CBSE mandates socio-emotional and career counselors in all affiliated schools

The Central Board of Secondary Education has issued a major directive requiring all affiliated schools to appoint both socio-emotional and career counsellors ahead of the upcoming Class 10 and 12 board exams.

In a circular dated Jan 19, CBSE amended Clause 2.4.12 of its Affiliation Bye Laws, 2018, specifying that schools must now fill two distinct roles, one addressing students’ mental and emotional well-being and another focused on career guidance.

Previously, only a single counselling and wellness teacher was required. The amendment was approved by the Affiliation Committee in November 2025, ratified by the Governing Body in December, and received final clearance from the Board’s controlling authority.

CBSE has mandated a counsellor-to-student ratio of 1:500. Schools must appoint one socio-emotional counsellor and one career counsellor for up to every 500 students in Classes 9 to 12. Institutions with fewer than 300 students in these classes may employ counselors on a part-time basis.

Eligible socio-emotional counsellors must hold a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Clinical, Counselling, Applied, or Educational), a Master’s in Social Work (Mental Health or Counselling), or a degree in any subject with a diploma in school, child, or career counselling.

They must also complete 50 hours of CBSE-approved training covering psychosocial counselling, crisis intervention, confidentiality, and parent-teacher sensitization.

Career counselors must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Humanities, Science, Social Sciences, Management, Education, or Technology.

Their duties include career assessment, guidance on higher education in India and abroad, collaboration with universities and industry, and counselling students and parents.

If a dedicated career counsellor is not available, a trained teacher may be nominated, provided they complete the required CBSE qualifications within two academic years.

The directive comes as student stress peaks ahead of board exams, entrance tests, and career decisions.

Education experts have flagged the shortage of trained mental health professionals in schools during this critical period.

CBSE has also introduced the Counselling Hub-and-Spoke Model to broaden access to mental health and well-being services.

By specifying qualifications, training hours, and counselor-to-student ratios, CBSE is emphasizing structured mental health and career support in schools. Institutions are expected to comply with the amended clause as part of their affiliation requirements.