All about Central Eligibility Test: Examination Format, Full Syllabus and Additional Information

Are you considering a profession as an educator? Getting acquainted with the CTET is essential for those interested in teaching pupils from grade I to grade VIII in Central Government schools. However, before starting the article we must know that the full form of CTET examination is the Central Eligibility Test. This examination is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and is compulsory for future educators. 

Let us examine essential information regarding the CTET through this article, we will also encompass important and efficient preparation techniques for the CTET exam.

What is the CTET exam?

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is an examination intended to evaluate a candidate’s qualifications for teaching roles in central government schools. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducts this examination biannually. The NCTE recommendations from August 23, 2010, and July 29, 2011, stipulate that successful completion of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) or CTET is an essential requirement for candidates seeking teaching positions. Passing the CTET examination is of paramount importance for the following reasons:

• It examines the national standards and objectives for teacher quality during the recruitment process.
• It enables applicants and teacher education institutions to improve their performance standards.
• It communicates a positive message to all stakeholders that the government prioritizes the quality of educators.

CTET Exam Overview

The CTET examination comprises two sections: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 is designated for applicants aspiring to teach elementary courses, specifically Class 1 to 5, whereas Paper 2 is intended for individuals aiming to instruct classes 6 to 8. Candidates who pass the CTET examination receive a CTET certificate that remains valid indefinitely. Examine the summary information about the CTET Notification 2024 in the table below.

Also Read:  About Jharkhand TET 2024: Complete Guide & Preparation Tips

CTET Notification 2025

The CTET notification has already been released on the official website for the Central TET examination. In the official notification the application process, eligibility criteria, dates, exam structure, syllabus, and more. Candidates should review the detailed advertisement to ensure their eligibility and more details regarding the CTET Exam 2024. 

CTET Exam Date 2025

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) assesses candidates’ eligibility for teaching positions in Classes 1 to 8 within Central Government Schools, including NVS and KVS. The CTET 2025 Exam is due to be announced. However, the can be announced anytime, so it is better to get structured preparation beforehand. Candidates willing to sit for the upcoming CTET 2025 exam may check out the CTET online coaching classes to start their preparation now. 

Read More: EMRS Recruitment 2024 – Eligibility Criteria, Syllabus and Preparation Strategy

CTET Eligibility Criteria 2025

Eligibility requirements for selecting candidates for teaching positions vary between Classes 1 to 5 and Classes 6 to 8. We will examine the educational qualifications required for candidates in both sections. CTET Eligibility criteria are as follows

Qualifications Required for Classes 1 to 5

A candidate must have completed their Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with at least 50% marks and either cleared or appeared for the final year examination of a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education (Special Education)

A candidate must have completed Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with a minimum of 45% marks and must have either cleared or appeared for the final year examination of a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education, by the NCTE Regulations 2002. 

                                                             OR

A candidate must have completed Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with at least 50% marks and must have either cleared or appeared for the final year examination of a Bachelor of Elementary Education program, which has a duration of four years. 

                                                              OR

A candidate must have completed Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with at least 50% marks and must have either passed or be appearing for the final year examination of a two-year Diploma in Education. 

                                                               OR

A candidate with a bachelor’s degree has either completed or is currently undertaking the final year examination of a two-year diploma in elementary education.

Qualifications for Educational Levels 6 to 8

A candidate possessing a graduation degree and who has either completed or is currently enrolled in the final year of a two-year Diploma in Elementary Education.

                                                           OR

A candidate who has obtained a Graduation degree with a minimum of 50% marks and has either cleared or is currently appearing for the final year examination of the Bachelor in Education program.

                                                           OR

A candidate who has obtained a Graduation degree with a minimum of 40% marks and has either cleared or is currently appearing for the final year examination of a Bachelor in Education, following NCTE regulations. 

                                                           OR

A candidate must have completed Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with at least 50% marks and must have either cleared or appeared for the final year examination of a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education program. 

                                                             OR

A candidate must have completed Senior Secondary or an equivalent examination with a minimum of 50% marks and either cleared or be currently appearing for the final year examination of B.A.Ed/B.Sc.Ed or B.A/B.Sc.Ed.

