
With over 25.3 lakh candidates set to appear for the 21st edition of the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET), the CBSE has implemented rigorous security protocols. To ensure you don't face disqualification at the gate, you must adhere to the official CTET exam guidelines for the February 2026 cycle.
The most critical guideline for the CTET February exam is the reporting time. CBSE has a zero-tolerance policy for latecomers.
Reporting Time: You must arrive at the CTET exam cities' designated centers at least 90–120 minutes before the exam starts.
Gate Closing Time: The gates will close exactly at 9:30 AM (Shift 1) and 2:30 PM (Shift 2).
Pro Tip: If you arrive even one minute late, security is authorized to deny entry. No exceptions.
Do not leave home without these four essentials. Security will check these at the primary perimeter.
| Mandatory Document Checklist | |
| Document | Requirement |
| CTET Admit Card 2026 | A clear, printed copy (Color or B/W) downloaded from ctet.nic.in. |
| Original Photo ID | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport. (Photocopies/Phone images are NOT valid). |
| Passport Photos | Carry 2 recent photos (same as the one on your application). |
| Ballpoint Pen | Good quality Blue or Black ballpoint pen for OMR marking. |
To speed up the frisking process and avoid "unfair means" suspicion, follow these clothing guidelines:
Clothing: Wear light, simple clothes. Avoid large buttons, heavy embroidery, or many pockets.
Sleeves: Half-sleeves are highly recommended. Full sleeves may lead to more intense manual frisking.
Footwear: Wear slippers or flat sandals. Avoid shoes with thick soles or boots, as you may be asked to remove them outside the hall.
Jewelry: Strictly avoid all metallic items, including rings, earrings, nose pins, bracelets, or necklaces.
The CBSE teacher eligibility test has a long list of banned items. Most centers do not provide a baggage counter, so plan accordingly.
STRICTLY BANNED:
Electronics: Mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, smartwatches, health bands, calculators.
Stationery: Geometry boxes, plastic pouches, pencils, erasers, writing pads, or any bits of paper.
Personal Items: Wallets, handbags, goggles, and belts with large metal buckles.
Food: Snacks and drinks (except for Diabetic candidates with medical certificates, who can carry fruits/sugar tablets).
Since this is an offline CBSE CTET 2026 exam, your OMR sheet is your only record.
No Erasures: You cannot use whitener, blades, or erasers. One mistake in bubbling could invalidate the question.
Correct Bubbling: Ensure the circle is fully darkened. Faint marks or tick marks will not be read by the scanner.
Fill Details First: Carefully enter your Roll Number and Test Booklet Code. Errors here can lead to your result being withheld.
Check your Shift: Paper II is in the morning (9:30 AM); Paper I is in the afternoon (2:30 PM).
Verify your Center: Use your CTET admit card to locate your exact venue a day early.
Stay Hydrated: You may carry a 500ml transparent water bottle.