If you’re aiming to teach Classes 1–8 in Tamil Nadu, clearing the Tamil Nadu Teacher Eligibility Test (TNTET) is the first big milestone. This all‑in‑one guide breaks down the official eligibility/qualifications for TNTET—age limits, educational degrees, attempt rules, certificate validity, document checklist, and FAQs—plus a prep plan and recommended courses/books to help you qualify on your first attempt.
Age: Minimum 18 years (as on the date notified by TRB for the cycle). No upper age limit.
Paper I → for teaching Classes 1–5 (Primary)
Paper II → for teaching Classes 6–8 (Upper Primary)
Educational pathways:
Multiple degree/diploma combinations are accepted
Nationality: Indian citizens (and others as allowed under Government/TRB norms).
Attempts: Unlimited; you can re‑appear to improve your score.
Certificate validity: Lifetime (subject to Government/TRB provisions).
Marking scheme: 150 MCQs, +1 per correct answer, no negative marking.
TNTET qualifies you for teacher recruitment processes; it does not itself guarantee a job. Appointments happen via separate recruitment notifications.
You can apply for Paper I if you meet any one of these pathways:
Higher Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% + 2‑year D.El.Ed. (Diploma in Elementary Education) — appearing in the final year is usually allowed.
Higher Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% + 4‑year B.El.Ed. (Bachelor of Elementary Education) — final‑year appearing typically allowed.
Higher Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% + 2‑year D.Ed. (Special Education) — from an NCTE‑recognized institute; appearing status generally permitted.
(Relaxation) Certain categories (SC/ST/BC/MBC/PwD) may get 5% marks relaxation in qualifying exams as per Government/TRB rules.
You can apply for Paper II if you meet any one of these pathways:
Graduation with at least 50% + B.Ed. (1‑year or 2‑year as applicable) — final‑year appearing generally permitted.
Graduation + 2‑year D.El.Ed. (for some subject combinations, as notified).
Graduation with at least 45% + B.Ed. (as per NCTE norms/relaxations where applicable).
Higher Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% + 4‑year B.El.Ed.
Higher Secondary (10+2) with at least 50% + B.Ed. (Special Education) (final year appearing usually allowed).
Tip: Choose the paper that aligns with your target teaching classes (1–5 vs 6–8) and your degree path.
Minimum age: 18 years (as on the notified cut‑off date for the cycle).
Upper age limit: None for taking TNTET.
Number of attempts: Unlimited. You can re‑take TNTET to improve your score or keep your certificate current.
The TNTET qualifying certificate is valid for life (unless otherwise notified by Government/TRB).
You can use a valid TNTET certificate to apply for future teacher recruitments in Tamil Nadu.
Exam Structure & Marking (fast facts)
Mode: OMR/CBT as notified by TRB for the cycle.
Questions: 150 MCQs in each paper.
Marks: 150 per paper; +1 for each correct answer.
Negative marking: None.
Core areas: Child Development & Pedagogy (Psychology), Language I, Language II (English/Tamil), Mathematics, Environmental Studies (Paper I); Mathematics & Science or Social Science (Paper II) along with languages and CDP.
Document & Compliance Checklist (before you apply)
Identity proof: Aadhaar or equivalent Govt ID.
Educational certificates: 10th, 12th, all semester marksheets & degree/diploma certificates; provisional/final‑year proof if appearing.
Category certificates: SC/ST/BC/MBC/PwD as applicable in the prescribed format.
Disability certificate (if applicable) from a competent authority with the latest guidelines.
Photo & signature: As per TRB’s current pixel/size specifications.
Email & mobile: Active and accessible during the whole cycle.
Tip: Keep soft copies ready in the exact size/format. Name files clearly (e.g., HSLC_Marksheet.pdf, UG_Degree.pdf).
The Child Development & Pedagogy (CDP) segment is tuned to the learner’s age band:
Paper I (Classes 1–5; Ages 6–11): Physical & cognitive development; social, emotional, and moral development; learning theories & constructivist approaches; inclusive education basics; assessment for learning.
