Last Updated By Sumit Kumar on 25 Sep, 2023

How to Become a Teacher

About Teacher

Teaching is one of the largest professions across the globe as teachers are responsible for shaping one's career along with imparting good values in them. Attaining a degree from a recognised university is a crucial step towards becoming a teacher in India. Prospective teachers are required to complete a B.Ed course in addition to their undergraduate and graduate degrees in their chosen subject. For specialisation and teaching at higher levels, candidates can also opt for an M.Ed degree. Typically, there is no age limit to become a teacher, but candidates who have completed their graduation followed by B.Ed. courses are considered ideal for various teaching positions, with an optimal age range of 22 to 25 years.

To meet the qualifications for becoming a teacher in India, candidates must pursue various undergraduate and postgraduate teaching courses offered by reputable colleges and universities across the country. Additionally, they can choose education, English, science, or commerce courses according to their preferred subject and relevance to their career path.

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Who is a Teacher?

A teacher is described as an expert capable of imparting knowledge to help learners develop, identify, and acquire skills necessary to face life's challenges. Additionally, teachers provide students with knowledge, skills, and values that foster growth.

In the lives of their students, teachers play crucial roles beyond education. They create a positive classroom environment, act as mentors and nurturers, serve as role models, and attentively observe for any signs of difficulties or concerns. Teachers hold various responsibilities, all contributing to the well-being and development of their students.

How to Become a Teacher in India

The primary objective of a teacher is to ensure students grasp the content and subjects effectively, preparing them to perform well by understanding the concepts. The essential steps listed here tell us about how to become a teacher in India: 

Step 1 - Understand the Requirements and Set your Aim

  • Before choosing education as a career option, individuals must thoroughly understand the skills required to become effective teachers.
  • Kindness is a crucial trait for teachers, who must care for and assist students in their journey to becoming successful adults.
  • Teachers should also be firm enough to enforce rules and take charge of the classroom when necessary.
  • Adaptability is essential for making well-regarded decisions, being flexible to adjust plans when circumstances change.
  • Teachers must enjoy collaborating with other educators to foster social skills and patience is vital to handle various challenges in a school setting.

Step 2 - Choose which Level to Teach

  • Candidates need to select one of the three teaching levels: Primary Level (Classes I to V), Secondary Level (Classes VI to VIII), or Higher Secondary Level (Classes IX to XII).
  • For teaching as a vocation, candidates must acquire a degree in their chosen subjects (Science, English, Math, Social Studies, etc.) and a two-year primary school diploma with a minimum grade point average of 50%.

Step 3 - Prepare for Entrance Exams

  • Aspiring teachers must clear the required entrance test like the national-level teacher eligibility exam of CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test). Additionally, state-level teacher entrance tests can also be taken for becoming a teacher.
  • Passing the CTET provides nationwide job opportunities, and the exam date is usually announced through popular newspapers and official websites.

Step 4 - Apply for Different Schools of Your Choice

  • After passing the CTET or other entrance exams, candidates can apply for teaching positions in schools of their preference.
  • The CTET scorecard remains valid for seven years from the announcement of the results.
  • Candidates with the CTET qualification can apply to various schools run by the federal government, Union Territory (UT) administrative regions, and independent private schools.
  • State governments, local entities, and aided schools also consider CTET qualification during the hiring process.

Exam Required to Become a Teacher in India

Various entrance exams are administered by the National and State Governments for individuals pursuing a career as a teacher. The following are some of the entrance exams that candidates need to clear to become a teacher. These exams will also help us to understand how to become a government teacher.

  • Teacher Eligibility Test (TET): TET is conducted by both the Central and State Governments in India and is divided into two parts: Exam 1 and Exam 2.
  • Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET): CTET is conducted by CBSE for schools under the Central Government of India. Schools in Union Territories (UT) require candidates with CTET qualifications to teach in their institutions.
  • State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET): STET exams are conducted by State Governments for individuals seeking a teaching career in their respective states.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET): UGC-NET is conducted by universities and colleges for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or pursue Junior Research Fellowships.

