Is Teaching English Online Worth It

  The market for teaching English abroad can be a very competitive place, especially in the most popular destinations. One way to get an advantage over the competition is to complete a level 5 TEFL course, as the majority of other applicants are only likely to have a level 4.  [Read more]

Many trainees wonder if a 120-hour TEFL certificate is adequate to teach in a classroom or online when looking for a teaching position. It may not appear to be enough time to become a competent teacher, but we guarantee that it is possible. Most ESL employers and schools will want you to complete at least 120 hours of training before applying for their vacant jobs. Some employers may even require that you have some classroom experience alongside the 120 hours of study. There are various TEFL courses available that contain this number of study hours, as well as some level of classroom practice, making them ideal for jobs that require experience. A 120-hour TEFL course is a training program for English speakers who want to teach English in a foreign country or online. "120 hours" means that...  [Read more]

If you are thinking about teaching English in the short term, during a gap year break or just for a brief change of scenery, then a single 120-hour TEFL certification course will probably be enough to get you where you want to be. However, if your teaching plans are more long term or you simply want the best possible start to life in an EFL classroom, then you might want to consider taking advantage of a TEFL course bundle. At ITTT we offer a range of course packages that provide a thorough and in-depth introduction to the English language teaching world, as well as providing the very best value for money currently available on the market. This two course package is a great choice if you are particularly interested in teaching English in a virtual classroom. You start your training with...  [Read more]

  This video is part of our video series on "Evaluation and Testing of Students". In this video, we look at some of the most common business English exams people take around the world. Many EFL teachers around the world need to prepare their students for these international proficiency tests. 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. Very helpful unit. Clearly underlining the advantages to each type of teaching aid. Some of the advantages or...  [Read more]

  Julia completed the 370-hour Diploma in TESOL and the 50-hour young learners course with ITTT. In this TESOL review video, Julia tells us how studying the courses online and without tutor allowed her the freedom to study at her own pace giving her the freedom to study and look after her two children at the same time. 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 thought grammar wasn't easy to teach. After this unit,I know we can't only focus on grammar...  [Read more]

  Although sceptical at first, Elias found his 120-hour TEFL course with ITTT to be well designed with plenty of support offered online. In this TEFL review describes how, although finding the course challenging at time, he found it well worth the effort and would recommend the course to anybody. 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. From this unit I learned many different aspects that I never thought about. Like what this course will actually teach...  [Read more]

  In this video Linda breaks down the difference between "everyday" and "every day". Due to their spelling, it can be quite hard for non-native English learners to understand the difference between the two. This video explains exactly how to differenciate between both expressions. 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 this unit was full of useful advice. There is some brand new equipment for teaching which I haven't worked before. For...  [Read more]

Although it is natural to be a little apprehensive before taking a TEFL/TESOL course, there is no need to get overly anxious or concerned. As long as you are enthusiastic, prepared to put in the hours and are open to new ideas, you should have no problem successfully completing the training. However, there are a few things you can do in the run up to your training course to ensure that it is a smooth process that ends with that all important certificate in your hand. If you take an online course, you will be able to set your own amount of study hours and choose when you do them. In this case, it is important to plan a study schedule and keep to it if you want to complete the course in the time frame you need. Write up a calendar with weekly goals that you can realistically stick to....  [Read more]

Choosing a TEFL certification course can be a difficult decision as there is no standardized duration of training or a fixed syllabus for providers to adhere to. This seemingly free-for-all situation means there are a multitude of companies offering a wide range of courses of varying quality. The good news is there are several long established TEFL course providers out there who do offer high quality courses that provide all the skills and knowledge you need to start a new career as an EFL teacher. The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are many providers who offer short format online courses of 40 hours or even less, as well as in-class courses that can be completed in one weekend visit. Whilst these courses will give you an introduction to EFL teaching, they...  [Read more]

TEFL related jobs are available in cities, towns and beach resorts in dozens of countries spread right across the world, but what is the best way to secure the right position for you? Unfortunately there is no simple answer as it varies from one region to the next. Here we look at the main job hunting strategies that you can use to find and land that dream job teaching English abroad. If you are looking for a job outside the country you are currently in, then using online searches is a common option. There are many jobs boards online that post available positions from countries worldwide. The majority of these jobs will be in regions where the demand for teachers is so high that employers are happy to hire teachers without the need for a face-to-face interview. These are most likely to...  [Read more]