Paper II (Classes 6–8; Ages 11–14): Educational psychology foundations; human growth & development (advanced cognition, social, emotional, moral); learning, intelligence, creativity; motivation & personality; assessment, guidance, counseling, and mental health.
Scoring reminder: +1 per correct answer, and no negative marks—attempt every question.
Do you want to teach Classes 1–5?
Go for Paper I. Common paths: 10+2 + D.El.Ed. / 10+2 + B.El.Ed. / 10+2 + D.Ed. (Special).
Do you want to teach Classes 6–8?
Go for Paper II. Common paths: Graduation + B.Ed. / Graduation + D.El.Ed. / 10+2 + B.El.Ed. / 10+2 + B.Ed. (Special).
Still studying (final year)?
If your path supports “appearing in final year,” you can apply—just maintain the proof schedules.
Compliance Corner (keep these rules in mind)
Marks relaxations for reserved categories follow Government/TRB norms (typically 5%). Keep valid certificates.
Special needs candidates:
Avail scribe/time accommodations per TRB instructions; apply within deadlines.
Photo/Sign specs: Follow the current pixel/KB limits exactly; rejections often happen here.
Application window: Last Date to apply for TNTET Exam is 8th September 2025
Read here the official Notification:
Boost your prep with resources created exactly to the TNTET blueprint from our Professor Academy
TNTET Paper I – English Medium
TNTET Paper II – Maths & Science (English Medium)
TNTET Paper II – Maths & Science (Tamil Medium)
TNTET Paper II – Social Science (English Medium)
TNTET Paper II – Social Science (Tamil Medium)
Syllabus‑perfect lectures, bilingual doubt support
Smart notes, previous‑year trend mapping, chapter‑wise & full‑length mocks
CDP Masterclasses (age‑band pedagogy + classroom scenarios)
TNTET CDP Book (English + Question Bank) for English medium
TNTET CDP Book (Tamil + Question Bank) for Tamil medium
Final Takeaway
If you’re 18+ with the right teacher‑education pathway (D.El.Ed./B.El.Ed./B.Ed./Special Ed combinations), you’re likely eligible for TNTET—
Paper I for Classes 1–5 and Paper II for Classes 6–8.
TNTET certificate offers lifetime validity, and there’s no limit on attempts.
With no negative marking, smart practice and full‑length mocks can rapidly lift your score.
Ready to get qualified?
Explore our TNTET Courses (Tamil & English) and CDP Books with Question Banks. Ask for the starter bundle to unlock classes + book + mocks in one go.
Need help picking the right course/book?
Drop us a message with your target paper (I/II), medium (Tamil/English), and your current qualification, and we’ll map a personalized study plan + bundle offer for you.
FAQ: Edge‑case scenarios candidates ask about
Q1. I’m in the final year of D.El.Ed./B.Ed. Can I apply?
Generally yes, if your pathway allows “passed or appearing in final year” at the time of application. Keep your provisional proof handy.
Q2. I studied outside Tamil Nadu. Am I eligible?
Yes, domicile is not mandatory for writing TNTET. Follow all TRB norms (documents, category proof, etc.).
Q3. Is Tamil language compulsory to write TNTET?
The test includes Language I/II sections as notified; Tamil/English are typically available in combinations. For appointments, recruiting authorities may require Tamil proficiency; check recruitment notifications.
Q4. Does TNTET guarantee a government job?
No. TNTET is an eligibility exam. Government/Private school appointments are through separate recruitment.
Q5. How long is my TNTET certificate valid?
Lifetime, unless stated otherwise by Government/TRB.
Q6. Is there negative marking?
No negative marking. Every correct answer fetches +1 mark.
For more details connect with us at
Email:
enquiry@professoracademy.com
Contact:
+91 7070701005,
+91 7070701009,
+91 8807108794,
+91 8124408794
Hi!
