Becoming a school teacher is a respected and meaningful career in India. If you enjoy working with children and want to support their learning, teaching can be a very rewarding profession. After graduation, you must complete specific training and qualify the required eligibility tests to become a certified school teacher.This guide explains the complete pathway in simple terms.Step-by-Step Guide to Become a School Teacher1. Complete Your GraduationThe first step is to complete a bachelor’s degree in any field, such as:BA (Bachelor of Arts)BSc (Bachelor of Science)BCom (Bachelor of Commerce)BEd (Bachelor of Education, if taken as an integrated route)Strong academic performance is important, as good marks improve your chances of admission to teacher training programmes.2. Pursue a Teacher Education CourseTo become a school teacher in India, you must complete a teacher education programme recognised by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE). These courses prepare you for classroom teaching, child development, and educational methods.a. Bachelor of Education (BEd)Duration: 2 yearsEligibility: Graduation with minimum marks as specified by the universityThis is the most common route to becoming a school teacher. After completing BEd, you can apply to both government and private schools.b. Diploma in Education (D.El.Ed)Duration: 2 yearsAlso known as Elementary Teacher EducationThis course is for those who want to teach primary classes from Class 1 to Class 5.c. Bachelor of Elementary Education (BElEd)Duration: 4 yearsIntegrated course combining graduation and teacher trainingIt is mainly designed for students after Class 12, though some institutions also accept graduates.d. Special Education CoursesIf you want to teach children with special needs, you can pursue:BEd in Special EducationDiploma in Special EducationThese programmes prepare you to work in inclusive classrooms and support children with diverse learning needs.3. Clear the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET)After completing your teacher education course, you must pass the Teacher Eligibility Test.There are two main types:CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test): For central government schools such as KVS, NVS and other centrally run institutionsState TET: For state government schoolsA TET certificate is required to apply for most government school teaching jobs.4. Apply for Teaching JobsAfter qualifying TET, you can apply to:Government schoolsMunicipal schoolsState Board schoolsCBSE and ICSE schoolsPrivate schoolsFor government vacancies, check state education board websites, district education office portals, and official recruitment notifications.5. Build Essential Teaching SkillsTo succeed as a teacher, develop the following skills:Clear communicationClassroom managementStrong subject knowledgePatience and creativityLesson planningThese skills help you perform well in interviews and in real classroom environments.6. Career Growth in TeachingWith experience and higher qualifications, you can progress to:Senior TeacherHead Teacher or PrincipalEducational CoordinatorAcademic ConsultantFurther study such as a Master of Education (MEd) or PhD in Education can help you move into leadership and academic roles.Becoming a school teacher after graduation in India follows a clear path. Complete a recognised teacher training course, qualify TET, and apply for teaching posts. With dedication and passion, you can build a meaningful career shaping young minds.
