How To Become A Foreign Language Teacher

For some teachers, the main reason for becoming TEFL qualified is to open the door to adventures living and working overseas. However, there are many circumstances where teaching over the internet could also be a great option. For recently qualified teachers it can be a convenient way to gain experience while earning money to fund a trip abroad. It can also be a good way to supplement your income from another job. Whether you are in your home country or already living and working abroad, teaching English as a foreign language online might be worth considering. Setting yourself up as an online language teacher can be surprisingly straightforward and inexpensive. Your biggest expense is likely to be completing a TEFL/TESOL qualification. While completing an internationally recognized...  [Read more]

Becoming a certified TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teacher typically requires completing a TEFL certification course. The length of time it takes to become a certified TEFL teacher can vary depending on the type of course you choose. Most standard TEFL courses are around 120 hours in length and can be completed in 4-6 weeks if taken full-time. However, there are also intensive courses that can be completed in 2-4 weeks, as well as part-time courses that may take 10-12 weeks to finish. The duration of the course is just one aspect to consider when becoming a certified TEFL teacher. It's important to note that some courses may have additional requirements, such as observed teaching practice hours or assignments, which can also impact the overall time it takes to become...  [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]

Globalization and the increasing demand for English speaking professionals all over the world, especially in emerging regions, has brought about a new, steadily growing sector: English as a Second Language (ESL). An ESL teacher is, therefore, an educator who works with English Language Learners (ELLs) whose native language is not English. The goal of the ESL teacher is to help the students reach a certain level of fluency in English, on both a spoken and written level. ESL educators are not to be confused with foreign language teachers. ESL teachers do not share the same native language and are specifically trained to offer explanations and directed teaching methods to non-English speakers. This teaching style is mainly focused on repetition, drills, demonstrations, and visuals. ...  [Read more]

  Amanda from Brazil is currently living in Ankara, Turkey. Amanda completed her TEFL course with ITTT and found a job just two weeks after graduating. In this TEFL review video Amanda recommends ITTT?s TEFL course for those wanting to teach English abroad. Amanda liked how the course not only covered grammar but also taught methods and techniques that can help you become a great teacher. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. This unit shows the...  [Read more]

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate is a valuable asset if you are considering teaching English online. Online teaching has become increasingly popular, and many platforms and employers require or prefer their teachers to have a TEFL certification. Here are some reasons why a TEFL certificate can help you in teaching English online: 1. **Enhanced Job Opportunities**: Having a TEFL certificate can open up more job opportunities for you as an online English teacher. Many online teaching platforms specifically look for candidates with TEFL certifications as it demonstrates that you have received proper training in teaching English to non-native speakers. 2. **Increased Credibility**: A TEFL certificate enhances your credibility as a teacher. It shows potential employers...  [Read more]

A TEFL certificate can be a valuable asset for those looking to teach English in international schools. Many international schools require their English teachers to have a TEFL certification as it demonstrates that the teacher has received training in teaching English as a foreign language. Having a TEFL certificate can also help you stand out from other candidates during the hiring process. It shows potential employers that you are committed to your professional development and have the necessary skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Additionally, some countries may require English teachers to have a TEFL certificate in order to obtain a work visa. In terms of teaching opportunities, having a TEFL certificate can open doors to teaching positions in a variety of...  [Read more]

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) course is designed to provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to non-native speakers. Here's what you can expect from a typical TEFL course: 1. **Curriculum**: A comprehensive TEFL course will cover essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening), and teaching methodologies. You will also learn about cultural awareness, teaching techniques for different age groups, and how to adapt your teaching to diverse learners. 2. **Practical Teaching Experience**: Many TEFL courses include a practicum component where you will have the opportunity to observe experienced teachers in action and practice your teaching skills in a real classroom setting. This...  [Read more]

When we look back on our own learning experiences, most of us will have strong memories of certain teachers, and in some cases this can be for all the wrong reasons. Some teachers might be remembered for being harsh disciplinarians, having a boring monotone delivery, failing to listen to the class, or any number of other negative traits. Thankfully, many of us will also have memories of the teachers who had a positive impact on our education, and this could be for a variety of reasons. If you are planning to teach English online or in a traditional classroom, there are several qualities that we think combine to make a great teacher. If you can develop your teaching strategy to include all these traits you are sure to be remembered by many of your students as a great EFL teacher. Although...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can definitely help you teach English in your home country. While TEFL certification is often associated with teaching English abroad, it is also valuable for teaching English to non-native speakers in your home country. Here are some ways in which TEFL certification can benefit you as an English teacher in your home country: 1. **Enhanced Skills and Knowledge**: TEFL certification provides you with essential skills and knowledge needed to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. You will learn about language teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and more. This knowledge will make you a more competent and confident English teacher. 2. **Credibility**: Having a TEFL certification adds credibility to your teaching credentials. It shows...  [Read more]

  Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually...  [Read more]

Before starting a TEFL course, there are several key factors to consider in order to ensure a successful and fulfilling experience. Firstly, it is important to research and choose a reputable TEFL course provider. Look for programs that are accredited by recognized bodies such as TESL Canada or the British Council, as this ensures that the course meets certain quality standards and will be recognized by employers around the world. Additionally, consider the format of the course - whether it is online, in-person, or a combination of both - and choose the one that best fits your learning style and schedule. Next, it is essential to have a strong command of the English language. While you don't need to be a native speaker, you should have a high level of proficiency in English in order to...  [Read more]

  The acronym TEFL stands for teaching English as a foreign language. TESOL is teaching English to speakers of other languages. Today, both terms have much the same meaning are generally used interchangeably in the EFL field. In the early days, TEFL was more of a UK-based qualification and TESOL was more of a North American-based qualification. ESL is English as a Second Language, and is usually used when teaching English in an English-speaking environment. Some people argue that TESOL encompasses both EFL and ESL. In reality there is very little difference, if any. As the need for English language training has developed worldwide, the two terms have almost become synonymous. They are both used to describe the field of English language teaching and one of them is stated on...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is not always required for teaching English in private schools, but it can greatly enhance your job prospects and teaching skills. Many private schools prefer or even require teachers to have a TEFL certification to ensure they have the necessary training and expertise to effectively teach English as a foreign language. Having a TEFL certification demonstrates to employers that you have received training in teaching English to non-native speakers, which can give you a competitive edge in the job market. It also shows that you are committed to your professional development and have the skills needed to create engaging and effective lesson plans. While some private schools may hire teachers without a TEFL certification, having one can open up more opportunities for you,...  [Read more]

  Globalization and the increasing demand for English speaking professionals all over the world, especially in emerging regions, has brought about a new, steadily growing sector: English as a Second Language (ESL). An ESL teacher is, therefore, an educator who works with English Language Learners (ELLs) whose native language is not English. The goal of the ESL teacher is to help the students reach a certain level of fluency in English, on both a spoken and written level. ESL educators are not to be confused with foreign language teachers. ESL teachers do not share the same native language and are specifically trained to offer explanations and directed teaching methods to non-English speakers. This teaching style is mainly focused on repetition, drills, demonstrations, and...  [Read more]

YES. Teaching English to private students is a very common practice for thousands of teachers who live and work abroad. For many it offers a great way to earn extra income on top of a salary earned from working in a language school, while for others it becomes a full-time job once they have found enough clients. In certain situations, working as a private tutor is the most common form of income for foreign teachers. In some large European cities where language schools tend to only hire teachers from within the European Union, you will find large numbers of American teachers working as private tutors due to the high demand for English language instruction. Whether it is your main income or just to top up your salary, working as a private English language tutor can be a perfect option for...  [Read more]

Feel free to click on the links below for information regarding TEFL jobs in specific countries and regions. Many of the most popular teaching destinations are listed and we literally have thousands of employers on file from countries all over the world. Once you have earned your TEFL certificate, you will be qualified for a huge range of TEFL related jobs. There are many online resources with hundreds of vacancies listed and you will be provided with a comprehensive list of these resources after you have enrolled in the course. Throughout your teaching career, we will help guide you into the right job that meets your needs. With our well established reputation around the world, you might even be hired before you finish the course. With our assistance, our graduates have a head start on...  [Read more]

  There is often much confusion surrounding these acronyms but essentially they mean the same thing. TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language TESOL = Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages The above are generally used interchangeably, however, TEFL is most commonly used within the UK and TESOL is usually preferred in Australia and the USA. Although some countries may favor one acronym over the other, it is important to remember that a TEFL certification and a TESOL certification are exactly the same thing as the training involved is identical. Although TEFL and TESOL training courses are identical and the acronyms are generally used interchangeably, there is a technical difference between the two. The general perception is that speakers of English as a foreign...  [Read more]

Yes, you can definitely obtain a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate from an online course. In fact, online TEFL courses have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and flexibility. These courses typically cover essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, grammar instruction, and teaching methodologies. One benefit of online TEFL courses is that they allow you to study at your own pace from anywhere in the world. This is particularly advantageous for those who may not have access to in-person TEFL training options in their local area. Additionally, online TEFL courses often offer interactive components such as video lectures, discussion forums, and virtual teaching practice sessions, which can provide valuable hands-on experience. When...  [Read more]