Skills Required to Become a Teacher in India

For becoming a teacher in India, it is necessary for aspirants to have the required skillset along with the educational qualifications. Since teaching is a profession that moulds a student, it is imperative for teachers to cultivate certain interpersonal prowess. The essential skill required to become a teacher in India include:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Patience
  • Communication Skills
  • Organisational Abilities
  • Creative Thinking
  • Subject Matter Expertise
  • Leadership
  • Teamwork Capacity
  • Time Management 
  • Decision Making
  • Punctuality
  • Discipline
  • Empathy

How to Become a Teacher Abroad

Teaching abroad is a fulfilling profession that offers candidates the opportunity to travel and teach simultaneously. Aspiring teachers who wish to pursue a career abroad must meet the specific teaching requirements of the country, which may include degree qualifications, entrance exams, language proficiency tests, and other criteria.

Teaching is universally regarded as a highly respected and esteemed profession, with a demand for talented and inspirational educators worldwide. Each country sets its own eligibility criteria based on the subject one intends to teach, but some common requirements include educational certifications like B.Ed/ Diploma in Education/ M.Ed/ Masters Degrees (Science/ Arts), 10+2 qualifications, and academic records presented during interviews.

To be eligible for teaching abroad, candidates often need to provide verification letters signed by previous educational authorities such as the Principal, Director, or Registrar, stating the course duration (start and end dates). Language proficiency is essential, often measured through language certificates and good scores in exams like IELTS.

Additionally, candidates may be required to submit work experience certificates from previous organisations, detailing their work description, joining and leaving dates, subject specialisations, and other relevant information. Overall, teaching abroad is a highly regarded and rewarding profession that opens exciting opportunities for educators worldwide.

Exam Required to Become a Teacher Abroad

Various exams are required to become a teacher abroad. These include the following:

  • IELTS: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised standardised test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is collaboratively administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, and its inception dates back to 1989.
  • TESOL: Teaching English as a foreign language, Teaching English as a second language or Teaching English to speakers of other languages are terms that refer to teaching English to students whose first language is not English. The terms TEFL, TESL, and TESOL distinguish between a class's location and student population.
  • CELTA: Cambridge's CELTA is a certification for instructing English as a foreign language, acknowledged globally as the most widely recognised English teaching qualification. It is highly sought after by employers, with approximately three-quarters of English language teaching positions necessitating a CELTA qualification. The program concentrates on honing practical teaching techniques and incorporates hands-on experience in face-to-face or online teaching with learner groups.

Skills Required to Become a Teacher Abroad

In order to have a successful teaching career abroad, individuals should possess the following skills:

  • Command over the English language (and native language, if required) 
  • Adaptability
  • Empathy
  • Cultural Awareness
  • Subject Expertise
  • Communication Skills
  • Passion for fostering students’ growth and learning

How to Become a Teacher after 12th

Outlined below are some of the crucial steps to become a Teacher after completing Class 12th board exams in India. Candidates can begin teaching after completing their 10+2 exams or while pursuing them. However, to become a government teacher, they must clear entrance exams such as CTET, TET, STET, and others to pursue a B.Ed. Upon acquiring a B.Ed degree, candidates can start teaching in government schools. Candidates can start their career as a pre-primary or junior school teacher after class 12th without completing a UG degree.

Exam Required to Become a Teacher after 12th

To pursue a teaching career, candidates must clear various entrance exams, including:

  • Teacher Eligibility Test (TET): Conducted by both the Central and State Governments in India, consisting of two parts: Exam 1 and Exam 2.
  • Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET): Administered by CBSE for schools under the Central Government of India, and CTET-qualified candidates are eligible to teach in Union Territories (UT) schools.
  • State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET): Conducted by State Governments for individuals aspiring to become teachers in their respective states.

Skills Required to Become a Teacher after 12th

Listed below are some important skills that candidates who want to become teachers after 12th must have:

  • Adaptability
  • Empathy
  • Subject Expertise
  • Analytical Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Ambition

How to Become a Teacher after Graduation 

In India, aspiring teachers are required to obtain a B.Ed Course upon completing their undergraduate degree to pursue a teaching career. With a B.Ed qualification, individuals can teach at the pre-primary and primary levels. To progress to higher grades and positions, candidates must pursue advanced degrees in education. M.Ed is often taken up by teachers after B.Ed course.

