The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) has reopened registration for its six-month Certificate (Bridge) Course in Primary Teacher Education from October 21 to October 28, 2026. The registration window offers another opportunity for eligible in-service primary teachers with Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) qualifications to complete the required professional training.

According to the official NIOS bridge-course portal, the registration period will remain open until October 28. The institute has stated that no further extension will be provided, urging eligible teachers who have not registered to complete the process within the specified deadline.

The registration reopening follows requests from various stakeholders, including government teachers, seeking additional time to enrol in the programme. The decision was approved by the competent authority, according to the published notice.

Course Focuses on Primary Teaching Skills

The six-month programme is designed for eligible in-service primary teachers appointed on the basis of a B.Ed. qualification between June 28, 2018, and August 11, 2023. It aims to strengthen their understanding of primary-level teaching practices and help them meet the relevant professional requirements for their existing appointments.

The Ministry of Education announced the launch of the course on September 17, 2026, following its launch by Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on September 16 in New Delhi.

 “Comprehensive training to help teachers to develop the necessary skills and competencies to effectively educate learners at the primary level (I-V).” - Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The programme is designed around the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) framework. Its curriculum includes six theory courses and school-based practical experience, connecting educational concepts with classroom teaching.

The training covers child development, educational psychology, curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and language teaching. It also aims to help teachers address children's diverse learning needs through child-centred, inclusive and developmentally appropriate practices.

Eligibility and Registration

Eligible teachers can register through the official NIOS bridge-course portal at https://bridge.nios.ac.in. Applicants should review the eligibility conditions, provide the required details and documents, complete the registration process and retain their confirmation.

The course is specifically intended to help eligible teachers retain their existing appointments under the applicable provisions. NIOS states that failure to complete the course within the timeframe prescribed by the concerned educational authorities will invalidate the appointments of the affected candidates. The course does not qualify candidates for subsequent recruitment as primary teachers.

With registration open for only eight calendar days, eligible teachers are advised to check the official notification and complete their applications before October 28, 2026.