Do I Need A Tesol Certification Reddit

Many fully certified teachers decide to head overseas to teach rather than stay in their home country. For some newly qualified teachers it can be hard to find a suitable job so they go abroad to gain valuable classroom experience, while others might simply be looking for a change of direction. Whatever your reasons, teaching is one of the few professions that allow you to develop your skills and knowledge and increase your experience and employability, while travelling the world and exploring new countries and cultures. If you think this is the right path for you, the next step is to think about how your CV/resume will stand out when applying for the best jobs in the most exciting locations. In many cases, qualified teachers do need a TEFL certificate. While searching for jobs online you...  [Read more]

  Many fully qualified teachers decide they want to broaden their horizons and head overseas to teach. However, it is often a surprise to find that some of the best jobs require a TEFL certification. In reality, there are many differences between teaching at home and abroad which is why a TEFL qualification is often expected.  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certifications that qualify individuals to teach English to non-native speakers. While they have similar goals, there are some key differences between the two programs. TEFL certification is a broad term that encompasses a range of training programs that vary in length, content, and quality. TEFL courses can be taken online or in person, and they can range from a few weeks to several months in duration. These courses cover a wide range of topics related to teaching English as a foreign language, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. On the other hand, CELTA is a specific type of TEFL certification that is offered by Cambridge...  [Read more]

Teaching English without a degree is, fortunately, possible. Regardless of your educational history, there are plenty of language schools that will be happy to employ you. True, having a degree opens up more doors and opportunities, but if you don't have one, there is no reason to let that stop you from pursuing your dream of teaching English abroad. The question of whether you need a degree to find a teaching position is arbitrary, as it is with many other occupations. There is no reason why an English teacher with a university degree would be more effective than one without. Certain traits (passion, commitment, and the ability to create rapport with your students, for example) are more important than a college diploma in this career, as they are in many others. It is important to note,...  [Read more]

Vietnam is one of several popular destinations in Southeast Asia for teaching English as a foreign language. Foreign English teachers have been in high demand in Vietnam in recent years and salaries have risen due to increased competition among schools looking to hire the best teachers. Teachers who have spent time in Vietnam unanimously agree that it is a wonderful place to live and work, so how do you go about finding out for yourself? To obtain a work permit to legally teach English in Vietnam you must be a native English speaker with a bachelor's degree. Many employers will also require a TEFL certificate of at least 120 hours. Some jobs at the top of the pay scale will also require classroom experience, though these are few and far between. Even if a job is advertised as requiring...  [Read more]

If you have decided to pursue a career in teaching English abroad, it is now time to figure out what the requirements are to get you started! While there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to teaching abroad, the most commonly required qualifications to become a TEFL teacher are: Although it may seem self-evident, fluency in English is a prerequisite for TEFL instructors. If you don't speak English well, we recommend looking for another job. Non-native English speakers with fluency in the language can find work in many areas, including South and Central America, Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. In some regions of the world, though, being a native English speaker is almost a necessity. If English is not your first language, countries like China, Japan, and Saudi Arabia are probably no...  [Read more]

As a result of government restrictions and official requirements for visa applications, there are a variety of countries where it is hard for teachers to find a job without having a 4-year university degree on their CV/resume. However, if you are able to be flexible and are willing to look for employment in areas where the demand is high and restrictions are less rigorous, TEFL qualified teachers without a degree can still have several great destinations to choose from. To increase your chances of landing a position in the country of your choice, it is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL certification course. Those who are TEFL qualified will find they have a big advantage over non-qualified teachers in most countries worldwide. Cambodia is...  [Read more]

Yes. If you travel outside of your home country to teach English, you will need to possess a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry, so it is vital that you check this in advance. To avoid any hassles while you are away from home, we recommend that you have at least two years validity on your existing passport. Once you know the country or countries where you intend to travel, you can contact the nearest consulate for each country if you have any questions or doubts regarding their entry regulations. From within the U.S. you can apply via the State Department's web page. From outside the country you should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. British citizens should visit the U.K. Government's...  [Read more]

