TEFL Courses & Certification in South America

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37 TEFL Courses in South America
International TEFL Academy
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Do you want to get paid to live & teach English in Brazil? International TEFL Academy (ITA) has made teaching English abroad and online a reality for more than 40,000 people like you. From Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo, Brazil offers a fantastic combination of historical cities, rich history, and dis
See All 11 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.84
120
Maximo Nivel's internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL Certification program is the perfect passport to an English teaching job in Latin America or anywhere else in the world! The 4-week, 150-hour certification program includes more than 15 hours of practical English teaching and observation of exper
See All 3 ProgramsThe TEFL Institute
4.87
226
Launch your teaching journey with the internationally recognized 120-Hour Advanced TEFL Course—your fast-track to teaching English online or abroad. Designed as the global industry standard, this accredited qualification gives you the essential skills and confidence to step into your first teaching
See All 2 ProgramsPremier TEFL
4.55
823
Ready to start your journey as a confident English teacher? The 120-Hour Premier TEFL Course gives you the skills and certification to teach abroad or online, with a qualification trusted by schools and employers worldwide. Through interactive, self-paced modules, you’ll learn essential teaching sk
See All 5 ProgramsThe TEFL Institute of Ireland
4.97
114
Fast-track your teaching career with the TEFL Institute of Ireland’s accredited fast-track 120-hour TEFL course, your passport to teaching English worldwide. This flexible, self-paced online programme is internationally recognised and meets the global standard for entry-level TEFL jobs, both abroad
See All 2 ProgramsInternational TEFL and TESOL
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Did you know that a degree isn't required to teach abroad in Brazil? With just a TEFL/TESOL certificate, venture to a country famous for soccer, Carnivals, and colorful cities! Use the coupon code GoAbroad15 upon checkout to receive 15% off any course. Take advantage of our Super Sale! Choose from
See All 7 ProgramsMente Argentina
5
2
Approved by the International TEFL and TESOL Accrediting organization, The Mente Argentina TESOL/TEFL certification is available to any person who has interest in learning how to teach English as a foreign language. The certificate is one of the most widely recognized teaching credentials and once c
Buenos Aires TEFL Institute
4.99
145
Passionate about teaching English? Kick-start your career with an accredited qualification. Take our 130-hour, 5-week TEFL Certification Course in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Plus, guarantee a job placement right after successful completion! Buenos Aires TEFL helps you teach English confidently anywhe
See All 2 ProgramsTEFL Graduate
4.21
14
Give yourself an edge with our 120 or 150-hour TEFL course! Our programs are delivered entirely online, allowing you to study at your own pace from the comfort of your home. You'll have 24/7 access to the course materials, 365 days a year. Both our 120-Hour and 150-Hour TEFL courses are excellent o
myTEFL
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Argentina. Can you say history, romance, culture, dance, food, and passion in the same sentence? You can say it and live it when you join our TEFL program in this exciting country. Complete your accredited TEFL course in Buenos Aires while munching down on chimichurris and soaking in the local ener
Via Lingua International LLC
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Via Lingua Arequipa provides an intensive, interactive program to gain certification as a Teacher of English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Our TEFL Florence Course is one of the most comprehensive and up-to-date in the world today. Including 130 hours of expert tuition with 10 hours of assessed teac
English Actually
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Embark on an unforgettable journey with our on-site TEFL/TESOL accredited course in Buenos Aires, the city of all passions. As a student of a globally recognized institution, you’ll receive a prestigious certificate that opens doors to teaching English worldwide. Not only will you gain the skills an
A Guide to Earning TEFL Certification in South America
Locations
Though there are many incredible countries to choose from, there are a few more popular destinations for TEFL courses in South America than others. If you choose to acquire your TEFL certification in South America, then it is likely you will find the most variety and quantity of courses in the following countries:
In Peru, you can earn TEFL certification in the Colonial town of Arequipa, for a more unique experience of the country than Lima and Cusco, which is nestled in a valley between the Andean Mountain range and beautiful volcanoes. Though somewhat rural, Arequipa acts as a springboard for sightseeing, as it is easy to travel to not only the coast of Peru but also deeper into the South American continent for more adventures.
