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 Teacher
1. Complete Your Graduation
The first step is to complete a bachelor’s degree in any field, such as:
- 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 Course
To 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 years
Eligibility: Graduation with minimum marks as specified by the university
This 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 years
Also known as Elementary Teacher Education
This course is for those who want to teach primary classes from Class 1 to Class 5.
c. Bachelor of Elementary Education (BElEd)
Duration: 4 years
Integrated course combining graduation and teacher training
It is mainly designed for students after Class 12, though some institutions also accept graduates.
d. Special Education Courses
If you want to teach children with special needs, you can pursue:
BEd in Special Education
Diploma in Special Education
These 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 institutions
State TET: For state government schools
A TET certificate is required to apply for most government school teaching jobs.
4. Apply for Teaching Jobs
After qualifying TET, you can apply to:
For government vacancies, check state education board websites, district education office portals, and official recruitment notifications.
5. Build Essential Teaching Skills
To succeed as a teacher, develop the following skills:
These skills help you perform well in interviews and in real classroom environments.
6. Career Growth in Teaching
With experience and higher qualifications, you can progress to:
- Head Teacher or Principal
Further 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.