Is A Tesol Certification Right For You

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificates are both valuable qualifications for those looking to teach English to non-native speakers. While they share similarities, there are key differences between the two. One major difference lies in the target audience. TEFL is typically geared towards teaching English to non-English speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. On the other hand, TESOL covers a broader spectrum and includes teaching English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries as well. In terms of curriculum, TEFL courses often focus on practical classroom skills and teaching English in a foreign language context. TESOL programs, on the other hand, may delve deeper into...  [Read more]

The world of English language teaching is well known for its love of acronyms and unfortunately this can lead to a large amount of confusion amongst potential teachers, as well as those with plenty of experience in the field. Websites for course providers, job boards, recruitment programs, and any other teaching related information you might look at are likely to be littered with acronyms, including TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA. So what is the difference between these terms? Short for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, TEFL is probably the most common acronym you will come across when conducting research for teaching English abroad. TEFL does not refer to a single training program, certification, or program provider but is simply a catch-all term for training courses and certification...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications are both widely recognized qualifications that enable individuals to teach English to non-native speakers. Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between the two. One of the main distinctions between TEFL and TESOL certifications lies in their focus. TEFL is specifically geared towards teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. On the other hand, TESOL is a more comprehensive term that encompasses teaching English to non-native speakers in various contexts, including countries where English may be an official or second language. From an SEO perspective, understanding the differences between TEFL and...  [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]

International TEFL and TESOL Training provide a wide variety of practical, high-quality, online TEFL courses to suit all personal preferences and learning styles. As well as our best selling 120-hour TEFL certification course, we also offer an advanced Diploma in TESOL, and a range of specialized courses. All our course options come with online tutor support and can be taken individually or as part of a great value course package. Our 220-hour Master Package includes three courses: the 120-hour TEFL certification course, the 50-hour course in teaching business English (CTBE) and the 50-hour course in teaching English to young learners (CTEYL). All sections of the package include online tutor support and you can choose between three individual course certificates or a single 220-hour...  [Read more]

  In this TESOL review, Ben from South Africa talks about his experience of taking an online TESOL course with ITTT and how he is looking forward to starting his teaching career overseas now he is a qualified English teacher. Earning a TESOL qualification with ITTT gives you the opportunity to see the world while also earning a living. 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. There are so many resources available to teachers. Some classes offer so many...  [Read more]

  Tori completed the 120-hour TESOL certificate course as well as the business English course to further her education in English language teaching. In this TESOL review she tells us that as an English and Education university graduate Tori found that she had come across some of the theories covered in the courses before but also learned new theories and methodologies. She was also able to put the knowledge she learned on the courses to immediate use in her lessons in Japan. 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...  [Read more]

When considering a TEFL certification program for career changers, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you are making the right choice for your professional development. First and foremost, look for a program that is accredited by reputable organizations in the field of English language teaching, such as the British Council or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and will be recognized by employers around the world. Next, consider the format of the program. For career changers who may be balancing work or other commitments, a flexible program with online components or part-time options may be ideal. Look for a program that offers practical training and...  [Read more]

These acronyms are used when referring to training courses that English language teachers undertake, as well as the certification they receive upon completion. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. As these terms are essentially the same, they are often used interchangeably, however, TEFL is most commonly used within the UK and TESOL is usually preferred in 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...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teachers are in demand worldwide, including in Scandinavia. The job market for TEFL teachers in Scandinavia can vary depending on factors such as the country, the city, the time of year, and the qualifications of the teacher. In general, Scandinavia is known for its high standard of English proficiency, with many residents being fluent in English as a second language. However, there is still a demand for TEFL teachers in the region, particularly in schools, language institutes, and businesses that require English language training for their employees. Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland are the main countries in Scandinavia where TEFL teachers can find opportunities. In larger cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, and Helsinki, there tend to...  [Read more]

  In this TESOL review Alistair describes his experience as a TEFL/TESOL student with ITTT. He shares how the four week in-class course was a life changing experience for him and how deciding to do the course was one of the best decisions he ever made. 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. As I was reading through this unit, I found myself wanting a little more information regarding the \"specialist skills.\" As a native speaker, I have experience...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is the essential qualification needed by new English language teachers to become eligible for most teaching positions worldwide. However, the absence of official guidelines governing TEFL certification can make the process of choosing the right program challenging. When conducting an internet search, you will encounter a vast array of courses with significant variations in study time and cost, adding to the complexity of the decision-making process. To navigate this challenge effectively, it is crucial to thoroughly research and consider factors such as the reputation of the course provider, the course content, the level of support and resources offered, and how well the certification aligns with your specific teaching goals. By making an informed choice, you can ensure...  [Read more]

