UPTET 2026: Relaxation for <50% Grad Marks

For thousands of aspiring teachers in Uttar Pradesh, a long wait is finally over. The application window for the Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UPTET) 2026Uttar Pradesh opened on March 27, 2026, bringing with it a significant policy shift that could change who gets to apply. Here’s the twist: candidates who scored less than 50% in their graduation are no longer automatically disqualified.

The Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Service Selection Commission (UPSSSC) has introduced specific relaxations, allowing those with lower undergraduate marks to compete if they meet certain alternative criteria. This development comes after a four-year gap since the last exam, making this year’s cycle particularly high-stakes for job seekers across the state.

Who Can Apply With Less Than 50%?

Traditionally, a minimum of 50% in graduation was a hard barrier. But this time, the rules have softened for specific groups. If you’re wondering if your scores disqualify you, check these three scenarios where the door remains open:

• Postgraduate Performance: If your graduation marks dipped below 50%, but you secured 50% or higher in your postgraduate degree, you are eligible. The logic here is simple—recent academic performance matters more.
• Reserved Category Concessions: Candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) receive a 5% relaxation. This means a score of 45% in graduation is sufficient for them to apply.
• Early B.Ed Completers: Those who completed their Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) under older National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) regulations can also apply with just 45% in graduation.

Interestingly, candidates holding specialized teaching diplomas like BTC, D.El.Ed, or the four-year B.El.Ed are exempt from the strict 50% graduation rule entirely. Even those with a Diploma in Teaching from Aligarh Muslim University fall under this relaxed category. It’s a clear signal that practical teaching qualifications are being weighted heavily.

Fees and the Application Process

The financial aspect of the exam has drawn some attention this year. For General, EWS, and OBC candidates, the fee stands at ₹1,000 per paper. If you’re aiming for both Paper 1 (Classes 1-5) and Paper 2 (Classes 6-8), be prepared to pay ₹2,000 total. Reserved category candidates get a break: SC and ST applicants pay ₹500 per paper, while PwD candidates pay just ₹300.

There was some confusion online about fees potentially rising to ₹10,000, but official reports confirm the standard rates above. Students had previously petitioned the Chief Minister regarding cost concerns, but the current structure appears settled.

To apply, head strictly to the official portal: upessc.up.gov.in. Do not use third-party sites like "uptet2026.in," which are unofficial. The process requires One Time Registration (OTR). You’ll need your mobile number, email, Aadhaar card, photo, and signature ready. Once registered, log in, fill in your details, upload documents, pay the fee, and save your confirmation page. Keep that printout safe—it’s your ticket to the next stage.

A Four-Year Wait Ends

This isn’t just another annual exam. The UPTET hasn’t been held for four years. That gap created a backlog of thousands of qualified teachers waiting for government posts. Now, with the forms open until April 26, 2026, the competition is expected to be fierce. Many who previously self-rejected due to low graduation marks now see a viable path forward.

Experts suggest this relaxation aligns with broader efforts to address teacher shortages in rural schools. By widening the net, the state hopes to attract a larger pool of candidates, ensuring classrooms aren’t left understaffed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for UPTET 2026 if I got 48% in graduation?

Yes, but only under specific conditions. If you are from a reserved category (SC/ST/OBC/PwD), the 5% relaxation allows you to apply with 45%. Alternatively, if you scored 50% or higher in your postgraduate degree, you are eligible regardless of your graduation score. Otherwise, general category candidates with less than 50% and no qualifying postgraduate score may not be eligible unless they hold specific teaching diplomas.

What is the last date to submit the UPTET 2026 form?

The final deadline for online registration is April 26, 2026. Applications opened on March 27, 2026. It is advisable to apply well before the last few days to avoid server congestion or technical glitches that often occur near deadlines.

Is there an extra fee for applying for both Paper 1 and Paper 2?

Yes. The fee is charged per paper. For General/EWS/OBC candidates, each paper costs ₹1,000, so applying for both totals ₹2,000. Reserved category candidates pay reduced rates per paper (₹500 for SC/ST, ₹300 for PwD).

Do B.El.Ed students need 50% in graduation?

No. Candidates enrolled in or who have completed the four-year integrated B.El.Ed program are exempt from the strict 50% graduation mark requirement. They are evaluated based on their performance within the B.El.Ed curriculum itself.