The countdown has truly begun for aspiring teachers across India. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially ramped up the proceedings for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) scheduled for February 2026. If you are aiming to secure a teaching position in Central Government schools, such as the KVS or NVS, or schools under the administrative control of Union Territories, this examination is your gateway.

In a significant update, the CBSE has released the Exam City Intimation Slip as of 23 January 2026. This document is crucial for candidates to plan their travel and accommodation well in advance of the examination date, which is confirmed for 8 February 2026 (Sunday).

This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to access your city slip, when to expect your final admit card, the critical changes in shift timings for Paper I and Paper II, and a detailed breakdown of the syllabus and preparation tips to help you maximise your score.

Latest Update: CTET Exam City Intimation Slip 2026

The CBSE has activated the link to download the pre-admit card, formally known as the City Intimation Slip. It is vital to understand that this is not your final admit card. The primary purpose of this slip is to inform you of the city where your examination centre will be located. This allows candidates, particularly those who may have been allotted a centre outside their home district, to make necessary travel arrangements.

How to Download Your City Slip

Candidates can download their slip by following these steps:

• Visit the official CTET website: ctet.nic.in.
• Locate the link titled “View Date & City for CTET Feb-2026” on the homepage.
• Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth.
• Input the Security PIN (Captcha) displayed on the screen.
• Click ‘Submit’ to view and download your slip.

If you have forgotten your application number, the official portal provides a retrieval option requiring your name, parents' names, and date of birth.

CTET 2026 Admit Card: Release Date and Details

While the city slip tells you the "where" (the city), the final Admit Card will tell you the "exact where" (the specific school or venue address). According to the latest notifications and standard CBSE trends, the detailed Admit Card is expected to be released two days before the examination, likely around 5 February or 6 February 2026.

Candidates must download the final Admit Card from the official website and carry a printed copy to the examination centre. Without the printed Admit Card and a valid photo ID proof, entry into the examination hall will be strictly prohibited.

Critical Update: Exam Date and Shift Timings

The CTET February 2026 exam will be conducted in offline mode (Pen and Paper) on 8 February 2026. Candidates must pay close attention to the shift timings, as the schedule for Paper I and Paper II is specific:

• Paper II (For Classes 6 to 8): Scheduled for the Morning Shift.
  • Time: 09:30 AM to 12:00 Noon.
  • Reporting Time: 07:30 AM.
• Paper I (For Classes 1 to 5): Scheduled for the Evening Shift.
  • Time: 02:30 PM to 05:00 PM.
  • Reporting Time: 12:30 PM.

It is imperative to note that the gates usually close a few minutes before the exam starts. For Paper II, entry closes at 09:30 AM, and for Paper I, it closes at 02:30 PM. Latecomers are generally not entertained under any circumstances.

Detailed Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

The CTET 2026 follows a robust structure designed to test the pedagogical skills and subject knowledge of the aspirants. The exam consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), and there is no negative marking, which suggests that candidates should attempt every question.

Paper I (Primary Stage: Classes I–V)

This paper tests the candidate's ability to teach young children aged 6–11. The duration is 2.5 hours.

• Child Development and Pedagogy: 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Language I (Compulsory): 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Language II (Compulsory): 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Mathematics: 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Environmental Studies: 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Total: 150 Questions for 150 Marks.

Paper II (Elementary Stage: Classes VI–VIII)

This paper focuses on the age group of 11–14 years. The duration is 2.5 hours.

• Child Development and Pedagogy: 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Language I (Compulsory): 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Language II (Compulsory): 30 MCQs (30 Marks)
• Subject Specialisation (Choose one):
  • Mathematics and Science (for Maths/Science teachers): 60 MCQs (60 Marks)
  • Social Studies/Social Science (for Social Studies teachers): 60 MCQs (60 Marks)
• Total: 150 Questions for 150 Marks.

Syllabus Highlights for CTET 2026

To succeed, one must have a deep understanding of the syllabus prescribed by the NCTE. Here is a closer look at the key areas:

Child Development and Pedagogy (CDP)

This section is common to both papers but varies in difficulty level. It covers:

• Child Development: Principles of development, heredity and environment, socialisation processes, and the critical perspectives of Piaget, Kohlberg, and Vygotsky.
• Concept of Inclusive Education: Addressing learners from diverse backgrounds, including disadvantaged and differently-abled children.
• Learning and Pedagogy: How children think and learn, motivation, and cognition.

