NCTE Rules out Four-Level Tests for Teachers under CTET before 2027

The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has cleared the air regarding speculation about a major change in the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET). Contrary to recent media reports, the CTET will not be expanded to four levels in 2025 or 2026. Any such change will only be considered after 2027, once the first graduates of the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) enter the teaching workforce. For more information on “NCTE Rules out Four-Level Tests for Teachers under CTET before 2027” candidates must read the following article.

No Four-Level CTET Before 2027, Confirms NCTE

NCTE Chairperson Pankaj Arora has categorically stated that there will be no immediate expansion of CTET to cover all four stages of school education. This clarification came after several reports claimed that the eligibility test would soon include teachers for classes 9 to 12.

Arora emphasised that the system is not yet ready to conduct a four-level CTET. The reason is simple- India does not yet have teachers trained for all four stages under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework. The change will only come once the first batch of ITEP graduates, trained for multi-stage teaching, becomes available in 2027.

What is the Current CTET Exam Structure?

Right now, CTET is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in two papers- Paper I and II. There is no CTET for classes 9 to 12 at present. For secondary-level teaching, candidates must hold a postgraduate degree in the relevant subject, complete a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), and qualify in recruitment exams conducted by state or central authorities. Here is the Curent Structure:

• Paper 1- For candidates aiming to teach classes 1 to 5.
• Paper 2- For candidates aiming to teach classes 6 to 8.

What is the Role of ITEP in Teacher Education Reform?

The Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP), launched in 2023- 24, is a four-year dual-major degree that merges subject expertise with teacher training. It equips graduates to teach across all four stages of schooling as per NEP 2020- foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary.

Currently offered in select central and state universities, NITs, IITs, and other institutions, ITEP admissions are conducted through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET) by the National Testing Agency (NTA). By 2030, NEP 2020 envisions that the four-year integrated B.Ed. will be the minimum qualification for all school teachers, and the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) will be extended to cover all stages.

What is the Implication of Delay in Four-Level CTET Exam for Aspirants?

For now, aspirants targeting classes 1 to 8 must clear CTET Paper 1 or Paper 2, depending on their level. Those aiming for classes 9 to 12 will still follow the current route- postgraduate qualification, B.Ed., and separate recruitment tests.

The delay until 2027 gives candidates more time to plan their qualifications. It also means that those interested in teaching across multiple stages should consider enrolling in ITEP, which will be central to eligibility once the four-level CTET is introduced. Until then, the structure of CTET remains unchanged, and aspirants should focus on the present format to secure teaching positions.

Sharing is caring!