NCET 2026 Registration Begins at NTA for Integrated Teacher Education

NCET 2026 Registration Begins at NTA for Integrated Teacher Education as the National Testing Agency has opened the online application window for the National Common Entrance Test (NCET) 2026. This entrance exam serves as the admission pathway for the four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) for the academic session 2026-27. Eligible Class 12 pass and appearing candidates can apply through the official portal before the closing date.

NCET 2026 Important Dates and Exam Schedule

Below is a guide to key timelines for the NCET 2026 application and examination phases. Candidates are advised to adhere to these dates to ensure successful participation.

Here are the major dates for the NCET 2026 cycle:

• Online application start date: 12 February 2026
• Last date to apply online: 10 March 2026
• Fee payment deadline: 11 March 2026
• Application correction window: 12–14 March 2026
• NCET 2026 Exam Date (tentative): 17 April 2026

The Computer Based Test will be conducted across multiple centres nationwide in various languages to accommodate a broad range of applicants.

NCET 2026 Eligibility and Admission Purpose

The National Common Entrance Test (NCET) 2026 is aimed at aspirants seeking to pursue the four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP), which is essential for entering the teaching profession through reputed institutions such as central universities, Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs) and government colleges across India.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible:

• Candidates must have passed Class 12 (10+2) from a recognised board.
• Both passing and appearing students are permitted to apply.
• No upper age limit is specified, though specific institutions may enforce their own age norms.

This exam holds increased significance as it has been designated the primary entry test for ITEP admissions, streamlining the process for teacher education programmes nationwide.

NCET 2026 Application Process and Fee Details

The NCET 2026 application process is conducted fully online through the NTA’s official portal (nta.ac.in or exams.nta.nic.in/ncet). Applicants must complete the registration form with accurate personal and academic details, upload required documents and proceed with the prescribed fee payment.

Application Fee Structure

The entrance fee varies by category:

• General: INR 1,200
• OBC-NCL & EWS: INR 1,000
• SC / ST / PwBD / Third Gender: INR 650

Service charges and applicable GST may be added during fee payment.

Once submitted, candidates should retain a copy of the confirmation and fee receipts for future reference. The application correction window provides a short period to address any errors submitted earlier.

NCET 2026 Exam Pattern and Structure

The NCET is planned to be held as a Computer Based Test (CBT) across the country. The question paper will consist of multiple sections designed to assess language skills, domain knowledge and teaching aptitude, reflecting the integrated nature of the teacher education programme. The exam will be offered in 13 different mediums, ensuring linguistic inclusivity for candidates from diverse backgrounds