Tesol Standard Certification

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 (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certifications that qualify you to teach English to non-native speakers. TEFL is typically used to refer to teaching English in countries where English is not the primary language, whereas TESOL is used more broadly to encompass teaching English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries as well. TEFLQ (Teaching English as a Foreign Language Qualification) is a term that is less commonly used and may refer to a specific type of TEFL certification that meets certain quality standards or qualifications. In general, TEFL and TEFLQ certifications are quite similar, with both providing the necessary training and credentials to teach English as a foreign language. One key...  [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]

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]

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]

The cost of TEFL certification can vary significantly depending on the specific course, study method, and course provider. At ITTT, we offer a range of TEFL courses with different durations and study methods, which means there isn't a single fixed price for our TEFL certification. Here are some considerations regarding our TEFL course pricing: When choosing a TEFL course, it is essential not to base your decision solely on price. While cheaper courses may seem attractive, it is important to consider whether the course content is in-depth enough to fully prepare you for a teaching job abroad. Employers typically expect a high standard of TEFL qualification, so completing an internationally recognized TEFL certification from a reputable course provider is crucial to enhance your job...  [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]

The British Council estimates there are 1.55 billion English language learners around the world, and at least 10.2 million English teachers. www.theguardian.com/education/2013/nov/07/tefl-for-british-language-learners A fair proportion of these learners will be taught in language schools and through private lessons, including online teaching. There do not appear to be any official figures as to the number of TEFL and TESOL training centers worldwide, but it would be a fair guess to say they number in the thousands. Most countries in the world control education through government regulation and oversight. This is also true of private education provision. This means that each country’s government tends to make the rules and regulations concerning the training standards required of ESL...  [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]

Our Diploma in TESOL is an advanced online course that gives graduates an in-depth knowledge of English language teaching and a distinct advantage when applying for ESL jobs worldwide. By completing this research based course you will be in a position to apply for jobs that offer greater responsibility and an increased salary. As this option is an advanced level training course that has been designed to build on the subjects covered in a standard TEFL certification course, prior TEFL certification is usually required. However, as the 370-hour Diploma in TESOL course also includes our 120-hour TEFL certification, this is not an issue. Simply sign up for the Diploma in TESOL course and you will learn all the most important teaching subjects first, before you move onto the main diploma...  [Read more]

TEFL certification stands as a vital academic credential that is almost universally required by anyone who wishes to teach English worldwide. While exceptions might exist in some less sought-after locations, the vast majority of TEFL job opportunities necessitate certification from a reputable course provider. This credential is typically the key to accessing well-paying positions and favorable working conditions. In fact, many of the top countries for teaching English abroad now make TEFL certification a prerequisite for gaining work permits and visas. Without it, you may face legal barriers to securing employment in these countries, which often offer some of the most lucrative TEFL positions available. With an ITTT-accredited TEFL certification, you gain the specialized expertise and...  [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]

Teaching English in Thailand is a popular choice for many individuals looking to immerse themselves in a new culture while sharing their language skills. To be eligible to teach English in Thailand, there are certain requirements that you need to meet. First and foremost, a bachelor's degree in any field is typically required to secure a teaching position in Thailand. While the degree does not necessarily have to be in education or English, having a degree is a standard requirement for obtaining a work permit. Additionally, obtaining a teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) or teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) certification is highly recommended. Many schools and language institutes in Thailand prefer candidates with a TEFL or TESOL certification as it...  [Read more]

All ITTT TEFL courses result in a certificate that can be used when applying for ESL teaching positions anywhere in the world. Our TEFL courses range from 120-hours up to 550-hours. The majority of ESL teachers select an online course due to the flexibility of a self-paced course and its cheaper price. While these two factors make the courses ideal for most people, there are some real benefits to taking an in-class course over 4 weeks. The in-class courses are structured 4-week courses with face-to-face instruction from professional TEFL trainers. During an in-class course, trainees cover the same teaching techniques as the 120-hour online course with the added advantage of being able to put them into practice at local schools. After each class is taught by a trainee, the TEFL trainers...  [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]

The online Diploma in TESOL course is our most advanced online certification. The course is a very popular option as it adds a high-level qualification to your CV/resume that allows you to apply for more prestigious teaching positions that typically offer a higher salary and greater responsibility. The diploma course begins with our standard 120-hour online TEFL certification course which looks at all the basic subjects required by new English teachers. Because of this, the diploma course is open to first-time teachers and those with some existing teaching experience. There are many good reasons to take our online Diploma in TESOL course, including: The course is divided into 11 separate modules as outlined below: All course modules require roughly 21 hours of study. The final summative...  [Read more]

  In this TESOL review video Susie who teaches in Egypt talks about why she opted to complete ITTT's 120 hour online TEFL/TESOL certification course. She discusses the advantages of completing an online course. She also outlines some of the components of the course. Susie highlights how the course has enhanced her teaching. 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 lesson covers the basics of the various different teaching tools available for a...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad is a great way to see the world and get paid while doing it, but what does it actually involve? Before you buy a plane ticket and jet off across the world it is a good idea to research as much as possible about TEFL qualifications, the possible restrictions you might encounter when applying for jobs, and the long term prospects this path might lead to. Here we look at the answers to all these questions and 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...  [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]