In Argentina, you may find the city life more to your liking, and many aspiring TEFL teachers choose to take TEFL courses in Buenos Aires. Like many large South American cities, Argentina’s major cities offer quite a variety of cultural and historical influences; TEFL students will witness the shadow of colonial architecture seamlessly mixed with the modernization of a highly internationalized city throughout Argentina.
In Brazil, individuals will find perhaps one of the most iconic cities of this century: Rio De Janeiro. Much like Buenos Aires, Brazilian city life may be more attractive than the rural areas when it comes to TEFL courses in Brazil. If you time your TEFL certification in Brazil right, you may even be able to enjoy the 2016 Olympics in Rio too!
Chile offers another handful of wonderful urban environments for TEFL certification abroad. Individuals often choose to take TEFL courses in Santiago, which is one of the most economically developed cities in all of South America, and also centrally located, which makes it a great home base for traveling throughout the country (or region).
TEFL Courses in South America
Depending on the TEFL certification program you choose, your TEFL courses may be provided online by an accredited organization or in person at your destination of choice.
Most English teaching jobs abroad around the world prefer (or require) that teachers have accomplished a TEFL certification program of at least 100 hours of coursework and at least six hours of in classroom practicum work, so this is something that is very important to consider when browsing through TEFL programs in South America. Although quick and intense, a typical TEFL certification in South America lasts around four weeks.
No matter where you choose to earn TEFL certification, you should always be sure that your TEFL certification program is accredited, in order to make your training as valuable as possible. By choosing an accredited TEFL course in South America, you will prepare yourself for TEFL jobs not only in South America but all over the world.
The good news is: you don’t have to have previous teaching experience to become a successful ESL teacher abroad. But, if you don’t have professional teaching experience, your TEFL certification will become even more essential. Aspiring TEFL teachers should possess qualities such as: self-discipline, openness to new ways of living, and cultural sensitivity; these three qualities, along with a host of classroom management skills and teaching strategies, will set you up for success as an international TEFL teacher.
Costs & Affordability
Before deciding on a TEFL certification program in South America, you should most definitely consider the cost living and the cost of TEFL programs in each country. TEFL programs in South America generally range from $1,500 to $2,000. These costs generally cover tuition as well as lifetime career guidance and support in finding TEFL job placements not only in South America but all over the world.
Accommodation & Visas
Most TEFL students will be responsible for finding their own housing. Although, some TEFL program providers in South America will supply students with housing for a set amount of time at the beginning of the program. It is typically cheapest to find housing with other TEFL students or teachers in your host city, since shared housing will help you cut down costs (especially while you are still earning your TEFL certification and not making a steady income). It is also ideal to find an apartment near to where you will be attending TEFL courses, to significantly cut down on transportation costs, or even eliminate them entirely if you can walk to and from your courses.
In most of South American countries, TEFL students will have to obtain a tourist visa, and a work visa upon TEFL certification when they begin searching for TEFL jobs in country. Keep in mind that many TEFL program providers do not assist students in obtaining the appropriate visa to attend courses and eventually teach in South America. Once you decide where you want to earn your TEFL certification in South America and what organization you want to take courses through, you should determine if you will need to arrange your own visa or if they will assist you through the process.
If you are lucky, you may not need a visa at all! In some South American countries it is possible to earn a TEFL certification and stay in-country without earning an income on a tourist visa for up to 90 days.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Future Possibilities. Earning your TEFL certification in South America will give you the power to dictate the rest of your life! TEFL certification can act as the catalyst to unlocking a future full of numerous accomplishments, international experiences, and overflowing self worth (how’s that for a souvenir?!). Completing TEFL courses in South America will make you a more attractive applicant for future ESL jobs abroad, as it will show your commitment and dedication to the field of education.
Market Needs. The demand for a TEFL certified English teachers is HUGE! This is caused by a high turnover rate of international English teachers from semester to semester, since many teachers return to their home countries after a year or even less of teaching English abroad.
