You do not need a degree for every level of the International Teaching Diploma. The Diploma level has more open entry, while the PG Diploma level generally expects a graduate background. Always confirm the current entry requirement with admissions for your chosen level. The simplest way to think about it is that entry rises with the level: more open at Diploma, graduate-oriented at PG Diploma. The guiding principle is to enter at the level your education and goals justify, then progress.
Entry by level
The ITD is offered at more than one level, and entry requirements rise with the level. The Diploma is designed to be accessible to newcomers, while the PG Diploma typically expects a degree in any discipline.
This structure lets people enter at the point that matches their education and experience.
If you do not have a degree
If you do not hold a degree, the Diploma level is usually the appropriate starting point and still provides broad, practical preparation.
You can progress to higher levels later as your qualifications and experience grow.
If you are a graduate
Graduates can usually enter at the PG Diploma level, which covers the full curriculum plus behaviour management, SEN awareness and child psychology.
This offers more advanced preparation and may suit those aiming for broader or more senior roles.
Checking before you enrol
Entry rules can change and may vary by country, so confirm the exact requirement for your chosen level before paying.
Admissions can also advise which level best matches your background and goals.
Choosing the right entry point for your background
If your goal is broad preparation and you do not hold a degree, entering at Diploma level lets you build a genuine foundation without a degree barrier, and you can progress later. This keeps the pathway open to career changers and those returning to study.
If you are a graduate, the PG Diploma usually offers better value for your background, since it assumes more prior learning and moves into more advanced material. Matching the entry point to your education keeps the study appropriately challenging and rewarding.
Progression if you start without a degree
Starting at Diploma level without a degree is not a dead end. The foundation you build can be extended later, and in many cases experience and further study open the next steps.
This stacked approach lets you begin now rather than waiting, which is often the difference between making progress and delaying indefinitely.
If your longer-term goal requires graduate-level study or a licence, you can plan that in parallel, treating the Diploma as a genuine first step rather than the whole journey.
What to check
- The level you intend to study
- Your highest completed qualification
- Any country-specific entry rules
- Whether you plan to progress to a higher level later
- Current requirements confirmed with admissions
- Your highest qualification and experience
- Whether to enter at Diploma or PG level
Important distinction
Meeting a course entry requirement is not the same as meeting a national teaching-licence requirement. Check both separately for the role you want.
Related quick questions
Can I take the ITD without a degree?
What qualification does the PG Diploma need?
Can I upgrade later?
Does the type of degree matter for the PG level?
What if I have experience but no degree?
Can entry requirements change?
Is Diploma level a dead end without a degree?
Should I wait until I have a degree?
Related LCT pathway
The International Teaching Diploma pathway at London College of Teachers is the most directly related programme.
Explore International Teaching Diploma