NCERT Opens Admissions for Diploma in Guidance and Counselling 2026: Here’s All You Need to Know
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has officially announced admissions for its Diploma Course in Guidance and Counselling (DCGC) for the 2026 academic session. This program aims to strengthen the professional skills of teachers, school administrators, and educational personnel in providing mental health and career guidance — a growing need in India’s education system.
A Blend of Distance and Contact Learning
The course follows a hybrid structure, combining both distance and face-to-face learning to make it accessible for working professionals.
It will be conducted in three phases:
- Distance Learning (January–June 2026) – Participants will complete six months of online/distance coursework.
- Contact Programme (July–September 2026) – A three-month face-to-face training session will be held at designated study centres.
- Internship (October–December 2026) – A three-month internship will be completed at the participant’s hometown or workplace.
Who Can Apply?
The diploma is open to:
- Teachers, teacher educators, school administrators, and untrained guidance personnel from India.
- Postgraduates in Psychology, Education, Social Work, Child Development, or Special Education.
Preference will be given to those with at least one year of teaching or related experience.
Applicants must have a minimum of 50% marks in their qualifying degree (with a 5% relaxation for SC/ST candidates).
Course Fee Structure
The course fee varies depending on the category of the candidate:
- Central Government Deputed Candidates: ₹19,500
- State/UT Government Deputed Candidates: ₹6,000
- Private Candidates: ₹30,000
Candidates will have to bear their own boarding and lodging expenses during the contact programme, though accommodation facilities will be available for non-local participants.
Centres and Intake
The diploma will be offered at:
- DEPFE, NCERT, New Delhi
- Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs) in Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong
Each centre will admit a maximum of 50 candidates.
Selection Process
Candidates will be screened based on eligibility and other criteria by a selection committee.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to appear for a selection test, which includes essay writing and an interview.
Applicants must attach self-attested copies of marksheets, degrees, and experience certificates while submitting the form.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online through the official NCERT website — ncert.nic.in.
The last date to submit the application form is November 5, 2025.
Why This Course Matters
With growing awareness around student mental health and career counselling, the DCGC programme is a step forward in building a network of trained counsellors and educators across India. It not only empowers teachers with professional counselling skills but also ensures that students receive proper guidance during critical stages of their academic and personal development.
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