CBSE CTET 2026 application process has started, with important dates announced for the upcoming exam. The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) for 2026 will be held on February 8, 2026, in offline mode across various centers in India. The application form is available online from November 27, 2025, and the last date to apply is December 18, 2025. Candidates interested in becoming qualified teachers for Classes 1 to 8 can apply by filling out the form at the official CTET website (ctet.nic.in).
The application fee for CTET 2026 varies based on the paper category. For Paper 1 or Paper 2 individually, the fee is ₹1000 for general candidates and ₹500 for reserved categories. Candidates applying for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 must pay ₹1200 for the general category and ₹600 for the reserved categories. Payment must be made online through net banking, credit cards, or debit cards.
The CTET certificate obtained after clearing the exam is valid for seven years from the date of issuance. This certificate is mandatory for teaching positions in schools under the Indian government as well as many private schools.
CTET 2026 Key Dates
Aspiring teachers preparing for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 should note these essential deadlines to avoid missing out on the application window. The official notification and online registration both launched on November 27, 2025. The final chance to submit applications and complete fee payments ends on December 18, 2025, at 11:59 PM, with the exam set for February 8, 2026.​
CTET 2026 Application Fee Structure
Completing the CTET 2026 registration requires online fee payment, which varies by category and whether candidates choose one or both papers. General and OBC (NCL) applicants pay more than reserved categories, and banks add extra GST charges during transactions.​
| Category | Only Paper I or II | Both Paper I & II |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC (NCL) | ₹1,000 | ₹1,200 |
| SC / ST / Differently Abled | ₹500 | ₹600 |
Note: Applicable GST will be charged extra by the bank.
Steps to apply for CTET 2026:
- Visit the official CTET website, ctet.nic.in.
- Register by providing your basic details and create a login ID.
- Login with your credentials and fill out the application form with personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload scanned images of your recent photograph and signature as per specifications.
- Pay the application fee online based on your category and paper choice.
- Review the application form carefully and submit.
- Download and save the confirmation page for future use.
Direct Link:Â CTET 2026 Registration