TGT Teacher Eligibility, Salary, and Career Scope Explained
TGT is the short form for Trained Graduate Teacher. This title is widely used in India’s educational sector to refer to teachers who are qualified to teach students of classes 6 to 10 (secondary level) in recognized schools. A TGT holds a graduation degree as well as a compulsory teacher training qualification. The term is essential for students preparing for teaching careers, as well as for those seeking a clear distinction between different teaching designations in schools.
Meaning & Significance of TGT
Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) describes a professional who has completed a graduation (bachelor’s degree) in a relevant subject along with a certification in teaching such as B.Ed (Bachelor of Education). TGTs are directly involved in imparting subject-based education to adolescent students, preparing lesson plans, evaluating assignments, and creating a supportive classroom environment.
TGT is not a separate course but a title/designation granted to those who hold the necessary qualifications and training to teach classes 6 to 10. Their primary role includes building fundamental academic knowledge in students and guiding them through secondary-level studies.
How TGT Is Used Across Contexts
In Indian education, TGT denotes eligibility for middle and secondary school teaching jobs in government, aided, and private schools. Only candidates with a graduate degree and an approved teaching certification (usually B.Ed) are eligible to appear for recruitment examinations for TGT positions. Teaching councils and educational boards specify TGT as the required standard for hiring teachers for specific subjects such as Science, Social Studies, Mathematics, English, and regional languages in classes 6–10.
Beyond education, the abbreviation 'TGT' may have other uses globally, but in the Indian context, it refers strictly to the teaching profession.
Key Differences: TGT, PGT, and PRT
In schools, teachers are classified by the classes and subjects they teach. Below is a comparative table to help understand the main distinctions between TGT, PGT, and PRT designations.
| Criteria | TGT | PGT | PRT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Trained Graduate Teacher | Post Graduate Teacher | Primary Teacher |
| Classes Taught | 6th to 10th | 11th & 12th | 1st to 5th |
| Minimum Qualification | Graduate + B.Ed | Post Graduate + B.Ed | Graduate + D.El.Ed/B.Ed |
| Key Responsibilities | Teach secondary subjects, plan lessons/evaluate work |
Teach senior secondary subjects, guide for competitive exams |
Teach all core subjects, build foundation skills |
| Private School Salary | ₹25,000–₹40,000 | ₹30,000–₹60,000 | ₹15,000–₹30,000 |
| Government School Salary | ₹15,000–₹35,000 | ₹25,000–₹50,000 | ₹10,000–₹25,000 |
Eligibility & Qualifications for TGT
- A graduation degree in the relevant teaching subject (minimum 50% marks)
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree from a recognized institution
- Some schools may require a pass in CTET/STET as per norms
- Proficiency in English and Hindi is often preferred
Practical Example
Suppose a student completes a B.Sc. in Mathematics, followed by a B.Ed. degree. This student becomes eligible for TGT Mathematics posts in schools, where they can teach Mathematics from class 6 to 10. If they later complete an M.Sc. and wish to teach higher classes (11-12), they must target PGT roles.
TGT Salary & Career Growth
TGT teachers in private schools usually earn between ₹25,000–₹40,000 per month, while those in government schools may earn ₹15,000–₹35,000 per month. Allowances such as DA, HRA, and MA are also included in most government positions. Pay scales vary with experience, school type, and promotion opportunities. Senior TGTs may progress to administrative or PGT roles with higher studies and experience.
Why Is TGT Important?
TGT teachers play a crucial role in shaping the educational foundation and academic discipline of secondary students. They help students master subject concepts, develop analytical skills, and transition smoothly into higher secondary education.
| Teacher Level | Classes | Required Degree | Common Subjects |
|---|---|---|---|
| TGT | 6–10 | Graduate + B.Ed | Science, Maths, Social Science, Hindi, English |
| PGT | 11–12 | Post Graduate + B.Ed | Physics, Chemistry, Economics, English, Mathematics, etc. |
| PRT | 1–5 | Graduate + D.El.Ed/B.Ed | All subjects (primary foundation) |
Learn More & Practice
- Prepare for teaching entrance exams and improve your subject-wise concepts with Vedantu’s live sessions.
- Compare different teaching designations for clear career planning.
Understanding the TGT full form and its importance helps students and teaching aspirants select the right career pathway and meet all necessary eligibility criteria. For further details, visit Vedantu’s TGT resource or connect with Vedantu educators for academic counseling and exam preparation tips.
FAQs on What is TGT Full Form? Meaning, Eligibility & Teacher Career Guide
1. What is the full form of TGT?
TGT stands for Trained Graduate Teacher. It refers to teachers who have completed a graduation degree along with a teacher training course, qualifying them to teach classes 6 to 10 in Indian schools as per CBSE and State Board guidelines.
2. What is the eligibility criteria for becoming a TGT?
To become a TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher), candidates must:
- Hold a graduation degree in a relevant subject with at least 50% marks
- Complete a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or equivalent teacher training course
- In some cases, clear CTET or State TET, if required by the school board
3. Which classes does a TGT teacher teach?
A TGT teacher is eligible to teach students of Classes 6 to 10 in recognized schools, focusing on secondary-level subjects according to the school’s curriculum.
4. What is the difference between TGT and PGT?
TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) teaches classes 6–10 and requires graduation plus B.Ed.
PGT (Post Graduate Teacher) teaches classes 11–12 and requires a postgraduation degree in the subject plus B.Ed.
- TGTs handle secondary level
- PGTs handle senior secondary level
- PGTs generally receive higher salaries than TGTs
5. What is the salary of a TGT teacher in Central Government schools?
TGT teachers recruited by Central Government schools typically earn a salary in the range of Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 60,000 per month (as per Pay Matrix Level 7, 7th Pay Commission), along with allowances like DA, HRA, and TA.
6. Can a TGT teacher apply for PGT posts?
To apply for a PGT (Post Graduate Teacher) post, a candidate must possess a postgraduate degree in the relevant subject along with a B.Ed. Simply being a TGT does not make one eligible unless the educational qualifications for PGT are met.
7. What is the syllabus for TGT recruitment exams?
The TGT exam syllabus generally includes:
- Subject-specific content
- Child development and pedagogy
- General awareness
- Teaching methodology
- Reasoning and aptitude
Always refer to the official notification for the latest syllabus details applicable to your state/board.
8. Is clearing CTET or State TET mandatory for TGTs?
For most government and aided schools, clearing CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test) or the respective State Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) is mandatory for TGT posts. Always check specific school or state requirements for the current cycle.
9. Can a TGT teacher teach in primary or senior secondary classes?
TGT teachers are only eligible to teach classes 6 to 10. To teach primary (classes 1–5), PRT credentials are required; to teach senior secondary (classes 11–12), PGT credentials are needed.
10. What does TGT mean in other fields such as the stock market or chat?
In non-education contexts, TGT can mean:
- Target (in the stock market, referring to price targets)
- Too Good To (slang/acronym in chat)
Always use context to determine the correct meaning—on this page, TGT refers to Trained Graduate Teacher.
11. Is TGT a permanent government job?
TGT posts in government schools can be regular (permanent) or contractual depending on the recruitment notification. Regularized posts offer job security, pay scale increments, and retirement benefits as per government norms.
12. What are the allowances and perks given to a TGT teacher?
TGT teachers in government schools usually receive:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical reimbursement
- Pension and retirement benefits (for permanent employees)