As teaching English abroad involves applying for jobs and traveling overseas, you will require a variety of documentation at different times. Although there maybe some things that you cannot arrange until you have arrived in your country of choice, it is best to organize the required documents as far in advance as possible so they are on hand in case you need them during a job interview or when applying for a visa. Typically, anyone traveling to a foreign country requires a passport that is valid for at least six months. In some situations your passport must be valid for a full year, so the best advice is to ensure your passport has two years or more remaining to allow for an extended teaching contract or further travel once your initial contract is complete. In many cases you will...  [Read more]

The simple answer is no, you do not need to have any knowledge or experience of languages other than English to take a TEFL course or to become an EFL teacher. The ability to speak other languages is not required as the vast majority of TEFL classrooms around the world rely on the communicative approach to English teaching that specifies that English is the only language used in the classroom. In multilingual classrooms where the students could have a dozen or more different first languages, being able to communicate in one or two of them would obviously be of no particular advantage. In monolingual classrooms you may also find that students are more inclined to revert to their mother tongue during the lesson if they are aware that the teacher can understand what is being said....  [Read more]

The majority of people who complete a TEFL certification course will head overseas to live and work in schools and language centers across the world. However, the job hunting process and securing work permits etc can require a range of different documents that varies from one job to the next. To ensure the whole process runs smoothly, you should make sure you have everything you might need as far in advance as possible. Typically, anyone traveling to a foreign country requires a passport that is valid for at least six months. In some situations your passport must be valid for a full year, so the best advice is to ensure your passport has two years or more remaining to allow for an extended teaching contract or further travel once your initial contract is complete. In many cases you...  [Read more]

Many fully certified teachers choose to teach abroad rather than stay in their home country. Some newly qualified teachers may find it difficult to find suitable employment, so they travel abroad to obtain useful classroom experience, while others may simply be looking for something different. Whatever your motivation, teaching is one of the few professions that allows you to develop your skills and knowledge, gain experience, and increase your employability while traveling the world and seeking out new countries and cultures. If you believe this is the right path for you, the next step is to consider how you will differentiate your CV/resume when applying for the best opportunities in the most exciting locations. A TEFL certificate is required in many cases, even for qualified teachers....  [Read more]

Many potential TEFL trainees come to us and ask whether they need to speak another language in order to teach English overseas or online. The good news is the answer is most definitely NO, you do not need to have any language skills other than a thorough understanding of the English language. Obviously, if you do speak the native language of the country you intend to live and work in it can be a real help in many ways, but it is not normally required by the employer. The specific requirements for teaching English abroad or online will vary depending on the country and the individual employer. In all cases a thorough understanding of the mechanics of English will be required. On top of that, a TEFL certificate from a reputable course provider is usually a must, while some jobs will also...  [Read more]

The good news is that you do not need a degree to teach English online in many situations. We will expand on this throughout this article. The general qualification required to teach ESL either in person or online is a 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certification. This is seen as the entry level qualification and is usually required by most employers. Other qualities they will be looking for include, in no particular order: (i) Experience: Any formal teaching experience is highly regarded by employers. This may be just a few hours from your TEFL training with real classes, or volunteering at a summer school for example. The more your experience matches the type of teacher they are looking for (such as children or adult teaching) the better. Make sure your C.V or resume indicates all teaching...  [Read more]

If you plan on heading to Europe to teach English it is important that you are aware of the regulations regarding visas and work permits in your chosen destination. The visa situation varies from one country to the next and may also depend on your own nationality. Because of this, we recommend that you visit the relevant embassy website to get the most up to date information before you make any final travel plans. As Spain is a member of the European Union, teachers from other EU member states do not need a visa to live and work legally in Spain. However, you will still need to apply for a residency permit and a tax number on arrival in the country. The application process should be straightforward and you can usually expect your employer to help you through it. For non-EU citizens,...  [Read more]

