Breaking into IT without a college degree is entirely possible in 2025. The tech industry values skills and experience more than formal education, especially for entry-level roles like help desk support, junior developer, or QA tester.

Here’s how to launch your IT career without a degree:

1. Choose a learning path:
   • Self-study with YouTube, freeCodeCamp, and open-source projects.
   • Enroll in coding bootcamps or online courses (Coursera, Udemy, Codecademy).
2. Earn certifications:
   • Start with CompTIA A+ (IT fundamentals), then consider Network+, Security+, or cloud certifications (AWS, Azure).
3. Build hands-on experience:
   • Work on personal or volunteer projects.
   • Build and host your own website or app.
   • Set up a home lab to practice networking or Linux administration.
4. Create a strong resume and portfolio:
   • Highlight skills, projects, and certifications.
   • Use GitHub, LinkedIn, and a personal website to showcase your work.
5. Start applying early:
   • Look for internships, apprenticeships, or freelance gigs.
   • Apply to entry-level roles—even if you don’t meet every requirement.
6. Network and learn continuously:
   • Join local meetups, online forums, and Discord communities.
   • Stay updated with tech trends and job market changes.

In IT, what matters most is what you can do, not where you learned it. With consistency and real-world projects, you can land your first job—and kickstart a thriving tech career without a degree.