DSSSB TGT vs PRT Special Teacher: Eligibility, Salary & Career Growth Guide
Compare the DSSSB TGT and PRT Special Teacher roles for 2026. This guide details critical differences in eligibility, educational qualifications, pay scales, in-hand salary, and job profiles to help you determine which career path aligns best with your professional goals.
DSSSB TGT Special Teacher Post: Key Details
The TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) Special Teacher role involves educating students from classes 6 to 10 within Delhi government schools. This position demands higher academic credentials than the PRT role. Candidates in this capacity focus on specialized pedagogical support for students with special needs at the middle and secondary levels, offering a more competitive pay scale and expanded professional responsibilities.
Key highlights of the TGT Special Teacher position:
- Teaching level: Classes 6 to 10
- Category: Trained Graduate Teacher
- Required qualification: Graduation with B.Ed. in Special Education
- Pay Level: Level 7 (Pay Matrix)
DSSSB PRT Special Teacher Post: Key Details
The PRT (Primary Teacher) Special Teacher post is dedicated to supporting students from classes 1 to 5 in Delhi government primary schools. This foundational role is ideal for educators beginning their career journey. While the entry-level qualification requirements are less rigorous than those for TGT, the position provides a vital, rewarding opportunity to shape the early learning development of students with special needs.
Key highlights of the PRT Special Teacher position:
- Teaching level: Classes 1 to 5
- Category: Primary Teacher
- Required qualification: Senior Secondary with D.Ed./B.Ed. in Special Education
- Pay Level: Level 6 (Pay Matrix)
Eligibility Criteria for TGT and PRT Special Teacher
DSSSB frequently announces numerous vacancies for special educators. Because the eligibility criteria vary significantly between the TGT and PRT designations, it is essential for candidates to thoroughly evaluate their educational qualifications before applying to ensure they align with the requirements for their preferred teaching path.
| Criteria | TGT Special Teacher | PRT Special Teacher |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | Graduation + B.Ed. (Special Education) | Senior Secondary + D.Ed./B.Ed. (Special Education) |
| Teaching Level | Classes 6-10 | Classes 1-5 |
| Age Limit | 18-30 years (relaxation as per category) | 18-30 years (relaxation as per category) |
| Experience Needed | Not mandatory | Not mandatory |
Salary and Pay Scale Comparison of TGT and PRT Special Teacher
Compensation is a primary differentiator between these two roles. TGT Special Teachers are compensated under Pay Level 7, whereas PRT Special Teachers fall under Pay Level 6. Candidates seeking a higher entry-level salary package and greater financial incentives typically prioritize the TGT qualification and application process.
| Component | TGT Special Teacher | PRT Special Teacher |
|---|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level 7 | Level 6 |
| Basic Pay (Approx) | Rs. 44,900 | Rs. 35,400 |
| Grade Pay | Higher | Lower |
| In-hand Salary (Approx) | Rs. 60,000-65,000 | Rs. 45,000-50,000 |
Career Growth and Job Profile: TGT or PRT Special Teacher
Long-term career advancement is determined by your educational background and professional ambitions. The TGT post offers a higher salary trajectory and pathways to leadership roles, such as Head of Department. Conversely, the PRT post is perfect for those seeking an early entry into the government sector. Both positions offer the stability, pension, and job security characteristic of permanent government teaching employment.
- Choose TGT Special Teacher if you have a graduation degree and want a higher salary from the start
- Choose PRT Special Teacher if you want an early entry into teaching with a senior secondary qualification
- Both posts offer promotion scope after a few years of service
- Both posts come with job security and government benefits
Common Mistakes While Choosing Between TGT and PRT
Many applicants hinder their success by overlooking the nuances between these roles, which can impact long-term career satisfaction. Understanding the distinctions early allows candidates to make strategic, informed decisions that align with their personal and professional growth.
- Applying for TGT without having the required graduation degree
- Ignoring the RCI registration requirement for special education posts
- Choosing a post based only on salary without considering long-term interest in primary or secondary teaching
- Not checking the latest DSSSB notification for updated eligibility or pay level changes
DSSSB TGT and PRT Special Teacher
In summary, TGT Special Teachers support secondary students (Classes 6-10) under Pay Level 7 and require a Graduation degree, while PRT Special Teachers focus on primary students (Classes 1-5) under Pay Level 6 and require a Senior Secondary qualification.
TGT Special Teachers enjoy higher compensation, with Pay Level 7 offering a basic pay of approximately Rs. 44,900. In comparison, the PRT position is structured under Pay Level 6, providing a basic pay of roughly Rs. 35,400.
To be eligible for the PRT Special Teacher post, candidates must possess a Senior Secondary certificate along with a D.Ed. or B.Ed. in Special Education.
To qualify for the TGT Special Teacher position, candidates are required to hold a Graduation degree in addition to a B.Ed. in Special Education.
No, prior teaching experience is not a mandatory requirement for either post. Fresh graduates who meet the specified educational qualifications are fully eligible to apply for both TGT and PRT Special Teacher openings.