

Those seeking to participate in the teacher recruitment process are encouraged to log onto the official website, ctet.nic.in, as soon as possible to register for the CTET test. The CTET Examination will continue to operate over two separate shifts, and the CBSE has made available to candidates, in addition to the examination's date(s) and schedule, a complete set of exam guidelines and instructions.

CTET 2026 Registration – When Can You Apply?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has stated that applicants wishing to take the CTET 2026 examination may submit their application via the Internet by December 18, 2025. The application process will occur within a short period of time. There is no need to postpone applying until the deadline as the last minute rush may result in server congestions and difficulties accessing the application.

The exam will be held on the 8th February 2026

The CTET 2026 examination will take place on 8th February 2026 at numerous locations nationwide. The exams are divided into two separate tests shifts:

• First Test Shift: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
• Second Test Shift: 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Candidates taking Paper 1 may select the first shift; those taking Paper 2 will take their assessments the second shift; candidates taking both tests should ensure they know ahead of time the relevant schedules for each testing time.

How to Apply for CTET 2026? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Many candidates are often confused about the application process, so here is a simple and clear step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official CTET website that is ctet.nic.in.
2. Click on “Apply Online” for filling of the form at the given  link on the homepage.
3. Now enter your basic information on the registration page.
4. Enter all the details asked in the form correctly, as incorrect information may result in rejection.
5. Following this, upload a scanned new passport-size photo and signature.
6. Now pay the exam fee online according to your category.
7. After submitting the form, take a printout of the form and payment receipt for future reference.

CTET 2026: Exam Fee

The fees are different for each category:

General and OBC for both candidates

• Paper 1: ₹1,000 
• Paper 2: ₹1,000
• 1 & 2 Both papers: ₹1,200

SC, ST, and differently-abled  and other candidates

• Paper 1: ₹500
• Paper 2: ₹500
• 1 & 2 Both papers: ₹600

The fee can only be paid online—via debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking.

Why is CTET 2026 so important?

CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test) is one of India's most sought-after tests to assess teachers' competency as a teacher's qualification in the area of government education. To become a teacher in any Government School, whether it is a Kendriya Vidyalaya (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya (NVS) or any State School Board, obtaining a CTET Certificate is considered the primary requirement.

• The CTET Exam assesses Teachers' Pedagogical Understanding, Child Development, Teaching Ability and Subject Matter Knowledge.
• A successful CTET Exam is good for Life; therefore, there is no need to take the CTET again once a candidate has successfully completed it.

Which paper is for what?

• Paper 1: Candidates wishing to become teachers for classes 1 to 5
• Paper 2: Candidates wishing to become teachers for classes 6 to 8
• Both Papers: If you wish to be eligible for both categories

Candidates seeking a career in the education sector will have an opportunity through CTET in February 2026. The registration period is still open until December 18, Therefore, those eligible are encouraged to register early and devote their time to study for their respective examinations.

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