What is CTET?

CTET, i.e., Central Teacher Eligibility Test, is an examination conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India. This test is a crucial requirement for those aspiring to become teachers in primary (Classes I-V) and upper primary (Classes VI-VIII) schools across the country, aimed at determining the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions in these institutions.
The CTET, held annually, assesses a candidate’s eligibility for teaching positions in Central Government Schools like KVS, NVS, and others. It consists of two papers: Paper 1 for teaching Classes 1-5 (Primary Teachers) and Paper 2 for teaching Classes 6-8 (Elementary Teachers). Candidates aiming to teach Classes 1-8 are required to take both papers. The CBSE has conducted 17 editions of the CTET exam so far. The CBSE CTET 2023 exam was conducted both in offline and online mode. CTET exam focuses on inclusive education. This means it encourages teachers to understand and support students with different learning needs, including those with disabilities. CTET includes questions about inclusive teaching, showing its importance in ensuring all students get the help they need to learn. So, passing CTET isn’t just about getting a teaching job—it’s also about being a teacher who can help every student succeed.

When is CTET 2024?

According to the latest notification by The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the 19th edition of the CTET exam is scheduled for offline and online on July 7, 2024.

CTET 2024 Eligibility Criteria

CTET Paper 1 Eligibility: Qualifications for Teaching Primary Classes I-V

• Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (by whatever name known). OR
• OR Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 45% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (by whatever name known), in accordance with the NCTE (Recognition Norms and Procedure), Regulations, 2002.
• OR Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed).
• OR Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Education (Special Education).
• OR Graduation with at least 50% marks and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed).

CTET Paper 2 Eligibility: Qualifications for Teaching Elementary Classes VI-VIII

• Graduation and passed or appearing in the final year of a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (by whatever name known).
• Or Graduation with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the 1-year Bachelor in Education (B.Ed).
• Or Graduation with at least 45% marks and passed or appearing in the 1-year Bachelor in Education (B.Ed), in accordance with the NCTE (Recognition Norms and Procedure) Regulations issued from time to time in this regard.
• OR Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 4-year Bachelor in Elementary Education (B.El.Ed).
• Or Senior Secondary (or its equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the final year of a 4-year B.A/B.Sc.Ed or B.A.Ed/B.Sc.Ed.
• Or Graduation with at least 50% marks and passed or appearing in the 1-year B.Ed. (Special Education).

CTET 2024 Syllabus

CTET Paper 1 Syllabus (For Classes I-V)

1. Child Development and Pedagogy (30 Questions)

• Child Development (Primary School Child)
• Concept of Inclusive Education and Understanding Children with Special Needs
• Learning and Pedagogy

2. Language I (30 Questions)

• Language Comprehension
• Pedagogy of Language Development

3. Language II (30 Questions)

• Comprehension
• Pedagogy of Language Development

4. Mathematics (30 Questions)

• Geometry, shapes, and spatial understanding
• Numbers, addition and subtraction, multiplication and division
• Measurement, data handling, and patterns
• Nature of mathematics, logical thinking
• Error analysis and related aspects of teaching and learning

5. Environmental Studies (30 Questions)

• Family and Friends
• Food, shelter, water, travel, and things we make and do
• Concept and scope of EVS
• Environmental studies and environmental education
• Teaching material/aids and activities

CTET Paper 2 Syllabus (For Classes VI-VIII)

1. Child Development and Pedagogy (30 Questions)

• Child Development (Elementary School Child)
• Concept of Inclusive Education and Understanding Children with Special Needs
• Learning and Pedagogy

2. Language I & II (60 Questions)

• Language Comprehension
• Pedagogy of Language Development

3. Mathematics and Science (60 Questions)

• Mathematics (30 Questions)
  • Content: Number system, algebra, geometry, mensuration, data handling
  • Pedagogical issues: Nature of mathematics, logical thinking, error analysis
• Science (30 Questions)
  • Content: Food, materials, the world of the living, natural phenomena, and resources
  • Pedagogical issues: Nature and structure of science, experiments, and activities

4. Social Studies/Social Science (60 Questions)

• History: When, where and how, the earliest societies, the first farmers and herders, the first cities, early states, new ideas, and cultures
• Geography: Geography as a social study and as a science, planet: earth in the solar system, globe, environment in its totality, air, water, human environment: settlement, transport, and communication
• Social and Political Life: Diversity, government, local government, making a living, democracy, state government, understanding media, and the judiciary.
• Concept and nature of social science/social studies
• Classroom processes, activities, and discourse
• Developing critical thinking

CTET 2024 Exam Pattern

How to Prepare for CTET Exam?

1.  Familiarize yourself with the CTET syllabus for Paper I and II.
2. Understand the exam pattern, including the number of questions, marks distribution, and duration of the exam.
3. Understand the theories of child development and pedagogy.
4. Learn about inclusive education and understanding children with special needs.
5. Improve language comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary for both Language I and Language II.
6. Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and types of questions asked.
7. Take regular mock tests to simulate exam-like conditions and improve time management skills.
8. Evaluate your performance and focus on weak areas for improvement.
9. Refer to standard textbooks, study guides, and reference materials recommended for CTET preparation.
10. Utilize online resources such as video lectures, practice quizzes, and educational websites for additional practice.
11. Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to education, policies, and developments in education.
12. Clarify doubts and seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or online forums whenever necessary.
13. Maintain a positive attitude towards your preparation and stay motivated.

With thorough preparation, dedication, and perseverance, you can ace the CTET exam and take a significant step toward fulfilling your aspirations of becoming a successful educator. Best of luck with your preparation, and may you excel in the CTET exam!