TEFL Courses & Certification

Types of TEFL Courses

First off, what is TEFL exactly? TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language—and your certification qualifies you to do just that! When getting TEFL certified, you’ll learn the skills and methods for communicating English lessons to students who don’t speak any English at all, and who may only speak a language that you’ve never learned! Many people are confused by the concept of teaching English to students you don’t share a language with, but TEFL certification programs will show you that it’s not necessarily as hard as it sounds. 

It’s worth noting that TEFL varies slightly from TESOL, TESL, and CELTA, too. TESL means Teaching English as a Second Language, and typically applies to those who want to teach English in their home country to foreign language speakers. TESOL means Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, and this has become a blanket certification for those who want both TEFL and TESL skills. On the other hand, CELTA stands for Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Many Americans haven’t heard of this particular type of certification, but it’s a great choice for those who want to build a career out of teaching English abroad. CELTA is held to an incredibly high standard by Cambridge, so you can expect the curriculum to go above and beyond what’s offered by other types of certification.

How to get TEFL certification

It’s pretty easy to get TEFL certification. After you choose the right program for you, it’s as simple as going through the coursework and passing your final exam. In many TEFL courses, there’s also a certain number of practical hours you need to fulfill as well, which will either be virtual (if you’re taking an online program) or scheduled for you (if you’re taking a program abroad). If you want to get certified to teach English abroad, follow these easy steps:

1. Decide How Long You Want to Study - TEFL programs range from 60 to 240 hours. Shorter programs suit those with teaching experience, while longer ones offer deeper preparation for first-time teachers. It's also important to consider the costs, because price points for getting TEFL certified vary widely.
2. Choose if you want to get certified Online or Abroad - Online courses are flexible and convenient, while in-person programs abroad provide hands-on classroom experience and cultural immersion.  
3. Pick the Right Program - Once you’ve figured out your timeline and preferred mode of study, research different TEFL course options, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you look into program accreditation, the quality of course materials, and post-certification support. The best programs often provide job placement assistance and ongoing guidance to help you land your first teaching job abroad.
4. Complete the Course - Whether online or abroad, this is where you’ll dive into the coursework. Online programs let you work at your own pace, while in-person programs abroad often include excursions, cultural activities, and peer interactions. You’ll complete lessons on teaching methodology, language acquisition, and classroom management, as well as a practical teaching component where you’ll gain real-world experience.
5. Pass the Exam - The final step is to take and pass your TEFL exam, officially earning your certification. Once you’ve completed this milestone, you’ll be qualified to teach English in classrooms around the world, opening doors to exciting teaching job opportunities in dozens of countries.

With your TEFL certificate in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on an incredible teaching adventure abroad!

Where to get a TEFL certification

If you've decided you want to experience getting your TEFL certification abroad, rather than doing it online from anywhere in the world, then it's important to consider what destination will benefit you most in your career long term. Earning your TEFL certification in the country where you plan to teach can be a strategic move, offering benefits like easier job placement and a deeper understanding of local classroom dynamics.

If this is how you want to approach your in-person TEFL course, then countries like China, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam all provide a good variety of reputable TEFL programs and have a high demand for English teachers too. The United Arab Emirates has become an increasingly popular destination for TEFL certification, offering competitive salaries and benefits for teachers. Costa Rica and the Czech Republic are two other unique destinations to consider for TEFL courses too, both with specialty programs that help you prepare for real world teaching jobs.

Remember, by choosing to get certified in your target teaching destination, you can build valuable local experience and connections, facilitating a smoother transition into your teaching career abroad. 

What are the benefits of TEFL?

Obtaining a TEFL certification is a pivotal step for those aspiring to teach English abroad. In many countries, this certification is not just a preference but a legal requirement to secure paid teaching positions. Without it, you may find it challenging to meet visa criteria or gain employment in reputable academic institutions. Acquiring a TEFL certificate from an accredited organization is essential for accessing global English teaching opportunities.

Beyond meeting legal prerequisites, a TEFL certification significantly enhances your teaching capabilities. The training encompasses essential aspects such as lesson planning, classroom management, and effective communication strategies. These skills are crucial for creating an engaging and productive learning environment, especially for those new to teaching. By mastering these techniques, you can approach your teaching role with greater confidence and competence.

Getting a TEFL certification can also lead to an increased earning potential. Many educational institutions offer higher salaries to certified teachers, recognizing the value of formal training. This financial advantage, coupled with the personal fulfillment of making a positive impact on students' lives, makes obtaining a TEFL certification a worthwhile investment in your teaching career.