The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made a significant announcement for the millions of candidates aspiring to become teachers. The 21st Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is set to take place on February 8, 2026, which falls on a Sunday. This examination will be conducted across 132 cities nationwide.

Interested candidates can visit the official CBSE website ctet.nic.in for detailed information. According to the notification released by CBSE, the exam will consist of two papers, Paper-1 and Paper-2, and will be available in 20 different languages.

The CTET exam is a crucial step for those wishing to pursue a teaching career. CBSE organizes this exam twice a year, once in July and again in December. However, this year, no notification was issued for the July session, leading to some confusion among candidates. The announcement of the 21st session has now provided clarity and excitement for the candidates. This exam presents a golden opportunity for those looking to establish a teaching career in prestigious institutions such as Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Army Schools.

Understanding Paper-1 and Paper-2

The CTET is conducted at two levels. Paper-1 is intended for candidates aiming to become primary level teachers for classes 1 to 5. Those who pass this paper will be deemed eligible for teaching positions in primary schools. Conversely, Paper-2 is for candidates who wish to teach at the upper primary level for classes 6 to 8. Candidates who pass both papers will be eligible to apply for teaching positions in schools run by the central government.

The examination's availability in 20 languages enhances its inclusivity, allowing candidates from various regions and linguistic backgrounds to take the test in their preferred language. This initiative is particularly beneficial for candidates who are more comfortable with regional languages.

Why is CTET Important?

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a mandatory qualification exam for aspiring teachers. It not only ensures the quality of teachers but also promotes standardized teaching norms at the national level. Candidates who pass the CTET can apply not only to Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas but also to many private schools that prioritize this certification. Additionally, this certificate is recognized in various state teacher recruitment processes.

CBSE has urged candidates to visit the official website ctet.nic.in to gather information regarding the application process, syllabus, and other essential details. The application process is expected to commence soon, and candidates are advised to regularly check the website for updates. Furthermore, effective time management and a thorough understanding of the syllabus are crucial for exam preparation.