                                                             OR

A candidate possessing a graduation degree with a minimum of 50% marks and who has either completed or is currently enrolled in a one-year B.Ed program.

CTET 2025 Exam Pattern

The CTET 2025 examination will occur in two phases:

1. Paper 1
2. Paper 2

Paper I is administered for applicants aspiring to teach Classes 1 to 5, whereas Paper II is for those aiming to teach Classes 6 to 8. Candidates may also choose to apply for both Paper I and Paper II. These two papers have objective-type multiple-choice questions. A candidate must achieve a minimum score of 60% to qualify for the CTET Exam. The CTET result is now valid for lifetime, as notified by CBSE.

CTET Exam Syllabus 2025

CBSE has issued the updated CTET syllabus. In preparation for the forthcoming CTET, the comprehensive syllabus is the primary stage for a candidate to initiate their studies. The course is extensive and focuses on Child Development and Pedagogy, a critical component of the CTET examination. The CTET Syllabus 2024 will also feature sections on Mathematics, Science, Environmental Science, and Languages. Additionally, the candidate must be proficient in any two languages from the list provided in the notification.

Opt for any two languages in which you wish to appear for CTET. The List of languages and code are as follows:

Syllabus for CTET (Paper-I):

This encompasses subjects such as Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I and II, Mathematics, and Environmental Science. Candidates are requested to move further at the end of this article to download the full syllabus in pdf form. 

Syllabus for CTET (Paper-II):

This encompasses subjects such as Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I and II, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The candidate must select one course from either Mathematics/Science or Social Studies according to their respective disciplines. The full syllabus for CTET paper 2 is available in pdf form, candidates can download it at of the article. 

CTET Teacher Salary 2025

Candidates who qualify for the CTET 2024 Exam will be entitled to apply for teaching positions for Classes 1 to 8 at Central Government Schools, including NVS, KVS, and other institutions. The fundamental compensation of CTET-qualified instructors ranges from Rs. 9300 to Rs. 34800 as the base pay. The net monthly compensation of a CTET-qualified teacher varies between Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 50,000.

Jobs After Qualifying CTET Exam

Qualifying CTET makes you eligible for various teaching roles in government and private schools across India. Let’s find out more details on CTET teacher jobs in India.

1. Government School Jobs

• Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS): PRT, TGT, PGT roles.
• Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS): Residential schools hiring PRTs, TGTs, and PGTs.
• Central Tibetan Schools: Recruit based on CTET.
• Union Territory Schools: Schools in Delhi, Chandigarh, etc.
• Army Public Schools: Some require CTET for teaching positions.

2. State Government Schools

• Some states accept CTET; others require the respective State TET.

3. Private Schools

• Many CBSE-affiliated private schools prefer CTET-qualified teachers.

4. Aided and Unaided Schools

• Government-aided and missionary schools often require CTET certification.

5. Online and EdTech Platforms

• Opportunities as online tutors, content creators, or subject experts.

6. Additional Opportunities

• Teaching in CBSE-affiliated schools abroad.
• Coaching for competitive exams like TET/CTET.
• Eligible for promotions or higher studies (e.g., M.Ed, PGT roles).

CTET Important Books

CTET books constitute an excellent resource for examination preparation. A plethora of books exist in the market for the CTET examination. Below is a compilation of the most effective CTET books containing pertinent study material aligned with the specified syllabus. Examine the list of books for CTET Paper 1 and Paper 2 provided below:

Books for Paper 1:

1. Child Development and Pedagogy for CTET and TET: Arihant Publication
2. Success Master CTET Paper 1 (Class I-V): Arihant Publication
3. CTET & TET English Language and Pedagogy Paper 1 & 2: Arihant Publication
4. Mathematics Exam Goalpost for CTET and TET: Wiley Publication
5. Environmental Studies (EVS) Exam Goalpost for CTET & TET: Wiley Publication

Books for Paper 2:

1. Child Development and Pedagogy for CTET and TET: Arihant Publication
2. Study Guide for CTET Paper 2: Disha Publication
3. Success Master CTET (Social Science/Studies) Paper II for class V-VII: Arihant Publication

How to Prepare for CTET Exam? 

