October 6, 2025
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has announced the commencement of admissions for its Diploma Course in Guidance and Counselling (DCGC) for the 2026 academic session. This specialised programme is aimed at strengthening the skills of teachers, school heads, and educational professionals in providing effective mental health and career guidance to students.
The diploma will be offered in a blended learning format, combining distance education with in-person training sessions. Interested applicants can access the online application form and detailed prospectus on the official NCERT website — ncert.nic.in. The deadline for submitting applications is November 5, 2025.
Course Structure
The year-long course will be conducted in three stages:
- Phase I (January–June 2026): Six months of distance learning.
- Phase II (July–September 2026): Three months of face-to-face training at designated study centres.
- Phase III (October–December 2026): A three-month internship in the participant’s home city or workplace.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants include teachers, teacher educators, school administrators, and untrained guidance personnel. Candidates must hold a postgraduate degree in Psychology, Education, Social Work, Child Development, or Special Education. Preference will be given to individuals with at least one year of relevant experience. The minimum qualifying marks are 50%, with a 5% relaxation for SC/ST candidates.
Course Fee
- Central government deputed candidates: ₹19,500
- State/UT government deputed candidates: ₹6,000
- Private candidates: ₹30,000
Boarding and lodging costs during the contact programme will be borne by participants, though accommodation facilities will be available for outstation candidates.
Study Centres and Selection
Admissions will be offered at DEPFE, NCERT (New Delhi) and the Regional Institutes of Education located in Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong, with an intake of 50 candidates per centre.
Selection will be based on a multi-stage process, including document screening, an essay test, and a personal interview. Applicants are required to attach self-attested copies of academic qualifications and experience certificates along with their application.
Source: Indian Express