Potential Barriers. The most difficult cultural barrier you will likely face while earning your TEFL certification in South America is simply the local language. Thankfully, South Americans are extremely patient and willing to help foreigners who make a concerted effort, so go out there and be friendly (even if your Spanish or Portuguese is not up to par)!
Remember that you could easily earn your TEFL certification anywhere in the world, or even from the comfort of your own home. BUT, by choosing to complete a TEFL program in South America, you will be choosing to receive indispensable training and gaining actual international teaching experience. Not to mention, earning a TEFL certificate in a region that has such immense diversity, both geographically and socially, will satisfy any interest or curiosity you could dream of!
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Latest Program Reviews
I thoroughly enjoyed this course!
August 18, 2026by: Rachael Thomas-Jeremiah - Trinidad & TobagoProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
The 120-Hour TEFL Certification was an excellent learning experience. The course was well-structured, informative, and comprehensive, covering important areas of teaching English as a foreign language. I particularly appreciated the practical strategies, clear explanations, and useful resources that can be applied in real classroom settings. The course helped strengthen my understanding of lesson planning, classroom management, teaching methodologies, and effective ways to engage learners with different needs and abilities. I found the flexibility of the course especially helpful, allowing me to work through the material at my own pace while still gaining substantial knowledge and practical skills. Overall, this certification has added value to my professional development and increased my confidence as an educator. I would definitely recommend the 120-Hour TEFL Certification to anyone interested in teaching English or expanding their teaching qualifications.

The TEFL job Coaching is a career booster!
August 12, 2026by: Rita Ibironke - GhanaProgram: Accredited 120 Hour TEFL Course | Teach English Abroad
I experienced an eye-opening job coaching session with Emos. The information that he provided on the job opportunities that are available in various countries, and his personal experiences, were really helpful. I have started my teaching journey already and I look forward to a more rewarding teaching career. Thanks, Emos & Premier TEFL!

In the world of AI The Tefl Institute lends a human touch!
August 03, 2026by: Farah Clague - United KingdomProgram: 180-Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma – Top Rated & 100% Online
As an experienced teacher, I found my TEFL Institute journey both rewarding and enriching. The course was well structured, engaging, and practical, offering fresh ideas and strategies that have enhanced my teaching practice. The webinars and tutorials were a standout feature, providing valuable insights, practical techniques, and excellent support throughout the course. A special thank you to Laura for her encouragement, and unwavering support, which made a real difference to my learning experience. I would also like to thank Olivia for the wonderful opportunity to lend my voice to the course. I highly recommend TEFL Institute to both aspiring and experienced teachers looking to develop their skills through a supportive, professional, and high-quality learning experience.
Informative material and supportive staff
July 28, 2026by: Veronica S. - United StatesProgram: World's Only: 300-Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma Courses
Premier TEFL offers a solid 300-hr course and the lessons are very educational—I went from knowing hardly anything about teaching language to feeling like I could actually organize English lessons someday. And I did indeed land a job while I was still working on my TEFL certificate to teach Spanish, because some of the principles of teaching English generalize to teaching other languages. One thing that really makes this TEFL program stand out is the amount of support you get. Anytime you have questions or doubts, you can e-mail the staff and they are very responsive. The tutors, Anya and Laura, are available once a week for a live Zoom session, but you can e-mail them anytime and they will answer all your questions, and if they don't have an answer, they will direct you to another staff member who does. The support staff, like Olivia and Lisa, are also very helpful for your course needs and even check in to see how you're doing. Overall, I was very pleased with the value of this course and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning how to teach English.
TEFL Course Peru
July 18, 2026by: Russ Sanche - CanadaProgram: TEFL Certification in Peru with Job Placement Guarantee
The instructor, Sean was focused and creative, providing a learning atmosphere for each and every TEFL student. We had a great time and appreciated the training and support. Cusco is a great location.
The Best TEFL Experience!
