CTET 2026 Application Form : Official Dates, Link & Fee

CTET 2026 notifications are likely to be released in late 2025 or early 2026, in line with the biannual schedule that usually includes July and December sessions. The application process generally remains open for 3 to 4 weeks, and the fee ranges between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 depending on the candidate’s category and selected papers. CBSE follows an online-only application process through ctet.nic.in, with no provision for physical forms, making the registration process more accessible and efficient.

CTET 2026 Application Form: Important Dates

CBSE publishes the CTET 2026 notification in PDF format on ctet.nic.in. The notice includes the complete schedule, syllabus updates, and application details. Based on previous years, the expected timelines are outlined below.

July 2026 Cycle

• Notification Release: April to May 2026

• Application Start: May 2026

• Last Date to Apply: June 2026, with a late fee window of around three days

• Correction Window: 7 to 10 days after the application deadline

• Exam Date: July 2026, likely on the first Sunday

• Admit Card Release: 10 to 15 days before the exam

• Result Declaration: Within six weeks of the exam

December 2026 Cycle

• Notification Release: September to October 2026

• Application Start: October 2026

• Last Date to Apply: November 2026

• Correction Window: 7 to 10 days after the application deadline

• Exam Date: December 2026, likely on the first Sunday

• Admit Card Release: 10 to 15 days before the exam

• Result Declaration: Within six weeks of the exam

These timelines are indicative and based on past trends, such as CTET July 2025 where applications opened on May 7. Candidates should regularly check ctet.nic.in and enable CBSE SMS or email alerts for updates. Late application fees increase progressively, starting at ₹200 for the first extension and going up to ₹5,000 in cases of extreme delay.

CTET 2026 Application Form: Step to Fill form

The CTET 2026 application process is completely online and designed to be simple even for first-time applicants. Ensure you have a stable internet connection, scanned copies of required documents, and an active email ID and mobile number before starting. Below is the complete step-by-step guide.

• Visit the Official Website

  • Go to the official CTET portal at ctet.nic.in

  • Click on the link “Apply for CTET 2026” once it is activated

  • Apply only through the official website to avoid fraudulent third-party portals

• New Registration

  • Click on the “New Registration” option

  • Enter basic details such as name, date of birth, email ID, mobile number, and category

  • Verify your details using the OTP sent by CBSE

  • Note down your application number and password for future login

• Login and Fill Personal Details

  • Log in using your registered credentials

  • Enter Aadhaar number or enrollment ID, complete address, and educational qualifications from Class 10 onwards

  • Provide details of your teacher training course, if applicable

  • Choose Paper I, Paper II, or both papers depending on your teaching preference

• Upload Required Documents

  • Upload a recent passport-size photograph in JPG format (3.5 x 4.5 cm, under 100 KB)

  • Upload your signature in JPG format under 50 KB

  • Upload a valid identity proof such as Aadhaar or PAN card

  • Ensure clear and correct uploads, as incorrect files are a common reason for application rejection

• Select Exam Center

  • Choose your preferred exam city from the available list of over 100 cities

  • Exam centers are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Popular cities may fill quickly, so early submission is recommended

• Pay the Application Fee

  • Complete the payment using debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI

  • The application will be considered complete only after successful fee payment.

  • No refunds are allowed. The e-receipt serves as official proof of payment.

  • Preview and Submit: Review the application carefully at least three times before final submission. After submitting, a confirmation page will be generated which can be downloaded as a PDF.

  • Correction Window: After submission, candidates can edit limited fields such as name, date of birth, and category by paying a ₹500 online correction fee.

  • Time Estimate: The complete application process takes around 45 to 60 minutes. It is advisable to apply early to avoid last-minute server issues.

CTET 2026 Application Form: Documents Required

Preparation saves headaches. Compile the following documents in digital format:

• Photograph: Recent frontal view with a white background, size 3.5 × 4.5 cm, file size 10–100 KB, JPG format. Caps and sunglasses are not allowed.

• Signature: Signed using black or blue ink on white paper, file size 10–50 KB, JPG format.

• ID Proof: Aadhaar card (preferred), Voter ID, PAN card, or Passport with a clear and readable scan.

• Category Certificate: SC, ST, or OBC certificate in the prescribed and valid format. OBC candidates must submit a non-creamy layer certificate. PwD candidates should upload a valid PwD certificate, including UDISE code if applicable.

• Qualification Documents: Marksheets of Class 10+2, graduation, and B.Ed or D.El.Ed. Self-attestation may be required at the time of upload.

• Bank Details: Required for online fee payment.

CTET 2026 Application Form Fee Structure

• The application fee varies by category to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

• The detailed fee breakup is provided above and no GST is applicable.

• Payments can be made through secure gateways such as SBI, ICICI, and other partner banks, which usually operate without downtime.

• UPI options like PhonePe and Google Pay are the fastest and most convenient payment methods.

• Applicants should save the transaction ID carefully, as it is required for resolving any payment-related issues.

• Fee waivers are available only under specific state quota provisions and are very rare for CTET.

• Based on previous years, CTET receives over 25 lakh applications annually, generating an estimated revenue of ₹200 to ₹500 crore.

Special Provisions for Reserved Categories and PwD

CTET promotes inclusivity through the following measures:

• Fee Concessions: Applicable as per the prescribed fee structure.

• Reservation Policy: 15% for SC, 7.5% for ST, 27% for OBC, 10% for EWS, and 5% for PwD candidates.

• Scribe Facility for PwD: Scribe support is provided along with compensatory time of 20 extra minutes per hour.

• Eligibility Exemptions: Certain B.Ed degree holders are allowed to appear directly.

• Document Verification: Candidates must upload valid certificates. Submission of false documents may lead to disqualification and blacklisting.