The Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (KTET) is conducted by Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan to assess eligibility for teaching in government and aided schools in Kerala. Passing KTET is mandatory under the RTE Act 2009 and the KTET certificate now carries lifetime validity as per the latest Kerala Government norms.
The KTET 2026 Syllabus is prescribed separately for all four categories — Category I (Classes 1–5), Category II (Classes 6–8), Category III (Classes 8–10) and Category IV (Language / Specialist / PE Teachers). Each category paper has 150 MCQs for 150 marks in 2 hours 30 minutes with no negative marking.
KTET 2026 – Overview| Exam Name | Kerala Teacher Eligibility Test (K-TET) |
| Conducted By | Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan, Government of Kerala |
| Number of Categories | 4 (Category I, II, III, IV) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline – OMR Based (Paper & Pen) |
| Total Questions | 150 MCQs per category |
| Total Marks | 150 marks (1 mark per question) |
| Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Qualifying Marks (General) | 60% — 90 out of 150 |
| Qualifying Marks (SC/ST/OBC) | 55% — 82 out of 150 |
| Certificate Validity | Lifetime (as per latest Kerala Govt. norms) |
| Official Website | ktet.kerala.gov.in |
| Category | Teaching Level | Classes | Focus Area | Qs | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category I | Lower Primary (LP) | I – V | Child Dev., Languages, Maths, EVS | 150 | 150 |
| Category II | Upper Primary (UP) | VI – VIII | Child Dev., Languages, Maths & Science / Social Science | 150 | 150 |
| Category III | High School (HS) | VIII – X | Adolescent Psychology, Language, Subject Content + Pedagogy | 150 | 150 |
| Category IV | Language / Specialist / PE | Up to UP | Child Dev., Language, Subject-Specific (Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, Art, PE) | 150 | 150 |
| Mode | Offline – OMR Sheet Based |
| Question Type | Objective MCQ with 4 options |
| Total Questions | 150 per paper |
| Total Marks | 150 (1 mark per correct answer) |
| Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Qualifying – General | 60% = 90 / 150 |
| Qualifying – SC/ST/OBC | 55% = 82 / 150 |
| Language of Paper | Malayalam / English (bilingual) |
| Syllabus Basis | Kerala SCERT curriculum; RTE Act 2009; NCTE norms |
Who should appear: Candidates aspiring to teach Classes 1 to 5 in Lower Primary schools. Tests foundational teaching skills for the 6–11 years age group.
| # | Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Child Development & Pedagogy (Age 6–11) | 30 | 30 |
| 2 | Language I – Malayalam / Tamil / Kannada | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Language II – English / Arabic | 30 | 30 |
| 4 | Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| 5 | Environmental Studies (EVS) | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 150 | 150 | |
- Child Development – Concept, Principles and Stages (0–11 years)
- Theories of Development – Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson; Role of Heredity and Environment
- Child-Centred Education and Progressive Education
- Intelligence – Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences, Spearman’s Theory
- Language Development and Thought – Piaget vs Vygotsky
- Socialization – Social world and children (peers, teachers, family)
- Inclusive Education – CWSN, learning disabilities, diverse learners
- Assessment for Learning – Continuous & Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE)
- NCF 2005 – key recommendations for primary education
- Motivation; Constructivism in teaching; RTE Act 2009 provisions
- Unseen Prose Passage – comprehension, inference, vocabulary
- Unseen Poem – literary appreciation, figures of speech, themes
- Grammar: Parts of speech, tenses, sentence types, punctuation
- Language Acquisition and Development – first language, bilingualism
- Principles of Language Teaching (LSRW)
- Teaching Learning Materials (TLM); Remedial Teaching; Evaluation
- Comprehension Passage – reading and inference questions
- Grammar: Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Subject-Verb Agreement, Voice, Narration
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases
- Communicative Language Teaching (CLT); Second Language Acquisition (SLA)
- Evaluation and error analysis in second language learning
- Number System: Natural numbers, whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, HCF, LCM
- Basic Operations and their properties
- Geometry: Basic 2D and 3D shapes, angles, lines, symmetry
- Measurement: Length, weight, capacity, time, money, perimeter, area
- Data Handling: Pictographs, bar graphs, tally charts
- Pedagogy: Challenges in teaching Maths, dyscalculia, problem solving, use of games
- Family & Friends; Food; Shelter; Water; Travel; Things We Make and Do
- Environmental issues – pollution, conservation, climate change basics
- Concept of EVS: Integration of Science & Social Studies at LP level
- Pedagogy: Learning through local context, activities, field trips, project work
Who should appear: Candidates aspiring to teach Classes 6 to 8. Designed for the 11–14 years age group.
| # | Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Child Development & Pedagogy (Age 11–14) | 30 | 30 |
| 2 | Language I – Malayalam / Tamil / Kannada / English | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Language II – (Other than Language I) Malayalam / English | 30 | 30 |
| 4 | Mathematics & Science (Maths/Science stream) OR Social Science | 60 | 60 |
| Total | 150 | 150 | |
- Development at UP level – physical, cognitive, social, emotional changes
- Adolescence – characteristics, identity formation, peer pressure
- Constructivist approach, discovery learning, problem-based learning
- Theories of Learning: Behaviourism (Skinner, Pavlov); Cognitivism (Piaget, Bruner); Vygotsky’s ZPD
- Motivation – intrinsic vs extrinsic; Individual differences; Multiple Intelligences
- Inclusive education; CCE; NCF 2005 recommendations
- Reading comprehension – unseen prose and poetry
- Advanced grammar: Clauses, Phrases, Transformation, Direct/Indirect Speech
- Vocabulary enrichment: Prefixes, suffixes, synonyms, antonyms, one-word substitutions
- Language teaching methods: Grammar-Translation, Direct Method, CLT
- Second Language Acquisition; LSRW; Remedial and enrichment activities
- Mathematics (30 marks): Rational numbers, exponents; Algebra; Geometry (Pythagoras); Mensuration; Statistics; Ratio, Proportion, Percentage, Simple Interest
- Science (30 marks): Cell structure; Crop production; Microorganisms; Force, Pressure, Friction, Sound, Light; Chemical effects of electric current; Stars and Solar System; Pollution; Metals and Non-metals
- Pedagogy: Inquiry-based learning, laboratory work, problem solving
- History: Ancient civilisations; Medieval India (Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire); Modern India (1857, Colonial rule, National Movement, Independence)
- Geography: Maps & globe; Climate; Agriculture & resources; India – physical features, rivers, vegetation; World geography
- Civics: Democracy; Constitution; Fundamental Rights; Parliament; Panchayati Raj; Local Self Government
- Economics: Markets, money, banking; Poverty; Sectors of economy
- Pedagogy: Interdisciplinary approach, field study, map work, timeline
Who should appear: Candidates aspiring to teach Classes 8 to 10. Evaluates subject-specific knowledge and pedagogy for secondary school level along with adolescent psychology.
| # | Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adolescent Psychology, Theories of Learning & Teaching Aptitude | 40 | 40 |
| 2 | Language – Malayalam / English / Tamil / Kannada | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Subject-Specific Content & Pedagogy (chosen subject) | 80 | 80 |
| Total | 150 | 150 | |
- Adolescent Psychology (10 marks): Nature and characteristics of adolescence; Developmental needs – physiological, intellectual, emotional, social; Identity crisis, peer pressure, substance abuse; Guidance and counselling
- Theories of Learning (20 marks): Classical conditioning (Pavlov); Operant conditioning (Skinner); Trial and Error (Thorndike); Insight learning (Kohler); Piaget’s cognitive stages; Bruner’s discovery learning; Vygotsky – ZPD and scaffolding; Gestalt theory; Memory, forgetting, transfer of learning; Maslow’s hierarchy
- Teaching Aptitude (10 marks): Characteristics of a good teacher; Teaching strategies; Communication skills; Classroom management; ICT in education; Evaluation types and tools; Action research; Professional ethics
- Unseen prose and poetry – comprehension and critical reading
- Advanced grammar, figures of speech, literary appreciation
- Language across the curriculum; Writing skills; Note-making; Summarising
- Teaching of language at secondary level
- Mathematics: Number theory; Algebra (polynomials, quadratic equations, AP/GP); Geometry (circles, triangles, coordinate geometry); Trigonometry; Statistics & Probability; Mensuration
- Science: Kerala SCERT Physics (light, electricity, magnetism, force); Chemistry (acids-bases-salts, metals, carbon, periodic table); Biology (life processes, heredity, evolution, environment)
- Social Science: History – India & World (modern and contemporary); Geography – physical, economic, political; Political Science – democratic politics, Indian constitution; Economics – development, globalisation, money
- Languages (Malayalam, English, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada): Literature content + Grammar + Language pedagogy at secondary level
Who should appear: Candidates aspiring to teach as Language Teachers (Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu), Specialist Teachers (Art & Crafts) or Physical Education Teachers up to Upper Primary level.
| # | Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Child Development, Pedagogy & Teacher Aptitude | 30 | 30 |
| 2 | Language – Malayalam / English / Tamil / Kannada | 30 | 30 |
| 3 | Subject-Specific Content & Pedagogy (chosen specialisation) | 90 | 90 |
| Total | 150 | 150 | |
- Child development for the 6–14 years age group
- Learning theories – Behaviourism, Cognitivism, Constructivism
- Inclusive education; Differentiated instruction; Special needs children
- Teaching aptitude – communication, classroom management, professional ethics
- Assessment at Primary/Upper Primary level; NCF 2005; RTE Act provisions
- Reading comprehension (Prose and Poetry)
- Grammar and usage; Vocabulary; Writing skills
- Language pedagogy – teaching methods and evaluation
- Arabic: Grammar (Nahw, Sarf); Prose and Poetry from Arabic literature; Pedagogy of Arabic at LP/UP level
- Hindi: Vyakaran (Hindi grammar); Prose and Poetry from NCERT/SCERT curriculum; Pedagogy of Hindi as second/third language
- Sanskrit: Grammar (Sandhis, Samas, Karakas); Prose and Poetry; Pedagogy at primary level
- Urdu: Urdu grammar; Urdu literature (prose and poetry); Pedagogy at LP/UP level
- Art & Crafts: Elements of Art (line, colour, form, texture); Principles of Design; History of Indian Art; Visual Art techniques; Craft traditions of Kerala; Art pedagogy and assessment
- Physical Education: History and development of PE; Anatomy and Physiology; Sports science (nutrition, first aid, injuries); Major national sports rules; Physical fitness components; Yoga; PE curriculum at primary level; Inclusive PE for CWSN
| Category | Minimum Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| Category I (LP) | Higher Secondary (Plus Two) with min. 45% marks + 2-year D.El.Ed / TTC from Kerala Board OR Higher Secondary 45% + 4-year B.El.Ed |
| Category II (UP) | Bachelor’s Degree with min. 45% marks + 2-year D.El.Ed / B.Ed from a recognised institution OR Bachelor’s Degree 45% + 4-year B.El.Ed |
| Category III (HS) | Bachelor’s Degree in relevant subject with min. 45% marks + B.Ed from a recognised university / institution |
| Category IV | Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant language/subject + B.Ed (language) OR relevant Bachelor’s Degree + D.Ed (Art/PE) |
- Visit ktet.kerala.gov.in/syllabus.php
- The page will show a table with separate download links for Category I, II, III and IV
- Click on your category to download the official Syllabus PDF
- The PDF will open in your browser — save and print for reference
- Also download Model Question Papers available on the same page for practice
Q1. Where can I download the official KTET Syllabus 2026 PDF?
The official KTET Syllabus 2026 PDF for all four categories can be downloaded from ktet.kerala.gov.in/syllabus.php. Separate PDF links are available for Category I, II, III and IV on that page.
Q2. Is the KTET syllabus the same for all categories?
No. Each category has a different syllabus based on the teaching level. Category I covers LP level, Category II covers UP level, Category III covers High School level, and Category IV is for Language, Specialist and PE teachers. However, Child Development & Pedagogy and a Language section are common across all categories.
Q3. How many questions and marks are there in KTET 2026?
Each KTET category paper has 150 MCQ questions carrying 150 marks (1 mark per question). The exam duration is 2 hours 30 minutes. There is no negative marking.
Q4. What is the minimum passing marks in KTET 2026?
The minimum qualifying marks are 60% (90/150) for General category and 55% (82/150) for SC/ST/OBC candidates.
Q5. Is there negative marking in KTET 2026?
No, there is no negative marking in KTET. Candidates should attempt all 150 questions.
Q6. How long is the KTET certificate valid?
As per the latest Government of Kerala norms, the KTET certificate has lifetime validity. Candidates do not need to reappear after qualifying.
Q7. Can candidates from other states appear for KTET 2026?
Yes. Candidates from other states can appear for KTET if they fulfil the prescribed academic qualifications. However, knowledge of Malayalam may be necessary for certain teaching posts in Kerala government schools.
Q8. Is KTET mandatory to get a teaching job in Kerala?
Yes. KTET is mandatory for appointment as a teacher in government and aided schools in Kerala under the RTE Act 2009. As per the Supreme Court’s recent judgement, KTET is also mandatory for teacher promotions and service continuation. Passing KTET makes you eligible — actual appointment is done separately by Kerala PSC.
Q9. Which is the most scoring section in KTET?
The Child Development & Pedagogy section is generally considered the most scoring section across all KTET categories. Topics are well-defined and concept-based — strong preparation in learning theories, teaching methods and inclusive education can help candidates score full marks in this section.
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