What Is the Negative Marking Scheme in CTET?
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
150 MCQs | 150 Marks | 0 Negative Marking
As of the September 2026 examination cycle, there is no negative marking in the CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test). Each question carries one mark, and no marks are deducted for incorrect answers or left-blank responses. Candidates are encouraged to attempt all 150 questions within the allotted 150-minute duration.
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is designed to assess the aptitude and pedagogical skills of prospective teachers for Classes 1 through 8. A critical aspect of the exam pattern is the absence of a negative marking scheme. According to the latest CBSE information bulletins for the 2026 cycle, each paper consists of 150 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), with each question carrying a weightage of one mark. Because there is no penalty for incorrect answers, candidates can strategically attempt every question without the risk of score reduction.
The exam is conducted in an offline, OMR-based format. With a total duration of 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes), the time-per-question ratio is exactly one minute. This structure allows candidates to maximize their potential score by ensuring no question is left unanswered, provided they manage their time effectively across the five distinct sections of the paper.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Total Questions: 150 MCQs per paper.
- ✓Negative Marking: None (0 marks deducted for wrong answers).
- ✓Total Duration: 150 minutes (2.5 hours).
- ✓Marking Weightage: 1 mark per correct answer.
The CTET exam pattern is strictly governed by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). As of the most recent 2026 notifications, the exam remains consistent in its format for both Paper 1 (Primary Stage) and Paper 2 (Elementary Stage). Official disclosures emphasize that the objective is to evaluate teaching eligibility rather than penalize candidates for incorrect guesses. Candidates should always verify the most recent information brochure on the official CTET website (ctet.nic.in) to ensure they are aligned with the latest syllabus and structure before the examination date. While the 'no negative marking' rule is a standard feature, exam instructions can occasionally be updated; therefore, reading the OMR sheet instructions carefully on the day of the exam is a mandatory best practice.
CTET Exam Pattern Overview
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Quick Comparison
| Parameter | Paper 1 (Class 1-5) | Paper 2 (Class 6-8) | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 150 | 150 | None |
| Total Marks | 150 | 150 | None |
| Duration | 150 Minutes | 150 Minutes | None |
| Mode | Offline (OMR) | Offline (OMR) | None |
Verified Fee Benchmarks: Figures reflect audited notifications and semester schedules.Source: Official Circulars & Mandatory Disclosures
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Strategy for Attempting
Since there is no penalty, prioritize completing all 150 questions. Use the first pass to solve easy, high-confidence questions.
2Step 2
Time Management
Allocate approximately 30 minutes per section to ensure you do not run out of time for the final, potentially high-scoring pedagogical questions.
3Step 3
Verification
Always cross-check the official CBSE CTET portal for the latest exam bulletin before your scheduled test date to confirm no changes to the marking scheme.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is there any negative marking in CTET 2026?
No, there is no negative marking in the CTET examination. Incorrect answers do not result in any deduction of marks.
How many marks is each question worth in CTET?
Each question in the CTET exam carries exactly one mark. There are 150 questions in total, making the paper worth 150 marks.
Should I leave difficult questions blank in CTET?
No, because there is no negative marking, it is highly recommended to attempt all questions. Even if you are unsure, marking an answer gives you a chance to earn a mark without any risk of penalty.
Institutional Data & Fee Transparency Disclaimer
Fee structures, cutoff percentiles, and placement statistics published on Kampus Filter are compiled from official university prospectuses, NIRF statutory filings, UGC/AICTE public notifications, and institutional disclosures. All figures represent comparative historical benchmarks and are subject to periodic revisions by respective university governing bodies.
Prospective students and guardians are advised to verify current academic session fees, seat matrices, and admission deadlines directly with the official university admissions office prior to financial commitments. Kampus Filter is an independent higher education research directory and does not solicit donations or represent university administration.