July 09, 2026by: Thalya Huallpa Garcia - PeruProgram: TEFL Certification in Peru with Job Placement Guarantee
I had been looking for a TEFL academy for a while, and I couldn't have chosen a better place than Maximo Nivel in Cusco. Sean is an amazing trainer. The course was challenging, but he always made it feel manageable with his guidance and support. The school is beautiful, and one of the best parts is that you get to teach real students in an intercultural environment. Everyone on the staff is incredibly kind and always willing to help. They provide all the materials you need for your lessons, from markers to unlimited printing, so you can focus on becoming a better teacher. Cusco is also an amazing place to do your TEFL. The food is great, the people are friendly, and it's easy to get around the city. The Practical Teaching Week was my favorite part of the course. I absolutely loved it! The students are so kind and motivated to learn English, and teaching them was such a rewarding experience. Of course, there were some challenging moments, but Sean was always there to support me and help me improve. I also met wonderful people who share the same passion for teaching, and I made great friends along the way. As a non-native English speaker, I always felt supported and encouraged. Maximo Nivel is an amazing place to earn your TEFL certification, regardless of whether English is your first language. They truly help you build the confidence and skills you need to become a successful English teacher. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I can't recommend Maximo Nivel highly enough to anyone thinking about getting their TEFL certification!
An excellent preparation for an online-teaching career
July 02, 2026by: Rita Ibironke - GhanaProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
The study materials were straight to the point, rich in content and easy to grasp. The support staff member, Laura, responded to messages promptly. My practical course sessions with Michelle Benson gave me the kind of experience and heads up that I needed to improve my one-on-one and whole-class teaching skills. It has been a very rewarding journey for me.

So glad I chose this course
June 26, 2026by: Kailani Holmes - AustraliaProgram: TEFL Certification in Peru with Job Placement Guarantee
My instructor, Karen, was amazing! I have nothing negative to say about her or the course. When I initially signed up, the partner company I booked through didn't provide much information about the institute, however, I have no regrets about coming here and doing my program with Maximo Nivel.
Wonderful course!!
June 17, 2026by: Janina Curtis - United StatesProgram: TEFL Certification in Peru with Job Placement Guarantee
I thoroughly enjoyed this course! The content was relevant and my instructor, Sean, was very knowledgeable and personable. He was encouraging and have honest feedback. While the course seemed intimidating at first (a full semester's worth of work in one month), I was able to make it through and I've never felt more accomplished!
I am so grateful
May 29, 2026by: Lisa Roche - IrelandProgram: Get That Glow-Up: Recognised, Highly-Respected TEFL Diploma!
My experience with the TEFL Institute of Ireland so far has been excellent. From enrollment and access to the course materials, to having a tutor available as well as scheduled check-ins, the support and overall offering have been fantastic and of an exceptionally high quality. I have also had a few queries, and the customer support from Lisa Flynn has been exemplary, helping to resolve my issues quickly so I could continue enjoying the course. If you are considering taking an online TEFL course, I cannot recommend the TEFL Institute of Ireland highly enough.
A Smooth and Informative Experience
May 22, 2026by: Mark KavanaghProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
I have not been there in person, but I did sign up for their online course. Everything about it feels professional, and the sessions come across as really interactive. The language they use is simple and easy to follow. It was honestly the right fit for me. Right after I registered, Annelies emailed to welcome me, and it instantly put me at ease. They also made it clear that they will be guiding me throughout the course and that they will be there whenever I need help.
Highly Recommend for Future Language Teachers
May 21, 2026by: Eoin KeaneProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
I have just finished the 120 hour TEFL course and I really loved it. Everything is explained so clearly in the modules, and the material is packed with useful information while still feeling very manageable, so progressing through it was straightforward. I would definitely recommend it to other people, and I cannot wait to put what I have learned here to use in the future.
Support That Kept Me Going
May 19, 2026by: Molly LynchProgram: Fast-Track Your Future with the 120-Hour Accredited Course
I ordered a Hard Copy certificate and it took longer than expected to get sent out. I could not get through to anyone on the phone or by email, which I am putting down to COVID Lockdown and the office being closed. As soon as I used the Chat, Kate was very helpful and told me the status of my order straight away. I have given 4 stars purely because contacting them by phone and email was so hard, but the chat feature is excellent, so try that first if you need help.
