The Odisha Secondary School Teacher Eligibility Test (OSSTET) 2026 is the mandatory certification exam for candidates aspiring to become secondary school teachers (Classes IX to XII) in Odisha. Managed by the Board of Secondary Education (BSE), Odisha, the most recent exam cycle concluded in early 2026. [1, 2, 3, 4]
1. Key Dates & Recent Status (2026 Cycle)
The 2026 recruitment process is currently in the post-examination phase:
- Exam Date: Conducted on January 21, 2026.
- Answer Key: The provisional answer key was released on February 7, 2026.
- Results: Results were expected to be released in February 2026.
- Next Cycle: OSSTET is typically an annual event; notifications for the 2027 cycle are expected in late 2026. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
2. Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must be Indian citizens and permanent residents of Odisha, with the ability to read, write, and speak Odia fluently. [1, 2]
- Educational Qualifications:
- Paper I (TGT Science/Arts/Language): Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant discipline (minimum 50% marks, 45% for reserved categories) and a Bachelor in Education (B.Ed) from an NCTE-recognised institution.
- Paper II (Physical Education): +2 or its equivalent (minimum 50% marks) and a professional qualification such as C.P.Ed, B.P.Ed, or M.P.Ed.
- Age Limit: Generally between 21 and 38 years, with standard relaxations for SC/ST/SEBC, women, and PwD candidates. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
3. Exam Pattern & Qualifying Marks
- Structure: 150 questions | 150 marks | 2.5 hours duration.
- Negative Marking: There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
- Sections:
- Language I (Odia): 20 marks.
- Language II (English): 20 marks.
- Subject-Specific Content: 60 marks (varies by post).
- Child Development & Pedagogy: 50 marks.
- Qualifying Percentages:
4. Certificate Validity
Once awarded, the OSSTET Pass Certificate remains valid for a lifetime (or until the candidate reaches the upper age limit for teacher recruitment in the state). [1, 2, 3]
For official notices and to check your result, visit the BSE Odisha official website.