Preparing for the CTET exam requires a clear understanding of the syllabus, smart study strategies, and consistent practice. Here’s a detailed yet concise preparation guide:

• Understand the Exam Pattern: CTET has two papers. Paper I is for those who want to teach Classes I–V (Primary Level), and Paper II is for Classes VI–VIII (Upper Primary Level). Each paper has 150 multiple-choice questions, covering Child Development and Pedagogy, Language I, Language II, and subject-specific content (Maths, EVS, Science, or Social Science). There is no negative marking, and the duration is 2.5 hours.
• Know the Complete Syllabus: Download the official syllabus from and go through each section thoroughly. Focus on key areas like educational psychology, teaching strategies, language comprehension, and subject content with pedagogy.
• Use NCERT Books for Core Subjects: NCERT textbooks from Classes 1 to 8 are essential for building strong conceptual understanding in Maths, EVS, Science, and Social Science. Many CTET questions are directly based on these books.
• Prioritize Pedagogy Topics: Child Development and Pedagogy carries 30 marks in each paper and is a scoring section. Study important learning theories (Piaget, Kohlberg, Vygotsky), inclusive education, classroom practices, and teaching strategies.
• Practice Previous Years’ Question Papers: Solve at least 5–10 years of past papers to understand the question pattern, identify frequently asked topics, and build time management skills.
• Take Regular Mock Tests: Enroll in online test series and attempt full-length mock tests weekly. Evaluate your performance to identify weak areas and improve speed and accuracy.
• Revise Smartly: Maintain short notes, flowcharts, and formula sheets for last-minute revision. Regularly revise grammar rules, key teaching principles, and major theorists.
• Choose the Right Study Materials: Use standard books like Arihant or Disha’s CTET guides for Paper I and II, Kiran’s solved papers, and Pearson’s workbooks for practice. Combine these with NCERTs for a balanced approach.
• Prepare Well for Language Papers: Choose familiar languages for Language I and II. Practice reading comprehension, grammar, error spotting, and language pedagogy thoroughly to score well.
• Stay Consistent and Focused: Create a daily study schedule and stick to it. Break down the syllabus into manageable parts and set weekly goals. Use digital tools, apps, and YouTube channels (like Unacademy, Adda247) for visual learning and daily quizzes.

FAQs

What is CTET Exam?

CTET exam is a national-level test to identify eligible candidates who can teach in central government schools. 

What is the full form of CTET? 

The full form of the CTET examination is the Central Teacher Eligibility Test.

How many times is this exam conducted in a year?

CTET exam happens twice a year. In the year 2025, the dates will be announced shortly.

Is B.Ed compulsory for CTET?

No, B.Ed is not compulsory for the CTET Exam. However, a B.Ed degree holder can apply for the CTET exam.

What are the eligibility criteria for the CTET exam?

You must have passed the Class 12 or Senior Secondary exam with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks, depending on the position you’re applying for: 

• Primary teacher: You must have passed the Class 12 exam with a minimum of 45% marks.
• Elementary stage teacher: You must have passed the Class 12 exam with a minimum of 50% marks or graduated with a minimum of 45% marks to become eligible for the CTET exam.

Is there any negative marking for the CTET exam?

No, there is no negative marking in the CTET examination. The candidates receive one mark for each correct answer.

What is the duration of validity for the CTET certificate?

The CTET certificate is valid for a lifetime.

Is CTET compulsory for PGT in KVS schools?

No, the Central Teachers Eligibility Test (CTET) is not required for the Post Graduate Teacher (PGT) position in Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS).

Can B.Ed first-year students apply for CTET?

Yes, B.Ed first-year students can apply for the CTET exam.

How many marks are required to clear the CTET exam?

A minimum of 60% marks is required to clear the CTET exam.

Is CTET compulsory for PGT/ TGT?

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is not required for Post Graduate Teachers (PGT) to apply for recruitment exams. However, the CTET is designed for teachers of primary and upper primary levels, so CTET is compulsory for TGT.