Learned So Much Through This Course
May 17, 2026by: Adam FitzgeraldProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
Taking this course has made me feel confident enough to start applying for TEFL roles overseas. I found the platform really straightforward to navigate and it was packed with useful resources, and the modules were informative, clearly well researched, and backed up with detailed bibliographies so I could keep exploring topics on my own. I would absolutely recommend this company.
Clear Modules and Useful Lessons
May 17, 2026by: Niamh MooreProgram: Fast-Track Your Future with the 120-Hour Accredited Course
I’ve just finished the 10 Hour Advanced Certificate in TEFL Classroom Methodologies Course and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone thinking about signing up. Everything was clearly structured, well planned, and really straightforward to follow. I was a bit anxious at the beginning, but Kate had me, and everyone else on the course, feeling comfortable almost straight away. We started with a few warmers so we could get to know each other, and I honestly think that made it easier for everyone to relax and fully take part in every part of the course. Kate stayed professional throughout, but she also made sure it was enjoyable and never too heavy, so it didn’t feel like being overloaded with information you could not keep up with. I genuinely can’t rate this course highly enough for anyone interested, it is excellent and completely worth doing.
Supportive and Easy to Learn From
May 15, 2026by: Conor MurrayProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
My experience with TELF, the online language school, was fantastic. Everything they shared was really helpful, easy to follow, and explained in a way that made sense right away. Huge thanks to advisor Killian Bukulin for walking me through every program, taking the time to respond to my 1000 questions, and staying so friendly the whole way through. I would absolutely recommend TELF to anyone who wants to learn not only how to teach english, but also the methods behind teaching any new language.
A Course Let Down by Hidden Fees
May 15, 2026by: Eoin ReillyProgram: Fast-Track Your Future with the 120-Hour Accredited Course
I genuinely cannot recommend the Level 5 Advanced Diploma enough. Everything is explained in a clear, bite sized format, so it is easy to take your time and work through it at whatever pace suits you. On top of that, you come away with loads of resources that you can keep for future lessons or use to dig deeper when you are studying and preparing. I would also suggest the 30 Hour Teaching English Online, the 30 Hour Teaching Young Learners, the 30 Hour Teaching Advanced Grammar, and the 10 Hour Advanced Certificate in TEFL Classroom Methodologies courses. In the Classroom Methodologies course, Michelle Benson is so kind and straightforward that you finish it feeling like you are genuinely ready to walk into a real classroom. Altogether, these courses have left me feeling fully prepared to teach English to actual students.
Frustrated by the Extra Certificate Fee
May 15, 2026by: Ava WalshProgram: Fast-Track Your Future with the 120-Hour Accredited Course
Hi everyone! Since July, I have completed my third TELF Institute course, which were the 180 hours, TELF for Teaching Business English and Teaching English for Exams. I honestly cannot recommend these TELF courses enough. I found them demanding, yet still really fun to work through. Everything is presented in a way that makes sense, and the quizzes and assessments help the content actually stick. Even though I already teach foreign languages, I have taken so much from these courses and now I feel properly prepared for what is next, because I am hoping to teach in Spain or South America. The TELF courses have given me a great deal. If you are thinking about doing one, just do it. You will not regret it! Thanks TELF Institute, Richard
Easy to Follow and Enjoyable
May 14, 2026by: Aoife McCarthyProgram: 120-Hour TEFL Certification – Learn Anywhere with our App
Super useful and packed with info. At the start, Leo gave me really solid direction on picking the course that suited me best, and Shauna was great when I needed help arranging an extension. Any time something came up, the customer support team got back to me fast and were genuinely kind about helping. I would definitely recommend.
Easy to Follow from Start to Finish
May 09, 2026by: Conor MccarthyProgram: Fast-Track Your Future with the 120-Hour Accredited Course
I had a great time doing the 120 hour TEFL course. Everything is set up in a clear way, and each module breaks things down so it is easy to understand. I would definitely suggest it to anyone who is just getting started with a career in teaching English.
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