When looking for the best TEFL certification for career flexibility, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure that you make the right choice. The quality of the certification, accreditation, course content, and support provided are all crucial aspects to consider when selecting a program that will open up opportunities for you to teach English as a foreign language around the world. One of the most reputable and recognized providers of TEFL certification is the University of Cambridge, which offers the CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The CELTA is highly regarded by employers worldwide and is often seen as the gold standard in TEFL certification. It is a rigorous program that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching...  [Read more]

When choosing the right TEFL course to suit your future plans, it is important to understand the different levels of study involved so you are able to pick the right option that provides the qualifications you really need. While a level 3 course can be completed quite quickly and at a very affordable price, it might not give you the level of qualification that employers are looking for in your chosen destination. Equally, if you plan to volunteer as a teacher or work as a teaching assistant, a level 8 Master’s degree in TEFL will involve a bit more time, effort, and money than you really need to be investing. Check out our course levels page for more details. At ITTT we have a course-level framework that has been designed to make it easy for our trainees to compare our different course...  [Read more]

If you’re looking for a real world experience but need to ensure that you’ll find a TESOL job, Asia is the place for you. Asia’s market is as hot as you’re going to find anywhere in the world. When it comes to China, it’s not about finding a job; it’s about finding the right job to suit your individual tastes and needs. After China, you’ve got the Far East and Southeast Asia as well as Mongolia, the Indian subcontinent, and many of the Former Soviet Republics (FSRs). Azerbaijan, Kirgizstan and Kazakhstan are some of the better options for paying jobs and if you’re looking to volunteer, Armenia is also a good choice. TESOL positions in Asia can be divided into three main categories: private schools, university work, and freelance teaching. Universities are generally lower...  [Read more]

  This video outlines two usages of the Present Simple tense. There are several usages but the video focuses on the two main ones. The first usage is to talk about habits and routines. For example, I teach every Monday. She walks to school every day. It rains almost every day in the wet season. His mother does yoga twice a week. The second main usage of the Present Simple is to talk about general facts and truths. For example, The sun rises in the east. The earth is round. She works at the local mall. Coming to terms with the tense system can often cause both students and teachers the greatest amount of difficulty, not to mention other grammar points such as conditionals, modals, active and passive voice. ITTT's online teaching courses assume no previous knowledge of English...  [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]

Sign up for our TEFL certification course in London and discover everything that this world-class city is famous for. You’ll be immersed in one of the most historically significant cities in the world, yet you’ll be able to take advantage of all London’s modern attractions. Opportunities for those who are certified to teach ESL are there to be found. With the right amount of determination and patience, your decision to take our course in London will pay off for you. That being said, you can take the course in London and use it as a stepping stone upon which to start your teaching career in the rest of Europe, Asia or anywhere else there is a demand for teachers. If you are interested in taking a TESOL in England, you will find demand for English language teachers throughout the...  [Read more]

  The past perfect is used as the past in the past to talk about events that happened in the past before another past event. For example: The concert had started before I arrived. The past perfect is covered in more detail in ITTT's 120-hour Online Teaching course. There are other courses available from 60-hour courses covering teaching skills to a 250-hour Diploma in TESOL. You can also take a specialisation teaching young learners or in teaching business English. Whatever your requirements are, if you are looking to become qualified to teach English from your own home, ITTT will have the right Online Teaching course for you. 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...  [Read more]

  As part of our long term commitment to providing training opportunities and worldwide job prospects for people from all backgrounds, ITTT offers TEFL certifications to suit all budgets. Whatever your budget or future employment plans, you should find great value for money by enrolling on one of our many popular course options. From introductory level TEFL courses, right through to our advanced level Diploma in TESOL, everyone should find something that fits their plans. We constantly strive to keep our course fees as low as possible to ensure that the wide world of EFL teaching is open to everyone. Another way that we offer great value for money is by giving away free additional courses when you sign up for one of our most popular TEFL course options. Check out our Special Offers...  [Read more]

Most TEFL courses currently available, including those offered by ITTT, are broken down into separate sections or modules to make the study experience as smooth and easy to digest as possible. By separating the different sections of the course into distinct areas, such as individual grammar points, various classroom skills, and lesson planning strategies, you should find it easier to move through the materials and retain all the information covered. However, as most TEFL course providers offer a wide variety of course options to suit different goals and scenarios, it is generally the case that there are no set amount of modules in a TEFL course. At ITTT we try to ensure that our range of TEFL courses cover every possible requirement, from short-form courses suitable for volunteer teaching,...  [Read more]

