Odisha scraps state-level entry, makes NCET 2026 sole gateway for 4-year ITEP admissions from 2026–27

Odisha scraps state-level entry, makes NCET 2026 sole gateway for 4-year ITEP admissions from 2026–27

The Higher Education Department of the Government of Odisha has announced that admissions to the 4-Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) for the academic session 2026–27 will be conducted through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET) 2026.According to the official notice, the NCET 2026 will be organised by the National Testing Agency. The department has made it clear that from the 2026–27 academic year onwards, admissions into ITEP in Odisha will be based strictly on NCET percentile scores.The announcement formally outlines the application schedule and examination details for candidates seeking admission to the integrated teacher education programme.

Application dates and examination schedule

As per the notification, online applications for NCET 2026 will begin on February 12, 2026. The last date to apply has been set as March 10, 2026.The examination is tentatively scheduled to be conducted on April 17, 2026. The test will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.Candidates have been directed to apply online through the official NCET portal hosted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Admission process after results

The notice further states that after the declaration of NCET results, candidates must apply through the SAMS portal using their NCET scores.The department has clarified that from 2026–27 onwards, ITEP admissions in Odisha will not be conducted through any separate state-level entrance mechanism. Selection will depend on NCET percentile performance.

Existing admission routes to continue for other courses

Besides that, the department has ensured that the admissions for the 2-year B. Ed., M. Ed., and B. H. Ed. programmes will be through the existing SAMS process conducted by the State Selection Board, Odisha.Admissions for the 4-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme starting from the 2026-27 academic session are only via the NCET-based admission process.