CTET 2025 Eligibility Likely to Become Compulsory for Teaching Classes 9 to 12. At present, CTET certification is required only for primary classes, like Classes 1 to 5 and upper primary classes, like Classes 6 to 8.
To teach secondary and senior secondary students (Classes 9 to 12), candidates currently need a B.Ed. A degree along with post-graduation in the relevant subject. However, upcoming reforms may soon mandate an additional CTET qualification specifically designed for higher classes.
CTET 2025 for Higher Classes in the Works
According to the various media reports and the online trends, the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), in collaboration with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), is drafting new guidelines to introduce a CTET paper for classes 9 to 12.
After approval, these guidelines will form the foundation for a four-level CTET structure, aligning with the NEP 2020 goals of enhancing teacher quality across all school levels.
Currently, the CTET exam is divided into:
- Paper I: For Classes 1 to 5
- Paper II: For Classes 6 to 8
The new proposal will likely introduce:
- Paper III (Tentative): For Classes 9 to 10
- Paper IV (Tentative): For Classes 11 to 12
What is the Reason for Delay in CTET 2025 Notification?
While students eagerly wait for the CTET 2025 notification, officials state that the delay is due to various preparation stages, including the following.
- Finalisation of new eligibility rules
- Development of the exam syllabus and structure for higher levels
- Approval from education ministries and regulatory bodies
According to CTET (CBSE) Director JK Yadav, “NCTE is preparing its policy. CBSE has to conduct the examination on the basis of the same guidelines. After receiving the guidelines, the examination will be conducted at four levels. Probably it will be implemented from next year.”
CTET 2025 Expected Implementation Timeline
Though there's no confirmed release date, sources indicate the new CTET level for higher classes may be:
- Announced by late 2025
Implemented starting CTET 2026
The changes will affect all teaching aspirants targeting secondary education in:
- Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs)
- Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs)
- Other CBSE-affiliated schools
Implications of Higher-Level CTET 2025 for Teaching Aspirants
If CTET becomes mandatory for teaching Classes 9 to 12, it will significantly alter the preparation strategy for aspirants. The change would also impact coaching institutions, syllabus focus, and career opportunities for prospective teachers.
- All new applicants must qualify for the relevant CTET level along with traditional B.Ed + PG criteria.
- CTET will become a unified teacher eligibility standard across all levels of schooling.
- Teaching aspirants must start preparing for an additional level of CTET, depending on their subject and target class range.
