CTET — the Central Teacher Eligibility Test — is conducted by CBSE. It is an eligibility test, not a job exam: passing it does not give you a job, but many schools will not consider you without it.
The two papers
- Paper I — for teaching Classes 1–5 (primary).
- Paper II — for teaching Classes 6–8 (upper primary).
You can take both in one sitting if you want eligibility for both levels. Each paper has 150 multiple-choice questions. There is no negative marking.
Who can apply
In brief: Paper I generally requires senior secondary plus a diploma in elementary education (D.El.Ed) or equivalent; Paper II generally requires a bachelor's degree plus B.Ed or equivalent. Read the current official notification for the exact clause that applies to you — eligibility language changes between cycles, and coaching-centre summaries are often out of date.
What counts as passing
Sixty percent is the qualifying mark for the general category, with relaxation for reserved categories. A CTET certificate is now valid for life.
Does CTET matter for private schools?
Increasingly, yes. It is mandatory for central government schools. Many private schools now prefer or require it because it is a single, verifiable signal of teaching aptitude. If you hold CTET or a state TET, put the certificate number on your profile — it is one of the first things recruiters filter by.
How to prepare without coaching
- The syllabus is public. Download it from the official CTET site and work from it directly.
- Child Development & Pedagogy carries heavy weight in both papers. Do not leave it for last.
- Past papers are the best mock tests. Time yourself at 90 seconds per question.
One caution: rely on the official notification for dates, fees and eligibility. Anything else — including this guide — is a summary.