Departmental Test OD Facility for AP & TS Teachers
The Departmental Test OD Facility allows teachers to attend the official APPSC and TSPSC Departmental Tests (like GO and EO exams) while being treated as “On Duty.” This facility ensures that teachers can appear for these exams without losing pay or leave, as per the rules mentioned under FR 9(6)(b)(iii) of the Fundamental Rules and Departmental Test OD Facility Permission Letter for AP Teachers 2025–26Subsidiary Rules.
Both the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana governments provide the On Duty (OD) Facility to teachers who appear for mandatory or optional departmental tests. Teachers need to submit an official permission letter to their competent authority to avail this facility. The sanctioned OD period includes the examination day and journey time, ensuring fair treatment and motivation for professional growth.
Purpose of Departmental Test OD Facility 2025–26
The objective of the Departmental Test OD Facility is to encourage teachers to upgrade their qualifications and clear the required departmental tests, like the GO Test, EO Test, Language Tests, and other departmental examinations. These tests are essential for promotions, transfers, and administrative eligibility in both AP and TS Education Departments.
As per Government Orders and FR 9(6)(b)(iii), the facility is meant to support teachers who attend such examinations by granting them duty leave without affecting their annual leave or salary. This initiative is an important part of the teacher professional development framework.
Rules and Conditions under FR 9(6)(b)(iii)
According to the Fundamental Rules and Subsidiary Rules, the following provisions apply to teachers availing the OD facility for Departmental Tests:
- The time spent attending and traveling to the examination center is treated as duty time.
- The concession will be granted not more than twice for the same optional examination.
- Teachers must attach a copy of the hall ticket or admit card along with the OD application.
- OD facility applies only to the actual exam dates and the reasonable journey period.
Teachers are advised to follow the official rules while applying for OD permission strictly. Violation or misuse of this rule may lead to disciplinary action by the sanctioning authority.
Sanctioning Authority for OD Facility
The sanctioning authority differs depending on the teacher’s designation and school type. The following are the authorized officials who can approve OD permission:
- Primary and Upper Primary Schools: Mandal Educational Officer (MEO) is the sanctioning authority.
- High Schools: The Headmaster (HM) is authorized to sanction OD leave.
The teacher must submit a duly signed application form to the concerned authority before the examination date, along with a copy of the hall ticket or proof of exam registration.
How to Apply for the Departmental Test OD Facility
To apply for the Departmental Test OD Facility, teachers must follow these simple steps:
- Download the official OD Permission Letter format from the school or education department portal.
- Fill in all required details such as name, designation, school name, exam name, and exam dates.
- Attach a Xerox copy of the Departmental Test Hall Ticket.
- Submit the application to the leave sanctioning authority (MEO or HM).
- Get approval before proceeding to the examination center.
Teachers can also download the sample OD Permission Letter below and modify it as per their school details.
Download OD Facility Permission Letter (PDF)
Important Notes for Teachers Attending Departmental Tests
Here are a few guidelines for teachers availing of the OD facility during departmental tests:
- OD concession shall not be claimed more than twice for the same test.
- Teachers must ensure punctual attendance at the examination centers.
- Approval from the competent authority is mandatory before availing of OD leave.
- Maintain transparency by keeping a copy of the sanction order in the school record.
Following these rules helps maintain accountability and ensures that the educational administration runs smoothly while teachers pursue their professional tests.
Benefits of the OD Facility for Teachers
The OD facility for departmental tests brings several benefits to teachers, schools, and the education system. Teachers can improve their qualifications, resulting in better teaching standards and career progression. Moreover, the OD concession ensures that teachers don’t lose pay or face leave deductions while attending mandatory departmental exams.
By providing such support, the government promotes continuous learning among educators, aligns with the NEP 2020 principles, and enhances the efficiency of school administration. It also reduces absenteeism and encourages a professional approach toward departmental examinations.
Departmental Test OD Facility – Conclusion
The Departmental Test OD Facility for Teachers 2025–26 is a beneficial provision for all government teachers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It not only supports their participation in APPSC and TSPSC tests but also safeguards their service and pay benefits. Teachers are encouraged to utilize this facility responsibly and follow all government guidelines.
For complete details, teachers should refer to the latest circulars issued by the School Education Department and Fundamental Rules notifications. This ensures proper compliance and helps in maintaining administrative transparency.
Internal Link: AP Teachers Latest Updates
External Link: Visit APPSC Official Website
