How many Attempts are allowed in CTET?

Many candidates dream of becoming teachers in central government schools. One of the most important steps to achieve this is clearing the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET). A common question that comes to mind while preparing for this exam is, how many times can someone attempt CTET?

This blog will give a clear and complete answer to that question. It will also explain everything else a candidate should know about CTET. The language used is very simple, and all points are explained in detail.

What Is CTET?

CTET is an India-level exam organised by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). It is for those who want to become teachers in schools run by the central government. These include Kendriya Vidyalayas (KV), Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), and schools under the control of the union territories.

This test checks whether a person is eligible to teach students from classes 1 to 8. CTET has two papers:

• Paper 1 Is for teaching classes 1 to 5.

• Paper 2 Is for teaching classes 6 to 8.

A person can appear for one paper or both, depending on which classes they want to teach.

Who Can Apply for CTET?

Here are the basic eligibility rules for CTET:

For Classes 1 to 5 (Paper 1)

• Must have passed 12th standard with at least 50% marks.

• Should either have completed or be in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education.

For Classes 6 to 8 (Paper 2)

• Must be a graduate (any stream) with at least 50% marks.

• Should have completed or be in the final year of a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) course.
  

How Many Times Can You Attempt CTET?

The best part about CTET is that there is no restriction on how many times you can appear. Yes, this is true. A candidate can appear for CTET as many times as they wish. If someone does not qualify in the first attempt, they can try again. If someone wants to improve their score, they can also reappear.

There is no age limit for appearing in CTET either. So, even if someone has a gap in their career or wants to switch to teaching later in life, they are allowed to take the exam.

This rule helps many people stay motivated because they know they can try again without restrictions.

CTET Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern is very important for preparation. Below is a simple table that shows the structure of CTET:

All questions are multiple-choice (MCQs). Each question carries 1 mark. There is no negative marking.

If someone wants to teach both levels (1 to 8), they can appear for both papers.

CTET Certificate Validity

Earlier, the CTET certificate was valid for 7 years. But now, the CTET certificate is valid for a lifetime. Once a person qualifies, they can apply for central government teaching jobs anytime in their life.

Still, many people reappear to improve their marks or make their profiles stronger for job interviews.

How to Apply for CTET?

Here are the easy steps to apply:

1. Visit the official CTET website.

2. Register and fill out the online application form.

3. Upload photo and signature.

4. Pay the application fee.

5. Download the confirmation page for future reference.

Application Fee:

CTET Syllabus – What to Study?

CTET checks subject knowledge, teaching skills, and child psychology. Here are the following major subjects:

Paper 1

• Child Development and Pedagogy

• Language I (like Hindi, English, etc.)

• Language II (different from Language I)

• Mathematics

• Environmental Studies

Paper 2

• Child Development and Pedagogy

• Language I

• Language II

• Mathematics and Science (for Science & Math teachers)

• Social Studies (for Social Science teachers)

Candidates should use CTET books that follow the latest syllabus and include practice questions. For better practice, solve CTET 18 Previous Solved Papers to understand the question style and manage time well.

Benefits of CTET

CTET opens doors to many teaching opportunities in:

• Kendriya Vidyalayas

• Navodaya Vidyalayas

• Army Schools

• CBSE-affiliated private schools

• Government-aided schools

Some state government schools may also accept CTET scores, depending on their rules.

Tips for CTET Preparation

• Make a study timetable and follow it daily.

• Begin by knowing the syllabus and exam pattern.

• Learn one subject at a time and make short notes.

• Practice previous year question papers and mock tests.

• Study Child Development and Pedagogy well because it is part of both Paper 1 and Paper 2.

• Revise regularly before the exam date.

CTET Result and Passing Marks

To pass CTET, candidates must score at least:

• 60% marks, or 90 out of 150

However, candidates from reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/Differently Abled) may get a relaxation in passing marks, as per the government norms.

The result is usually declared within 6 weeks of the exam. It is posted online on the official website of CTET.

Final Thoughts

CTET gives everyone a fair chance to become a teacher. Whether a candidate is a fresher or trying again after a break, they can always appear for CTET. With the right strategy and regular practice, success is possible.

One good way to start is by solving past papers and studying from standard books. Staying calm, planning well, and not giving up is the key to cracking CTET.

FAQs

1. Can I appear for CTET more than once in a year?
Yes, CTET is held twice a year. A candidate is able to attend both the exams if they wish.

2. If I pass CTET once, do I need to appear again?
No, it is not required. The certificate for CTET is now valid for life. If you want, you can reappear to improve your score.

3. Is CTET tough to pass?
It requires proper preparation and time management. Many candidates pass it in the first go with the help of the right books and practice.

4. Can private school teachers also take the CTET?
Yes. CTET is not limited to government jobs. A large number of the private schools also favor CTET-qualified teachers.