The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has initiated the self-nomination process for the National Teacher Award 2025, aimed at recognising exceptional educators in CBSE-affiliated private schools. Interested teachers and principals can apply online through the official CBSE portal before the deadline of July 6, 2025. The award acknowledges long-standing dedication and significant contributions to school education and academic excellence.

To be eligible, teachers must have completed at least 10 years of continuous service in schools affiliated with any recognised education board by March 31, 2025. Principals are also eligible if they have worked for a minimum of 10 years as a teacher and at least five years as a principal in a CBSE-affiliated institution. Retiring staff members are allowed to apply, provided their date of retirement is on or after March 31, 2025. Applicants are required to upload essential documents such as service certificates, academic qualifications from Class 10 onwards, student performance records, and a signed declaration, all in verified PDF formats under 1MB each.

CBSE will evaluate the nominations based on various parameters, including years of experience, academic credentials, student results, and age. A merit-based shortlist of 24 candidates will be drawn from the eligible pool. In the case of a tie, additional evaluation criteria will be applied. Shortlisted candidates will be required to resubmit verified documents and participate in an interaction round with the National Level Scrutiny Committee. From this group, six final awardees will be chosen for the honour. CBSE has encouraged all school leaders to inform eligible faculty about the opportunity and ensure timely applications, as the award continues to serve as a symbol of excellence and innovation in Indian education.