CBSE CTET 2026 Admit Cards Released for Massive 2.5 Million Candidate Pool
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the admit cards for the highly anticipated Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026. This crucial examination, which serves as a gateway for teaching positions in central government schools, is now accessible for download by all registered candidates. The CTET 2026 exams are firmly scheduled to be conducted over two days: February 7 and 8, 2026.
Unprecedented Registration Numbers Prompt Two-Day Exam Format
Originally conceived as a single-day examination on February 8, the CTET 2026 was expanded to a comprehensive two-day exercise following an overwhelming response during the registration phase. The registration window opened on November 27 and concluded on December 18. By the final deadline, a staggering 2,530,581 candidates had successfully completed their registrations. Notably, a remarkable surge of 768,199 applications was submitted in the final 48 hours alone, highlighting the intense competition and widespread interest in the teaching profession.
With registrations crossing the 2.7 million mark, the board is preparing for a massive turnout across 132 cities nationwide. The test will be conducted in the traditional pen-and-paper mode, ensuring a standardized assessment environment. Candidates can now securely download their essential hall tickets from the official websites: ctet.nic.in and cbse.gov.in. It is imperative to note that entry to all examination centres will be strictly permitted only upon presentation of the valid admit card, making it absolutely essential for all aspirants to carry a clear, printed copy on both examination days.
Detailed Examination Schedule and Paper Structure
The CTET 2026 examination will be held in two distinct shifts, catering to different teaching levels. Paper 1, designed for candidates aspiring to teach Classes 1 to 5, will be conducted from 9:30 AM to 12:00 Noon. Candidates must report at the examination centre by 7:30 AM, as the entry gates will be closed promptly at 9:30 AM. Paper 2, intended for those planning to teach Classes 6 to 8, will take place from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. The reporting time for this paper is 12:30 PM, with gates closing at 2:30 PM sharp.
Each paper comprises 150 multiple-choice questions, each carrying one mark. The total duration of the exam is two and a half hours, and importantly, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. A significant portion of the question paper is dedicated to Child Development and Pedagogy, alongside sections on subject-specific knowledge and reading comprehension. This structure is meticulously designed to evaluate both foundational teaching skills and deep conceptual understanding of the candidates.
Qualifying Marks and Category-Wise Requirements
To successfully pass the CTET 2026, candidates must meet specific qualifying criteria. General category candidates are required to obtain a minimum score of 60 percent, which translates to 90 out of 150 marks. For candidates belonging to the SC, ST, OBC, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) categories, the minimum qualifying mark is set at 55 percent, equivalent to 82 marks. These benchmarks ensure a fair and standardized evaluation process across all demographic groups.
CBSE Issues Comprehensive Guidelines for Candidates with Disabilities
In a proactive move, CBSE has issued a detailed notice outlining specific provisions for candidates with disabilities. Only those individuals covered under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 will be eligible for special facilities. These accommodations include the provision of a scribe and compensatory extra time during the examination.
Candidates seeking these accommodations must carry their officially issued disability certificate in the prescribed format, along with a valid UDID (Unique Disability ID) card. Those certified by a government medical authority as having difficulty in writing may avail of a scribe. Additionally, candidates with blindness, cerebral palsy, or locomotor disability affecting both arms will be provided with a scribe if they opt for it.
The appointed scribe must be at least a matriculate and should possess qualifications one level lower than the minimum requirement for the teaching post. Eligible candidates will receive compensatory time of not less than 50 minutes per hour of examination. Furthermore, CBSE will provide large-font question papers for visually impaired candidates, who may choose between standard and enlarged versions based on their preference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download CTET 2026 Admit Card
Candidates can follow these straightforward steps to download their CBSE CTET admit card for 2026 from the official website:
- Visit the official website: ctet.nic.in or cbse.gov.in.
- On the homepage, locate and click on the link titled “CTET 2026 Admit Card.”
- A new login window will appear on your screen.
- Enter your registered Application Number and Password.
- Click on the Submit button.
- Your CTET admit card will be displayed on the screen.
- Download the admit card and take a clear, high-quality printout for use on the exam day.
- Carefully verify all details, including your name, roll number, exam centre, date, and shift, to avoid any discrepancies.
With the admit cards now available, over 2.5 million teaching aspirants across India are gearing up for one of the largest competitive examinations in the education sector. Candidates are advised to download their hall tickets at the earliest and adhere strictly to all guidelines issued by CBSE to ensure a smooth examination experience.
