CTET 2026: Complete Preparation Guide
Updated 24 June 2026 · 6 min read
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level exam conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) twice a year. A valid CTET certificate is mandatory for teaching posts in central government schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS) and Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), and is accepted by many private and state schools too.
Here's the exam pattern, qualifying marks, certificate validity and a subject-wise strategy — with free mock tests and previous year papers to practise on.
CTET Exam Pattern
CTET has two papers. Paper I is for aspiring teachers of Classes 1–5; Paper II is for Classes 6–8. Each paper has 150 MCQs for 150 marks in 2 hours 30 minutes, with no negative marking.
- Paper I: Child Development & Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, Mathematics, Environmental Studies — 30 marks each.
- Paper II: Child Development & Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, and Mathematics & Science or Social Studies (60 marks).
Full details on the CTET Syllabus 2026 page.
How to Prepare for CTET
- Prioritise Child Development & Pedagogy. 30 marks of conceptual, scoring questions — master the major learning theories and their classroom application.
- Drill previous year papers. CTET reuses themes heavily; our CTET previous year papers are the fastest way to learn the pattern.
- Take timed full mocks on Prepify to build exam temperament and time management.
- Score the language sections — comprehension and pedagogy questions are reliable, high-return marks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CTET mock tests on Prepify free?
Yes — subject-wise practice, full mocks and previous year papers are all free.
What is the qualifying mark for CTET?
You need 60% (90 out of 150) to qualify. There is no category-based relaxation in the qualifying percentage at the central level.
How long is the CTET certificate valid?
The CTET certificate is now valid for a lifetime.
How many times is CTET held each year?
CBSE typically conducts CTET twice a year, usually around July and December.
Start your CTET practice — free
Real exam interface, previous year papers, Hindi & English.
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