Kerala TET 2026 Notification Released: Registration Begins 26 February at ktet.kerala.gov.in

The Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan has officially released the notification for the Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) February 2026 cycle, marking the commencement of another significant recruitment phase for aspiring teachers across the state. The notification, published on 25 February 2026, outlines key dates, eligibility norms, examination structure and application procedures.

The online registration process will begin on 26 February 2026 and continue until 7 March 2026. Candidates intending to pursue teaching positions in government and private schools across Kerala are advised to complete their applications within the stipulated timeframe.

While the examination date is yet to be announced, the release of the notification sets the stage for thousands of teaching aspirants to begin formal preparation.

KTET: A Gateway to the Teaching Profession in Kerala

The Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test is a state-level qualifying examination conducted to ensure that individuals entering the teaching profession meet prescribed standards of pedagogical competence and subject knowledge.

The certification serves as a mandatory eligibility criterion for appointment as a teacher in various school categories across Kerala. By standardising qualification benchmarks, KTET aims to uphold educational quality and ensure that classrooms are led by adequately trained professionals.

Teaching in Kerala has long been regarded as a respected and stable profession. The state’s emphasis on literacy and academic performance makes the eligibility process both rigorous and essential.

Important Dates for KTET February 2026

The official notification has outlined the following schedule:

• Notification Release: 25 February 2026
• Online Application Begins: 26 February 2026
• Last Date to Apply and Pay Fee: 7 March 2026
• Last Date to Print Application: 13 March 2026
• Examination Date: To be announced

Candidates are advised to adhere strictly to these deadlines. Late submissions will not be entertained under any circumstances.

Application Fee Structure

The prescribed application fee varies by category:

• General Category: ₹500
• SC/ST and Persons with Disabilities (PH): ₹250

The differential fee structure reflects the state’s commitment to inclusive access while maintaining procedural discipline.

Applicants must ensure successful payment within the application window to validate their submission.

Examination Pattern and Mode

The KTET February 2026 examination will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode, maintaining the traditional offline format.

Each paper will comprise:

• 150 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Total Marks: 150
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Each question carries one mark, and candidates must demonstrate both conceptual clarity and time management skills to perform effectively.

The structured format ensures uniform assessment across categories while preserving examination integrity.

Four Categories of KTET Examination

The KTET examination is conducted across four distinct categories, each tailored to a specific teaching level:

Category I – Lower Primary Classes

This category applies to candidates aspiring to teach at the lower primary level.

Category II – Upper Primary Classes

Intended for those seeking positions in upper primary classrooms.

Category III – High School Classes

Designed for candidates aiming to teach at the secondary school level.

Category IV – Language and Specialist Teachers

This includes Language Teachers and Specialist Teachers such as Physical Education instructors.

Candidates must select the category aligned with their academic qualifications and career aspirations. Each category has its own syllabus and eligibility requirements as specified in the official notification.

How to Apply for Kerala TET 2026

The application process is entirely online. Candidates should follow the steps outlined below carefully to ensure successful submission.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Navigate to the official KTET portal at ktet.kerala.gov.in.

Step 2: Click on the “Registration” Link

Locate the registration link displayed prominently on the homepage.

Step 3: Complete Initial Registration

Enter basic personal details to generate login credentials. Ensure that all information matches official documents.

Step 4: Log In and Fill the Application Form

Using the generated credentials, log in and provide:

• Communication details
• Educational qualifications
• Category selection
• Examination preferences

Accuracy at this stage is essential, as discrepancies may result in disqualification.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of required documents in the prescribed format and size specifications.

Step 6: Review and Pay the Application Fee

Carefully review all entered details before proceeding to fee payment.

Step 7: Submit and Download Confirmation Page

After successful submission, download and save the confirmation page. A printed copy should be retained for future reference.

Candidates are advised to complete the application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Why KTET Certification Matters

Teacher Eligibility Tests across India serve as benchmarks for professional readiness. In Kerala, KTET certification plays a pivotal role in recruitment decisions across government and recognised private schools.

The examination ensures that candidates possess:

• Foundational pedagogical knowledge
• Subject-specific expertise
• Classroom management capability
• Awareness of child development principles

By filtering candidates through a structured eligibility test, the state safeguards educational standards and fosters accountability.

Preparation Strategy for Aspirants

Given the comprehensive nature of the KTET examination, aspirants should approach preparation methodically.

Key preparation strategies include:

• Thorough revision of subject-specific syllabi
• Practice of MCQs under timed conditions
• Study of pedagogical frameworks and child psychology concepts
• Analysis of previous years’ question patterns

Time management during the 2.5-hour examination is particularly crucial. Candidates should allocate appropriate time across sections to avoid rushed responses.

Awaiting the Examination Date

Although the notification has been released, the examination date remains unannounced. Candidates must regularly monitor the official website for updates regarding:

• Admit card release
• Examination schedule
• Venue details
• Instructions for examination day

Timely awareness will ensure smooth participation in the examination process.

Digital Discipline and Documentation

Applicants should maintain:

• A digital copy of their submitted application
• Fee payment receipt
• Printed confirmation page

Proper documentation simplifies future verification processes and reduces procedural complications.

The Broader Educational Context

Kerala consistently ranks among India’s highest-performing states in literacy and educational attainment. Maintaining high standards in teacher recruitment is central to sustaining this reputation.

The KTET examination reflects the state’s structured approach to educational governance - balancing accessibility with accountability. By mandating eligibility certification, Kerala ensures that aspiring teachers meet established benchmarks before entering classrooms.

As educational methodologies evolve and curricula adapt to contemporary demands, the importance of qualified educators becomes even more pronounced.

Final Word

The release of the KTET February 2026 notification marks the beginning of an important opportunity for teaching aspirants across Kerala. With registration open from 26 February to 7 March 2026, candidates must act promptly to complete their applications. By carefully following the online application procedure, verifying eligibility, and initiating focused preparation, aspirants can position themselves strongly for success. Teaching remains one of the most impactful professions in society. The Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test is not merely an examination, it is a gateway to shaping young minds and contributing meaningfully to the state’s educational legacy. Candidates are advised to stay informed through the official portal, adhere strictly to deadlines, and prepare diligently for the upcoming examination.