How to Become a School Counsellor in India: Eligibility, Skills, and Career Path

If you’re someone who listens with empathy, enjoys helping students, and wants to make a real difference in young people’s lives, school counselling might be the perfect career for you. The demand for trained school counsellors in India has grown faster than ever—thanks to rising academic pressure, mental health awareness, and the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which encourages every school to offer structured guidance and counselling support.

But the big question most people ask is: “How do I become a school counsellor in India?”
This guide walks you through the eligibility, skills required, certifications, and real career opportunities in CBSE, ICSE, and IB schools across the country.

Let’s break it down step by step.

Before you explore the “how,” it’s essential to understand “why” the role matters.

A school counsellor supports students in three key areas:

• Academic – study habits, exam stress, time management

• Career – stream selection, career planning, aptitude assessment

• Socio-emotional – bullying, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues

They are the bridge between students, teachers, and parents—ensuring a healthy and supportive school environment.

For a deeper dive into the everyday responsibilities, you can later explore:
What Is the Function of a School Counsellor? Obligations and Career Profiles.

You don’t need to be a clinical psychologist to become a school counsellor, but you do need structured training.

Here are the most common pathways:

a) Minimum Educational Requirement

• A Bachelor’s degree (any discipline).
  Most schools accept graduates from Psychology, Education, Sociology, or Social Work—but it’s not mandatory.

b) Professional Certification or Diploma

Schools look for candidates who have completed a recognised counselling program, such as:

• PG Diploma in School Counselling

• PG Diploma in Guidance and Counselling

• PG Diploma in Educational Counselling

These programs give you the counselling techniques, assessment tools, and school-based case studies needed to work with students.

c) Additional Advantageous Qualifications

(Not compulsory but helpful)

• B.Ed or M.Ed

• M.A. Psychology (General/Applied/Child Psychology)

• Certificates in child behaviour, school mental health, or CBT basics

If you’re changing careers or starting fresh, the most practical starting point is a PG diploma in School Counselling, especially through distance learning.

Academic degrees alone don't make someone an effective counsellor. Here are the core skills schools look for:

1. Active Listening

To understand what students mean, not just what they say.

2. Empathy

The foundation of all counselling—students open up when they feel safe.

3. Observation Skills

Spotting behavioural signs of stress, bullying, or emotional struggle.

4. Communication Skills

Clear, patient, and non-judgmental communication with students, teachers, and parents.

5. Career Guidance Knowledge

Understanding aptitude, multiple intelligences, and career pathways.

6. Ethical Practice

Confidentiality is critical in school counselling.

7. Problem-Solving Ability

Guiding students through conflicts, poor performance, or personal challenges.

These skills are built through structured training—something that a PG Diploma in School Counselling focuses on deeply.

Let’s break your journey into simple, actionable steps.

Step 1: Complete Your Graduation

Any stream works, but Psychology or Education gives a head start.

Step 2: Enrol in a School Counselling Diploma

Choose a program that:

• Covers child psychology

• Trains you in counselling techniques

• Includes school-based case studies

• Offers flexibility if you’re working

A distance-learning program works best for working professionals or career shifters.

Step 3: Learn Practical Counselling Techniques

During your program, build expertise in:

• Behaviour analysis

• Child and adolescent counselling

• Crisis intervention

• Academic counselling

• Career guidance

Step 4: Gain Experience (Internships or Volunteering)

Look for opportunities in:

• Schools

• NGOs

• Youth wellness programs

• Child development centres

Even short-term internships boost your confidence.

Step 5: Apply to Schools

Schools across CBSE, ICSE, and IB boards hire counsellors for:

• Primary section

• Secondary section

• Counselling & wellness department

Step 6: Continue Upskilling

New-age counselling areas include:

• Digital counselling

• Behavioural coaching

• Adolescent mental health

• Psychometric assessments

Upskilling helps you stay relevant and competent.

School counselling is one of the fastest-growing careers in the education sector.

Career options include:

• School Counsellor

• Guidance Counsellor

• Career Counsellor

• Student Wellness Officer

• Behavioural Intervention Specialist

• Inclusion & Special Needs Support Counsellor

You can work in:

• CBSE schools

• ICSE schools

• International/IB schools

• Private coaching institutes

• NGOs & child welfare organisations

• EdTech companies

• Mental health and youth support centres

With growing awareness about mental health and NEP 2020’s emphasis on socio-emotional learning, demand will continue to rise.

Salary varies based on board, city, and experience.

Entry-level: ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 per month
Mid-level (3–5 years): ₹35,000 – ₹55,000 per month
IB/International schools: ₹60,000 – ₹1 lakh+ per month

Counsellors with additional skills in emotional intelligence or career counselling receive faster promotions.

If you’re ready to begin your journey, the most practical and career-ready path is a PG Diploma in School Counselling.

A well-designed distance-learning program helps you:

• Learn while working

• Build core counselling skills

• Gain exposure to real student cases

• Understand both guidance and emotional counselling

• Prepare for jobs across CBSE, ICSE, and IB schools

You don’t need to quit your job or shift cities. You can upskill at your own pace and enter a profession with strong demand and long-term relevance.

Becoming a school counsellor is not just a job choice - it’s a calling. It’s about supporting young minds, guiding them through challenges, and helping them grow into confident individuals.

If you’ve ever felt drawn to helping, listening, or mentoring, this could be the perfect path for you.

Start your journey with a flexible PG Diploma in School Counselling and step into a career where your work truly makes a difference.