CTET Exam Date 2025 and Complete Guide to Eligibility, Syllabus & Application

The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a national-level examination conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). It is held twice a year to determine the eligibility of candidates for appointment as teachers for Classes I to VIII in central government schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and other schools that accept CTET scores. Clearing the CTET is a mandatory qualification for teaching jobs in government schools.

Eligibility Criteria for CTET 2025

The eligibility requirements differ for the two papers of the CTET:

For Primary Stage (Classes I to V):

Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education.

Graduation with 50% marks and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), with conditions.

For Elementary Stage (Classes VI to VIII):

Graduation with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education.
or

Graduation with B.Ed. or B.Ed. (Special Education).

Note: Relaxation in qualifying marks is provided for reserved categories as per government rules.

Important Dates for CTET 2025 (Tentative Schedule)

Note: Candidates should regularly check official updates for confirmation.

CTET 2025 Exam Pattern

CTET consists of two papers:

Paper I – For candidates who want to teach Classes I to V
Paper II – For candidates who want to teach Classes VI to VIII

Candidates who wish to teach both levels can appear for both papers.

Paper I Structure:

Child Development and Pedagogy – 30 questions

Language I – 30 questions

Language II – 30 questions

Mathematics – 30 questions

Environmental Studies – 30 questions
Total: 150 questions | Duration: 2.5 hours

Paper II Structure:

Child Development and Pedagogy – 30 questions

Language I – 30 questions

Language II – 30 questions

Mathematics and Science (for Science/Math teachers) or Social Studies (for Social Studies teachers) – 60 questions
Total: 150 questions | Duration: 2.5 hours

Marking Scheme:

Each question carries 1 mark

No negative marking

Syllabus Highlights for CTET 2025

Child Development & Pedagogy:
Understanding the learner, inclusive education, learning theories, and child psychology.

Language I & II:
Language comprehension, grammar, verbal ability, and pedagogy of language development.

Mathematics:
Basic arithmetic, geometry, measurement, and pedagogical issues.

Environmental Studies (Paper I):
Family and Friends, Food, Shelter, Water, Travel, and EVS pedagogy.

Science & Social Studies (Paper II):
Fundamental concepts of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, Political Science, and relevant teaching methods.

How to Apply for CTET 2025 – Step-by-Step

Visit the official CTET website once the application window opens.

Click on “Apply Online” link available on the homepage.

Register yourself by filling in your basic details and create login credentials.

Fill the application form with personal, academic, and exam center details.

Upload scanned images of your photograph and signature as per the specified format.

Pay the application fee through online payment modes like debit/credit card or net banking.

Submit the form and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.

Tips for CTET 2025 Preparation

Understand the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly before beginning preparation.

Create a study plan that allocates daily time for each subject.

Refer to NCERT textbooks (Class I–VIII) for concept clarity.

Practice previous year question papers to get a sense of question trends.

Take mock tests regularly to build speed and accuracy.

Focus on pedagogy as it plays a crucial role in both papers.

Revise regularly and don’t skip topics you find difficult.

FAQ for ctet exam date 2025

Q1. When will the CTET 2025 exam be conducted?
The CTET 2025 exam is expected to be held in August 2025. The exact date will be announced in the official notification.

Q2. What is the last date to apply for CTET 2025?
The application process is likely to close in June 2025. Candidates are advised to apply well before the last date to avoid any issues.

Q3. Who can apply for the CTET exam?
Graduates and senior secondary passed candidates with the required teacher training qualifications can apply. Eligibility depends on the paper (I or II).

Q4. Is CTET mandatory for teaching in government schools?
Yes, CTET qualification is compulsory for appointment as a teacher in central government schools and many state-run institutions.

Q5. How many times can I appear for CTET?
There is no restriction on the number of attempts. Candidates can appear multiple times to improve their score.