Teaching is an admirable career choice. However, if you are exploring this profession in India, educational terms such as PRT, TGT, and PGT can sometimes feel unfamiliar at first. If you are considering a career in teaching, you may have already come across these abbreviations. Each one defines the grade levels you can teach, the qualifications required, and the responsibilities associated with the role.
At JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), we understand that having clarity about these career pathways is important. Understanding the difference between PGT, TGT and PRT is an essential first step toward building a successful teaching career.
Defining the Roles
Each teaching level caters to a specific age group and academic stage. Here is a breakdown of what each of these roles entails.
1. PRT (Primary Teacher)
The PRT full form is Primary Teacher. They are responsible for teaching students from Class 1 to Class 5. Since they work with young learners, their role focuses on building foundational skills such as reading, writing, numeracy, and social development. To become a primary teacher, you will need a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed.) after 10+2 or a B.Ed. after graduation, along with qualifying Central Board of Secondary Education CTET Paper 1, depending on the school or board requirements. If you are wondering “What is PRT?", it is the role of an educator who lays the first academic foundation in a child’s learning journey.
2. TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher)
The TGT full form is Trained Graduate Teacher. TGTs teach students from Class 6 to Class 10 and are typically specialized in one core subject, such as Mathematics, Science, English, or Social Studies. To become a TGT, you are required to complete a bachelor’s degree in their chosen subject, followed by a B.Ed, along with qualifying for CTET Paper 2 or an equivalent state-level eligibility test. “What is TGT?”— can be understood as the role of a professionally trained graduate who guides students through critical academic and conceptual development in their middle and secondary school years.
3. PGT (Postgraduate Teacher)
The PGT full form is Post Graduate Teacher. PGTs teach students in Classes 11 and 12, focusing on advanced subject knowledge and specialized curriculum. As the title indicates, this role requires a postgraduate degree in the relevant subject, along with a B.Ed qualification. Unlike PRT and TGT roles, qualifying CTET is generally not required for PGT positions, though specific school or board requirements may vary. “What is PGT?”—can be understood as the role of a subject expert who supports students in mastering higher-level concepts and preparing for higher education.
Key Comparisons: Education and Eligibility
When analyzing the difference between PRT, TGT, and PGT, the key variations can be clearly understood across three structured areas:
| Category |
PRT |
TGT |
PGT |
| Educational Qualifications |
Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed.) or B.Ed. after 10+2 or graduation |
Graduation in the relevant subject with B.Ed. |
Postgraduate degree in the relevant subject with B.Ed. |
| Eligibility Exams |
CTET Paper 1 or equivalent state-level TET |
CTET Paper 2 or equivalent state-level TET |
Generally not required; depends on recruitment body or institution |
| Scope of Teaching |
Classes 1–5; focuses on foundational learning |
Classes 6–10; focuses on subject-specific teaching |
Classes 11–12; focuses on advanced subject expertise |
| Career Level & Salary Scope |
Entry-level teaching role with foundational pay structure |
Mid-level teaching role with moderate salary progression |
Senior teaching role with higher pay scale based on specialization |
The differences between PRT, TGT, and PGT are primarily defined by academic qualification, eligibility requirements, teaching scope, and corresponding salary progression, which increases with the level of specialization and responsibility.
Career Growth and Opportunities
The teaching profession offers continuous opportunities for career growth. For instance, a PRT may move into a TGT role with experience and additional qualifications. Similarly, a TGT may advance to a PGT position after completing a Master’s degree in the relevant subject. Within the school hierarchy, these roles can further progress to leadership positions such as Head of Department, Vice-Principal, or Principal.
At JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), we encourage a culture of lifelong learning and professional development. Understanding these career pathways helps you make informed academic and professional decisions, from foundational child development areas to advanced subject specialization.
Conclusion
Navigating the education sector requires clarity on roles, qualifications, and career progression. Whether you begin as a PRT or aim for a PGT position, each stage represents a structured pathway within the teaching profession.
If you are looking to advance your academic journey and align with evolving educational standards, exploring the right programs can help build a strong foundation in teaching and pedagogy.
Explore programs at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) to take the next step toward a career in education.
FAQs
Q1. What is CTET?
A1. The CTET full form is the Central Teacher Eligibility Test. It is a national-level examination conducted by the CBSE to determine the eligibility for teaching Classes 1 to 8.
Q2. Is CTET compulsory for PGT?
A2. No, CTET is generally required if you are applying for PRT and TGT positions in government schools. For PGT posts, the primary requirement is a postgraduate degree in the relevant subject along with a B.Ed qualification, as per institutional or recruitment body norms.
Q3. What is the difference between TGT and PGT?
A3. The key difference lies in the classes they teach and the required qualifications. A TGT teaches Classes 6 to 10 and requires a graduate degree with B.Ed, while a PGT teaches Classes 11 and 12 and requires a postgraduate degree with B.Ed in the relevant subject.
Q4. What is UPSESSB?
A4. UPSESSB stands for the Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Service Selection Board. It is the organization responsible for recruiting teachers for TGT and PGT positions in aided secondary schools across Uttar Pradesh.
