CTET Exam Date 2026: Official Schedule, Paper 1 & 2 Timings, and Exam Guidelines

CTET Exam Date 2026 Out

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially confirmed that the 22nd edition of the Central Teacher Eligibility Test will be conducted on 06 September 2026 (Sunday). Following the official notification released on 08 May 2026, both Paper I and Paper II are scheduled to take place on this date. CBSE has noted that if candidate volume exceeds capacity, the examination may be extended to 05 September 2026 (Saturday) as an additional date. Applicants should monitor the official CTET website regularly for any updates.

Please note that the CBSE has strictly prohibited the selection of an examination city via the online application portal. Exam city allocation is managed exclusively by the CBSE on a randomized basis to maintain fairness.

CTET Exam Schedule 2026

CBSE administers Paper I and Paper II on the same day across two distinct shifts. Paper II is scheduled for the morning shift, while Paper I takes place in the afternoon. Each paper allows for a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, conducted in an offline format using OMR sheets. Find the comprehensive shift-wise schedule for the September 2026 session below.

How to Check CTET Exam Date 2026

Candidates can verify their CTET September 2026 Exam date by downloading the official notification PDF available on the CBSE portal. As per the current mandate, the examination is locked in for 06 September 2026 (Sunday) for both Paper I and Paper II papers.

• Visit the official CTET website: CTET Official Website
• On the homepage, click on the link for CTET September 2026 Notification PDF.
• Open the official information bulletin released by CBSE.
• Check the “Important Dates” section mentioned in the notification.
• The CTET Exam Date 2026, admit card schedule, and exam timings will appear on the screen.
• Download and save the notification PDF for future reference.

CTET Exam Time & Shift

The CTET September 2026 Exam is organized into two shifts by the Central Board of Secondary Education. Candidates must verify their designated reporting time, shift, and exam duration on their CTET Admit Card 2026 to prevent any scheduling errors. The exam is held offline at centers across India; candidates are strongly advised to arrive at the venue at least 90 minutes before the start time.

CTET Exam Day Instructions

All candidates appearing for CTET 2026 must adhere strictly to the CBSE-issued exam day protocols. These guidelines ensure a secure and efficient testing environment. Entry is strictly regulated according to the reporting time on your admit card, and late arrivals will not be permitted. Preparation and punctuality are essential for a stress-free exam experience.

• Candidates must report to the examination center at least 120 minutes before the exam starts – that is, by 7:30 AM for Paper II and by 12:30 PM for Paper I.
• Entry to the exam hall will be closed at the start of the exam. Candidates arriving late will not be allowed to enter under any circumstances.
• Carry a printed copy of the CTET Admit Card 2026 along with a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, etc.).
• Electronic devices like mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches, and calculators are strictly not allowed inside the exam center.
• Study material, notes, books, or bits of paper of any kind must not be carried into the examination hall.
• Candidates must use only a Black or Blue Ball Point Pen to fill in the OMR sheet. Use of pencil or gel pen is strictly prohibited.
• Do not fold, wrinkle, or put any stray marks on the OMR answer sheet.
• Candidates must sign the attendance sheet twice – once at the start of the exam and again while handing over the OMR sheet.
• Follow all instructions given by the invigilator throughout the exam.
• Candidates must not leave the exam hall without handing over the OMR sheet to the invigilator.

Request a change in CTET exam Date or Centre?

Candidates frequently inquire about modifying their exam date, city, or center. It is crucial to verify all personal and exam details on your admit card immediately upon release. Please finalize your travel and accommodation plans well ahead of the exam date.

• CBSE allots examination cities on a random basis – there is no option to choose your city during registration.
• No request for change of exam city, centre, or date will be accepted for any reason.
• Candidates must appear strictly at the centre and city mentioned on their admit card.
• Check your admit card details immediately after downloading it to avoid any last-minute issues.
• Any discrepancy in the admit card such as wrong name, photo, or date of birth must be reported to the CTET Unit immediately by contacting CBSE at [email protected] or calling 011-24050477.