CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025 – Mandatory Training for Teachers

The way we teach is changing, and so is the way we support teachers. In today’s classrooms, it I essential to stay updated with the latest changes. Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) recognized this need and has made teacher professional development a compulsory aspect for teachers through the CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025.

These new guidelines emphasise the importance of continuous learning for teachers by following the goals set by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This blog explains what the CPD 2025 guidelines are, why they matter, and what schools and teachers need to do to stay compliant.

 

CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025 Explained

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is not new, but rather CPD 2025 is a fresh approach to encourage teachers to upskill themselves. It is now a requirement for all CBSE-affiliated schools. Through its official circular dated April 1, 2025, CBSE has outlined the updated policy. It has now made 50 hours of mandatory training an annual goal for every teacher.

NEP 2020 also strongly supports continuous teacher learning, and these guidelines reflect that vision in a structured, measurable form. CPD is now part of a teacher’s professional responsibility, not just an optional opportunity.

 

50 Hours Mandatory Training Under CPD 2025

Each teacher is now required to complete 50 hours of professional development per academic year. This is split into:

– 25 hours of training conducted by CBSE, NCERT, KVS, NVS, or any Government-recognised body.

– 25 hours through in-house training or sessions organised at the school level.

There is some flexibility in how teachers complete these hours. While some training can be online, schools must ensure that not all 50 hours are completed virtually. At least part of the training should involve offline, peer-led, or practical sessions.

 

CPD 2025 Training Focus Areas

Core CPD Standards Based on NPST

CBSE’s training model now aligns with the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST). All professional development must be structured under three key domains:

• 1. Core Values and Ethics (12 hours): Focuses on inclusivity, student well-being, and ethical conduct.
  2. Knowledge and Practice (24 hours): Involves subject knowledge, pedagogy, assessments, and technology integration.
  3. Professional Growth and Development (14 hours): Covers collaboration, research, reflective teaching, and leadership.

These domains ensure a balanced mix of personal growth, technical skills, and classroom application.

 

CPD Theme 2025: STEM Education 

CBSE has decided ‘STEM Education’ as the annual theme for CPD 2025. Teachers will be encouraged to adopt interdisciplinary, inquiry-based approaches in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Teachers will discover how to promote critical thinking, experimentation, and hands-on learning in their classrooms.

 

What Schools Must Do to Comply

All CBSE-affiliated schools must follow the CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025. If the school does not follow the guidelines, it may lose its affiliation status and be required to pay a penalty fee. CBSE may conduct audits or request CPD records for review.

School principals and heads must create an internal plan for their teachers, track their progress, and actively promote continuous learning through teacher training.

 

Recording and Verifying CPD Hours

Teachers and schools must keep records of completed training hours. Certificates, attendance records, and reflections may need to be uploaded on official portals like KVS Samagam or through CBSE’s OASIS portal (or any future platform CBSE announces). Recognised activities include:

• 1. Training by CBSE or government bodies
  2. In-house training sessions
  3. Research or academic writing
  4. Board exam duties and evaluation
  5. Content creation, resource development, etc.

 

Benefits of CPD 2025 for Teachers

For teachers, the updated CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025 are a chance to grow professionally in a structured way. Teachers can:

• 1. Stay updated with the latest classroom practices
  2. Strengthen subject knowledge
  3. Improve confidence and classroom engagement
  4. Become eligible for leadership or mentor roles

 

It also contributes to a stronger teaching skill set, which can help with career progression.

The CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025 are more than a mandate. They are a timely reminder that teacher growth must go hand-in-hand with student growth. With the NEP 2020 encouraging a more learner-friendly classroom, continuous teacher professional development is the only way forward. Schools and teachers must take this seriously because a well-prepared teacher makes a world of difference in the classroom.

 

Impact on Quality Education

The 50 hours of mandatory training will enhance teaching skills and knowledge, which will lead to better student learning. Many schools that have invested in teacher training reported improved academic performance, better student engagement.

 

FAQs on CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025

1. 1. What are the mandatory CPD hours under CBSE CPD Guidelines 2025?
      A. All CBSE teachers must complete 50 hours of professional training every year.
   2. Can all 50 hours be completed online?
      A. No. While some sessions can be online, not all hours should be virtual. Offline or in-person learning is essential.
   3. Is NISHTHA training included in CPD hours?
      A. Yes, if it aligns with the year’s themes and meets the training criteria.
   4. What if a teacher does not complete 50 hours?
      A. This may affect the school’s records and impact future opportunities for the teacher.
   5. What is the CPD theme for 2025?
      A. STEM Education, with a focus on inquiry-based, hands-on learning.
   6. Is salary deducted for attending CPD training?
      A. No. As per NEP 2020, CPD is part of a teacher’s official duty and does not affect salary.