Exam Required to Become Teacher after Graduation 

To embark on a teaching career, candidates need to successfully pass different entrance exams, which comprise:

  • B.Ed Entrance Exam: Several B.Ed entrance exams are conducted at the national/ state/ institute level which candidates have to clear in order to pursue a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree from their desired college.
  • M.Ed Entrance Exam: These exams are essential for candidates who wish to advance their education and acquire a Master of Education (M.Ed) degree in the teaching domain.

Further, there are various integrated courses and diplomas available for individuals aspiring to become teachers in India:

  • BA BEd Integrated Course: Combines BA and B.Ed degrees, 4-year duration, 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 with English as a main subject required.
  • BSc BEd Integrated Course: Combines BSc and B.Ed degrees, 4-year duration, 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 with Science as the main subject required.
  • D.El.Ed: Elementary teacher training diploma course, 2-year duration, 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 required.
  • B.P.Ed: Bachelor of Physical Education, 3-year duration, 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 required.

Skills Required to Become a Teacher after Graduation 

Check out the list of skills required to become a teacher after graduation below. Effective teachers should showcase these skills in order to be successful in their field:

  • Strong Communication Skills
  • Active Listening Abilities
  • Patience
  • Creativity in Teaching Methods
  • Ability to Provide Constructive Feedback
  • Capacity to Create a Positive and Inclusive Classroom Environment
  • Excellent Organisational Skills
  • Commitment to Continuous Professional Development
  • Ability to Collaborate with Colleagues and Parents 

Eligibility to become Teacher

To pursue a teaching career in India, obtaining a suitable and pertinent degree is of utmost importance. As mentioned earlier, completing a B.Ed degree is a primary requirement, in addition to finishing Graduation and Postgraduation in relevant fields. Apart from B.Ed, aspiring teachers can also opt for an M.Ed degree.

After acquiring the necessary qualifications, students must take various National and State Level Teaching Entrance Exams to qualify for teaching positions in Government Schools such as SET and TET. These exams are essential steps towards becoming eligible to teach in the education sector.

Educational Qualification of a Teacher

Before deciding to pursue a teaching career, candidates should thoroughly understand the required skills and suitability for the profession. Aspirants must familiarize themselves with school subjects and develop expertise in their chosen area. The required teacher qualifications are mentioned below:

  • Candidates have to mandatorily complete a UG degree along with B.Ed to be eligible to become a teacher in the country. 
  • To embark on a teaching career in India, acquiring a suitable and relevant degree holds great significance. As previously discussed, completing a B.Ed degree is a fundamental prerequisite, alongside achieving Graduation and Postgraduation in relevant subjects. Additionally, those aspiring to become teachers can consider pursuing an M.Ed degree as well.
  • Most universities only accept applications from students who have scored more than 50-60% in their bachelor and masters degrees. The minimum required marks depend on the university/ college.
  • Aspirants should start preparing for their teaching career during their school years. They should become well-acquainted with the subjects and practice helping other students with their queries. Patience and understanding, essential qualities for teaching, should be cultivated from an early age.

Types of Teachers

In India, individuals can embark on a teaching career immediately after finishing their graduation or post-graduation, followed by obtaining a compulsory B.Ed degree. Below, we have outlined the different types of teachers and teaching jobs available in the country.

Pre Primary School Teacher

A Pre-Primary School Teacher holds a vital position in students' lives, being among the first individuals they encounter after their parents and family members. They work with children aged 3 to 5 years, introducing them to fundamental concepts of the alphabet and early education. The salary of a teacher at pre primary level is up to INR 3,50,000 per annum.

Primary School Teacher

Primary School Teachers interact with students aged 6 to 12 years, and their responsibilities involve teaching various new educational concepts, introducing subjects like computers, and imparting life skills. They play a pivotal role in building a solid educational foundation for students, which will have a lasting impact throughout their lives. The salary of a primary teacher ranges between INR 3,50,000 - INR 4,50,000.

Secondary School Teacher

Secondary School Teachers are tasked with educating students from classes 6th to 10th. They play a crucial role in understanding students' lives deeply and helping them recognise and pursue their dreams and passions. The salary of a B.Ed teacher at the secondary level may go up to INR 5,00,000 per annum.

Senior Secondary School Teacher

Senior Secondary School Teachers typically hold post-graduate qualifications and possess extensive expertise in the subjects in which they specialise. They are capable of providing comprehensive information on their subjects and offering valuable guidance to students in their career choices. The salary of a B.Ed teacher at the senior secondary level is up to INR 5,50,000 per annum.