As the generally accepted minimum standard for mainstream teaching jobs is a level 4 qualification, a level 3 certificate alone would not be considered enough to teach English. However, before you make any decisions on which course to take it is best to be fully informed about the different course levels available. Once you have digested all the information below regarding course levels you should be ready to pick the right one to suit your current situation and your future plans. One important factor regarding TEFL course levels is that there are many different frameworks out there for ranking them. Many countries, regions, organizations, and course providers have their own system for ranking the available courses. However, despite the many frameworks, most are designed using the same...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching job in a high-demand region can vary depending on several factors such as your qualifications, experience, the time of year, and the specific location you are targeting. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. First and foremost, having the right qualifications is crucial. Most high-demand regions require a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification. If you already have one of these certifications, you are already a step ahead in the job search process. If not, obtaining one can take anywhere from a few weeks for an online course to a few months for an in-person intensive course. Experience also plays a significant role in how quickly you can secure a TEFL teaching job. If you have previous teaching experience, especially in ESL or EFL...  [Read more]

Teaching English in Malaysia can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to meet certain requirements to ensure you are qualified and eligible to work as an English teacher in the country. Here are the key requirements you need to consider: 1. **Educational Qualifications**: To teach English in Malaysia, you typically need a bachelor's degree in English, Education, or a related field. Some schools may also require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. 2. **Teaching License**: In Malaysia, it is preferred that English teachers have a teaching license or certification from their home country. This demonstrates that you have received the necessary training and meet the standards required to teach in a...  [Read more]

When researching TEFL courses you will probably come across courses at various different levels, ranging from level 1 to level 8. These levels can cover everything from a 10-hour introductory course, right through to a master’s degree in TEFL. However, as this course framework covers such a wide range of qualifications it is important to have a broad understanding of the levels to ensure you take the right courses to suit your personal situation. Take a look at our course levels page for more details. At ITTT we have developed our own course level framework to ensure it is easy for everyone to compare all our different courses options. Our framework is based on the same criteria as most other recognized systems and it runs from level 3 to level 7. The basic criteria used to build our...  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL course that aligns with your educational goals, it's essential to consider several key factors to ensure you receive the training and certification that meets your needs. With an array of options available, selecting the right course can significantly impact your future teaching opportunities and career advancement in the field of English language teaching. First and foremost, assess your educational goals and career aspirations to determine the level of TEFL certification required. If you plan to teach English abroad in a non-native English speaking country, a standard 120-hour TEFL course is typically the minimum requirement by most employers. However, if you aim to teach in more competitive markets or pursue higher-level positions, such as teaching English to...  [Read more]

The job market for TEFL teachers in the Maghreb region, which includes countries such as Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania, can be quite varied and dynamic. While the demand for English language instruction is generally high in this region due to the importance of English in international business, tourism, and education, the specific job market conditions can differ from country to country. In Morocco, for example, there is a significant demand for English teachers in both public and private schools, language institutes, and universities. The government has been investing in English language education, creating opportunities for qualified TEFL teachers. Additionally, the country's growing tourism industry has also increased the need for English proficiency among the local...  [Read more]

  This video explores the usages of the Present Perfect Continuous -- the tense that relates past activities to the present. It implies that the activity is likely to continue in the future or that the activity was in progress for some length of time, or both. The first usage is to talk about an incomplete and ongoing activity, when we want to say how long it has continued. For example, "I have been teaching for ten years." It talks about an action that started in the past and is continuing now. The second usage is to describe recently finished activities that have present results. For example, "He is tired because he has been chopping trees." It is talking about an action that was continuing until very recently. The Present Perfect Continuous emphasizes the action or the...  [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]

After completing a TEFL certification course and working as an English language teacher, some people look to branch out into other avenues of the teaching profession in order to gain more experience or to earn a higher salary. One such route is to become a TEFL trainer. Teaching people to become classroom teachers can be a very rewarding and well paid job and a route into management positions or even setting up your own language school. The first and most obvious requirement is to successfully complete a TEFL course. This experience will give you the basic knowledge you need to teach English and also a valuable insight into what it takes to be a good teacher trainer. Crucially, it is not necessary to be at the top of the class when taking your course, as many of the best teacher trainers...  [Read more]