The CTET 2025 application process is set to close on December 18, 2025, as announced by the Central Board of Secondary Education. Candidates aspiring to become teachers in central government schools must complete their applications within the deadline to be eligible for the upcoming examination. The Central Teacher Eligibility Test serves as a mandatory qualification for recruitment in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and other centrally funded institutions.
CTET Application Last Date 2025 and Key Timeline
The CTET application's last date is December 18, 2025, and no extension is expected once the window closes. Candidates must complete registration, fill in academic details, upload documents, and pay the examination fee before the deadline. The CTET exam is scheduled to be conducted in January 2026 in computer-based mode across multiple exam centres in India. Admit cards are likely to be released around 7 to 10 days before the exam date.
CTET 2025 Eligibility Criteria for Paper 1 and Paper 2
Understanding CTET eligibility is essential before applying. Eligibility requirements differ for primary and upper primary teaching levels. For Paper 1, candidates must have passed Senior Secondary with 50% marks along with a Diploma in Elementary Education or equivalent qualification. For Paper 2, applicants should hold a graduation degree with 50 percent marks and a recognised teaching qualification such as BEd. Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria can apply for either or both papers, depending on their teaching aspirations.
CTET 2025 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The CTET exam pattern consists of 2 papers, each designed for different teaching levels. Paper 1 is meant for classes 1 to 5, while Paper 2 is for classes 6 to 8. Before appearing for the exam, candidates should be aware of the structure and scoring system. Each paper includes 150 multiple-choice questions to be attempted in 150 minutes. Every correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is no negative marking, making accuracy a key scoring factor.
CTET Score Validity and Qualifying Criteria
The CTET score validity is lifetime, allowing candidates to use their qualification for teaching recruitment at any stage in their career. To qualify, general category candidates must score at least 60 percent marks, while reserved category candidates are given relaxation as per norms. Qualifying CTET does not guarantee a teaching job but serves as an essential eligibility requirement during recruitment processes conducted by various authorities.
Why CTET Qualification Matters for Teaching Careers?
Clearing CTET 2025 enhances a candidate’s teaching profile and increases opportunities in central and state government schools. It reflects a candidate’s understanding of child pedagogy, subject knowledge, and teaching aptitude. With the application deadline approaching, candidates are advised to complete the process without delay to avoid technical issues.

