Aiming to be a TGT? Here’s your ultimate guide to job prospects, salaries, exams and more

Teaching in India encompasses various levels, each with its unique responsibilities and required qualifications. The three primary levels are Primary Teacher (PRT) for classes I to V. Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) for classes I to X, and Post Graduate Teacher (PGT) for classes IX to XII.
At the foundational level, Primary Teachers (PRTs) are responsible for imparting basic education to young learners. To become a PRT, one often pursues a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed), a two-year programme that equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach at the primary level. Admission to D.El.Ed courses typically involves an entrance examination that assesses the candidate’s aptitude for teaching and educational concepts based on their chosen core competencies. The next phase of teaching is taken over by TGTs in different schools, for various subjects.
Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT): Broad Overview
Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs) are educators who specialise in teaching at the secondary level. They play a pivotal role in preparing students for the challenges of higher education.
They are qualified to teach specific subjects at the secondary level of education, which is typically classes 6 to 10. To become a TGT teacher, one must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as science, mathematics, or English, or any subject from the domain of social sciences. In addition to this, a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree is also a basic requirement. The B.Ed. degree is a two-year professional course that teaches aspiring teachers how to plan and deliver lessons, manage classrooms, and assess student learning.
Eligibility for TGT
Aspiring candidates need to fulfil certain criteria to be eligible for this role. The eligibility criteria for TGT varies from state to state, but the general requirements typically include:

Additionally, one has to qualify an array of entrance exams to be an eligible TGT.
TGT Entrance Exams
Some of the prominent exams that an aspiring TGT has to clear include CTET, TET Teacher Recruitment Board (TRB) exams conducted by various states. These exams assess candidates’ knowledge of the subject they wish to teach, teaching aptitude, and general knowledge.
Each of these exams comes with its own unique syllabus and exam pattern. For instance, CTET focusses on two papers – Paper I for primary level teachers and Paper II for TGTs and PGTs (Post Graduate Teachers). The syllabus for these exams typically includes subjects like child development and methods of teaching, mathematics, science, social studies, and language.
Application and Preparation
Once you’ve identified the TGT exam you want to appear for, the next step is the application process. Candidates can usually apply online through the official websites of the respective exam conducting authorities.
Preparation for TGT entrance exams requires a well-structured study plan. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Selection Process
Once you clear the TGT entrance exam, you will need to go through a selection process, which may include an interview and document verification. While the written exam assesses your subject knowledge, the interview and teaching demonstration evaluate your teaching abilities, communication skills, and classroom management techniques.
Successful candidates are then eligible for TGT positions in various government and private schools across India.
Training and Certification
Effective preparation is the key to success in TGT exams. Start by understanding the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. Create a study plan that allocates sufficient time to cover all subjects and topics. Additionally, practice papers and mock tests are invaluable resources for assessing your progress and refining your exam-taking skills.
After successfully clearing the entrance exams and the selection process, aspiring TGTs undergo teacher training programmes. These programmes, such as B.Ed, provide both theoretical and practical training in teaching methodologies, classroom management, and child psychology. The duration of these programs vary, but are essential for equipping teachers with the necessary skills to excel in their roles.
Job Prospects for TGTs
TGTs can find employment in various educational institutions, including government schools, private schools, and international schools. TGTs are typically responsible for teaching students in classes 6 to 10, imparting not only subject-specific knowledge but also essential life skills.
Moreover, the teaching profession offers substantial opportunities for career growth. Dedicated TGTs can advance to become Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs), principals, or even educational administrators.
In a government school, the average salary of a TGT teacher can be around Rs. 35,000 per month. This varies depending on the state, the experience of the teacher, and the level they teach (seniority of classes) in. In addition, the area where the school is situated also factors in. For example, a TGT teacher in a metro city can earn up to Rs. 45,000 per month, while a TGT teacher in rural areas can earn around Rs. 25,000 per month.
In private schools the average salary of a TGT teacher is around Rs. 25,000 per month. This can vary depending on the location of the school, the reputation of the school, the volume of students, and the experience of the teacher. For example, a TGT teacher in a private school in a suburban area in Mumbai can earn up to Rs. 40,000 per month, while a TGT teacher in a smaller private school in the same area can earn around Rs. 15,000 per month.
In addition to their salary, TGTs in both government and private schools may also receive other benefits, such as housing allowances, medical allowance, and much more.