CTET

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level eligibility test conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for individuals aspiring to become teachers in primary and upper primary classes (Classes I to VIII) in schools governed by the central government. The CTET was introduced in accordance with the provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which mandates that all teachers must possess a Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) certificate to be eligible for appointment. The Central Teacher Eligibility Test is conducted throughout the year in online Computer Based Test (CBT) mode, replacing the earlier twice-yearly offline pattern. This examination is essential for candidates seeking teaching positions in Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs), Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVs), Tibetan Schools, and schools under the administrative control of the Union Territories. The exam comprises two papers: Paper I for candidates intending to teach Classes I to V (primary stage) and Paper II for those wishing to teach Classes VI to VIII (upper primary stage). Candidates who wish to teach across both levels may appear for both papers. The Central Teacher Eligibility Test assesses candidates on various parameters including Child Development and Pedagogy, Language proficiency, Mathematics, Environmental Studies, Science, and Social Studies, depending on the paper attempted. Each paper carries 150 marks with 150 multiple-choice questions, and the duration is 150 minutes per paper. The CTET certificate is valid for a lifetime from the date of declaration of results, providing candidates with permanent eligibility to apply for teaching positions. The examination serves as a qualifying examination, and clearing CTET does not guarantee government employment but makes candidates eligible to apply for teaching posts as and when vacancies are announced by various organisations.