Bihar Education Department Updates Teacher Recruitment Process

The Bihar education department has announced a significant change in the teacher recruitment process, stating that the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) will now be mandatory for candidates aspiring to teach in primary and middle schools. The separate Bihar Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for classes 1 to 8 has been discontinued. This decision aims to streamline the recruitment process and ensure a sufficient number of qualified candidates. Prospective teachers are advised to focus their preparations on the CTET, as it will be the sole criterion for future teacher recruitment in the state.

By Ambika Singh Feb 16, 2026, 14:23 IST

Bihar Teacher Recruitment Changes

Bihar Teacher Recruitment: Important updates have emerged for those aspiring to become government school teachers in Bihar. The state's education department has announced that it will no longer hold a separate Bihar Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for classes 1 to 8. Instead, candidates must now pass the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) to qualify for teaching positions in primary and middle schools, effectively eliminating the state-level TET exam.

Reason for Discontinuation of State-Level TET:
The education department has indicated that the CTET is conducted annually by the central government, with a significant number of candidates successfully passing it. They believe that the existing pool of CTET-qualified candidates is adequate to facilitate a smooth teacher recruitment process.

Approximately three years ago, the department hinted at the suspension of the TET, suggesting that it might be reinstated in the future. However, it has now been confirmed that a separate Bihar TET is unnecessary.

History of TET in Bihar:
The TET has been administered only twice in Bihar, organized by the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB). The first examination took place in 2011, followed by the second in 2017. This assessment included two levels: the primary level for classes 1 to 5 and the upper primary level for classes 6 to 8, evaluating teachers' qualifications at both stages.

Impact on Candidates:
This new directive will significantly affect those who were preparing for the Bihar TET. Candidates will need to shift their focus towards the CTET exam. Only those who pass CTET Paper 1 (for classes 1 to 5) or Paper 2 (for classes 6 to 8) will be eligible to apply for future teacher recruitment. The government believes this change will standardize the selection process and alleviate the need for multiple examinations.

Next Steps for Candidates:
Prospective teachers should now concentrate on preparing for the CTET, as passing this exam is now the primary requirement for teaching roles in Bihar's primary and middle schools. This decision signals that future teacher recruitment will rely solely on the CTET.