OTET Notification 2026 Released: Registration Open, Exam on May 29

OTET Notification 2026 Released: Registration Open, Exam on May 29

The Board of Secondary Education (BSE), Odisha has officially published the notification for the Odisha Teacher Eligibility Test (OTET) 2026. This crucial state-level examination determines the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions in primary (Classes I to V) and upper primary (Classes VI to VIII) government schools across Odisha. The online registration window is now active, and aspiring teachers must complete their applications before the deadline.

Key Highlights of OTET 2026

This overview provides a snapshot of the essential details for the Odisha Teacher Eligibility Test 2026.

Important Dates for OTET 2026

Candidates must keep track of the official schedule to avoid missing any deadlines. The timeline is as follows:

OTET 2026 Exam Schedule

The examination will be held on a single day in two shifts, catering to the two different levels of teaching.

Candidates can choose to appear for Paper I, Paper II, or both, depending on the class level they wish to teach.

Application Fee Structure

The application fee varies based on the category of the candidate and the number of papers they are applying for.

Note: The fee can be paid online through the HDFC payment gateway integrated into the application portal.

Eligibility Criteria for OTET 2026

The eligibility requirements differ for Paper I and Paper II. There is no upper age limit for appearing in the OTET exam. However, candidates must be permanent residents of Odisha.

Educational Qualification for Paper I (Classes I-V)

Candidates must meet any one of the following criteria:

• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 50% marks and completed a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed).
• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 45% marks and completed a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) , in accordance with NCTE regulations.
• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 50% marks and completed a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.El.Ed) .
• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 50% marks and completed a 2-year Diploma in Education (Special Education) .
• Completed Graduation with a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) .

Educational Qualification for Paper II (Classes VI-VIII)

Candidates must meet any one of the following criteria:

• Completed Graduation with a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) .
• Completed Graduation with at least 50% marks and a 1-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) .
• Completed Graduation with at least 45% marks and a 1-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) , in accordance with NCTE regulations.
• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 50% marks and completed a 4-year Bachelor in Elementary Education (B.El.Ed) .
• Passed Higher Secondary (10+2) or equivalent with at least 50% marks and completed a 4-year B.A./B.Sc.Ed or B.A.Ed./B.Sc.Ed .
• Completed Graduation with at least 50% marks and a 1-year B.Ed. (Special Education) .

OTET 2026 Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for preparation. Both papers consist of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each carrying 1 mark. There is no negative marking for incorrect answers. The minimum qualifying marks are 60% (90 marks out of 150).

Exam Pattern for Paper I (Primary Level)

Exam Pattern for Paper II (Upper Primary Level)

Note: Candidates for Paper-II must choose either the “Mathematics & Science” section or the “Social Studies” section, based on their subject of graduation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for OTET 2026

Follow these instructions to complete your online application without errors.

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the BSE Odisha website at www.bseodisha.ac.in.
2. Locate the Application Link: On the homepage, find and click on the “OTET 2026 Online Application” link.
3. Select Paper: Choose whether you are applying for Paper I, Paper II, or Both.
4. Register/Login: New users must click “New Registration” and provide a name, password, mobile number, and email ID. Existing users can log in directly.
5. OTP Verification: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number and email. Enter it to proceed.
6. Fill the Application Form: Complete all sections of the form, which include personal details, eligibility, educational qualifications, address, and an information sheet.
7. Upload Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your recent photograph and signature as per the prescribed format.
8. Review & Final Submit: Carefully review all the details entered. Once you click ‘Final Submit’, no changes will be allowed.
9. Pay Application Fee: Pay the applicable fee using the integrated HDFC payment gateway (credit card, debit card, or net banking).
10. Download Confirmation: After successful payment and submission, download and print the confirmation page/acknowledgement receipt for future reference.

Why OTET is a Golden Opportunity

Clearing the OTET is the first and most essential step toward securing a government teaching job in Odisha. It is a gateway to a stable, respected, and rewarding career in the state’s education sector. Qualifying the exam not only validates a candidate’s teaching skills and subject knowledge but also opens doors to various recruitment drives conducted by the state for primary and upper primary teachers.

Important Links for OTET 2026

Access the official resources directly using the links provided below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the full form of OTET?
OTET stands for Odisha Teacher Eligibility Test. It is a state-level examination conducted by the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha.

Q2. When will the OTET 2026 exam be held?
The OTET 2026 examination is scheduled to be conducted on 29th May 2026.

Q3. What is the last date to apply for OTET 2026?
The last date to submit the online application form is 9th April 2026, up to 11:45 PM.

Q4. Is there any age limit for appearing in the OTET exam?
No, there is no upper age limit for candidates applying for the OTET 2026 examination.

Q5. Can I apply for both Paper I and Paper II?
Yes, candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for both levels can apply for both Paper I and Paper II. However, separate application fees will be applicable.

Q6. What is the minimum qualification required to pass the OTET exam?
Candidates need to score a minimum of 60% marks (90 out of 150) to qualify the OTET exam.

Q7. Is there negative marking in the OTET 2026 exam?
No, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers in the OTET 2026 examination.

Q8. What is the application fee for a General category candidate applying for only one paper?
The application fee for a General/OBC/SEBC candidate applying for a single paper (Paper I or Paper II) is ₹900/-.

Q9. What is the official website to apply for OTET 2026?
The official website to fill the application form is www.bseodisha.ac.in.

Q10. When will the admit card for OTET 2026 be released?
The admit cards for the examination will be made available for download on the official website from 15th May 2026.