How to Become a Government Teacher in India (PRT, TGT, PGT)
A complete guide to becoming a government school teacher — qualifications, the TET/CTET requirement, the difference between PRT, TGT and PGT, and how recruitment works.
Teaching in a government school offers stability, respect and good benefits. The path depends on the level you want to teach. Here's how to become a PRT, TGT or PGT government teacher.
The three teaching levels
| Role | Teaches | Typical qualification |
|---|---|---|
| PRT (Primary Teacher) | Classes 1–5 | 12th + D.El.Ed / B.El.Ed + CTET |
| TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) | Classes 6–10 | Graduation + B.Ed + TET |
| PGT (Post Graduate Teacher) | Classes 11–12 | Post-graduation + B.Ed |
Step 1: Get the right qualification
You need the subject qualification plus a teaching qualification (B.Ed or D.El.Ed depending on level). For most government posts, a teacher eligibility test is mandatory.
Step 2: Clear a Teacher Eligibility Test (TET)
- CTET — Central TET, required for central schools (KVS, NVS) and accepted by many states.
- State TET — e.g. UPTET, REET, etc., required for that state's schools.
A TET pass certificate is an eligibility requirement, not a job offer by itself.
Step 3: Apply through a recruitment notification
Once you're TET-qualified, apply to recruitment drives by:
- KVS / NVS (central government schools)
- State education departments
- Government colleges/universities (for lecturers/assistant professors via NET/SET)
Browse current openings on our teaching sector page and the teacher role page.
Selection process
Recruitment usually involves a written exam (subject knowledge + pedagogy + general awareness), sometimes followed by an interview / document verification and merit listing.
Preparation tips
- Master pedagogy / child development — it's heavily weighted in TET.
- Strengthen your core subject for the recruitment exam.
- Practice previous TET papers and state-specific syllabi.
Get matched to jobs you're eligible for
Not sure which of these you actually qualify for? Tell us your age, education, category and state once, and we'll match you only to the government jobs you're actually eligible for — free, and no sign-up needed.
Related: Best Government Jobs for Women · Government Jobs After Graduation