The Karnataka Teacher Eligibility Test (KARTET) is a state-level qualifying examination that certifies aspirants to become teachers in government and private schools across Karnataka. Conducted by the School Education Department of Karnataka, KARTET evaluates a candidate's aptitude and subject knowledge required for teaching at the primary and upper primary levels. This guide explains the eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus and qualifying criteria for KARTET 2026.

KARTET 2026 Overview

Particulars Details
Exam Name Karnataka Teacher Eligibility Test (KARTET)
Conducting Body School Education Department, Government of Karnataka
Level State Level
Papers Paper 1 (Classes 1-5), Paper 2 (Classes 6-8)
Total Questions 150 MCQs per paper
Total Marks 150 marks per paper
Duration 2 hours 30 minutes per paper
Negative Marking No negative marking
📌 Official Website: For the latest notification, application form and updates, visit the official KARTET portal: schooleducation.karnataka.gov.in

KARTET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the academic and professional qualifications prescribed for the level they wish to teach.

For Paper 1 (Classes 1 to 5)

  • Senior Secondary (or equivalent) with at least 50% marks and passed/appearing in 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education, OR
  • Senior Secondary with at least 45% marks and 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (as per NCTE norms), OR
  • Senior Secondary with at least 50% marks and 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed), OR
  • Senior Secondary with at least 50% marks and 2-year Diploma in Education (Special Education).

For Paper 2 (Classes 6 to 8)

  • Graduation and 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education, OR
  • Graduation with at least 50% marks and 1-year Bachelor in Education (B.Ed), OR
  • Graduation with at least 45% marks and B.Ed in accordance with NCTE norms, OR
  • Senior Secondary with at least 50% marks and 4-year B.El.Ed / B.A.Ed / B.Sc.Ed.

KARTET 2026 Exam Pattern

Both papers consist of objective-type multiple-choice questions. Each question carries one mark and there is no negative marking for wrong answers.

Paper 1 (For Classes 1-5)

Subject Questions Marks
Child Development & Pedagogy 30 30
Language I 30 30
Language II 30 30
Mathematics 30 30
Environmental Studies 30 30
Total 150 150

Paper 2 (For Classes 6-8)

Subject Questions Marks
Child Development & Pedagogy 30 30
Language I 30 30
Language II 30 30
Mathematics & Science OR Social Studies 60 60
Total 150 150
Important: There is NO negative marking in KARTET. Candidates are advised to attempt all questions as no marks are deducted for incorrect answers.

KARTET 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus is built around the NCTE framework and Karnataka state school curriculum. Key areas include:

  • Child Development & Pedagogy: learning principles, inclusive education, assessment, and the concept of teaching-learning.
  • Languages: comprehension, grammar, and pedagogy of the chosen languages (e.g., Kannada, English, Urdu, Hindi).
  • Mathematics: number system, geometry, measurement and pedagogical issues.
  • Environmental Studies / Science / Social Studies: concepts up to the relevant class level along with pedagogy.

KARTET 2026 Qualifying Marks

Category Minimum Qualifying %
General 60% (90 marks)
Reserved Categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD) 55% (82-83 marks)

The KARTET certificate is valid for the period specified in the official notification and is a mandatory qualification for teacher recruitment in Karnataka schools.

Disclaimer: Exam details are subject to change. Always verify eligibility, pattern and dates with the latest official KARTET notification before applying.

Explore more state TET and central teaching exam guides on Cosmo Classes: