Govt STET Jobs 2026: A Comprehensive Guide
The State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET) is a gateway for individuals aspiring to teach in government schools and colleges. For 2026, the examination aims to assess the suitability of candidates for teaching roles across various states. Understanding the nuances of STET recruitment is vital for prospective applicants.
Key Highlights for STET 2026
| Category |
Recruiting Bodies |
Usual Age Limit (General Category) |
Salary Range (Approx. Per Month) |
|---|
| Teaching Positions (Primary, Secondary, Higher Secondary) |
State Education Boards, State PSCs, District Education Offices |
21-40 Years (Relaxable for reserved categories) |
Pay Level-4 to Level-7 (Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 1,12,400) |
Job Profile & Responsibilities
The primary role of a STET qualified candidate is to impart education to students. Depending on the level (Primary, Upper Primary, Secondary, Senior Secondary), responsibilities include:
- Designing and delivering lesson plans according to the curriculum.
- Assessing student progress through tests, assignments, and observations.
- Maintaining a conducive learning environment.
- Communicating with parents or guardians regarding student performance.
- Participating in school activities and professional development.
- For higher levels, subject specialization and in-depth teaching are required.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet specific educational and age requirements to be eligible for STET 2026:
- Educational Qualification:
- For Primary Teacher (Classes I-V): 10+2 with at least 50% marks and a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) OR 10+2 with at least 50% marks and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.).
- For Upper Primary Teacher (Classes VI-VIII): Graduation with at least 50% marks and a 1-year B.Ed. or equivalent.
- Specific states may have additional requirements like a Bachelor's Degree in the subject for teaching at secondary levels.
- Technical Skills: While not a primary focus for all STET roles, candidates may need basic computer literacy. For specialized teaching roles, specific subject knowledge is paramount.
- Age Limit: Typically, the age limit ranges from 21 to 40 years for general category candidates. Age relaxation is provided as per government norms for SC/ST/OBC and other reserved categories.
- Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The STET selection process generally involves two key stages:
- Written Examination: This is the primary stage, usually consisting of objective-type questions. The exam is often divided into Paper-I (for Classes I-V) and Paper-II (for Classes VI-VIII), or a single paper for specific teaching levels.
- Merit List/Counseling: Candidates who qualify the written exam based on the cut-off marks become eligible for further selection. In some states, a skill test or interview might be conducted, but it's less common for STET compared to other government exams.
Common Exam Pattern & Syllabus Topics:
- Subjects: Child Pedagogy and Development, Language-I (English/Hindi/Regional Language), Language-II (English/Hindi/Regional Language), Mathematics, Environmental Studies (for Primary), Subject-Specific topics (e.g., Science, Social Science, Mathematics for Upper Primary).
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Marking Scheme: Usually, there is no negative marking, but candidates should verify the specific exam notification.
- Minimum Qualifying Marks: Typically 60% for General category and 50% for reserved categories.
Salary Structure & Allowances
Successful candidates are appointed to various teaching positions with competitive salary packages. The salary is determined by the Pay Commission recommendations and the Pay Level of the post:
- Basic Pay: Ranges from approximately Rs. 25,500 (Pay Level-4) for primary teachers to Rs. 1,12,400 (Pay Level-7) for senior secondary teachers.
- Allowances: Besides basic pay, teachers receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and other benefits as per government rules.
- Grade Pay: Applicable based on the pay commission.
How to Apply for STET Vacancies
Applications for STET are typically invited by respective State Education Boards or Government Departments. The process generally involves:
- Official Notification Release: State governments announce STET examination dates and application periods through their official education department websites or dedicated STET portals.
- Online Application: Candidates need to visit the official website, find the STET 2026 notification, and complete the online application form.
- Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of photographs, signatures, and other required documents.
- Application Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed application fee through online modes (Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, UPI).
- Print Application Form: Save and print a copy of the submitted application form for future reference.
It is crucial to check the specific state's education board website (e.g., Bihar STET, UP TET, HP TET) for precise application procedures and timelines.
Preparation Tips for STET 2026
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly go through the official syllabus for STET 2026.
- Focus on Pedagogy: Child Development and Pedagogy is a core subject; focus on understanding teaching methodologies and child psychology.
- Practice Previous Papers: Solving past STET question papers helps understand exam patterns and difficulty levels.
- Refer to NCERT Books: For subject-specific knowledge, especially for primary and upper primary levels, NCERT books are highly recommended.
- Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation and improve time management.