TEFL Courses & Certification
Get yourself prepared for teaching English abroad! TEFL certification is your first step to a career of traveling the world.
Top TEFL Providers
Featured TEFL Courses
This Month’s Recommended TEFL Courses
International TEFL Academy
Are you looking for an accredited TEFL certification class that will qualify you to get paid to teach English online or overseas in 80 countries worldwide?Armed with your International TEFL Academy (ITA) TEFL certification, you’ll be qualified to quick...
MAXIMO NIVEL
Get TEFL certified and start your career as a professional English teacher, a role that is in high demand all over Latin America and the rest of the world! Maximo Nivel offers a 4-week internationally recognized TEFL/TESOL course every month at our ins...
myTEFL
Want to be a superstar teacher? Want to maintain Zen in an avalanche of convoluted grammar queries, wall-to-wall electronic whiteboards, excited teens, and that one student who will never open his or her mouth?Look no further! myTEFL's 120-hour course ...
OnTESOL
There’s no better way to earn income, make an impact on others, and discover the world than by teaching English abroad! This is exactly what we offer at OnTESOL—the opportunity to take on a teaching job at your desired location in Asia, Europe, Central...
The TEFL Academy
Our Online Level 5 TEFL Certificate (168 hours) is regulated by Ofqual (UK) and approved by the DEAC (US), so has official recognition from 2 government-recognized bodies! This makes all the difference when applying for jobs.The online-only version of ...
The TEFL Org
Take your teaching further with a recognized Level 5 qualification.The 250-hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma is an advanced TEFL qualification designed for aspiring and experienced English teachers who want to build their skills and improve their career prospe...
Premier TEFL
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-pac...
The TEFL Institute
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 ...
How to Earn TEFL Certification Abroad
Types
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.
Getting Started
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Locations
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.
Benefits
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.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad?
If you have a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Education, then you may not need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad. For the rest of us, though, TEFL is generally step one to beginning a career teaching English abroad. It will provide you with everything you need to teach English to students whose native language is not your own.
Can I get TEFL certified online?
Yes, you can definitely get TEFL certified online! Whether you choose to get TEFL certified online or in person comes down to your goals.
Is it better to do TEFL online or in person?
There are benefits to both getting TEFL certified online and in person. However, if you have no experience working with children or in a classroom, and really want an excuse to travel (honestly, same), then you should opt for in-person certification. This is because the practical experience offered during an on-site TEFL program is crucial for teachers without classroom experience. If you already feel confident in your ability to run lessons and command a classroom, though, then you should be perfectly fine getting your certification online.
Is there a TEFL exam?
Of course, there’s a TEFL exam! If you want your shiny new certificate, you’ll need to pass the TEFL exam provided through your program. Before signing up, make sure your program is internationally accredited! Accreditation is what qualifies you to teach around the world, and without it, your certificate will be totally useless, and you’ll have taken the exam for nothing.
How long does it take to get TEFL certified?
TEFL certification shouldn’t take less than 120 hours. If you’re getting certified abroad, this will probably be stretched over a month or two (or less if you choose an intensive program). If you’re getting your certification online, you should be able to set your own pace.
Keep in mind that anything advertised under 120 hours is most likely a booster or refresher course, and not meant for teachers who have no classroom or teaching experience. You’ll also find options that go way above 120 hours, which are great for people who intend to make teaching abroad their long-term career.
How long does TEFL certification last?
Forever! Yep, you read that right. If you get TEFL certified through an accredited program, your certificate should be valid for life. Sounds like a great investment to us!
What will I learn when getting a TEFL?
Your TEFL certificate is designed to provide you with everything you need to teach English abroad, even without teaching experience. That includes learning things like classroom management, building lesson plans, and how to teach grammar and other language skills, like reading and writing.
Can I get TEFL certification without a college degree?
Yes, there are programs that allow you to get TEFL certified even without a degree. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many countries around the world won’t allow you to teach English without a college degree (any degree).
What are the best TEFL courses like?
With so many TEFL courses available around the world, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best of the best. To find the best TEFL course for you, think about where you want to go and what your career goals are.