When looking for the most affordable TEFL certification, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are getting a quality program at a reasonable price. First, online TEFL courses tend to be more cost-effective than in-person courses due to lower overhead costs. Many reputable online TEFL providers offer affordable options that still provide comprehensive training and support. Second, consider the accreditation of the program. While accreditation is not always necessary for a TEFL certification to be valid, it can add credibility to your qualification. Look for programs that are accredited by recognized bodies in the field of English language teaching. Third, think about the job placement support provided by the TEFL course. Some programs offer assistance with finding teaching...  [Read more]

For many English speakers worldwide, teaching English abroad has recently grown to be a lucrative career path. This is largely because teaching salaries are getting more and more competitive as a result of the swiftly rising demand for the English language in many countries around the world. Additionally, online teaching opportunities have been booming, and many teachers have moved their workplace entirely to the virtual classroom. Due to a combination of high salaries, low cost of living, and a wide range of fascinating cultures to discover, Asia has long been one of the most popular regions for teachers. Traditional hotspots like South Korea and Taiwan are still well-liked since new teachers can earn between $2,000 and $2,500 per month on average, while experienced teachers can earn up...  [Read more]

  Another way that we can help our graduates find their dream teaching job is via our close working relationship with some of the best recruitment companies in the TEFL field. The main advantage of following this route to employment is that the recruitment company takes care of much of the paperwork and you can arrange a job in your chosen country before you leave home. This hassle-free approach is particularly popular with those who have little or no experience of overseas travel and are new to the teaching world. The application and interview process is typically taken care of online and any required visas and work permits are usually arranged for you. The other major benefit of using a recruitment company is that it won’t cost you a thing as all the fees are paid by the...  [Read more]

As there is no standard content or fixed length required for a TEFL certification course, individual providers are free to design their own courses and set whatever fees they see fit. The best advice is not to choose a course simply because it is the cheapest one available. Yes, you can find TEFL courses on discount websites for as little US$49 but will they be accepted by employers in the region that you want to work in? And will they properly prepare you for life in a real classroom? If you want to ensure that the answer to these questions is YES then you should look a little deeper than just the price. In-class TEFL courses usually involve 4-weeks of intensive training that comprehensively covers the most important aspects of English language teaching. During the course you will...  [Read more]

How much money you can earn teaching English online depends on a variety of factors, including your qualifications, prior experience, and the platform you work for. Online English teachers are paid on an hourly basis, typically ranging between $15 and $30. If you decide to work through an online platform, as most online teachers do, a fee for connecting you with students and providing materials is also deducted in the form of a commission. There are different ways to earn a living as an online English teacher. Some teachers work for an online ESL company, some offer their lessons on an open marketplace, and others even start their own online ESL business. Depending on your qualifications and the type of platform, online English teachers can typically earn between $10 and $40 US per hour....  [Read more]

  The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger...  [Read more]

When looking for the best place to get a TEFL certification for professional development, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you make an informed decision. One of the key aspects to keep in mind is the accreditation of the TEFL course. Accreditation ensures that the course meets certain quality standards and will be recognized by employers around the world. Look for courses that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the British Council, Cambridge English, or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Another important factor to consider is the course content. A good TEFL course should cover a wide range of topics including lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. It should also provide opportunities for...  [Read more]

The job market for TEFL teachers in Africa is diverse and offers a range of opportunities for those looking to teach English as a foreign language on the continent. With a growing demand for English language proficiency in many African countries due to globalization and the importance of English in international business and communication, there are numerous job prospects for qualified TEFL teachers. In countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana, there is a particularly high demand for English teachers, both in private language schools and in public schools. Private language schools often cater to adults looking to improve their English skills for work or travel, while public schools may hire native English speakers to teach English to students of all ages. Additionally,...  [Read more]

If you are looking to find TEFL teaching jobs in developing countries, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of securing a position. Here are some tips to help you in your job search: 1. **Research**: Start by researching the countries you are interested in teaching in. Look into the demand for English teachers, the requirements for teaching English, and the cultural norms of the country. 2. **TEFL Certification**: Obtain a TEFL certification if you haven't already. Many schools and language centers in developing countries require their teachers to have a TEFL certificate. 3. **Job Boards**: Check online job boards that specialize in TEFL and ESL teaching positions. Websites like Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are good places to start your search. 4....  [Read more]

  Choosing a TEFL certification course can be a difficult decision as there is no standardized duration of training or a fixed syllabus for providers to adhere to. This seemingly free-for-all situation means there are a multitude of companies offering a wide range of courses of varying quality. The good news is there are several long established TEFL course providers out there who do offer high quality courses that provide all the skills and knowledge you need to start a new career as an EFL teacher. So what should you look for when choosing the right course for you? The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are many providers who offer short format online courses of 40 hours or even less, as well as in-class courses that can be completed in one weekend...  [Read more]

