The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has reopened the application process for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) scheduled for September 2026. Candidates who missed the initial registration period now have until September 1 to submit their applications through the official CTET website. This move comes after numerous requests from eligible candidates seeking another chance to apply.
Why CBSE Reopened CTET Applications
The decision to extend the application deadline follows a directive from the Supreme Court emphasizing the importance of providing aspiring teachers with a fair opportunity to meet the mandatory qualification requirements. The court highlighted that eligible candidates should be given reasonable chances to comply with the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) criteria, which are essential for securing teaching positions in schools.
In response, CBSE reopened the application portal from August 25 to September 1, 2026. Candidates who already submitted their applications during the initial window, which ran from May 11 to June 6, are not required to reapply. The board aims to accommodate those who were unable to register earlier, ensuring wider participation in the 21st edition of the CTET.
Important Details About CTET 2026 Application and Exam
- The CTET application window is open until September 1, 2026.
- Applications must be submitted through the official CTET website.
- The exam was originally scheduled for September 6, 2026, in two shifts; however, the revised date will be announced after the application deadline.
- Applicants must complete registration, fill in educational and personal details, upload scanned photos and signatures, pay the application fee, and submit the form.
- Application fees vary by category: General and OBC candidates pay Rs 1,000 for one paper and Rs 1,200 for two papers; SC, ST, and PwD candidates pay Rs 500 for one paper and Rs 600 for two papers.
- Applicants should download and print their confirmation for future reference.
What Reopening Means for Aspiring Teachers
Reopening the CTET application window provides a crucial opportunity for candidates who missed the initial deadline to participate in this important eligibility test. CTET certification is a mandatory qualification for teaching positions in many government and private schools across India. By extending the application period, CBSE is helping to ensure that more candidates can meet the legal requirements to become certified teachers.
This decision also reflects the judiciary’s recognition of the challenges candidates face in meeting deadlines and the importance of fair access to professional qualifications. The revised exam date announcement will give candidates additional time to prepare once the schedule is finalized.
Overall, this extension could increase the number of qualified teachers entering the education system, potentially improving the quality of education in schools nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can apply during the reopened CTET application window?
A: Eligible candidates who missed the initial application period from May 11 to June 6, 2026, can apply during the reopened window from August 25 to September 1, 2026. Those who already applied do not need to reapply.
Q: How do candidates apply for the CTET exam?
A: Candidates must register on the official CTET website, fill out the application form with personal and educational details, upload required documents, pay the application fee, and submit the form before the deadline.
Q: When will the CTET September 2026 exam take place?
A: The exam was initially scheduled for September 6, 2026, but the revised date will be announced after the application window closes on September 1.
