CTET Feb 2026 Normalisation: Marks Increase or Decrease? | Update

If you appeared for the CTET 2026 exam held on 7–8 February, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the exam structure, marking system, normalization process, and answer key updates. Many candidates experience confusion regarding shifts, difficulty levels, and score calculations, which can create unnecessary stress. This article breaks down these key aspects based on official guidelines, expert insights, and past exam trends, helping you accurately assess your performance, understand how your scores are evaluated, and stay informed about the answer key release and result process.

Normalization in CTET 2026

What is normalization?
Normalization is a method used in exams conducted in multiple shifts to adjust scores in case some shifts are significantly more difficult than others. It ensures fairness so that candidates from all shifts are evaluated equitably.

Key Points for CTET 2026:

• CTET 2026 will not apply normalization.

• Reason: CTET is a qualifying exam, not a competitive or job-oriented exam.

• Even if a paper seems easier or tougher in one shift, the overall exam balance ensures fairness.

• Differences in perceived difficulty are often due to candidates’ preparation or familiarity with specific topics.

Important Note:
Do not compare papers across shifts (e.g., 7 February vs 8 February). Both papers are balanced and qualifying in nature.

Can Scores Increase or Decrease?

• CTET qualifying marks vary around 90–82 marks.

• Scores may change slightly if a question is disputed or controversial.

• Example: If an institution and NCERT differ on the correct answer, the question may be removed.

• After review, the revised answer key is published.

• Most questions (over 140 out of 150) remain unchanged, so score variations are minimal.

Answer Key Release

• The provisional answer key allows candidates to self-evaluate and challenge answers if needed.

• Final answer key release is typically within 22–23 days after the exam.

• For the CTET 2026 held on 7–8 February, the final answer key is expected around 3 March.

• Use the provisional key to estimate scores and track performance.

Tips for Candidates

• Do not stress if some questions were hard; the exam is balanced overall.

• Evaluate your answers against the provisional key for a self-assessment.

• Focus on your strength areas and do not compare your performance to others.

• Remember: CTET is a qualifying exam, and the paper difficulty is designed to be fair.