Find out whether CTET is held twice a year and learn about the number of attempts allowed. Get clear answers on CTET exam frequency, attempt limits, and key eligibility highlights for aspiring teachers.
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is a centralised teaching eligibility test conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Every year, lakhs of aspiring teachers appear for CTET to qualify for teaching positions in government schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and other institutions that follow the CBSE curriculum. One of the most common questions among candidates is whether CTET is conducted twice a year and how many attempts one can make.
Is CTET Held Twice a Year?
Yes, CTET is conducted twice a year by CBSE. Usually, CTET is held once in July and once in December. These biannual sessions allow candidates more flexibility to prepare and appear for the exam at their convenience. However, CBSE may adjust dates depending on administrative or national circumstances. Despite such variations, the general rule remains: CTET is organized two times annually, giving candidates ample opportunity each year.
Why CTET Is Conducted Twice a Year
Conducting CTET twice a year serves multiple purposes:
- Increases opportunities for candidates
Students who miss the first cycle or do not score well can attempt again without waiting a full year. - Ensures a consistent supply of qualified teachers
Government and CBSE-affiliated schools often have continuous vacancies. - Supports flexible preparation cycles
Candidates engaged in graduation, B.Ed, D.El.Ed, or job commitments get multiple chances to slot their exams as per convenience.
Because of these reasons, the twice-yearly schedule has now become a stable feature of the examination.
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How Many Attempts Are Allowed in CTET?
One of the most student-friendly aspects of CTET is that there is no limit on the number of attempts. CBSE has clearly stated that a candidate can appear for CTET as many times as they wish until they secure their desired score.
Key Points Regarding Attempts
- Unlimited Attempts:
Candidates can keep appearing without any restriction. - Applicable to both Paper I & Paper II:
Whether you want to qualify for Classes I–V (Paper I) or Classes VI–VIII (Paper II), there is no limit on how many times you may attempt. - Marks Improvement Allowed Anytime:
Even if a candidate has previously qualified CTET, they can reappear in future cycles to improve their score. - Validity of CTET Certificate: The CTET qualifying certificate is valid for a lifetime. This means once a candidate qualifies, they do not need to reappear unless they personally want to improve their score.
Why Unlimited Attempts Are Beneficial
- Reduces pressure: Candidates can appear multiple times without stress.
- Boosts employment chances: Higher CTET scores can improve selection prospects during teacher recruitment.
- Encourages more participation: Candidates from rural areas or those balancing jobs get repeated opportunities.
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Supports long-term career planning Candidates preparing for government teaching jobs can align attempts with recruitment cycles.
CTET is indeed held twice a year, once in July and once in December, with no limit to the number of attempts. These features make CTET one of the most accessible and student-friendly eligibility examinations in India. Be it for a first-time candidate looking to better their score, or for repeated attempts, the biannual schedule and unlimited attempts offer immense flexibility and convenience.
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CTET is conducted twice annually by CBSE. -
Usually held in July and December sessions. -
No limit on the number of attempts for CTET. -
CTET qualifying certificate is valid for a lifetime.
