A PGT, which stands for Post-Graduate Teacher, is a teacher who is qualified to teach the senior secondary level, which is Classes 11 and 12, in the Indian education system. The ‘Post-Graduate’ title signifies that the teacher holds a master’s degree in their subject of specialization, which is a mandatory requirement to teach these higher classes.
The Role and Responsibilities of a PGT Teacher
A PGT is a subject matter expert who is responsible for teaching advanced topics to students preparing for their final board examinations and entrance tests for higher education. Their role is more specialized than that of a TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher), who teaches up to Class 10.
Key responsibilities include:
- Delivering in-depth lessons in their specialized subject (e.g., a PGT in Physics teaches Physics to Classes 11 and 12).
- Preparing students for board examinations (like CBSE or State Boards) and competitive exams (like JEE and NEET).
- Conducting practical classes in laboratories for science subjects.
- Developing lesson plans, creating question papers, and evaluating student performance.
- Mentoring students and providing guidance for their future academic and career choices.
How to Become a PGT Teacher: Eligibility and Qualifications
To become a PGT in India, a candidate must meet a specific set of academic and professional qualifications as laid down by educational boards and recruitment bodies.
| Requirement | Details | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Postgraduate Degree (Master’s) | Master’s Degree (M.A., M.Sc., M.Com) in the relevant subject with at least 50% marks. | This is the most fundamental requirement. For example, to become a PGT in English, you need an M.A. in English. |
| 2. Professional Qualification (B.Ed.) | Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree. | This is a mandatory professional teaching degree that equips candidates with the necessary teaching skills and methodology. For some posts, the B.Ed. may not be mandatory at the time of joining but must be completed within a specified period. |
| 3. Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) | Qualifying in the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) Paper 2 or a State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET). | This is a qualifying exam that is mandatory for teaching positions in most government schools (like KVS, NVS) and many private schools. |
Example: To become a PGT Chemistry teacher in a Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV), a candidate needs:
- An M.Sc. in Chemistry or Bio-Chemistry.
- A B.Ed. degree.
- To have qualified in the CTET Paper 2.
Recruitment Process for PGT Teachers
The recruitment process for PGTs varies for government and private schools.
- Government Schools: Recruitment for central government schools like Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVS) and Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVS), as well as state government schools, is done through a competitive examination followed by an interview.
- Private Schools: Private schools conduct their own recruitment process, which typically involves screening applications, a written test, a classroom demonstration, and a final interview.
Becoming a PGT is a respected career path for those who are passionate about teaching and have a deep knowledge of their subject. It is a critical role in the higher secondary education system. The qualifications are stringent, as outlined by bodies like the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the full form of PGT?
The full form of PGT is Post-Graduate Teacher. A PGT is a teacher qualified with a master’s degree to teach senior secondary classes (Classes 11 and 12) in schools.
What is the difference between a TGT and a PGT?
A TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) has a bachelor’s degree in their subject and a B.Ed., and is qualified to teach up to Class 10. A PGT (Post-Graduate Teacher) has a master’s degree in their subject and a B.Ed., making them qualified to teach the more advanced syllabus of Classes 11 and 12.
Is a B.Ed. compulsory to become a PGT?
Yes, for most permanent PGT positions, especially in government schools, a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is a mandatory professional qualification. Some private schools or for certain specialized subjects, there might be some relaxation, but it is generally a required degree.
What is the salary of a PGT teacher in India?
The salary of a PGT teacher varies significantly between government and private schools. In central government schools (like KVS), the starting gross salary can be around ₹70,000 – ₹80,000 per month as per the 7th Pay Commission. In private schools, it can range from ₹40,000 to over ₹1 lakh per month, depending on the school’s reputation and location.
Can I become a PGT after an M.Tech?
Yes, an M.Tech is a postgraduate degree. If you want to become a PGT in Computer Science or Engineering Graphics, an M.Tech along with a B.Ed. degree would make you eligible for the post in many schools.