When selecting a TEFL course, it is best to narrow your focus to the courses that will give you the best chance to achieve your goals. TEFL qualified teachers are employed in a range of roles. Most notably, teaching children in a school setting, teaching business English at a language center, working as a private tutor, or teaching English online. Keeping your options open is a good approach, but it isn't for everyone. Understandably, some teachers limit their options to employment in a specific area or to the flexibility of online teaching jobs. If you wish to teach English via a virtual platform, it is advisable to complete a qualification which includes specific certification in teaching English online. Identifying the type of students that you would like to teach can also impact...  [Read more]

In order to allow potential trainees to compare different courses, many countries, organizations and TEFL course providers have developed their own course-level framework. At ITTT our framework currently runs from level 3 to level 7, covering our full selection of TEFL certification courses. On this scale it is generally agreed that a level 4 course is the minimum level expected by employers who are trying to fill vacancies for mainstream entry-level EFL teaching jobs. However, many trainees choose to start their teaching career with a higher level of training. A level 5 TEFL course will give you a genuine headstart on most other first-time teachers and allow you to apply for a wider range of jobs. A level 5 TEFL course on the ITTT scale is the equivalent of a standard CELTA certification...  [Read more]

  The usage of the past simple tense as explained in this video is when you talk about completed actions at a definite time in the past. For example: I completed my TEFL course last year. When did you complete your TEFL course? ITTT's online TEFL courses cover tenses such as the past simple discussed in this video as well as other grammar points such as modal verbs, conditionals, reported speech etc. making sure that you as prepared as you can be before stepping into your first classroom. Once you have completed a TEFL course and are considering your options for teaching jobs it is worth considering becoming an online English teacher. As technology becomes increasingly more available around the world the demand for English lessons given solely over the internet is growing and...  [Read more]

When it comes to choosing the best TEFL certification for advanced educators, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure that the program meets your specific needs and goals. While there are numerous TEFL certification providers available, some stand out for their quality, reputation, and suitability for experienced educators looking to enhance their teaching skills in an ESL/EFL context. One of the top contenders for advanced educators seeking a TEFL certification is the Cambridge CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The CELTA is widely recognized and respected worldwide, known for its rigorous standards and practical approach to teacher training. It is especially suitable for experienced educators who want to delve deeper into language...  [Read more]

To secure a job teaching English in the Netherlands, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success. Firstly, it's essential to have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have received the necessary training to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Many language schools and educational institutions in the Netherlands require this certification as a minimum qualification for English teaching positions. Next, gaining some teaching experience, either through volunteer work or paid positions, can be beneficial. This experience will not only enhance your resume but also provide you with valuable skills and confidence in the classroom. Networking is also crucial in the...  [Read more]

Although the market for TEFL qualified teachers is very strong in many countries, you might find that there is a lot of competition for each available job in the more sought after locations. If your plan is to head to a popular destination overseas, then you might want to consider completing a higher level of TEFL certification before you start applying for jobs. When it comes to the different levels of TEFL certification, it is important to understand that there is no one framework that encompasses the whole EFL teaching world. Some countries such as the USA, the UK, and Australia have their own system, as do other regions, teaching organizations, and some course providers. However, most course level frameworks are based on the same common factors such as the type of certification, the...  [Read more]

  Andre from Brazil is currently living in Ireland. Andre took the 120-hour online TEFL course with tutor support and videos from ITTT. In this TEFL review video Andre tells us how he was pleasantly surprised with the course. Initially skeptical, he found the course to be well designed, comprehensive and flexible. He admits that the course is challenging but is well worth the effort and he thinks it is great value for money. 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....  [Read more]

If you are considering teaching English in Portugal, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of securing a job in this beautiful country. First and foremost, it is important to have a recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. Many language schools and employers in Portugal require their teachers to have at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate. Having this certification not only makes you a more attractive candidate but also equips you with the necessary skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. In addition to a TEFL certification, having a bachelor's degree is often a requirement for teaching English in Portugal. While it is not always mandatory, having a degree can open up more opportunities and potentially lead to...  [Read more]

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]

Many overseas TEFL employers complete their job interview process online via Skype or Zoom, etc. However, in some parts of the world it is still common for teaching jobs to be secured following a face-to-face interview at the actual school where the job is located. While it is true that every interview is a little different, there are a few common themes that you can prepare for in advance. One huge thing to remember is the old saying that we form a first impression of someone within seven seconds of meeting them for the first time. If you want to get off to a good start and not ruin your chances before the interview has even really started, there are a few simple techniques you should keep in mind. Although it shouldn’t need to be said, turning up on time for an interview is an absolute...  [Read more]