If you want to teach abroad long-term, then why not consider a 500-hour TEFL diploma or CELTA certification? If you want to teach abroad for a year, consider taking a TEFL course in your ideal destination. That way, once you have your certificate, you can jump right into the job hunt.
It’s also a good idea to take a look at alumni reviews! As long as your program is accredited, you’re already on the right track.
Latest Program Reviews
The 120hr is the perfect start!
August 18, 2026by: Adam Gelfand - United StatesProgram: 120-hour Premier Online TEFL Course with The TEFL Org
This was a great course to take and recommend it to all looking to get into teaching English as a second language. The course was very easy to follow along and keep your attention and loved the format of the lectures.
This was a very well-constructed on-line course
August 18, 2026by: Lance Porter - United StatesProgram: 120-hour Premier Online TEFL Course with The TEFL Org
I give this course very high marks. All the course materials were very professional. They promise to grade your written assignments in 48 hours, and they always did. The course worked perfectly - no bugs, no glitches, no typos, no problems. I would happily recommend the course to anyone who wants to teach English as a foreign language.
I made it to TEFL 168 hours !
August 17, 2026by: Pimnara Pakati - ThailandProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
Completing this TEFL course has been one of the most rewarding educational experiences I have ever had.I learned practical classroom management techniques to keep students engaged, confident, and motivated.
TEFLmasters 120 Hour TEFL
August 14, 2026by: Aaron Davies - United StatesProgram: Accredited 120-hour TEFL certification online course $49
I finished the 120 Hour TEFL and had my certs apostilled after I found a job using one of their China job recruiter links. I don’t think they get any commissions for these as I dealt with a recruiter. The course, I thought it was great because they cover so many topics; the feedback is good especially on practice tasks; and staff responded to my email. Everything was very especially because I passed and squeezed everything from it like a job application and paperwork.
Fast system with decent resources
August 13, 2026by: Rob Bryant - CanadaYou won't hear a bad word from me about this course as I paid under 30 bucks and found myself actually learning something when I figured it'd mainly be a waste of time until downloading my TEFL cert of course! It actually legit tries to take you through the motions of teaching EFL. Everything works and you get a digital cert. Champion!
I completed the Online TEFL program
August 13, 2026by: Siana Smith - United StatesProgram: Online TEFL Certification with Job Placement Guarantee
The TEFL program had a lot of information. There was so much to consume. I appreciated the live recordings of the classrooms and critique assignments that were a part of the modules. My instructor was consistent with their feedback and was always available when I needed them. I appreciate that they were accessible and responded quickly whenever I needed some assistance or extra feedback.
Was an experience I'll never forget!
August 12, 2026by: Luca Kaszechki - South AfricaProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
This course was challenging and very detailed, it was easy to navigate and every module was taught and easy to understand. I really enjoyed the interactive activities as well. Worth every bit of time.
Thank you, Luca.
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!
Response to the Free TEFL Job Coaching Seminar
August 12, 2026by: Edith Machowski - AustriaProgram: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
I got a morale boost. It was very heartening to hear other people in the same boat as me. And questions were asked that I hadn't thought of. I was surprised there were so few attendees. The presenter (Emos) answered questions ably.
Response to the Free TEFL Job Coaching Seminar
August 12, 2026by: Edith Machowski - AustriaProgram: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
I got a morale boost. It was very heartening to hear other people in the same boat as me. And questions were asked that I hadn't thought of. I was surprised there were so few attendees. The presenter (Emos) answered questions ably.
I am a noun
August 11, 2026by: Mikayla Lauralie Evans - ZimbabweProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
I honestly didn't think I would be here only 4 months into the course telling people that I am a teacher. I already was a noun a given noun by my space ship onto this earth , but now I have been given one from my hardwork and TEFL Academy. I am a teacher ,and it is time to leave my footprint.
Thank you for your review, Mikayla.
Online Lecture - Great lecturer, great content, just lacking slightly in job finding information.
