What are Teaching Eligibility Tests?
Teacher Eligibility Tests [TETs] are mandatory tests conducted to check the calibre of aspiring teachers in both private and public institutions. The test consists of 2 papers: Paper I for candidates who want to teach from classes I to V and Paper II for candidates who want to teach classes VI to VIII.
To qualify, candidates must score at least 60% marks in qualifying.
Importance of Teaching Eligibility Tests
The Teacher Eligibility Test [TET] holds lifetime validity, so the teachers have higher job prospects in both private & public schools, anywhere in India.
The test helps to maintain a uniform teaching standard and also ensures that only the best candidates are selected. As a result, it helps to build credibility in the eyes of parents as well as students.
Types of Teaching Eligibility Tests
Teaching Eligibility Tests in India are generally of 2 types – central level [CTET] and state level [varies by state]. However, there is a miscellaneous category that includes other types of teaching eligibility tests, such as the National Eligibility Test [NET] and the State Eligibility Test [SET].
A more detailed summary of all these exams is given below:
Central Teacher Eligibility Test [CTET]
The Central Teacher Eligibility Test [CTET] is a national level exam that is used to check the eligibility of teachers applying to government owned schools like KVS and NVS. It is conducted by Central Board of Secondary Education [CBSE]
The exam is generally conducted in July in offline mode. To qualify, candidates must score a minimum of 60% marks.
State Teacher Eligibility Tests [STET]
State Teacher Eligibility Tests, or STET, are used to recruit teachers in state level schools. As the name suggests, these tests vary by state.
The qualifying marks in STET generally vary according to the state. And the exam is conducted by the respective state governments.
Miscellaneous teaching eligibility tests
This category includes other important teaching eligibility tests:
UGC Net: the UGC Net is highly sought after due to its pan-India validity. Qualifying candidates can become assistant professors in any college or university that’s associated with the UGC.
Many institutes also conduct their own teaching eligibility tests. Prominent examples include the AIIMS Faculty Recruitment Exam, BHU RET (Research Entrance Test) and IIT & NIT Faculty Recruitment
Tips to prepare for Teaching Eligibility Tests [TET]
Want some tips to prepare for teaching eligibility tests? Here’s a quick summary of what to do and what not to do:
You may also like: Teaching Interviews Guide
Conclusion
Eligibility tests for teaching provide pathways to secure and esteemed positions within the education sector. By adequately preparing and remaining informed about forthcoming examinations, candidates can enhance their likelihood of success.
It is advisable for candidates to begin preparations early, maintain consistency, and stay updated to pass their test with flying colours.