  Across all forms of education, online learning has become a huge business in recent years. Teaching English as a foreign language is no exception, with opportunities for TEFL qualified teachers continuing to rise year-on-year. For many people it can be a great way to earn money without heading overseas.  [Read more]

  The mixed conditional deals with the present results of imaginary situations in the past. This video is specifically aimed at teaching the mixed conditional in an ESL setting. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I think that the most important thing about the unit, and the most useful one, is the library of websites and resources it gives us. As language teacher sometimes is not so easy to find material that is accurate and adequate. Although im...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can be a valuable asset for professional development in the field of teaching English as a foreign language. There are several key benefits to obtaining a TEFL certification that can enhance your career prospects and opportunities for growth. One of the primary benefits of getting TEFL certification is the acquisition of essential teaching skills and knowledge. Through a TEFL course, you will learn about language teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques, lesson planning strategies, and assessment practices. This foundation of pedagogical knowledge will not only help you become a more effective English language teacher but also increase your confidence in the classroom. Additionally, holding a TEFL certification can make you a more competitive candidate in...  [Read more]

When considering teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in urban areas, obtaining a TEFL certification can provide numerous benefits. These certifications are designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. In urban environments, where students may come from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, having a TEFL certification can be particularly advantageous. One of the key benefits of getting a TEFL certification for teaching in urban areas is the opportunity to enhance your teaching skills. TEFL courses cover a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. By completing a TEFL certification program, you can learn effective teaching techniques that are...  [Read more]

As a teaching professional, obtaining a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification can offer a wide range of benefits that can enhance your career and personal development. Whether you are a seasoned educator or new to the field of teaching English as a foreign language, investing in a TEFL certification can be a valuable asset. Let's explore the advantages of getting TEFL certified in more detail. One of the primary benefits of obtaining a TEFL certification is the opportunity to enhance your teaching skills. The comprehensive training provided in a TEFL course covers essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. By acquiring these skills, you can become a more effective and confident teacher, capable of delivering engaging and...  [Read more]

The demand for TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teachers in Africa is significant and continues to grow rapidly. As English becomes increasingly important for international communication, many African countries are prioritizing English language education in their schools and universities. This has created a strong demand for qualified TEFL teachers across the continent. In countries where English is not the primary language, such as many African nations, there is a particular need for skilled English teachers to help students develop proficiency in the language. This demand is driven by a variety of factors, including the desire to improve economic opportunities, access to higher education, and participation in the global economy. In addition to formal education settings, there...  [Read more]

Almost anyone who has the desire to teach English abroad can make their dream come true. Although you will find some restrictions regarding teaching experience and academic qualifications in some countries, there are plenty of great destinations around the world where a TEFL certificate is all that is required. Whatever your background, work history, or age, there is the perfect teaching job waiting for you somewhere in the world. Yes, you can start a new career teaching English abroad without any form of teaching experience. Due to a huge demand for English language teachers in countries all over the world, tens of thousands of English speakers head overseas every year to work in a variety of different classrooms. Of this number, approximately 90% will have never worked in any kind of...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is not always required for teaching English in international organizations, but it can greatly enhance your job prospects and credibility as an English teacher. Many international organizations prefer or even demand that their English teachers hold a TEFL certification as it demonstrates a certain level of competence and dedication to the field of English language teaching. Having a TEFL certification can also provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. It covers various aspects of language teaching such as lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies. This training can be particularly valuable when working with diverse groups of students from different linguistic and...  [Read more]

Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually high...  [Read more]

TEFL certification offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to teach in private schools. The first advantage is that it provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. TEFL courses cover a wide range of topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment, which are essential for teaching in a private school setting. Another benefit of obtaining TEFL certification is that it can increase your employment opportunities. Many private schools require their teachers to have a TEFL certification, as it demonstrates that you have received proper training in teaching English to non-native speakers. With a TEFL certification, you may find it easier to secure a job at a reputable private school and stand out...  [Read more]

When it comes to career progression in the field of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), obtaining a TEFL certification can open up a world of opportunities and benefits. Whether you are a seasoned educator looking to enhance your skills or a newcomer seeking to break into the field, investing in a TEFL certification can significantly boost your career prospects. One of the primary benefits of getting a TEFL certification is the increased job opportunities it provides. Many schools and language institutes around the world require teachers to have a TEFL certification, as it demonstrates that you have received proper training in teaching English to non-native speakers. With a TEFL certification, you can access a wider range of job openings both domestically and internationally,...  [Read more]