What is the difference between CTET and State TET?

Many teaching aspirants often wonder about the difference between CTET and State TET, especially when deciding which exam to take for a teaching career. Both Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) and State Teacher Eligibility Tests (State TETs) are qualifying exams for candidates who wish to become teachers in government or aided schools. While CTET is conducted at the national level by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and is valid for central government schools like KVS, NVS, and Army Schools, State TETs are organized by individual state governments for recruitment in their respective state-run schools. Aspirants often get confused about which one to attempt- CTET or State TET- especially if they aim to teach in a specific region. In the section below, we break down the key differences and benefits of both CTET and State TET to guide candidates in choosing the right path for their TET exam preparation.

What is CTET?

CTET, or the Central Teacher Eligibility Test, is a national-level exam conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India. It is designed to assess the eligibility of candidates aspiring to become teachers in central government schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS), Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), and other schools under the administrative control of Union Territories. Qualifying CTET is an essential requirement for teaching positions in these institutions.

What is State TET?

Aspiring teachers in India are required to clear the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), a compulsory state-level exam conducted by the respective State Education Boards. Commonly known as the State TET, this exam assesses a candidate’s eligibility and teaching aptitude for primary and upper primary school positions within that specific state. Clearing the State TET is essential for those aiming to secure teaching jobs in government and aided schools under the state jurisdiction, ensuring they have the foundational skills and subject knowledge needed to teach effectively.

What is the difference between CTET and TET? 

Two major eligibility exams for teaching aspirants in India are the CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test) and State TETs. CTET, conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), qualifies candidates to apply for teaching positions in central government schools such as Kendriya Vidyalaya (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya (NVS), and DSSSB. Once candidates clear CTET, they receive an eligibility certificate, which allows them to apply for various central teaching vacancies across the country.

On the other hand, State TETs are organized by individual state governments to recruit teachers in state-run schools. These exams are valid only within the respective state, and candidates who qualify are not eligible for central school positions. For instance, if you’re aiming for a teaching job in Rajasthan state government schools, you must clear the REET (Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers) or Rajasthan TET. Understanding this distinction is crucial for aspirants planning their teaching careers based on their target institutions.

Major Points of Difference CTET Vs TET

The table below highlights the key differences between CTET and State TET exams to help candidates understand which one aligns with their career goals. From the exam level and scope to the application process and job opportunities, both exams serve different purposes. Check out the comparison to make an informed decision for your teaching career.

CTET and State TET Exam Pattern

The structure of CTET and State TET exams is divided into Paper 1 and Paper 2, with subject choices influencing the specific content. Both papers follow a multiple-choice question (MCQ) format, where each question has four options and only one correct answer. Paper 1 is designed for candidates aspiring to teach Classes 1 to 5 and includes five sections, each carrying 30 questions, totaling 150 questions. Paper 2, meant for teaching Classes 6 to 8, comprises four parts: three sections with 30 questions each, and one subject-specific section containing 60 questions. This subject area is chosen by the candidate based on their specialization. This clear division ensures that the exam evaluates both foundational teaching ability and subject-specific expertise.

Note:  In Some State, TET exam is not same as CTET it may be vary according to the state tet notification

Question Paper Highlights of the CTET and TET

Mainly, the exam pattern of the CTET and TET exams consists of the same design. Both the exams include paper-1 and paper-2 mode; you can apply for both exams with the required qualification. If you want to become a primary teacher, then you must go for paper-1. However, you should go for paper-2 if you want to join a secondary teacher.

Career Prospects After CTET & State TET

Candidates preparing for upcoming CTET or State TET exams should stay focused and optimistic, as numerous teaching job opportunities are opening up across the country. With DSSSB, NVS, and various state education boards announcing TGT, PRT, and PGT recruitments, this is a golden chance for aspiring teachers to secure government jobs. The CTET 2025 notification will be live soon on the official website, making it the right time to act. Once you qualify CTET or State TET, you become eligible to apply for teaching positions in reputed Central Government schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and through DSSSB recruitment drives.

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