TEFL Certification
What is TEFL certification?
TEFL certification stands as a vital academic credential that is almost universally required by anyone who wishes to teach English worldwide. While exceptions might exist in some less sought-after locations, the vast majority of TEFL job opportunities necessitate certification from a reputable course provider. This credential is typically the key to accessing well-paying positions and favorable working conditions.
In fact, many of the top countries for teaching English abroad now make TEFL certification a prerequisite for gaining work permits and visas. Without it, you may face legal barriers to securing employment in these countries, which often offer some of the most lucrative TEFL positions available.
With an ITTT-accredited TEFL certification, you gain the specialized expertise and knowledge required to establish yourself as a certified teaching professional, not only in your home country but in a wide array of international locations.
What does TEFL certification mean?
The internationally acknowledged gold standard for instructing non-native English speakers is commonly referred to as either a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate or a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they do have technical distinctions: TEFL pertains to teaching English in non-English-speaking countries, whereas TESOL pertains to teaching English in English-speaking nations. Nevertheless, both certifications entail identical training and confer an equally recognized qualification, making them applicable for English language teaching positions across the globe.
Should I get a TEFL or TESOL certification?
Employers worldwide readily accept either a TEFL or TESOL certificate when you apply for teaching positions. Despite their slight technical distinctions, the training and qualifications for both certifications are indistinguishable. With ITTT, you have the flexibility to select which acronym you want to be printed on your certificate. The choice should ideally align with the prevalent terminology in the region where you intend to teach.
To make an informed decision, research whether TEFL or TESOL is more commonly recognized in your desired teaching destination. If your plan is to teach in an English-speaking country, a TESOL certificate might be more fitting, as you will likely be instructing English as a second language to refugees or immigrants. Conversely, if you are heading abroad to teach in a non-English speaking country, a TEFL certificate is often the more suitable choice, as you will be teaching English as a foreign language.
Keep in mind that both TEFL and TESOL certificates hold universal validity and remain in high demand among employers globally. Therefore, even if your career plans shift in the future, you will still possess a valuable qualification.
What are the requirements for TEFL certification?
The most crucial quality for EFL teaching is a willingness to embrace new experiences; beyond that, there are minimal limitations. To enroll in a TEFL certification program with ITTT, you must be at least 18 years old, but there are no upper age restrictions. As long as you have an open mind and a readiness to explore new ideas, you are welcome to join the diverse community of trainees, spanning various ages and backgrounds, who have successfully earned their TEFL certification through us.
Our TEFL certification programs are inclusive, welcoming both native and non-native English speakers. Regardless of your origin, there are abundant employment opportunities available worldwide. Proficiency in languages other than English is not a requirement, as our courses follow the communicative approach to language teaching, ensuring that English is the exclusive language used in the classroom. Furthermore, you do not need to possess a university degree to teach English in many regions of the world, eliminating any specific educational prerequisites for our trainees.
How do I get TEFL certification?
TEFL certification is attainable through various avenues, including online courses, traditional in-class programs, or a hybrid combination of both. Additionally, we offer cost-effective course bundles that provide a comprehensive understanding of the EFL field and additional qualifications to catch the eye of prospective employers in any desired teaching destination. We recommend thoroughly exploring our individual course options and multi-course packages to determine the format that aligns best with your unique circumstances.
Once you have made your decision regarding the most suitable course for your future plans, simply visit our course registration page and follow the provided instructions. It is important to note that your initial course registration is free of charge and carries no obligation. Upon registration, you will receive our complimentary e-guide to TEFL, a valuable resource encompassing a wide range of information about the TEFL field, our training programs, preparing for international teaching experiences, and fundamental job insights for major teaching destinations worldwide.
Which TEFL certification course should I choose?
When selecting a TEFL certification course, the utmost consideration should be ensuring it aligns with your individual needs. Numerous course providers offer shorter-format TEFL certifications that can be completed in as little as 40 study hours. These courses are essentially designed to provide an introductory understanding of EFL teaching, which is perfectly suitable if you intend to teach on a short-term volunteer basis. There are numerous meaningful causes worldwide that require knowledgeable volunteer teachers, offering incredible cultural experiences. However, if your plan involves a longer-term endeavor with a stable income, you should seriously contemplate pursuing a more comprehensive qualification.
The internationally recognized minimum requirement for most English teaching positions is a TEFL certification with a minimum of 120 hours of coursework. These comprehensive courses typically cover a wide array of critical topics, including classroom management, assessment strategies, and English grammar. Opting for an in-class course can provide the significant advantage of real teaching experience in an actual EFL classroom. At ITTT, we also provide the option of including teaching practice with all our online courses, further enhancing your practical teaching skills.
