6 Best TEFL Course Providers in Thailand

Find out who’s who when it comes to TEFL programs in Thailand! Just graduated high school or college? Looking to start a career in education, or change your existing career path? Maybe you just want to take a year out and get a taste of something totally new, from a new job to life in a different country.

There are loads of reasons you might be considering taking a TEFL course abroad in Thailand, and loads of reasons why it’s a great idea! Earning a TEFL qualification is a valuable first step towards your teaching career, and is your passport to a job abroad in Thailand, or elsewhere in the world.

Not a bad place to get TEFL certified abroad, eh?!

Thailand is a sought-after destination for tourists and expats alike. Known for its pristine, paradisiac beaches, glittering cities and fun, friendly people, as well as for its richly flavorful cuisine and time-honored traditions, Thailand is certainly not short of experiences to explore.

By studying a TEFL course, you will have the chance to experience Thai culture at a pace that suits you—whether you want to while away some time dipping your toes into the bright, turquoise ocean, or dive right in to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

Taking TEFL certification classes in Thailand is a fantastic way to quickly get to grips with the basics of teaching English, and to practice your newly acquired skills in real ESL classrooms. As there is a high demand for English teachers in Thailand, you may also be able to stay on and find a paying job in a local school, language institution, or university.

Your TEFL course provider will provide you with everything you need to make a smooth transition into life in Thailand—so what are you waiting for? 

Here’s a sneak peek of the top TEFL programs in Thailand!

• International TEFL Academy
• SEE TEFL Teacher Training
• XploreAsia
• The TEFL Institute
• Asian College of Teachers
• myTEFL

The best providers for TEFL courses in Thailand this year

Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.

1. International TEFL Academy 

“I researched several online TEFL courses before deciding on ITA. The support I received validated my choice and really made me feel confident going abroad to teach. The course instruction, advising, and ability to connect with alum all over the world were invaluable resources. Whenever I had questions about lesson planning, visas, or lifestyle in a specific country I knew I would get honest advice and quick answers. The lifelong job search guidance and alum connections really put the course over the top for me!”

• Where? Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khao Lak, and other cities and rural areas across Thailand
• When? Year round
• Why? Choose from a huge range of locations to for comprehensive TEFL programs in Thailand from ITA. Get all the advice you need from experienced, one-to-one advisors, and benefit from lifelong job search support—the International TEFL Academy team are there to help you every step of the way, from creating your plan for teaching to housing and arrival assistance in Thailand. Along with online or in-person classes, get hands-on experience in the classroom before you start to teach English in Thailand.
• Read more about the program

2. SEE TEFL Teacher Training 

“SEE TEFL provided the most amazing and effective 120 hour onsite TEFL certification course. John Quinn, the director, and all of the teaching staff at SEE TEFL are incredibly passionate about their work and highly educated. The course was very professional and well organized. They always helped and supported each person individually throughout the four week course, making sure that everyone was fully prepared to teach anywhere in the world. Along with observed teaching practices, SEE TEFL focused on teaching in depth grammar lessons and the fundamentals of phonetics. Throughout the course we had numerous lessons on Thai language, which allowed an even deeper understanding of the culture within Thailand. They also organized a Thai cultural awareness day, which was an incredible way to learn about the history of Chiang Mai and the Lanna Kingdom.”

• Where? Chiang Mai
• When? Year round
• Why? Study a TEFL course in Chiang Mai, one of Thailand’s most interesting cities. A stone’s throw away from the buzzing capital, Chiang Mai is a city of contrast between old and new, nature and urbanization, adventure and tranquility. SEE TEFL courses will get you up to speed with English teaching techniques with theory-based studying and classroom practice. You will also receive Thai language lessons and cultural awareness training to help you make the most of your time in Thailand—which could be a while, as you will have access to job placement assistance.
• Read more about the program

3. XploreAsia 

“From the beginning I was told this would be a life changing experience! I can honestly say now, at the end of my time here, this statement is true. I have had the time of my life in Thailand. The whole experience has truly been fantastic. I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have met so many wonderful people, made many wonderful friends and seen some amazing and beautiful sites. If anyone is thinking about doing this....I say do it!”