August 11, 2026by: Michael Hamer-Hodges - United KingdomProgram: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
Regarding the online call about finding employment in TEFL, Pretty much perfect, answers were answered to all questions and in detail going above and beyond. if I had to critique, I'd argue the section on how to find the job (e.g. linkedin) was a tad rushed, but still provided highly useful information (Only commented because it's useless if I only say it was good!). Emos was very professional with his explanations and with guidance for how to navigate the online and physical market.
A great experience!
August 11, 2026by: Daiana Durand - ArgentinaProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
I am extremely grateful to The TEFL Academy for the opportunity to complete my TEFL course. The whole experience was very positive and rewarding, and I learned so much throughout the course. The materials were clear and useful, and the course helped me develop my teaching knowledge and gain more confidence as an English teacher. I really appreciate the support and guidance provided throughout the process. Thank you to The TEFL Academy for being part of my professional journey. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who wants to develop their teaching skills and pursue a career in English language teaching.
Thank you for the great review, Daiana! We are delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience, and thank you for choosing TTA.
It was an amaizing experience
August 10, 2026by: Lorensha Weavers - South AfricaProgram: Online Level 3 TEFL Course
Absolutely worth it. I learned alot. I applied for a job and got an interview the next day. Definitely an investment 👌 I think that the course work was very simple.The platform was easy to navigate.
Congratulations on completing the course and getting a job interview so quickly, Lorensha.
A great step towards my teaching career
August 10, 2026by: Shavaria Rajkumar - South AfricaProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
I had a really positive experience completing my TEFL course. The course content was informative, well-structured, and covered a wide range of topics that are important for teaching English effectively. I especially appreciated how practical the lessons were and how they helped me understand different teaching methods and classroom situations. The course was flexible and allowed me to work at my own pace, which made it easy to balance with my other commitments. I feel much more confident about starting my journey as an English teacher, and I would definitely recommend this course to anyone interested in teaching English online or abroad.
Thank you for the recommendation, Shavaria. We are pleased to hear you had a positive experience and are feeling confident after completing a course with TTA.
A great step towards becoming a better teacher
August 09, 2026by: Marcelo Antonio Da Silva Junior - BrazilProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
I recently completed my TEFL course with The TEFL Academy and had a really positive experience. The course was well organised, easy to follow, and covered lots of useful topics, especially lesson planning, teaching grammar and vocabulary, and creating engaging activities. I really liked that the assignments were practical and made me think about how I would actually use what I learned in the classroom. The online format was also convenient because I could study at my own pace. I would have liked to see a few more examples of completed assignments, but overall I’m very happy with the course. I feel much more confident as a teacher now and would definitely recommend The TEFL Academy to anyone considering a TEFL qualification.
Thank you for the wonderful review, Marcelo.
Good professional development as an English teacher
August 08, 2026by: Tendayi Mhlanga - ZimbabweProgram: Online Level 3 TEFL Course
Completing the Level 3 Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language has been a valuable and rewarding learning experience for me. The programme provided me with a good foundation in teaching English to learners whose first language is not English. I particularly appreciated the sections on lesson planning, teaching grammar, pronunciation, classroom management and different teaching approaches. The programme helped me understand how to make lessons more learner-centred, engaging and suitable for different levels of English proficiency. The course also increased my confidence as an English teacher and gave me practical ideas that I can apply in both online and face-to-face teaching. The assessments encouraged me to reflect on my understanding and apply what I had learned. Overall, I found the Level 3 TEFL programme informative, practical and relevant. It has added to my teaching skills and has motivated me to continue developing professionally in the field of English language teaching. I would recommend this programme to anyone who already has an interest in teaching and would like to develop a foundation in Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
Thank you for the wonderful review, Tendayi. We are pleased to hear that you have finished the course feeling more confident about your career in teaching.
I loved this course!
August 08, 2026by: Suzette Lombard - South AfricaProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
Doing this TEFL course was just what I needed to send my life in a completely new direction. I appreciated the great course material, the subjects, how everything was laid out and the support that was available 24/7. At times it was hard work, but I persevered and am very proud of my qualification! Onwards! 🧡
Thank you for choosing to learn with TTA, Suzette. We wish you the best of luck in your future career.
