CareersHow to become a teacher in India
To teach in a school you need two things besides your own education: a teaching qualification and a pass in an eligibility test.
What the work is
Teachers plan lessons, teach, assess children and deal with parents. Primary teachers teach all subjects to one class; secondary teachers teach their own subject to many classes.
The path, step by step
- Primary classes (1 to 5): Class 12, then a two year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed), or a four year integrated degree.
- Classes 6 and above: a degree in your subject, then a two year B.Ed. A four year integrated course after 12th combines the two.
- Pass a Teacher Eligibility Test: CTET (central) or your state's TET. Paper I is for classes 1 to 5 and Paper II for classes 6 to 8.
- Apply for teacher recruitment: central schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas hold their own selection, and each state recruits for its schools.
- College teaching: a master's degree, then UGC NET or a PhD.
Examinations and bodies
| Examination or body | What it is for |
|---|---|
| CTET | Central Teacher Eligibility Test, held by CBSE. |
| State TET | Each state's own eligibility test for its schools. |
| UGC NET | For eligibility as an assistant professor and for junior research fellowship. |
How long it takes
Two years after 12th for D.El.Ed. Four years for the integrated degree. Five years by the degree plus B.Ed route.
Honest notes
- Passing CTET or TET makes you eligible. It is not a job. Recruitment is a separate, competitive step.
- Check that the B.Ed or D.El.Ed college is recognised by the National Council for Teacher Education.
- Private school pay varies widely. Ask about pay scale and working hours before joining.
- Good teachers are short in mathematics, science and English in most states.
Where to check
- ctet.nic.in
- ncte.gov.in for recognised institutions
- Your state's school education or teacher recruitment board
Check the official notice. This page describes how the path works in general, as understood in November 2026. Age limits, eligibility, exam patterns, dates and fees change. Before you apply or pay for anything, read the current notice on the official website named on this page. This is general information, not personal career advice.
Questions people ask
How long does it take?
Two years after 12th for D.El.Ed. Four years for the integrated degree. Five years by the degree plus B.Ed route.
Which examination do I need?
CTET: Central Teacher Eligibility Test, held by CBSE. State TET: Each state's own eligibility test for its schools. UGC NET: For eligibility as an assistant professor and for junior research fellowship.