How long is the pre-primary teacher training course?
APTTI's pre-primary teacher training takes 6 months for the 120-hour Certificate, 10 months for the 200-hour Diploma, 12 months for the 240-hour PG Diploma and 18 months for the 480-hour Integrated PG Diploma. The course is online and self-paced within that period, so you can fit study around work or family.
What this means in practice
The hours figure is the total study time. Spread across the duration, most levels need roughly 5 to 7 hours a week.
Duration and weekly study time
- Certificate: 120 hours over 6 months, about 5 hours a week
- Diploma: 200 hours over 10 months, about 5 hours a week
- PG Diploma: 240 hours over 12 months, about 5 hours a week
- Integrated PG Diploma: 480 hours over 18 months, about 6 to 7 hours a week
Can I finish sooner or later?
Some learners progress faster. Ask admissions about early completion or an extension if your circumstances change.
Choosing a duration that fits your life
Think about the next twelve to eighteen months. If you have a job offer that starts soon, the Certificate or Diploma gets you trained quickly. If you are a graduate planning a move abroad, the PG Diploma's 12 months fits a typical application cycle. If you want deep training while working or raising a family, the 18-month Integrated PG Diploma spreads the load. Whatever you choose, plan regular weekly study time, because steady progress is easier than catching up at the end.
Practical next steps
- Choose a level based on your goals and time.
- Block fixed study slots in your week.
- Submit assignments steadily rather than at the end.
Common follow-up questions
Is there a 1-year pre-primary course?
Yes; the PG Diploma runs for 12 months.
Is there a short 6-month course?
Yes; the Certificate is 6 months.
Sources
Course facts from APTTI's published course pages, checked 10 October 2026. Editorial policy.
Related questions
- Is there an age limit for pre-primary teacher training?
- Can housewives and mothers do pre-primary teacher training?
- How do I apply for pre-primary teacher training at APTTI?
- Should I choose the Certificate, Diploma or PG Diploma in pre-primary teacher training?
- Can I become a pre-school teacher in Singapore or Malaysia with this course?