Starting a teaching career involves meeting the required qualifications and understanding the steps needed to become eligible for teaching positions. The Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) is an important examination for candidates looking to teach at different school levels.
The KTET 2026 exam requires candidates to understand the eligibility criteria, syllabus, and exam pattern. Whether you are appearing for the first time or planning another attempt, knowing these details can help you prepare effectively.
Key Details of the KTET Exam
| Exam Level | State Level |
|---|---|
| Conducting Authority | Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Categories | Category I, II, III, and IV |
| Exam Mode | Offline (OMR-Based) |
| Question Type | Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Exam Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Exam Frequency | Usually twice a year |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Exam Date | November 14 and 15, 2026 |
| Admit Card Date | November 4, 2026 |
KTET Exam Categories and Teaching Levels
Candidates should select the appropriate KTET category based on your qualifications and the teaching position they wish to pursue, ensuring you meet the required educational criteria for that category.
- Category I: For Lower Primary teachers handling Classes I to V.
- Category II: For Upper Primary teachers teaching Classes VI to VIII.
- Category III: For High School teachers teaching Classes IX to X.
- Category IV: For language teachers, specialist teachers, and Physical Education teachers.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the KTET Exam?
The KTET exam covers various teaching levels, including Lower Primary (LP), Upper Primary (UP), and High School, along with language, specialist, and Physical Education teaching roles. The exam aims to maintain teaching standards in schools across Kerala. To apply for KTET 2026, you must meet the educational qualifications prescribed for your chosen category. The KTET eligibility criteria vary depending on the teaching level and subject.
Category 1: Lower Primary- LP (Classes 1–5)
Candidates must have completed Higher Secondary (Class 12) with at least 45% marks, along with a recognised two-year TTC, D.Ed., or D.El.Ed. Qualification, subject to the applicable eligibility rules.
Category 2: Upper Primary- UP (Classes 6–8)
Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree, such as BA, B.Sc., or B.Com., along with a recognised D.Ed./D.El.Ed. or B.Ed. qualification, as applicable.
Category 3: High School (Classes 9–10)
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in the relevant subject, generally with at least 45% marks, along with a recognised B.Ed. Qualification, subject to the prescribed subject-wise requirements.
Category 4: Languages and Special Subjects
This category is intended for candidates seeking teaching positions in languages such as Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, and Urdu, as well as specialised subjects such as Art, Craft, and Physical Education. Applicants must possess the relevant academic and professional qualifications specified for their subject.
KTET 2026 Application Process
You can apply for KTET 2026 online through the official Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan website. Complete the registration, enter your personal and educational details, select the appropriate exam category, upload the required photograph, pay the application fee, and submit the form before the deadline. Check all details carefully and keep a copy of the final application form and payment receipt for future reference.
Follow these steps to complete the KTET 2026 application process.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Visit ktet.kerala.gov.in and read the latest KTET 2026 notification carefully before applying.
Step 2: Complete Registration
Click on New Registration on the homepage to begin the application process.
Step 3: Select the KTET Category
Choose the appropriate category based on your educational qualifications and teaching eligibility.
Step 4: Enter Academic Details
Provide the required subject, medium of instruction, and educational qualification details as mentioned in your certificates.
Step 5: Provide Identity Details
Select an accepted identity card and enter the identification number correctly. Keep the same ID proof ready for examination-day verification, as instructed.
Step 6: Fill in Personal Information
Enter your name, date of birth, gender, address, contact details, and other required information accurately.
Step 7: Upload Photograph and Signature
Upload your recent photograph and signature in the format and size specified in the official notification.
Step 8: Review the Application
Check the application preview carefully. Use the edit option to correct any mistakes before final confirmation.
Step 9: Confirm the Application
Submit the final confirmation after verifying all details. Check the notification for the rules regarding corrections after confirmation.
Step 10: Save Application Details
Note down your application number and application ID. Download or print the application details for future reference.
Step 11: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the prescribed fee using an available payment method, such as SBI e-Payment, net banking, debit card, or credit card, as specified on the portal. Keep the payment receipt for reference.
KTET 2026 Application Fee: Category-wise Details
The KTET 2026 application fee varies by candidate category. You must pay the applicable fee during online registration to complete the application process. Check the fee structure below before proceeding with payment.
| Candidate Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | ₹500 |
| OBC | ₹500 |
| SC | ₹250 |
| ST | ₹250 |
| PH/Differently Abled | ₹250 |
FAQ’s
Candidates can apply for the KTET 2026 exam through the official Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan website.
KTET eligibility requirements vary by category. Students must have the prescribed educational qualifications, such as relevant higher secondary, degree, or teacher training qualifications, depending on whether they apply for Category I, II, III, or IV. The official notification provides the specific requirements for each category.
There is generally no upper age limit specified for KTET. However, students should check the official KTET 2026 notification for the applicable eligibility conditions.
The KTET 2026 examination is scheduled for November 14 and 15, 2026. Students can visit the official KTET website for the category-wise exam schedule and admit card updates.
To apply for KTET Category I (LPST), students must have the required Higher Secondary qualification and a recognised TTC or D.El.Ed. Qualification for Lower Primary (LP) teaching, as per the official eligibility rules.
For KTET Category II (UPST), students must meet the educational requirements for Upper Primary teaching (Classes 6–8). These generally include a bachelor’s degree with a recognised B.Ed., D.El.Ed., or another accepted teacher education qualification, depending on the applicable eligibility rules.
The KTET 2026 admit card is scheduled to be released on November 4, 2026. Students can download it from the official KTET website.