CTET 2026 Exam Schedule Out: CBSE Revises Paper 1 & Paper 2 Dates
CBSE has revised the CTET 2026 exam schedule. The dates for Paper 1 and Paper 2 have been updated, and the revised timetable is now available on the official website. Candidates should check the new exam dates, timings, and instructions to avoid confusion.
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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the CTET Exam Schedule 2026, bringing a significant update for millions of teaching aspirants across India. In a move to manage the unprecedented surge in applicants, the 21st edition of the Central Teacher Eligibility Test will now be conducted over two days instead of the traditional single-day format.
If you are appearing for the upcoming teacher eligibility test, here is everything you need to know about the CTET Exam Date 2026, shift timings, and the revised CTET Paper 1 schedule 2026.
CTET Exam Date 2026: Feb 7 & 8
Breaking away from the usual practice, the CBSE has scheduled the exam for Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026.
The decision to hold the exam across two days was necessitated by the massive volume of applications received following the November 2025 notification. Spreading the exam ensures better infrastructure management and a smoother experience for candidates at various test centers.
CTET 2026 Paper 1 & 2 Exam Schedule Revised
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially revised the CTET 2026 exam date, transitioning from a single-day event to a two-day schedule on February 7 and February 8, 2026. This strategic shift was implemented to accommodate a record-breaking surge of over 25 lakh applicants, ensuring better logistical management across 140 cities nationwide. According to the updated timetable, Paper II will be conducted in the morning shift from 09:30 AM to 12:00 PM, while the CTET Paper 1 schedule 2026 is set for the afternoon shift from 02:30 PM to 05:00 PM on both days. Candidates are urged to download their final admit cards, expected to be released by February 5, to confirm their specific allotted date and shift, as no requests for changes to the examination center or date will be entertained.
CTET 2026 Paper 1 & 2 Exam Shift & Timings
The CBSE has maintained a strict two-shift pattern for both days. It is crucial for candidates to check their specific CTET exam date and shift on their admit cards, as Paper 1 and Paper 2 will be held as follows:
| CTET Paper 1 Schedule 2026 & Paper 2 Shift Timings | |||
| Exam Date | Paper | Shift | Timings |
| 07-02-2026 | Paper-II (Elementary) | Morning | 09:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| 07-02-2026 | Paper-I (Primary) | Afternoon | 02:30 PM to 05:00 PM |
| 08-02-2026 | Paper-II (Elementary) | Morning | 09:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| 08-02-2026 | Paper-I (Primary) | Afternoon | 02:30 PM to 05:00 PM |
Note: The CTET Paper 1 schedule 2026 is exclusively locked for the afternoon slot on both days.
Mandatory Documents for the CTET 2026 Exam Hall
With the CTET exam date fast approaching, ensure you have the following ready to avoid last-minute hassles:
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Admit Card: The link to download the hall ticket will be active shortly on the official website.
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Valid ID Proof: Original Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID.
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Ballpoint Pen: Blue or Black (as per OMR requirements).
Why the 21st Edition of CTET is High-Stakes
Qualifying for the CTET is a mandatory requirement for securing a teaching job in prestigious government institutions like KVS, NVS, and Central Schools. With the 2026 schedule now spread over two days, the competition is expected to be fierce. Candidates should focus on the revised syllabus and previous year's question papers to ensure they meet the qualifying marks (60% for General, 55% for Reserved categories).
Stay Updated: Keep a close watch on the official CBSE CTET portal for the release of the Pre-Admit Card and Final Admit Card, which will specify your exact venue and designated exam date.