UPTET Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Qualifications & Exam Rules

The Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UPTET) is administered by the Uttar Pradesh Education Service Selection Commission (UPESSC). This certification is a mandatory prerequisite for educators aspiring to teach in primary (Classes 1-5) and upper primary (Classes 6-8) schools across Uttar Pradesh. The exam consists of two distinct papers: Paper 1, designed for candidates aiming to teach primary grades (1-5), and Paper 2, for those pursuing positions in upper primary grades (6-8). Qualified candidates may apply for both papers to broaden their teaching eligibility.

UPTET Eligibility Criteria 2026

Meeting the formal eligibility standards is the essential first step toward securing a teaching role in the state. Prospective candidates who hold a graduation degree along with a B.T.C, B.Ed., or D.El.Ed. qualification are eligible to apply. The Uttar Pradesh Basic Education Board sets these standards, and final certification status is determined by a candidate’s performance in the written examination.

• Educational Qualification
• Age Limit

Uttar Pradesh TET Educational Qualification

Professional qualification requirements vary depending on whether you are applying for the primary or upper primary level. Candidates must strictly adhere to these criteria, as failing to meet the specified academic standards will disqualify them from the online registration process for UPTET 2026.

Educational Qualification for Paper 1 (Classes 1-5)

• Graduation and 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed/BTC) from an NCTE-recognised institution affiliated with the UP Government.
• Graduation and 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) from a distance learning mode.
• Graduation and 2-year Diploma in Education (D.Ed.) in Special Education from an RCI-recognised institution. Graduation and BTC training from an NCTE-recognised institution in Uttar Pradesh.

Educational Qualification for Paper 2 (Classes 6 to 8)

• Graduation and 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed/BTC).
• Graduation with at least 50% marks and a 1-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.).
• Graduation with at least 45% marks (for those with prior B.Ed. as per NCTE norms) and B.Ed.
• Intermediate (10+2) with at least 50% marks and a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (D.El.Ed).
• Intermediate (10+2) with at least 50% marks and 4-year B.A.Ed./B.Sc.Ed.

UPTET 2026 City Intimation Slip Released – Click to Access

UPTET Age Limit

The commission enforces specific age criteria for all UPTET applicants. Official documentation, such as a matriculation marksheet or an equivalent government-issued birth certificate, is required to verify a candidate's date of birth.

1. The minimum and maximum age limit for the general category candidates is 18 years to 35 years for paper 1, and the minimum & maximum age for paper 2 is 21 years to 40 years.
2. There is age relaxation for reserved category candidates as per the state government norms. Age relaxations are mentioned as follows.

OBC/SC/ST: Applicants from these categories are eligible for a 5-year upper age relaxation.

PWD Candidates: Individuals with disabilities are granted an age relaxation of up to 15 years.

Ex-Servicemen: Eligible ex-servicemen are entitled to a 5-year age relaxation.

UPTET Number of Attempts

The UPTET conducting body provides significant flexibility regarding examination attempts. There is currently no cap on the number of attempts permitted for the UPTET; candidates are welcome to reappear for the exam as often as they wish, provided they remain within the prescribed age limits.