Major Teaching Exams in India 2025, Prerequisites and Skills Needed to Pass

Teaching exams in India serve as a cornerstone in maintaining the quality and integrity of the country’s education system. These competitive exams ensure that individuals aspiring to become educators possess the necessary academic qualifications, pedagogical skills, and aptitude to teach effectively. With the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the ongoing digital transformation of India’s academic landscape, several changes have taken place in the structure and approach of teaching exams across the country.

National-Level Teaching Exams

At the national level, two of the most prominent exams for aspiring teachers and professors are the UGC-NET and CTET. These exams are centrally administered and recognized across India.

UGC-NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test)

The UGC-NET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and serves as a qualifying exam for the roles of Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Held twice a year, this exam assesses candidates’ expertise in their chosen subject as well as their general teaching and research aptitude.

Since 2024, the UGC-NET has undergone some notable changes. The syllabus was revised to align with NEP 2020, incorporating scenario-based questions that test teaching application and classroom strategies. The exam continues to consist of two papers: Paper 1 tests general teaching aptitude, reasoning, and comprehension, while Paper 2 evaluates subject-specific knowledge. It is now entirely computer-based, and digital certificates are issued via DigiLocker.

CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test)

The CTET, conducted by CBSE, is a mandatory qualification for teaching positions in central government schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVs). It covers two levels: Paper I for Classes I–V and Paper II for Classes VI–VIII.

Recent changes include the adoption of hybrid exam formats (online and offline) and an enhanced emphasis on foundational literacy, digital pedagogy, and classroom inclusivity. The certification is now valid for a lifetime, as per the 2023 update by CBSE.

State-Level Eligibility Tests (SET)

Each Indian state conducts its own State Eligibility Test (SET) to recruit Assistant Professors for colleges and universities under its jurisdiction. These exams follow a structure similar to UGC-NET but are valid only within the respective state.

Several SET exams have adopted a digital-first approach with online registration, AI-based proctoring, and e-certificates. Although these exams remain state-specific in recognition, their structure mirrors national standards.

TET Exams for School-Level Teachers

Teacher Eligibility Tests (TET) at the state level are essential for recruitment in state-run and government-aided schools. These include:

• UPTET (Uttar Pradesh)
• HTET (Haryana)
• MPTET (Madhya Pradesh)
• BTET (Bihar), and others

All TETs typically follow the two-paper system (Primary and Upper Primary) and require a B.Ed. or D.El.Ed. qualification depending on the level of teaching applied for.

In addition, central schools like Army Public Schools conduct their own recruitment exams through AWES, which include written tests followed by interviews and demo classes.

Eligibility Criteria for Teaching Exams

Key Skills Required to Clear Teaching Exams

Success in teaching exams requires more than just academic knowledge. Candidates must develop a blend of intellectual, pedagogical, and behavioral competencies:

• In-depth Subject Knowledge: Mastery of core concepts in the selected subject is critical, especially for Paper 2 in NET/SET exams.
• Teaching Aptitude: Understanding classroom behavior, instructional strategies, and learner needs is crucial.
• Reasoning and Comprehension: Paper 1 in UGC-NET evaluates logical reasoning, reading comprehension, and general awareness.
• Digital Literacy: With the shift towards e-learning, familiarity with digital tools and platforms is now increasingly valued.
• Time Management: Ability to attempt maximum questions in limited time is essential for objective-type papers.
• Interview & Demo Skills: For final selection in many institutions, demo classes and personal interviews are important assessment stages.

Preparation Tips for 2025-26 Aspirants

With increasing competition and changing exam patterns, aspirants should adopt a focused and strategic approach to preparation:

• Review the latest syllabus and exam patterns from official sources.
• Practice with previous year papers and take mock tests using platforms like NTA’s Abhyas App.
• Enroll in online coaching or test series if self-study isn’t sufficient, particularly for Paper 1.
• Regularly visit official portals like ugcnet.nta.nic.in or respective SET websites for updates.
• Strengthen communication skills and get comfortable with demo teaching if the role includes interviews or sample lectures.

Conclusion

Teaching exams in India play a vital role in upholding the standards of the education system. With reforms introduced by NEP 2020 and growing reliance on digital tools, these exams are evolving to become more relevant and rigorous. Whether at the school or college level, clearing these exams not only enhances employability but also empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to the learning ecosystem. For aspiring educators, now is the time to align their preparation strategies with current trends and policy frameworks to build a rewarding teaching career.

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