Science teachers have a fresh way to sharpen their craft without leaving the classroom. NCERT has opened enrollment for its new online Diploma in “Teaching of Science at Middle Stage (Grades 6-8)”, a self-paced course that runs entirely over the internet. The deadline to sign up is 12 November 2026, and the course itself begins 16 November 2026.
This is a MOOC, a massive open online course, built around multimedia, interactive lessons. It targets anyone who teaches, or plans to teach, science to students in Grades 6 to 8. Both pre-service and in-service teachers can join. NCERT’s stated purpose is to help a large number of teachers grow into reflective, competent practitioners, with each module starting from the basics and building up to real conceptual depth.
One point NCERT spells out clearly. The course is purely academic. It does not count as a qualification for a teacher’s appointment and cannot be claimed for any exemption.
Who can join the NCERT Diploma in Teaching of Science at Middle Stage
Enrollment is open to candidates who meet any one of these conditions:
- Hold a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) degree, and in-service teachers teaching science for Grades 6-8 anywhere in the country
- Hold a diploma or degree in education
- Pre-service teachers currently pursuing a diploma or degree in education
- Any other individual directly involved in science education
Fee and how to enroll
There is a onetime enrollment fee of Rs. 2000. No other charge applies, and payment is online only. To register, visit www.ncertx.in and pay the fee through the link on the site. Within a week of payment, you will receive an ‘Invitation’ email from NCERTX with instructions to finish the enrollment. NCERT advises using the same email ID at every step.
Course structure, duration and assessment
The programme spans 40 weeks. It starts on 16 November 2026 and tentatively ends on 31 August 2027. Here is how it is laid out:
| Detail | What NCERT says |
|---|---|
| Modules | 40 modules in all |
| Time per module | 6 to 8 hours on average |
| Release schedule | A new module opens every Monday, to be completed within the week |
| Access | Via laptop or desktop with internet, sign in on ncertx.in, available 24x7 during the run |
| Tests | An objective test at the end of each module, open for 15 days |
| Final exam | A timed exam at the end; only those who complete all modules and all 40 tests qualify |
The test dates for the final exam will be announced in advance. On successful completion, NCERT will award an e-certificate for “Teaching of Science at Middle Stage”.
For any queries, teachers can write to ncertx@gmail.com or check www.ncertx.in. Mark the calendar now: enrollment closes 12 November 2026.