The Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) 2026 has been officially announced by the Government of Kerala through Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan (KPB). This pivotal examination is designed to assess the aptitude, teaching skills, and competencies of aspiring teachers who wish to serve in various educational institutions across Kerala. Whether aiming to teach in Lower Primary, Upper Primary, High School, or specialized teaching positions, candidates must qualify in KTET to become eligible for recruitment. This comprehensive guide provides all detailed information regarding the KTET 2026 notification, application procedure, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, and other essential aspects, enabling you to prepare effectively for this critical examination.
Kerala TET 2026 Notification: Overview and Key Details
The official notification for KTET February 2026 has been released and is available for download from the official Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan website. The exam serves as a certification for aspiring teachers and is conducted at the state level. Here’s a quick overview of the essential details:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan (KPB) |
| Exam Level | State-level Teacher Eligibility Test |
| Categories | Category I (Lower Primary), Category II (Upper Primary), Category III (High School), Category IV (Language & Specialist Teachers) |
| Mode of Application | Online only |
| Mode of Exam | Offline OMR-based (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Official Website | https://ktet.kerala.gov.in |
| Download Notification PDF | Kerala TET 2026 Notification PDF |
About Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) 2026
The Kerala TET aims to evaluate the teaching aptitude, child psychology understanding, subject knowledge, and pedagogical skills of candidates aspiring to teach in Kerala schools. Qualifying in KTET is a mandatory criterion for appointment as teachers in both government and private aided schools, as per guidelines from the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) and state norms.
The exam is structured into four categories, each targeting different school levels and subject areas:
- Category I: Lower Primary (Classes 1-5)
- Category II: Upper Primary (Classes 6-8)
- Category III: High School (Classes 9-10)
- Category IV: Language & Specialist Teachers (including Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, Art & Craft, P.E.)
Achieving the KTET certification opens pathways for applying to various teaching vacancies in Kerala’s government, aided, and recognized private schools, subject to recruitment norms.
Important Dates for KTET 2026
The Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan has announced the schedule for the February 2026 session. While the application window is open, the exam dates are yet to be finalized. Below are the key dates:
| Event | Date / Status |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | Available on official site |
| Online Application Start Date | 26 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 07 March 2026 |
| Final Printout Submission | 13 March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | To be announced |
| Exam Dates | To be announced |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
Note: There is a mention of KTET exams scheduled on 21/02/2026 and 23/02/2026; however, the main notification details a different application timeline starting from 26/02/2026. Candidates should always verify the latest information via the official Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan portal.
How to Apply for KTET 2026
The application process for KTET 2026 is entirely online. Offline options are not available. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth registration:
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
- Visit the official KTET website: https://ktet.kerala.gov.in.
- Click on the “Registration” or “New Registration” link designated for the February 2026 session.
- Register by providing your name, mobile number, email ID, and select the appropriate category (I/II/III/IV).
- Log in using your registration ID and password.
- Fill in your personal details, educational qualification details, preferred exam centers, and category.
- Upload scanned copies of your passport-sized photograph and signature in the specified format and size.
- Pay the application fee online using debit/credit card or net banking.
- Review the filled application and click on submit.
- Download and print the confirmation receipt for future reference.
Application Fee Structure
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| Unreserved (General) | Rs. 500 |
| SC/ST/PWD | Rs. 250 |
Fee payment is an integral part of the application process and must be completed for successful registration.
Eligibility Criteria for KTET 2026
Eligibility rules are stipulated based on educational qualifications, age, and reserved category relaxations. The criteria differ for each category:
Category-wise Eligibility
Category I – Lower Primary (Classes 1-5)
Applicants must have:
- Higher Secondary (or equivalent) with at least 45-50% marks,
- 2-year D.El.Ed/TTC qualification or a 4-year B.El.Ed.
Category II – Upper Primary (Classes 6-8)
Applicants must have:
- Graduation with 45-50% marks,
- 2-year D.El.Ed or Graduation with B.Ed.
Category III – High School (Classes 9-10)
Applicants must have:
- Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BSc/BCom) with 45-50% marks in relevant subjects,
- B.Ed. qualification.
Category IV – Language & Specialist Teachers
Qualifications vary depending on the subject (Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, Art, P.E.), typically requiring relevant language proficiency and diploma/course certifications.
Note: Relaxations in marks are provided for SC/ST, OBC, and differently-abled candidates as per Kerala norms and central guidelines.
Age Limit for KTET 2026
There is no upper age limit to appear forKTET. The minimum age is generally 18 years or as specified in respective recruitment notifications. Candidates must fulfill educational qualifications and other eligibility requirements.
Syllabus for Kerala TET 2026
The syllabus is designed to evaluate teaching skills, child psychology, language proficiency, and core subject knowledge. It is divided into various sections based on the category:
Core Subjects and Sections
| Section | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | Learning theories, child psychology, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques. |
| Language I (Malayalam/Tamil/Kannada) | Language understanding, comprehension, grammar, and literature relevant to the language. |
| Language II (English/Other Languages) | English language skills, comprehension, grammar, and usage. |
| Mathematics | Number systems, algebra, geometry, statistics, and pedagogical approaches. |
| Environmental Studies/Science & Social Science | Environmental awareness, science concepts, social sciences, history, geography, civics. |
| Subject-specific Pedagogy (for specialized categories) | Methodology, curriculum planning, assessment, and resource utilization specific to the subject. |
Exam Pattern for KTET 2026
The exam pattern is standardized across all categories, testing multiple-choice questions in a 2.5-hour window. No negative marking applies, highlighting the importance of accuracy.
| Category | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category I | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours | None |
| Category II | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours | None |
| Category III | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours | None |
| Category IV | 150 | 150 | 2.5 hours | None |
Admit Card and Result Declaration
Admit cards will be released online before the exam. Candidates must download and carry a printed copy along with an original photo ID to the examination center.
Steps to Download Admit Card
- Visit the official site: https://ktet.kerala.gov.in.
- Click on “Download Admit Card” for the relevant session.
- Login using registration ID and date of birth.
- Download, verify, and print the admit card.
Results for KTET 2026 will be announced on the official portal after the answer key evaluation. The process includes provisional answer keys, objections submission, final answer keys, and scorecard publication.
Qualifying Marks
- General candidates: 60% (i.e., 90 marks out of 150)
- OBC/OEC candidates: Approximately 55%
- SC/ST/Differently-abled: Approximately 50%
Validity and Career Prospects
The KTET certificate’s validity generally aligns with the norms set by the NCTE or Kerala government, often being valid for lifetime or extended periods. Qualifying KTET is essential for applying to teacher recruitment in Kerala’s schools and can assist in promotions and transfers.
This certification acts as a gateway into a teaching career in Kerala, with opportunities in government schools, aided institutions, and some private schools that mandate KTET certification for educators.
Additional Resources
For detailed information and official updates, candidates can refer to the official KTET notification PDF available at: KTET 2026 Notification PDF.
Preparing for KTET requires understanding the syllabus, practicing previous question papers, and staying updated with official notices. Mock tests and previous papers can be accessed through various online platforms dedicated to Kerala TET preparation.
Conclusion
Kerala TET 2026 is a crucial stepping stone for aspiring teachers in Kerala. Ensuring timely registration, understanding the syllabus, and practicing consistently can greatly enhance your chances of qualifying. Keep track of official notifications for the latest updates on exam dates and other protocol adjustments. Good luck to all future educators preparing to serve in Kerala’s vibrant educational landscape.