People come from all over the world to teach English as a foreign language in Spain, and there are a variety of different visa options depending on your nationality. The following is a brief overview of the current options; however, we recommend that you always conduct your own research to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. As Spain is a member of the European Union, teachers from other EU member states do not need a visa to live and work legally in Spain. However, you will still need to apply for a residency permit and a tax number on arrival in the country. The application process should be straightforward and you can usually expect your employer to help you through it. For non-EU citizens, the most common option is a 90-day tourist visa that is issued on arrival at a...  [Read more]

Yes, most countries require foreign visitors to possess some form of visa in order to enter for tourism, business, education, or employment purposes. The requirements vary greatly from one country to the next, so we recommend that you contact the relevant embassy or visit their website to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. Here we break down the most common forms of visa that you are likely to come across. These are generally issued to short term visitors who do not plan to work or study during their stay. There are several categories of tourist visa depending on the destination and your own country of origin. The most common is the 'upon entry' tourist visa that is issued in the form of a passport stamp on arrival at the immigration desk. For example, US citizens heading...  [Read more]

To teach English abroad, you will typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in any field, although a degree in English, Education, or Linguistics can be advantageous. Many employers also require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, which can be obtained through various online or in-person courses. Additionally, some countries may require a teaching license or previous teaching experience. Having a TEFL certification is highly recommended as it provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. There are different levels of TEFL certifications, including basic, advanced, and specialized courses. The number of hours required for a TEFL certification can vary depending on the program and the country where...  [Read more]

The combination of a tropical climate, stunning beach filled coastline, exotic flora and fauna, and some of the most pristine rain forest in the region, makes Costa Rica one of the most popular destinations in Latin America for teaching English abroad. The majority of foreign English teachers working in Costa Rica have no more than a tourist visa in their passport. Unlike many other countries, it is technically legal for teachers to work without the need for a work visa. For many nationalities, including Americans, Canadians, and most Western Europeans, tourist visas are issued on arrival in the country. Visas are valid for 90 days and can be renewed by crossing a border to a neighboring country and then simply crossing back to receive a new one. When entering Costa Rica it is worth...  [Read more]

This is going to depend on who you choose to work for. Many online teaching platforms now require teachers to be TEFL certified and a significant number of them simply dismiss unqualified teachers as they assume they lack the skills and knowledge required. However, a TEFL certificate is not a requirement to set up your own online teaching business, although it is safe to say that your future students are going to prefer a teacher who is actually certified. In recent years, online education has exploded all across the globe and the demand is through the roof. This has led teaching platforms to tighten the requirements for their teachers in order to set the bar high over their competition. A recognized TEFL certificate is now, more often than not, required in order to secure an online...  [Read more]

TEFL and TESOL courses can be taken online, in-class or as a combined course (mixed online and in-class training). An internationally recognised TEFL qualification should contain at least 120 hours of externally validated study. Depending on the visa rules of the country that you would like to work in, a degree may also be necessary. More information about BA and MA TESOL programs can be seen on our Upgrade your Qualifications page. There are some clear advantages to taking an in-class TEFL course. The main benefit comes from the observed teaching practice sessions and the confidence that is instilled in new teachers. Face-to-face instruction also gives the TEFL trainer more opportunity to impart their knowledge and guide the trainee on areas that they feel are particularly important. The...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TESL (Teach English as a Second Language) certification programs are both designed to prepare individuals to teach English to non-native speakers, but there are key differences between the two. One of the main distinctions between TEFL and TESL certification programs is the target audience. TEFL programs are typically geared towards individuals who plan to teach English in countries where English is not the primary language, such as in South Korea or Brazil. On the other hand, TESL programs are designed for those who intend to teach English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries, like the United States or Canada. In terms of curriculum, TEFL programs often focus on teaching English language skills in a context where English is...  [Read more]

