CTET September 2026 Registration Begins; CBSE Introduces Major Changes in Exam Pattern and Language Options
The CBSE has officially started the online registration process for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) September 2026 session. Candidates aspiring to build a career in school education and secure teaching opportunities in government schools can now apply online through the official CTET portal.
Along with opening applications, CBSE has also introduced several important changes in this year’s CTET examination process, including modifications in exam city allocation and expansion of language options.
Eligible candidates can submit their applications until June 10, 2026.
CTET September 2026 Application Process Now Active
The registration process for the 22nd edition of CTET began on May 11, 2026.
Candidates can apply through the official websites:
According to the official notification:
- Online application process started: May 11, 2026
- Last date to apply: June 10, 2026 (11:59 PM)
- Last date for fee payment: June 10, 2026 (11:59 PM)
CBSE has advised candidates not to wait until the final date to avoid server-related issues and heavy website traffic.
CTET September 2026 Exam Date
As per the official schedule, the CTET September 2026 examination for both Paper I and Paper II will be conducted on:
Main Exam Date
- September 6, 2026 (Sunday)
CBSE has also stated that if the number of applications becomes exceptionally high, the examination may additionally be conducted on:
Additional Possible Exam Date
- September 5, 2026 (Saturday)
The examination will be conducted across 132 cities in India.
Biggest Changes Introduced in CTET 2026
This year, CBSE has introduced several major changes that candidates must understand carefully before applying.
1. No Option to Choose Preferred Exam City
One of the biggest changes this year is related to exam city allocation.
Unlike previous years, candidates will no longer be able to select their preferred examination city during the application process.
According to CBSE:
- Exam cities will now be allotted randomly by the board.
- Requests for changing exam cities will not be accepted later.
This change has been introduced to streamline exam management and reduce logistical complications.
Candidates are therefore advised to prepare for the possibility of being allotted any available exam city.
2. CTET Will Now Be Conducted in 27 Languages
Another major update is the expansion of language options.
Earlier, CTET examinations were conducted in 20 languages. Now, CBSE has expanded the list to 27 languages for the September 2026 session.
Newly Added Languages
The following seven languages have been added:
- Bodo
- Dogri
- Kashmiri
- Konkani
- Maithili
- Santhali
- Sindhi
This move is being viewed as an important step toward improving inclusivity and supporting regional language candidates.
Complete List of Existing CTET Languages
The previously available 20 languages include:
- English
- Hindi
- Assamese
- Bengali
- Garo
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Khasi
- Malayalam
- Manipuri
- Marathi
- Mizo
- Nepali
- Odia
- Punjabi
- Sanskrit
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Tibetan
- Urdu
With the addition of seven more languages, the total number of language options has now increased to 27.
Important CTET September 2026 Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | May 11, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 10, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | June 10, 2026 |
| Correction Window | June 15 to June 18, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Two days before exam |
| CTET Exam Date | September 6, 2026 |
| Possible Additional Exam Date | September 5, 2026 |
| Expected Result Declaration | End of October 2026 |
Candidates are advised to keep checking official websites regularly for updates regarding admit cards and exam instructions.
Understanding Paper I and Paper II
CTET consists of two separate papers depending on the teaching level candidates wish to apply for.
Paper I
Paper I is meant for candidates who want to teach:
- Classes 1 to 5
Paper II
Paper II is intended for candidates planning to teach:
- Classes 6 to 8
Candidates who want eligibility for teaching Classes 1 to 8 can appear for both papers.
Qualifying Marks for CTET 2026
According to CBSE guidelines:
- Candidates scoring 60 percent or more marks will be considered CTET qualified.
However, qualifying CTET does not guarantee direct recruitment. Schools and educational institutions use CTET scores while conducting recruitment based on available vacancies and their own selection processes.
Why CTET Is Important for Teaching Aspirants
CTET is one of the most important eligibility examinations for candidates aspiring to become teachers in central government schools and several state-affiliated institutions.
CTET qualification is often required for recruitment in:
- Kendriya Vidyalayas
- Navodaya Vidyalayas
- Central government schools
- Many private schools
- State government schools recognizing CTET eligibility
Because of this, lakhs of candidates appear for the examination every year.
Candidates Advised to Read Notification Carefully
Experts recommend that applicants carefully review the official notification before filling out the form, especially because of the newly introduced changes.
Candidates should particularly verify:
- Eligibility criteria
- Paper selection
- Language preference
- Uploaded documents
- Application details
- Fee payment status
before final submission.
With registration now open and major updates introduced, CTET September 2026 is expected to attract a very large number of applicants from across the country.