Special Educator/ Teacher

Special Educators are teachers who work with students who have diverse abilities and disabilities. These students may face challenges related to mental health, physical, emotional, or learning difficulties, among others. Special Educators receive specific training to effectively teach and support these differently-abled students in various schools.

Salary of Teacher

Teaching is regarded as the most esteemed and prestigious profession in India. Government school teachers typically receive higher salary packages as compared to those in private schools. For freshers, the average salary package of a government school teacher ranges from INR 3,50,000 to INR 4,00,000 LPA, while private school teachers usually earn between INR 2,00,000 to INR 3,00,000 LPA. 

B.Ed is the direct gateway for almost every teaching job available in the country. The salary of B.Ed teachers is given below depending upon the level.

Job Role

Average Salary

Pre Primary Teacher

INR 2,50,000 - INR 3,50,000

Primary Teacher

INR 2,60,000 - INR 4,50.0000

Secondary Teacher

INR 4,00,000 - INR 5,00,000

Senior Secondary Teacher

INR 5,00,000 - INR 5,50,000

Special Educator

INR 5,75,000 - INR 7,50,000

 

Courses to Become a Teacher

Various courses are available for individuals aspiring to become teachers in India, including integrated programmes and diplomas:

  • BA BEd Integrated Course: A 4-year program combining BA and B.Ed degrees, requiring 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 with English as one of the main subjects.
  • BSc BEd Integrated Course: A 4-year program merging BSc and B.Ed degrees, necessitating 50% aggregate marks in 10+2 with Science as the main subject.
  • D.El.Ed: A 2-year diploma in Elementary Education, requiring 50% aggregate marks in 10+2.
  • B.P.Ed: A 3-year undergraduate course in Physical Education, requiring 50% aggregate marks in 10+2.
  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed): B.Ed is an undergraduate course that can be pursued after 10+2 or graduation, with 50% aggregate marks required. B.Ed is compulsory for teaching at the secondary or higher secondary level, and an entrance exam is required for admission.

List of Colleges which provide Courses to Become Teacher

There are various colleges which provide courses to become a teacher. The list of the colleges is tabulated below.

List of Universities which provide Courses to Become Teacher

Many universities in India offer courses to become teachers in India. These are mentioned below.

Types of Job Roles Teacher

There is an ample number of teacher job profiles in India as per one's academic qualification and interest. Check out the popular teacher job profiles below:

Elementary School Teachers- Their job responsibility for elementary school teachers is to prepare material for the classroom and plan fun activities for young minds. They are also constantly in touch with the student's parents to address their concerns as these years are the most crucial and help in building one’s base.

Primary School Teachers-  Primary school teachers usually teach all subjects and are specialised in teaching students from 6th-8th grade. Their job is to make lesson plans, undertake professional development and conduct extracurricular activities.

High School/ Secondary School Teachers- High school teachers teach grades 9th to 12th and they specialise in a specific subject like Maths or Biology. High School teachers are usually required to have a master’s degree to teach the respective subject. They play a vital role in influencing students’ lives since it is through that that students learn and make their most important academic choices.

Special Educators/ Teachers- These teachers usually work with students who have a wide range of learning, physical, mental or emotional disabilities. Their job role is to make general education lessons and teach various subjects such as reading and writing in a pattern and method that is easier for the students to understand. Apart from this, they also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities.

Employment Opportunities for a Teacher 

Some of the popular employment opportunities for teachers are listed below:

  • Government Schools
  • Private Schools
  • Public Schools
  • Art Colleges and Music Academics
  • Municipality/State Government Schools
  • Tutors
  • Colleges and Universities

Top Recruiting Companies for a Teacher  

Teaching in India is one of the most popular profession and some of the popular recruiters for teachers in India are listed below:

  • Kendriya Vidyalaya
  • Public and Private schools in your area under various like ICSE, IB etc.
  • Technical Universities approved by AICTE (All India Council of Technical Education)
  • Defence Schools like APS, Air Force School
  • Private Schools such as G.D. Goenka School, Tagore International School.

Planning to choose Teacher as your career?

