Teaching and QTS routes
How international teachers obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to teach in state-maintained and special schools in England.
Who this pathway suits
Overseas qualified school teachers.
Eligibility at a glance
- Teaching qualification comparable to a UK bachelor's degree
- Qualified to teach children aged 5 to 16
- Teachers from eligible jurisdictions can apply for direct QTS award; others complete Assessment Only (AO) route in England
- Maths and science/English GCSE equivalence
How the process works
- Apply via Teaching Regulation Agency 'Apply for QTS' digital service
- Direct recognition awarded for eligible countries, or complete 12-week Assessment Only route with UK school
Documents you will typically need
- Degree diploma, teaching qualification transcripts, teaching licence/registration in home country, letter of professional standing
What to keep in mind
Direct QTS recognition is open to qualified teachers from an expanding list of countries including Ghana, India, Jamaica, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Official source: Department for Education — QTS. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Teaching and QTS routes
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Institutional Legal Services & Representation
Comparable Pathways Across Other Destinations
Related Category Pathways
UK ENIC / Ecctis qualification comparison
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
NMC nursing registration
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
GMC doctor registration
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
GPhC pharmacist registration
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.

