⚡ Quick Answer: CTET results are declared at ctet.nic.in. Paper 1 qualifies you to teach Classes 1–5 and Paper 2 Classes 6–8. General candidates need 60% (90/150) and reserved categories 55% (82/150). Since 2021, the CTET certificate is valid for life.
The CTET Result 2026 matters far beyond a single score — it is your gateway to a teaching career in central and many state government schools. The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to certify teaching eligibility for Classes 1–8. This guide explains the qualifying marks, how to download your scorecard from DigiLocker, the crucial difference between Paper 1 and Paper 2, and why the lifetime validity rule is such a big deal.
What is CTET and who conducts it?
CTET is a national-level eligibility test conducted by CBSE to assess whether a candidate is qualified to be appointed as a teacher for Classes 1 to 8. Qualifying CTET is a mandatory eligibility condition for teaching posts in Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), central government schools, and many state government and private schools that accept the certificate.
Paper 1 vs Paper 2 — which one you need
Paper 1 — for those who want to teach Classes 1–5 (primary stage).
Paper 2 — for those who want to teach Classes 6–8 (upper-primary stage).
If you want eligibility for both levels, you must appear for both papers. Each paper carries 150 marks.
CTET qualifying marks 2026
To qualify, you need:
| Category | Qualifying % | Marks (out of 150) |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 60% | 90 |
| OBC / SC / ST / PwD | 55% | 82 |
There is no negative marking in CTET, so attempt every question. Higher scores don’t change your “qualified” status but do improve your competitiveness for actual teaching jobs.
How to check your CTET result (step by step)
- Visit ctet.nic.in and click the “Result” link.
- Enter your Roll Number and Date of Birth.
- View your subject-wise marks, total marks and qualifying status.
- Download the scorecard; qualified candidates receive the eligibility certificate via DigiLocker, digitally signed and carrying a secure QR code.
Lifetime validity — the game-changer
Since the 2021 policy change, the CTET qualifying certificate is valid for life — previously it was valid for only 7 years. This means one successful attempt is enough for lifetime eligibility to apply for central government teaching posts. You may still retake CTET to improve your score and strengthen job prospects, but you never need to re-qualify. (Note: some outdated websites still mention “7 years” — the current rule is lifetime.)
Where your CTET certificate is accepted
A valid CTET certificate is accepted by KVS, NVS, EMRS, CBSE-affiliated schools, central government schools, and many state government and private schools. It is one of the most portable teaching qualifications in India, valid across states.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Appearing for the wrong paper — pick Paper 1 or 2 based on the class level you want to teach.
- Assuming the certificate expires — it is now lifetime-valid.
- Not saving the DigiLocker certificate — download and back it up.
- Believing a high score changes eligibility — qualifying is pass/fail; a higher score only helps in recruitment.
FAQs
How long is the CTET certificate valid?
Since the 2021 policy change, CTET qualification is valid for lifetime.
What are the CTET qualifying marks?
60% (90/150) for General and 55% (82/150) for OBC/SC/ST/PwD categories.
How do I download the scorecard from DigiLocker?
Qualified candidates receive a digitally signed certificate in their DigiLocker account, verifiable via its QR code; log in with your credentials to download it.
What’s the difference between Paper 1 and Paper 2?
Paper 1 qualifies you for Classes 1–5, Paper 2 for Classes 6–8. Appear for both if you want eligibility for both levels.
Is there negative marking in CTET?
No. There is no negative marking, so attempt all questions.