Graduate Teaching Exam (Vacancies) Application 2026 – Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education
Graduate Teaching Exam (Vacancies) Application 2026: The Ultimate Guide
Date of Gazette: February 02, 2026
Total Vacancies: 23,344
Application Portal: www.doenets.lk
The long-awaited opportunity for graduates to join the prestigious Sri Lanka Teachers’ Service has arrived. The Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education has officially released the Gazette notifications for the Competitive Examination for Recruitment to the Teachers’ Service 2026.
With a massive intake of 23,344 vacancies approved by the Cabinet, this recruitment drive is split into two categories: the Open Competitive Examination (for fresh graduates) and the Limited Competitive Examination (for graduates currently in government service).
If you are looking to secure a permanent, pensionable career as a government teacher, this guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, exam patterns, and the online application process.
Open vs. Limited: Which Exam Should You Apply For?
The 2026 recruitment is conducted under two separate Gazette notifications. It is crucial to choose the correct category to avoid rejection.
1. Limited Competitive Examination (Gazette No. 2474/18)
- Target Audience: This is strictly for graduates who are already permanent employees in the Public Service (e.g., Development Officers) as of the stipulated date.
- Purpose: To absorb qualified graduates currently working in other government roles into the Teaching Service.
- Application Period: February 05, 2026 – February 19, 2026.
2. Open Competitive Examination (Gazette No. 2474/19)
- Target Audience: This is for external graduates who are not currently in the permanent cadre of the government service.
- Purpose: Direct recruitment of fresh talent into the education sector.
- Application Period: February 20, 2026 – March 05, 2026.
2026 Teaching Exam Application Schedule
Mark these dates on your calendar. Applications are accepted online only.
| Exam Category | Opening Date | Closing Date | Time Deadline |
| Limited Exam | Feb 05, 2026 | Feb 19, 2026 | 9:00 PM |
| Open Exam | Feb 20, 2026 | Mar 05, 2026 | 9:00 PM |
Note: Late applications will not be accepted by the system.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Graduate Teaching Exam 2026, candidates must meet the following general and specific requirements.
Educational Qualifications
- Degree: You must possess a degree from a university recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or an institution recognized by the government.
- Relevance: The degree should be relevant to the subject you are applying for (e.g., a BSc in Biology for Science teaching).
- Language: You must have passed Sinhala or Tamil at the G.C.E. O/L examination.
Age Limit
- Open Candidates: Should be below 40 years of age (calculated as of the closing date).
- Limited Candidates: Should be below 45 years of age.
Available Subjects and Vacancies
The recruitment aims to fill vacancies in National and Provincial schools across the island. The 23,344 vacancies cover a wide range of subjects in Sinhala, Tamil, and English mediums.
Key Subject Areas Include:
- Science & Mathematics (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Combined Maths)
- Technology (Engineering Tech, Bio-Systems Tech, ICT)
- Languages (English, Sinhala, Tamil, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, etc.)
- Commerce & Arts (Accounting, Economics, Geography, History, Pol Science)
- Aesthetics (Music, Dancing, Art, Drama).
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The selection process is rigorous. Candidates must face a written examination conducted by the Department of Examinations.
Paper 1: Aptitude (IQ) – 100 Marks
- Duration: 1 Hour.
- Content: This paper tests your logical reasoning, analytical skills, and ability to comprehend complex relationships. It is similar to standard IQ tests for government administrative exams.
Paper 2: General Knowledge – 100 Marks
- Duration: 1 Hour.
- Content: This paper focuses heavily on the field of education. Expect questions on:
- Educational reforms and history in Sri Lanka.
- General knowledge relevant to the teaching profession.
- Current events affecting the education sector (approx. 80-90% of questions are usually education-related).
Selection Method: Candidates are ranked based on the total marks of the written exam. Those who pass will be called for a practical test and interview.
How to Apply Online via doenets.lk
The Department of Examinations has made the entire process digital. Follow these steps to submit your application for the Graduate Teaching Exam 2026:
Download Sources:
- Visit the Portal: Go to www.doenets.lk.
- Navigate to Online Applications: Click on “Our Services” -> “Online Applications” -> “Recruitment Exams”.
- Select Your Exam:
- Choose “Open Competitive Examination for Recruitment to the Teachers’ Service” OR
- Choose “Limited Competitive Examination…”
- Registration: You may need to create an account using your NIC number and mobile number.
- Fill the Form: Enter your personal details, degree information, and select the subject you wish to teach.
- Payment: Pay the examination fee online (Credit/Debit card) or upload the receipt if paying via post office (check specific instructions on the site).
- Submit & Print: Once submitted, download and print a copy of your application for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply for both Open and Limited exams?
A: No. If you are currently a permanent government employee (like a Development Officer), you must apply under the Limited stream. If you are unemployed or working in the private sector, you must apply under the Open stream.
Q: What is the salary for a Grade 3-I Teacher?
A: The salary scale is GE 1-2016 (or the updated 2025 equivalent). The initial monthly gross salary, including allowances, is competitive and pensionable.
Q: Do I need a Teaching Diploma to apply?
A: No. For this specific recruitment, a recognized University Degree is the primary qualification. Selected candidates may undergo training (PGDE) after recruitment.
Q: Is there an age relaxation for this year?
A: Yes, the government has increased the age limit to 40 years for Open candidates and 45 years for Limited candidates to accommodate delays in previous years.
The Graduate Teaching Exam 2026 is a golden opportunity to join the noble profession of teaching in Sri Lanka. With over 23,000 vacancies, the chances of securing a placement are higher than in previous years.
Ensure you read the Gazette notification (No. 2474/18 or 2474/19) carefully before applying. Do not wait until the last minute—submit your application via doenets.lk as soon as the relevant window opens.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the Gazette notifications dated 02.02.2026. Please refer to the official Department of Examinations website for any subsequent amendments.