Books & Study Material to Become Teacher

To become a teacher in India one has to appear in the various entrance exams for which it is very important to have the right set of books and study material. If you are planning to teach only in private schools then B.Ed degree is a must. For admission into B. Ed colleges one has to appear in the entrance examination. However, if you are aiming for government/central schools you are required to clear the CTET examination Listed below are some of the popular books and study material for teachers in India:

  • Complete Success Package for Guru Gobind Singh B.Ed Entrance Exam by Arihant
  • IGNOU B. Ed. Entrance Test Guide And Previous Paper (Solved) by R. Gupta
  • B.Ed Guide by Bharti Sharma
  • B.Ed. Entrance Exam Guide 01 Edition (Paperback) by RPH Editorial Board

Apart from these, there are many sample papers by different publication houses available in the market for the preparation of the B.Ed entrance exams. One can choose as per their suitability. 

Pros of becoming a Teacher

  • The profession of a teacher is highly satisfying because of the visible impacts of your efforts on the children.
  • Teaching is a highly respectable job as they are the one who shapes young minds.
  • As a teacher, you get a lot of holidays and the working hours are also not too long.
  • Teaching is one of the most respectable jobs in society as they help in bringing up good citizens with moral responsibility. 

Cons of becoming a Teacher

  • Teaching requires a lot of passion, patience and composure that is because every child is different and you need to try different teaching methods which can be very tiring at times.
  • The teaching profession is very demanding as it constantly demands you to update your skills and knowledge so that you can share the same with your students.
  • A teacher faces many moral obligations and which can at times hamper their personal life.
  • The salary of a teacher is comparatively less as compared to other professions.

Do you think this is the right career choice for you?

Take our test and find out if it suits your strengths.

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FAQs about Teacher

Which state has the highest teacher salary?

Mumbai leads in India by offering the highest salary to its teachers.

Can a B.Com graduate become a teacher?

Yes, one can become a teacher after completing his or her B.Ed degree.
 

What teachers are in demand in India?

In India, we have demand for teachers in subjects like english, mathematics, science and social science.

Who are the highest paid teachers?

The highest paid teachers are university and college professors.

What are the qualifications for a private school teacher?

To qualify as a private school teacher one needs to complete his or her graduation, post graduation, and B.Ed course.
 

What are the qualifications of a government teacher?

To qualify as a government teacher, you can take entrance exams like the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET), National Eligibility Test (NET), or Teacher Eligibility Test (TET).

Which subject teachers are most in demand?

STEM teachers are demanded the most across India. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Local language teachers are also in demand.

How do I start a career in teaching?

The first step to start your career in teaching is to begin with your undergraduate degree, followed by a B.Ed course.

       

Which course is best for teaching?

 B.Ed courses best for teaching. These days people are even opting for B.Ed integrated courses.

What is the duration of a B.Ed course?

The duration of a B.Ed course is two years.

What are the working conditions for a Teacher?

The teachers are required to work in private or government schools among students of the class 1st to 12th.

How much does an experienced Teacher get paid?

An experienced teacher in India can earn up to 8 LPA and above

What are some of the top colleges in India to pursue B.Ed?

Some of the top colleges in India to pursue B.Ed are Galgotias University, Lovely Professional University etc.

What are different job roles for a Teacher?

The different job roles for a teacher include elementary school teacher, primary school teacher, educational consultant, special educators, etc.

What is the average pay scale of a Teacher?

The average pay scale of a teacher is INR 3,50,000 to 4,00,000.

What are the top recruiters in India for Teacher?

Some of the top recruiters in India for Teachers are Kendriya Vidyalaya, Public and Private schools in your area under various like ICSE, IB etc., Technical Universities approved by AICTE (All India Council of Technical Education), Defence Schools like APS, Air Force School, Private Schools such as G.D. Goenka School, Tagore International School, etc.

What is the educational qualification required to become a Teacher?

To become a Teacher, the candidates must pursue a degree in B.Ed or M.Ed.

What are the responsibilities of a Teacher?

A Teacher is responsible to provide general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students.

I am pursuing M.A. (Master of Arts) to become a Teacher . What other career options do I have ?

You could become a Psychologist , a Graphic Designer , an Artist (Fine Arts & Commercial Arts) , an Archaeologist after studying M.A. (Master of Arts).

I am pursuing B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) to become a Teacher . What other career options do I have ?

You could become a Graphic Designer , an Artist (Fine Arts & Commercial Arts) after studying B.A. (Bachelor of Arts).

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