When it comes to getting TEFL certification for online teaching, there are several reputable options available. One of the best places to consider is the International TEFL Academy (ITA). ITA offers a comprehensive online TEFL course that is internationally recognized and accredited. The course covers all the essential aspects of teaching English as a foreign language, including lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. Another top choice for online TEFL certification is the University of Toronto’s TEFL Online program. This program is designed for both new and experienced teachers looking to enhance their skills in teaching English online. The University of Toronto is a globally recognized institution, so completing your TEFL certification through their program...  [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]

During the past 10 years, more and more teachers have opted to gain their TEFL qualifications online. This was further accelerated due to the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent restrictions placed on international travel and business practices. However, onsite TEFL training and hybrid type courses that combine online and in-class training are still viable options in many areas. The most commonly taken ESL teaching course is a 120-hour online TEFL certification course. Originally taught across 4 weeks in a classroom, the course content has been adapted into a popular online course by highly experienced TEFL trainers at ITTT. Access to our online courses is possible at any time of the night or day, from any location with an internet connection. Participants can work through the course...  [Read more]

Although this is a common question, it is hard to answer as it depends on which course you choose to take. There are a wide variety of TEFL courses available, both online and in-class, and some that are a mixture of the two, and every one has its own average completion time. At ITTT we have developed a range of TEFL course options of varying length, difficulty, and study method to ensure there is something to suit every individual situation. TEFL courses are typically classified by the average number of hours they take to complete and if you look online you will find some courses advertised at around 50 hours or even less. If you have no other commitments and are able to study every day, it would be possible to finish this type of course in less than a week. However, it is worth noting...  [Read more]

If you are a full-time student or employee, figuring out when you will fit a brand new 120-hour TEFL certification into your schedule can be difficult (especially if you are looking at completing it on-site overseas). The good news is that you can take as long as you want to get your TEFL certification. Structured on-site TEFL courses have start and end dates, so determining how long it will take to complete a TEFL course is as simple as determining the program dates. However, our 120-hour TEFL course can be completed entirely online, thus giving you all the flexibility you need to make it happen on your own terms. As this course is self-paced, it really depends on your own personal learning style and the amount of spare time you have available to study. As a general guideline, the typical...  [Read more]

Although you are free to sign up for any course that catches your eye, there is one thing you should always bear in mind: the minimum qualification required by most ESL employers worldwide is a 120-hour TEFL certificate course. The good news for our trainees is that there are a number of ways in which this can be achieved with ITTT. The first distinction in TEFL course type depends upon whether you want to travel to a training center to complete your studies or stay at home. If you wish to travel, then an ‘onsite’ course is best for you. Should you wish to complete your training at home then an ‘online’ course is best. The four-week 120-hour TEFL certification course can be completed at one of many locations spread across the globe. As the name implies, you attend the training...  [Read more]

Completing a TEFL certification course online has been a very popular option for some time as it is a much more convenient approach than an in-class course for many people. If you have any existing commitments that you cannot leave behind, such as work, study, or family, an online TEFL certification course provides a great way to get qualified while working from home in your own time. The other major benefit of an online course over an in-class course is the financial outlay. The bottom line is that an online TEFL certification course is an affordable route into teaching English as the course has far fewer overheads than a traditional classroom based course. There is no one straight answer to this question as TEFL courses tend to vary in length and difficulty, and therefore price. The...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a high-demand region, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you are ready for the challenges and opportunities that come with teaching in such a competitive environment. First and foremost, it is essential to obtain the necessary qualifications and certifications to teach English as a foreign language. This typically includes obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. These certifications will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Additionally, gaining experience through volunteer work or internships in teaching English as a foreign language can be extremely beneficial in preparing...  [Read more]

Online TEFL courses come in many shapes and sizes and their popularity continues to grow year after year. The convenience of being able to study in your own time from wherever you are in the world is one of the biggest attractions of this form of study, as is the relatively low cost. However, before you make a final decision on which type of course suits you best, it is advisable to have all the facts to hand. The subjects covered in our 120-hour online TEFL course and our in-class TEFL courses are virtually identical. The one area that clearly separates the two versions is observed teaching practice (OTP). Our in-class courses include extensive time in a real classroom where you can practice your teaching skills under the guidance of experienced trainers. As a consequence, in-class...  [Read more]

When looking for the best place to get TEFL certification, there are several factors to consider to ensure you receive quality training that will prepare you for a successful career teaching English as a foreign language. First and foremost, it is essential to choose a reputable and accredited institution. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and is recognized internationally. Look for institutions that are accredited by recognized bodies such as the British Council, ACCET, or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Additionally, consider the format of the TEFL course. Some programs are offered online, while others are conducted in-person or a combination of both. Online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to...  [Read more]

Deciding which TEFL course suits your individual learning style, your current situation and your future plans can be difficult as there is no standard length of training or a fixed syllabus that providers have to adhere to. The best advice we can give is don't simply choose the cheapest or the first option you come across as it may not be suitable for your needs. You should spend time researching what employers expect from job applicants in the countries where you would like to work, as well as any official requirements for work permits and visas etc. Finally you should also research the course provider to ensure they have a good reputation amongst their graduates. The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are many providers who offer short format online courses...  [Read more]