KARTET is the eligibility test for teaching in Karnataka schools, conducted by the Department of School Education. Paper 1 is for Classes 1–5 and Paper 2 for Classes 6–8. Passing it is a prerequisite for government teacher recruitment such as GPSTR.
KARTET at a glance
| Conducting body | Department of School Education, Karnataka |
|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Classes 1 – 5 |
| Paper 2 | Classes 6 – 8 |
| Questions | 150 MCQs per paper, 150 marks |
| Duration | 2 hours 30 minutes per paper |
| Negative marking | None |
KARTET eligibility
Educational qualification
- Paper 1 (Classes 1–5): PUC with the required percentage plus a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) or equivalent teacher-training qualification.
- Paper 2 (Classes 6–8): a degree plus D.El.Ed, or a degree plus B.Ed, as specified in the notification.
- Final-year students of the teacher-training course are generally allowed to appear — check the notification.
Age limit
- KARTET is an eligibility test; age limits apply at the recruitment stage, not to KARTET itself — confirm in the notification.
Other requirements
- To teach both levels, a candidate must appear for and pass both papers.
KARTET selection process
- KARTET Paper 1 and/or Paper 2Qualifying eligibility test.
- CertificateUsed to apply for teacher recruitment in Karnataka.
KARTET exam pattern
Paper 1 — Classes 1 to 5
| Section | 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 — Classes 6 to 8
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Child Development & Pedagogy | 30 | 30 |
| Language I | 30 | 30 |
| Language II | 30 | 30 |
| Mathematics & Science or Social Science | 60 | 60 |
| Total | 150 | 150 |
- Each paper: 2 hours 30 minutes, 1 mark per question, no negative marking.
- Qualifying marks: 60% (90/150) for General candidates; 55% (82.5/150) for reserved categories and persons with disabilities.
KARTET syllabus
Child Development & Pedagogy
- Growth and development of children
- Heredity and environment
- Theories of Piaget, Vygotsky and Kohlberg
- Inclusive education and diverse learners
- Learning and pedagogy
- Assessment and evaluation
Languages
- Reading comprehension
- Grammar and usage
- Language pedagogy and teaching methods
Mathematics / EVS / Science / Social Science
- Content from the state syllabus of the relevant classes
- Subject-specific pedagogy and teaching methods
How to prepare for KARTET
- With no negative marking, attempt every question.
- Child Development & Pedagogy appears in both papers — master it once and it pays twice.
- Pedagogy questions follow the NCF/NCERT approach; learn the “why” behind teaching methods, not just definitions.
Prepare for KARTET with Sadhisu
Previous year papers, subject-wise practice tests, daily current affairs and bilingual study notes in Kannada and English.
KARTET — frequently asked questions
What are the KARTET qualifying marks?
60% (90 out of 150) for General candidates and 55% (82.5 out of 150) for reserved categories and persons with disabilities.
Is there negative marking in KARTET?
No. Each correct answer earns 1 mark and there is no deduction for wrong answers.
Which KARTET paper should I take?
Paper 1 to teach Classes 1–5, Paper 2 to teach Classes 6–8, or both papers to be eligible for both levels.
How long is each KARTET paper?
2 hours 30 minutes for 150 multiple-choice questions.