If you do a quick Google search for ‘TEFL certification’ you are sure to find a wide range of course options. From short-format introductory courses, right the way through to high-end qualifications such as diplomas and degrees. When faced with this dazzling array of potential qualifications, how do you decide which is the right choice for you? Before you make a decision it is a good idea to do a little bit of research into the destination where you plan to work, as some countries have certain requirements when applying for work permits or visas. In other areas where there are a lot of teachers in contention for each vacant position, a high-end qualification or extra specialist teaching certificate could make all the difference. Below we take a look at some of the most common types of...  [Read more]

To make TEFL lessons more engaging for special needs students, it is essential to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that caters to their unique needs and abilities. Here are some strategies to consider: 1. **Differentiated Instruction**: Tailor your lessons to accommodate various learning styles and abilities. Provide multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement to cater to diverse needs in the classroom. 2. **Visual Aids and Manipulatives**: Use visual aids, such as flashcards, charts, and pictures, to support understanding and retention of new vocabulary and concepts. Incorporating hands-on activities and manipulatives can also enhance learning for students with special needs. 3. **Sensory Activities**: Engage students through sensory activities that...  [Read more]

A TEFL certificate can be a valuable asset when teaching English to special needs students. Special needs students may require different teaching techniques and strategies to effectively learn English, and a TEFL certificate can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to adapt your teaching methods to meet their needs. One of the key benefits of a TEFL certificate is that it equips you with a solid foundation in teaching English as a foreign language. This includes understanding language acquisition theories, classroom management techniques, lesson planning strategies, and effective communication skills. All of these are essential for teaching any group of students, including those with special needs. Additionally, many TEFL programs offer specialized training in teaching...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certifications that qualify individuals to teach English language learners. While the two programs share similarities, there are some key differences between them. TEFL certification typically refers to teaching English in countries where English is not the primary language. This includes countries where English is learned as a foreign language, such as in many European and Asian countries. TEFL programs often focus on practical classroom skills and methodologies that are specific to teaching English in a foreign language context. The emphasis is on teaching English to students who may have limited exposure to the language outside of the classroom. On the other hand, TESOL...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification is essential for individuals looking to teach English to non-native speakers. The certification process typically involves a combination of coursework, practical teaching experience, and assessments. Here is a detailed breakdown of the TEFL certification process: 1. **Research and Choose a TEFL Program**: The first step in obtaining a TEFL certification is to research and select a reputable TEFL program. There are various options available, including online courses, in-person courses, and hybrid programs. It is essential to choose a program that meets your needs in terms of schedule, budget, and accreditation. 2. **Enroll in a TEFL Course**: Once you have selected a TEFL program, you will need to enroll in the course. Most programs...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certifications are both valuable credentials for those looking to teach English to non-native speakers. While they share similarities, they also have distinct differences that cater to different teaching contexts. TEFL certification is geared towards individuals who aim to teach English to students in countries where English is not the primary language. This means that TEFL instructors typically work with students who are learning English for purposes such as travel, business, or academic studies in non-English-speaking countries. TEFL certification programs often focus on teaching English language skills in immersive environments where English is not commonly spoken outside the classroom. On the...  [Read more]

  To be successful teaching English overseas you will need to come up with interesting teaching ideas for your students. This video from one of ITTT's online TESOL certification courses outlines a teaching idea for the present continuous when it is used to talk about future plans. In this activity students are given a diary and have to interview each other about their future plans. For example: Student A: "What are you doing on the 6th?" Student B: "I'm having my hair done." Students keep asking and answering questions until they find a date when they are free to meet. This idea can also be adapted to use with past tenses. On ITTT's TESOL certification courses not only will you learn how the different tenses in English are formed and used but you will also learn interesting...  [Read more]

When it comes to choosing the best TEFL certification for beginners, there are several factors to consider in order to make an informed decision. The most important aspect to look for in a TEFL certification program is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards and is recognized internationally. The two most widely recognized accrediting bodies in the TEFL industry are the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) and the British Council. Another important consideration when choosing a TEFL certification program is the number of hours of instruction it offers. Most employers prefer candidates who have completed at least a 120-hour TEFL certification program. However, some programs offer shorter courses that may be suitable...  [Read more]