• Where? Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and other cities across Thailand
• When? Year round
• Why? XploreAsia’s inclusive TEFL programs offer a month-long, intensive 120-Hour course, resulting in an internationally recognized certification. The program also includes a week of excursions and Thai cultural activities, including language classes, to fully prepare students for life as a teacher in Thailand. As well as learning the theories of teaching English, you will also get plenty of experience in a local school or English camp to build up your confidence and practice what you have learned. XploreAsia TESOL also offers accommodation assistance, airport pickup, and can even set up your bank account and insurance if necessary. 
• Read more about the program

4. The TEFL Institute 

“The TEFL Institute team made moving to Thailand feel simple and supported. The course content was clear, my tutor's feedback was detailed, and their employability team helped me polish my CV, practice interviews, and line up a school before I even got on the plane. I felt prepared in the classroom and never like I’d been ‘dropped in at the deep end’."

• Where? Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and other popular teaching hubs in Thailand
• When? Year-round, with multiple start dates to suit different travel plans
• Why? The TEFL Institute combines a fully online, government-regulated 180-Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma with in-country support, giving you a higher-level qualification than a standard 120-hour course. Their Ofqual-regulated diploma is equivalent in level to CELTA/Trinity TESOL and is widely recognized as the gold standard by Thai schools and language centers, helping you access better-paid, more competitive roles. Step into the classroom with confidence and still have time to enjoy the local culture, thanks to a dedicated team that offers lifetime job support, CV and interview coaching, and guidance on visas, and so much more.  
• Read more about the program

5. Asian College of Teachers 

“There are so many great things to say that I really don't know where to begin. I am from the United States, I was so nervous, scared.... I have no idea where to begin even choosing Schools. I am very fortunate to the right choice with Asian College of Teachers. Everything was so nice and wonderful. Our teacher was one of the best I've ever had. A coordinator went above and beyond to me if we were help that we found jobs anything we needed in the city was covered. The hotel went out of their way to make us feel comfortable for the entire stay. I came alone and now my classmates are lifelong friends.”

• Where? Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket
• When? Every Month
• Why? Choose between a 3- and 4-week TEFL course and study in either a relaxing beach setting or a vibrant city in Thailand. You’ll complete a 120-hour certification while gaining practical teaching experience and immersing yourself in local culture. With accommodation included and locations like Phuket, Koh Samui, or Bangkok, it’s a smooth and exciting start to your teaching journey abroad. Prepare for your life as a teacher in paradise!
• Read more about the program

6. myTEFL 

"Thailand is a beautiful place and my experience here has been great. myTEFL was extremely organized from the moment I signed up and still offers resources as support. Getting to know the culture and lifestyle was exciting during the orientation phase and you do meet some nice people. If you do your research and know what to expect you will greatly enjoy this place." 

• Where? Hua Hin
• When? Year-round
• Why? This program blends flexibility with real-world experience, starting with a 120-hour online TEFL course you can complete from anywhere. Then it’s off to Thailand for a week-long in-country orientation packed with hands-on training, cultural activities, and a chance to connect with fellow teachers. Afterward, you’ll step straight into a paid teaching placement, with ongoing local support and plenty of time to explore Thailand while building your teaching career.
• Read more about the program

Browse ALL TEFL Course Providers in Thailand

You’re ready to pursue TEFL programs in Thailand!

Get TEFL certified & start making a difference in the lives of your students stat!

Undertaking TEFL programs in Thailand through a reputable provider could be the first step to changing your life. Whatever you decide to do after completing your course, you will have learned some invaluable new skills, not only in teaching English. You will also have practiced the organization, leadership and creativity required to run an engaging class, as well as the adaptability and open-mindedness that you will need to integrate into another culture. Plus, imagine what all that will do for your confidence!

Studying a TEFL course is also an incredible, meaningful way to see and experience Thai culture. You will have plenty of time to travel and explore as you study, meaning you can take advantage of the opportunity to take in all of Thailand’s breathtaking natural beauty and enchanting historical culture. 

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare TEFL Courses in Thailand

Mary Gartside

Freelance Writer & English Teacher

Mary is a freelance writer, blogger and teacher from Lancaster, England. She graduated from Cardiff University with a degree in Spanish in 2016 and has since been teaching English in Guadalajara, Mexico. She has studied abroad, worked abroad, and had the privilege of travelling to more than 15 countries (although her journey is just beginning!) She enjoys reading, drawing, and dancing (badly), and can usually be found in a coffee shop.

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