How much does TEFL certification cost?
Online TEFL courses are typically the most budget-friendly option due to their lower overhead costs. However, it is not advisable to choose your TEFL course based solely on price. Ensure that the course you select covers all the essential components to kickstart your teaching journey effectively.
At ITTT, our most popular online TEFL course is the 120-hour TEFL certification, which offers great value and is competitively priced at under $250. Don't forget to explore our value-packed course bundles, which provide multiple qualifications at discounted rates.
Despite the convenience and cost-effectiveness of online learning, many individuals opt to complete their TEFL course at a training center. This approach offers several advantages, including instruction from highly experienced professionals with extensive teaching and training backgrounds. Additionally, there is a valuable social aspect to in-class courses, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals both inside and outside the classroom.
Prices for a 4-week in-class TEFL course typically start at approximately $1,395, offering a more immersive and interactive learning experience.
Can I get free TEFL certification?
While our primary TEFL certification courses maintain a high standard of quality, they are not available free of charge. However, we are committed to minimizing overall costs and provide complimentary additional TEFL courses when you enroll in specific course options.
Our free offerings encompass courses in teaching business English, teaching young learners, and teaching English online. Whether you plan to pursue any of these specialized teaching paths in the future or simply wish to expand your teaching expertise, these free additional courses can really enhance your CV/resume.
Furthermore, if you opt for an in-class or combined TEFL course, we offer the advanced-level Diploma in TESOL course for free, providing you with an even more comprehensive qualification.
Should I get TEFL certification online?
Online training courses have gained widespread popularity across various educational domains, including the realm of English language teaching, thanks to their flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Obtaining a TEFL Certification Online offers numerous advantages:
- Cost-Effective Learning: Online TEFL courses are significantly more budget-friendly compared to in-class courses, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals.
- Flexibility and Convenience: You can complete Online TEFL courses at your own pace and from any location with an internet connection. This flexibility is ideal for those with busy schedules or those looking to study from the comfort of their own home.
- Online Tutor Support: Our Online TEFL courses include online tutor support, ensuring you have guidance and assistance when needed throughout your studies.
- Multimedia Learning: Many of our Online TEFL courses incorporate informative videos to complement the written materials, enhancing your learning experience.
In addition to our primary 120-hour online TEFL course, we offer an advanced online Diploma in TESOL designed to further enhance your teaching knowledge and open doors to higher-level teaching positions. The diploma course is also studied 100% online and can be pursued immediately after completing your initial TEFL certification.
For more detailed information about our various online TEFL course options, please visit our online TEFL course page.
Is there TEFL certification near me?
If you prefer the traditional classroom experience over online learning, our in-class TEFL course could be the ideal choice for you. This intensive course spans four weeks and takes place at one of our international training centers, with the possibility of a center located in your own country or local area. Here are the key advantages of this option:
- Direct Classroom Instruction: You will receive hands-on instruction from experienced, professional teacher trainers in a face-to-face setting.
- Real Classroom Practice: The in-class option offers you the chance to practice your teaching skills with actual language learners in an authentic classroom environment.
- Immediate Feedback: You will receive immediate feedback and constructive criticism on your lessons, helping you refine your teaching techniques.
- Local Job Opportunities: Completing an in-class TEFL course can often open up job opportunities in the local area where you trained.
- Cultural Exploration and Networking: When you are not in the classroom, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and build lasting friendships with your fellow classmates.
ITTT offers in-class TEFL courses in numerous locations around the world, including training centers in some of the most sought-after destinations for teaching EFL, such as:
- France
- Italy
- Japan
- South Korea
- Spain
- Thailand
- Vietnam
For more detailed information, please visit our in-class TEFL course page.
What is the best TEFL certification?
At ITTT, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of TEFL certification options to cater to various situations and preferences. Our courses differ in duration, cost, and study method, but regardless of your choice, you can expect to receive top-tier study materials and exceptional instruction. Our teacher trainers, whether online or onsite, are seasoned educators who have lived and worked in diverse countries. Their profound knowledge and commitment to your learning objectives can transform your training course into a life-changing experience.
In addition to outstanding tutors and study materials, ITTT goes the extra mile by providing extensive post-course job support, ensuring you have access to a wide array of employment opportunities. What's more, our job services continue to be available for as long as you remain active in the TEFL field.
Another assurance of receiving the best TEFL certification with ITTT is our affiliation and accreditation by prominent individuals, institutes, and schools within the language teaching sector. We strive to uphold the highest standards in TEFL education and support for our students.