I Enjoyed the Journey
August 06, 2026by: Shivedh Behari - South AfricaProgram: 120-hour Premier Online TEFL Course with The TEFL Org
It was very interesting. The content was very informative and the live demonstrations tied in with the lessons being taught. The Unit quizzes where good and helped reinforce understanding. TEFL really did use its own Methodology to teach you how to teach English online or in person. Looking forward to the next step.
Mind blowing experience
August 06, 2026by: Vashni Singh - South AfricaProgram: Online Level 5 TEFL Course
Flexible Learning: The asynchronous online platform allows professionals to easily balance coursework with a full-time job.Practical Assets: Downloadable lesson plans and teaching templates offer immediate, real-world utility for the classroom.Engaging Content: High-quality video demonstrations effectively bridge the gap between educational theory and live teaching practice.
Thank you for the review, Vashni.
Latest Interviews
Travis Lopez
TEFL Hero
An old colleague of mine moved to Bangkok to teach English and recommended it. He was having a great time, the job was much less stressful than what w...
Joyce Lee Taylor
TEFL Hero
I’ve always dreamed of seeing more of the world, but life just kept me busy with work and raising kids.
Joseph Stonier
TEFL Madrid Academy
I’ve always had a passion for travel and experiencing new cultures, but what truly inspired me to go abroad was the opportunity to combine my love for...
Matthew Joseph Reynolds
TEFL Madrid Academy
What inspired me to go abroad was the desire to step out of my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to immerse myse...
Jennifer & Tim Borders
TEFL Madrid Academy
We’ve always had a passion for travel and experiencing new cultures, but we wanted to do something more meaningful than just being tourists.
Nailia Zagidulina
TEFL Madrid Academy
From a young age, I dreamed of traveling and discovering new cultures. Growing up in Kazakhstan, I loved my country, but I always felt the urge to exp...
Carolina Emily Cody
TEFL Madrid Academy
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of exploring new cultures and expanding my horizons. The thought of living in a different country, fully immersing ...
Christine Cherise
TeachTEFL
I studied law and always dreamt of having my own law firm. I am an admitted Attorney and after I finished what I had to, I left the industry and went ...
Yvonne Van Wyk
TeachTEFL
When my children were younger I had to be at home to look after them. Now they are both grown up and independent. For the first time I had the opportu...
Rory Downey
International TEFL and TESOL
I was specifically seeking the opportunity to flex my past teaching experiences in a fun, out-of-the-box way. I had lived and worked abroad in the fie...
Ella Durrigan
The TEFL Institute
I decided to pursue an online program because I wanted to get qualified as a TEFL teacher while also doing my degree program. I needed the flexibility...
Alison Aparo
TEFL Madrid Academy
I applied to about 10 schools in Massachusetts as a Spanish major. The schools which had abroad programs reached out to me. I received an email regard...
Ryan Collins
TEFL Madrid Academy
I think there was always something that drove me to travel. My favorite subject in school was Geography, and I absolutely love looking up new and inte...
Ethan McMillen
TEFL Madrid Academy
I started studying Spanish in Elementary school and always learned about Spain and other Latin American countries. For me, they always seemed so inter...
Georgia Knapp
TEFLPros
I spent part of my childhood abroad thanks to my parents' jobs. I always knew that one day I would want to live outside the US again and make my own w...
Emily Warren
TEFLPros
I was working a 9-5 corporate job and just not feeling totally fulfilled in my life. I was making great money, had all the nice things I wanted, but f...
Jessica Murray
The TEFL Academy
It snowed in Ireland at the beginning of March, so bad that we were snowed in and were off our usual 9-5 jobs. I've always wanted to teach and my boyf...
Dino M
Vantage TEFL Certification
I've always wanted to travel abroad to learn about different cultures and people. Some of the things that inspired me were events that I learned about...
Rica Lorraine Dalusong
International TEFL Training Institute Philippines
When I became an ESL teacher in the Philippines, this opened my mind to exploring other places. While teaching my students, I was inspired after I lis...
Brett Horting
(DEAD URL) Tefl Pro Prague
I've always wanted to live abroad, and after traveling so much, I realized that becoming a certified English teacher can help me live abroad. I did my...
Popular Searches
Recent TEFL Courses Articles
