NCET 2026: Eligibility, Dates, and Exam Guide

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the notification for the National Common Entrance Test (NCET) 2026. This national-level entrance exam is the gateway for students seeking admission into the prestigious 4-Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) for the academic session 2026-27.

Aspiring teachers can now apply for courses offered at Central Universities, State Universities, and premier institutions including IITs, NITs, RIEs, and Government Colleges.

NCET 2026 Key Dates and Deadlines

The NTA has provided a detailed timeline for the registration and examination process. Candidates are advised to complete their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Eligibility Criteria

Before filling out the form, candidates must ensure they meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed the Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Students appearing for their final Class 12 exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply._
• Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for appearing in NCET 2026. However, candidates must fulfill any specific age criteria set by the individual university or institution they wish to join.
• Subject Requirements: Applicants should choose subjects in the NCET exam that align with the requirements of the specific ITEP course and university they are targeting.

Exam Pattern and Structure

The NCET 2026 will be conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT) in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, and several regional languages.

• Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours).
• Question Type: Objective Type with Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Sections: * Language 1 & 2: Testing proficiency in chosen languages.
  • Teaching Aptitude: Evaluating the candidate’s inclination toward teaching.
  • General Test: Covering General Knowledge, Current Affairs, and Reasoning.
  • Domain Specific Subjects: Three subjects chosen based on the candidate’s Class 12 background and desired course.

How to Apply for NCET 2026

1. Visit the official NTA NCET portal: exams.nta.nic.in/ncet.
2. Click on the “New Registration” link and provide basic details to generate credentials.
3. Log in and fill out the detailed application form (Personal, Academic, and Contact details).
4. Upload required documents, including a recent photograph and signature.
5. Pay the application fee online via Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
6. Download and save the Confirmation Page for future reference.

Note: The tentative exam date of April 17, 2026, is subject to change based on the national election schedule. Candidates are encouraged to check the official NTA website regularly for updates.