Teacher Qualification

  If you want to teach English as a foreign language abroad or online, you will need to obtain certain qualifications. One of these is a TEFL certificate with at least 100 hours of study. Requirements for teachers vary from country to country, but a TEFL certificate is almost always a requirement.  [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]

To begin, let's clarify the acronym TEFL: TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is a term that encompasses the teaching of English to non-native speakers in various contexts. While technically, TEFL specifically refers to teaching English in non-English-speaking countries, it is widely used to describe English language instruction in most settings. Additionally, TEFL is the designation given to teacher training programs and the resulting certifications that aspiring teachers pursue to meet the qualifications sought by international employers of English language instructors. Although many English teaching positions require a TEFL certificate, some teachers hold a TESOL certificate instead. The great news is that TEFL and TESOL essentially denote the same concept, and...  [Read more]

The job market for TEFL teachers in the Gulf States is generally quite strong, with a high demand for qualified English teachers across the region. Countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain are known for offering lucrative opportunities for TEFL teachers. In the Gulf States, English is widely recognized as a global language of communication and business, leading to a high demand for English language education. As a result, there are numerous job opportunities available for TEFL teachers in schools, language institutes, universities, and corporate settings. One of the key factors contributing to the demand for TEFL teachers in the Gulf States is the region's focus on internationalization and globalization. Many Gulf countries are actively working...  [Read more]

Our online Diploma in TESOL is an advanced level training course that has been specifically designed to give graduates a real advantage over the competition when applying for any level of job within the TEFL world. The course can be taken by anyone regardless of their background as it starts off with our 120-hour TEFL course that will give you all the basic knowledge you need before you move on to the advanced level diploma section. The research based design of the Diploma in TESOL course requires use of the internet and other resources to explore and build your own understanding of a wide variety of interesting topics. The modules that make up the course cover many relevant subjects including the historical development of English language teaching, different approaches to course syllabus...  [Read more]

  Want to teach English in another country, but are not sure how much TEFL teachers make? Salaries for TEFL teachers are determined by many factors, including your qualifications and the location. One thing is certain though, teachers with a TEFL certificate typically earn higher wages than those without qualifications.  [Read more]

We should start by acknowledging that there are some countries where a degree is required for certain teaching jobs. However, even within these countries there are often opportunities for teachers without a degree. In such situations you would need to be more flexible in terms of the type of job and conditions. As we will see later, undertaking volunteering or internship programs are examples of such flexibility. The main point here is that you can teach in many countries without a degree, provided you do have some other attributes or qualifications that employers are looking for. One of the most important qualifications worldwide for EFL teachers is the TEFL certificate. If you have a certificate of at least 120 hours then you should be able to find a number of jobs available to you. You...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and Delta (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications are both valuable qualifications for teachers of English as a foreign language, but they serve different purposes and cater to different levels of teaching expertise. TEFL certification is typically an entry-level qualification that provides the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to teach English to non-native speakers. It is ideal for those who are new to teaching English as a foreign language or who wish to gain basic teaching skills. TEFL courses cover a range of topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language analysis, and teaching methodologies. These courses are often shorter in duration and may be taken online or in-person. On the other...  [Read more]

The salary for teaching English abroad or online is determined by a number of factors, including your qualifications, previous experience, and the country you desire to teach in. Let's take a look at how much TEFL teachers can earn when teaching English abroad and online. The salary for teaching English in a foreign country varies, but you should expect to make a respectable living. teachers in high-paying countries might earn anything from $2,000 to over $5,000 USD per month. Your TEFL salary is determined by many things, such as the type of employer, your qualifications, your previous teaching experience, and the location of your school. Teaching English abroad can be a lucrative career path, but salaries vary considerably from region to region. First-time English teachers in several...  [Read more]

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]

As knowledge of the English language has become increasingly important in the country and it is one of the richest nations in the Middle East, Kuwait is full of opportunities for TEFL certified teachers. There are plenty of jobs on offer, from kindergarten level all the way through to university and beyond. Kuwait City is the main hub of the country where you will find all the comforts you would expect from a modern capital. However, you will also find rich Arab culture, fascinating archaeological sites, white sandy beaches, and a vast desert terrain that is waiting to be explored. As you might expect from an oil rich country, teaching jobs in Kuwait typically offer very competitive salaries. The average monthly salary for the majority of teachers is between $2,500 and $4,000 USD. Most...  [Read more]

As the demand for English language skills continues to grow in many parts of the world, there are always plenty of TEFL opportunities available, both online and in traditional classrooms. However, it is no longer the case that just being a native English speaker is qualification enough to simply walk into the teaching job of your choice. Many countries have cracked down on who they issue work permits to and many individual employers, both online and in-class, have increased expectations on the teachers they choose to employ. Also, due to the popularity of English language teaching, the competition for the top jobs increases every year. The bottom line is that TEFL jobs are plentiful and your chances of finding a suitable position are very good if you are willing to put in the necessary...  [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]

Did you know that there are multiple levels of TEFL certification, including TEFL level 4, TEFL level 5, and TEFL level 6? Just when you thought picking an appropriate TEFL course would be easy, you discover that there are several levels available! It is crucial to know what each of these TEFL levels means before choosing your TEFL course. This will help you in determining what level is ideal to reach your desired goal and what courses you need to take in order to get the teaching job you are looking for. To begin, keep in mind that TEFL levels are based on the UK qualifications framework. This includes levels 0 through to 8. Check out the graphic below to get a better understanding of what kind of qualification each level corresponds to: A level 3 TEFL certificate corresponds to the AS...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in fine arts can still qualify you to teach English abroad. Many countries and language schools require a bachelor's degree in any field as a minimum qualification for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). While a degree in English or education may be preferred in some cases, a degree in fine arts can demonstrate your creativity, critical thinking skills, and cultural awareness, which are all valuable qualities in an English teacher. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL certification can further enhance your qualifications and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. When applying for English teaching positions abroad with a degree in fine arts, it's important to highlight relevant skills and experiences that showcase your ability to effectively...  [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]