Languages (I and II)

Language I focuses on proficiency related to the medium of instruction, while Language II focuses on elements of language, communication, and comprehension. The syllabus includes:

• Comprehension: Unseen passages (prose/drama and poetry) with questions on grammar and verbal ability.
• Pedagogy of Language Development: Learning and acquisition, principles of language teaching, the role of listening and speaking, and remedial teaching.

Environmental Studies (EVS) - Paper I

The content is based on the NCERT syllabus for classes I-V but tests understanding up to the secondary stage. Topics include Family and Friends, Food, Shelter, Water, Travel, and Things We Make and Do. The pedagogical section covers the concept and scope of EVS, integrated EVS, and environmental education.

Mathematics and Science - Paper II

For Maths, topics include Number System, Algebra, Geometry, and Mensuration. Science covers Food, Materials, The World of the Living, Moving Things, and Natural Phenomena. The focus remains on conceptual understanding and pedagogical issues related to teaching these subjects.

Social Studies - Paper II

This covers History (from earliest societies to India after independence), Geography (Planet Earth, Environment, Agriculture), and Social and Political Life (Diversity, Government, Democracy, Constitution). It assesses the candidate's ability to understand society and reflect critically on social issues.

Qualifying Marks and Certificate Validity

To qualify for the CTET, a candidate must score 60% or more (90 marks out of 150) for the General category. For reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD), the qualifying mark is 55% (82 marks out of 150).

A significant advantage for current aspirants is that the Validity Period of the CTET qualifying certificate is for a lifetime. There is no restriction on the number of attempts; a candidate who has qualified can also appear again to improve their score.

Preparation Strategy for the Final Days

With the exam date of 8 February fast approaching, your preparation strategy should shift from learning new concepts to consolidation and practice.

1. Focus on NCERT Textbooks

The CTET exam is strictly based on the NCERT curriculum. For Paper I, thoroughly review NCERT books for Classes 1 to 5. For Paper II, books for Classes 6 to 8 are essential. However, the difficulty level can link up to the secondary stage, so ensure your concepts are crystal clear.

2. Master Child Development and Pedagogy

This is the highest-scoring section. Focus on the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, and Kohlberg, as they appear frequently. Understand the concepts of inclusive education and child-centred teaching methods.

3. Practise Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Solving papers from the last 5 to 10 years is non-negotiable. This helps you understand the language of the questions and the logic used by the CBSE setters. It also aids significantly in time management.

4. OMR Sheet Practice

Since the exam is offline, candidates must be comfortable shading the OMR sheet. Use a black or blue ballpoint pen and practise shading bubbles to ensure you do not lose time or make errors on the actual exam day.

5. No Negative Marking Advantage

Remember, there is no penalty for wrong answers. Ensure you manage your time so that you can attempt every single question. If you are unsure of an answer, use the elimination method to narrow down options and take an educated guess.

Important Exam Day Instructions

• Reporting: Reach the centre well before the reporting time (07:30 AM for Morning Shift, 12:30 PM for Evening Shift). Candidates arriving after the commencement of the exam will not be allowed entry.
• Documents: Carry your downloaded Admit Card, a valid original Photo ID (PAN Card, Aadhaar, Passport, Driving Licence, or Voter ID), and your own blue/black ballpoint pen.
• Prohibited Items: Do not carry any stationery items (other than the pen), electronic devices, watches, wallets, or handbags.
• Biometric Attendance: Cooperate with the staff for biometric authentication, which may be conducted at the centres.

Conclusion

The CTET 2026 is a pivotal step for your teaching career. With the City Intimation Slip now available, the uncertainty regarding exam locations has been resolved. Use the remaining time to revise, practice mock tests, and maintain a positive mindset. The shift in timings for Paper II to the morning is a crucial detail to remember. Ensure you are well-rested and prepared to give your best on 8 February.

Stay tuned to the official website and our blog for the direct link to the final Admit Card as soon as it is released. Good luck to all future teachers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the City Intimation Slip the same as the Admit Card?
A: No, the City Intimation Slip only informs you of the city where your exam will be held. The final Admit Card with the centre address will be released 2 days before the exam.

Q: Can I change my exam centre after the city slip is released?
A: No, the CBSE does not entertain requests for changes in the examination city or centre once allotted.

Q: Is there negative marking in CTET Feb 2026?
A: No, there is no negative marking.

Q: What are the passing marks for OBC candidates?
A: Candidates belonging to OBC/SC/ST categories need to score 55% (82 marks) to qualify.

Q: Will the exam be online or offline?
A: The CTET Feb 2026 exam will be conducted in offline mode (Pen and Paper).