CTET 2026 Provisional Answer Key Released: Download and Challenge Process Explained

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the provisional answer key for the CTET 2026 exam, providing crucial information for aspiring teachers. Candidates can download the answer keys for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 from the official website. Additionally, a challenge window is available for those who wish to contest any answers they believe are incorrect. The article outlines the steps for downloading the answer key, the objection filing process, and how to calculate scores. Passing marks for the CTET are also detailed, ensuring candidates are well-informed as they navigate this important stage in their teaching careers.

By Ambika Singh Mar 13, 2026, 16:45 IST

CTET 2026 Answer Key Now Available

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially published the provisional answer key for the CTET 2026 exam, ending the anticipation for numerous candidates aiming to become educators. The answer keys for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 were released on the official website on March 12, 2026, following the examination conducted on February 7 and 8, 2026.

Steps to Download the CTET 2026 Answer Key

Candidates can easily download their answer keys and response sheets by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website: ctet.nic.in.

2. Click on the link labeled ‘CTET 2026 Answer Key Paper 1 & 2’ on the homepage.

3. Log in using your Roll Number and Date of Birth (DOB).

4. The provisional answer key will be displayed on your screen.

5. Download it and verify your answers.

CTET Challenge Window and Objection Filing

CBSE has opened a window of 2 to 3 days for candidates to file objections against the provided answers. If a candidate believes any answer is incorrect, they can challenge it by submitting supporting documentation.

Fee: A fee of ₹1000 is required for each challenge submitted.

Review: A team of experts will evaluate the objections. If an objection is deemed valid, a Final Answer Key will be issued, and the fee will be refunded.

Calculating Your CTET Score

Candidates will be relieved to know that there is no negative marking in the CTET exam.

To calculate your score:

· Add 1 mark for each correct answer.

· Assign 0 marks for incorrect or unattempted questions.

· The total number of correct answers will give you your probable score.

Passing Marks for CTET

To receive the CTET certificate, candidates must achieve the following minimum qualifying marks:

· General Category: 90 marks out of 150 (60%).

· Reserved Categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwBD): 82 marks out of 150 (55%).

CBSE has emphasized that this is a provisional answer key. The final results and mark sheets will be accessible on DigiLocker after addressing the challenges and objections.