Before we answer this question we will first look at the three most common routes towards TEFL qualifications. A TEFL qualification is usually a prerequisite when looking for TEFL employment of any kind. These are: 1) Online courses: a 120-hour TEFL certificate course is the entry level qualification for most jobs. This type of course is conducted 100% online. 2) In-class courses: this type of course is conducted 100% in-class at a location somewhere in the world. Typically these courses also involve teaching practice. 3) Combined courses: this type of course is conducted by a combination of online study followed by a short in-class attendance to complete teaching practice. Once you have completed your chosen TEFL certification course, there are three common working options for TEFL...  [Read more]

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate is a valuable qualification that can enhance your ability to teach English to multilingual students. The training and skills gained through a TEFL course can provide you with the necessary tools to effectively teach English language learners. One of the key benefits of obtaining a TEFL certificate is that it equips you with the knowledge and techniques to create engaging and effective lesson plans for students who speak multiple languages. This includes understanding language learning theories, teaching methodologies, and classroom management strategies that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of multilingual learners. Additionally, a TEFL certificate can help you develop a deeper understanding of the English language,...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and DipTESOL (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certification courses that focus on teaching English to non-native speakers. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two that potential students should consider before choosing a program. TEFL certification courses are typically shorter in duration, ranging from a few weeks to a few months, and are designed for individuals who are new to teaching English as a foreign language. These courses provide a solid foundation in language teaching methodology, classroom management, lesson planning, and evaluation techniques. TEFL courses are often seen as entry-level qualifications for those looking to start a career in English language...  [Read more]

If you want to meet the criteria laid out for most online or overseas TEFL jobs, then you will need to complete a standard 120-hour TEFL certification course as a minimum. Anyone who dreams of earning a higher salary or applying for management level positions will typically need an advanced qualification such as diploma. However, teachers who want to get to the very top of the EFL tree will probably need to think about completing a Bachelor's Degree in TESOL. ITTT does not operate its own degree course, but we are able to recommend a good option. The Bachelor of Education in TESOL (B.Ed TESOL) from the Paris College of International Education offers a very convenient and affordable way to gain a high-end, internationally recognized teaching qualification. This is a 120-credit degree...  [Read more]

  The main reason for taking a TEFL course is to earn the qualifications required by schools and other employers. Everyone who decides to earn a TEFL qualification will have their own motivations, such as to earn money during a gap year or to start a whole new career as an ESL teacher.  [Read more]

Even entry-level teaching jobs usually require applicants to have completed a standard TEFL certification course of around 120 hours. Teachers who want to take another step up the employment ladder often choose to take a higher level qualification such as a Diploma in TESOL. However, if you are seriously interested in reaching the very top of the TEFL job market, completing a master’s degree will certainly be a big help. ITTT does not oversee its own master’s degree course, but we do have a popular option that we can recommend. The Master of Education in TESOL (MEd in TESOL) from the Paris College of International Education provides a practical and affordable route towards gaining a highly regarded, internationally recognized qualification. With this qualification in your pocket you...  [Read more]

A TEFL certificate can greatly improve your teaching skills and enhance your career opportunities in the field of English language teaching. Here are some key ways in which obtaining a TEFL certificate can benefit you as a teacher: Firstly, a TEFL certificate provides you with essential training in teaching English as a foreign language. This training typically covers a wide range of topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, teaching methodologies, and language assessment. By completing a TEFL course, you will gain valuable insights into effective teaching practices and strategies that you can apply in your own classroom. Moreover, a TEFL certificate can help you develop a deeper understanding of the English language itself. Many TEFL programs include modules on English...  [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]

To teach English abroad all you truly need is a strong desire to embark on a new adventure and a teaching qualification that demonstrates to potential employers that you have received some level of teacher training. In this context, the internationally recognized qualification is a TEFL certificate, and these courses typically have minimal entry requirements. Having a strong level of English comprehension is the most fundamental requirement for enrolling in a TEFL certification course. Non-native English speakers are just as welcome as native speakers, provided they possess a solid understanding of written and spoken English. The demand for EFL teachers worldwide is immense, and there is frequently a shortage of qualified teachers in numerous regions. Thanks to this robust...  [Read more]

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. In other words, it is a teaching qualification for teaching English to anyone whose first language isn’t English. TEFL certificates are academic qualifications that are provided upon successful completion of a TEFL course. TEFL certificates can be used anywhere in the world, although the TEFL acronym is most commonly used when referring to teachers in the UK and Europe. Almost all schools expect their ESL teachers to be fluent in the English language, with sound communication skills and an ESL teaching qualification (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA). CELTA shares some similarities with TEFL and TESOL courses. It is overseen by the Cambridge university and is predominantly a qualification for teaching English to adult learners. TEFL and TESOL...  [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]

Yes, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate can be extremely beneficial if you are looking to teach English to immigrant communities. Here are several reasons why a TEFL certificate can help you in this endeavor: Firstly, a TEFL certificate equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. It covers essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language teaching methodologies, and assessment techniques. These skills are crucial when working with immigrant communities who may have varying levels of English proficiency. Additionally, many immigrant communities have specific language learning needs and preferences. A TEFL certificate program often includes modules on teaching English for...  [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]

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]