What To Look For In A Tesol Certificate

Kick start your international TEFL/TESOL career by taking your in-class course in La Antigua. The region is ideal to start working as an English teacher as qualified teachers are very sought after. During your four-week training program, you will learn all the skills and techniques necessary to start your first position teaching overseas. All our courses are led by professional trainers at full-functioning English language centers with real EFL students.   [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]

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), also known as teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL), is a rewarding profession that needs commitment and love. Luckily, you also won't have to sacrifice a good salary! We are sure you are curious about what type of teachers earn the most when teaching abroad, so let's have a look. The simple answer is your potential salary often depends on three main factors: your qualifications, the country you teach in, and the type of school you work for. The fact is, TEFL and TESOL certified teachers earn higher salaries compared to teachers without a certificate. Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates are among the top-paying countries in the world to teach English, with salaries ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 USD a month....  [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]

Acronyms are an essential tool used in all professions and technical writing. They are powerful tools to reduce word content. However without knowing what the acronym stands for, they can form a barrier to understanding. In the ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching world there is certainly no shortage of acronyms. Here we look at a few and one in particular, TEFL. Some useful teaching acronyms are: ELT: English Language Teaching. This is a general term for teaching English and applies to the teaching of English to both native and non-native English speakers. ELL: English Language Learner. This is a general term for anyone learning English and applies to learners of English who are native or non-native English speakers. ESL: English as a Second Language: This relates to the...  [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]

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]

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]

We know it can be difficult to sort through the various TEFL certification courses available on the market. That is why we are here to explain the various levels of TEFL courses. The general characteristics of the frameworks are frequently tied to a variety of elements, including the total amount of study hours, the certification type, if the program contains a practical component, and the study technique applied (full-time or part-time study). A level 6 TEFL course is near the top of the framework, making it one of the most advanced TEFL credentials available. A level 6 TEFL qualification is equivalent to an undergraduate or bachelor’s degree. With this level of TEFL certification, better-paying TEFL jobs are easier to come by, whether online or abroad. A level 6 qualification will also...  [Read more]

If you crave adventure and a lifestyle that’s out of the ordinary, Phnom Penh, Cambodia is the perfect location to launch your ‘teach English abroad’ journey. The transformation of Cambodia over the past three decades from a country characterised by occupation and trouble, to a Southeast Asian powerhouse, is phenomenal. There’s an insatiable demand for English language skills in Cambodia - and a chronic shortage of TEFL qualified people to teach English. What does this mean for people just like you? Simple! It means opportunities galore. Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and the nation’s international gateway. With a population of around 2.5 million people and a relatively confined central business district, it has a noticeably slower pace of life than you’ll find in...  [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]

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]

The birth place of the English language, the UK offers many opportunities to teach English as a second language (TESOL). While the best opportunities are reserved for UK nationals, native speakers from around the Commonwealth and even the US can enjoy employment here. The UK’s open-door policy on immigration means that great opportunities await TESOL teachers. In the last 40 years or more, wave after wave of immigrants have decided to make the UK their home. Presently, the greatest influx is from Eastern Europe, and new arrivals tend to have a lot of motivation to learn the English skills they will need to survive in the UK. Opportunities are best for those who have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or a Post-Graduate Certification in Education (PGCE). If not already certified in TESOL,...  [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’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]

When looking for a TEFL course provider, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you are choosing a reputable and high-quality program that meets your needs. First and foremost, accreditation is crucial. You should look for a provider that is accredited by recognized bodies such as the British Council, ACCET, or Cambridge English. Accreditation ensures that the course meets certain standards of quality and that your certificate will be recognized by employers worldwide. Next, consider the course content and structure. A good TEFL course should cover a range of topics including teaching methodology, grammar, lesson planning, and classroom management. Look for a program that offers a balance of theory and practical teaching experience, such as observed teaching practice with...  [Read more]

  Leslie is a Canadian English teacher at a junior high school in the Japanese countryside. In this TESOL review, Leslie tells us she is looking to open her own English language day care centre at her home and with this in mind she took the 120-hour certificate course with ITTT as well as the 50-hour young learners course to bring her qualifications up to date. Hopefully for Leslie this will be the first step on a rewarding career as the owner of a successful English language school 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...  [Read more]

  This video from one of ITTT's TESOL courses looks at how the future continuous tense is formed and used. Firstly, the structure: Positive: Subject + will + be + present participle. I will be learning to teach English. Negative: Subject + will + not + be + present participle. I will not be coming to the party. Question: Will + subject + be + present participle? Will you be staying for the weekend? Now the usages: Actions in progress at a future time. She'll be playing live at Wembley on the 16th. Predict the present. He'll be getting on the plane about now. Polite enquiries (without influence): Will you be coming to the party? For those wanting to learn how to teach English TESOL courses are great ways to learn the necessary grammar such as the future continuous...  [Read more]

Here at ITTT, we will do all we can to ensure your entire TEFL training experience is as straightforward and rewarding as possible. If you have any questions regarding our courses, please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below. Our FAQ section should clear up most of your queries but if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by submitting them via the form provided at the bottom of this page. What does TEFL mean?    The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is commonly used to refer to training courses that almost anyone can take to learn the skills and knowledge required to teach English to non-native speakers in countries all over the world. What is the difference between TESOL and...  [Read more]

  In this video we look at the structure of the past perfect tense. This tense is formed in the following way: Positive: Subject + had + past participle. I had Negative: Subject + had + not + past participle. Question: Had + subject + past participle? You can earn your certificate in teaching English online from ITTT. We have many different courses available suited to your needs. Whether you are starting out as an English teacher or if you are looking to expand your skills with a specialised course in teaching young learners or business English and if you are looking for something more advanced, there is the TESOL Diploma course. To start the process of getting your certificate in teaching English online, visit us at the link above. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT...  [Read more]

With a very convenient location right in the heart of Central Europe, Slovakia offers plenty of options for TEFL certified teachers. It is not yet on the radar of many teachers looking to live and work in Europe, but it should certainly be considered as it is a modern and progressive country that is rapidly developing. In its current form, Slovakia is a very young nation, but its overall history goes back centuries. Across the country you will find ancient castles, medieval fortresses, and a rich cultural heritage. Since joining the EU, the country has seen a rapid rise in the number of English language students, so if you are looking for a peaceful and safe country that is a little off the beaten path, why not look at Slovakia? Salaries in Slovakia are not large by European standards,...  [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]

Teaching English in international schools is a rewarding career path that offers a unique opportunity to work with diverse students from around the world. While specific requirements may vary depending on the school and country, there are some general qualifications and skills that are typically sought after by international schools. First and foremost, a Bachelor's degree is usually a minimum requirement for teaching English in international schools. Many schools also prefer candidates with a degree in education, English, or a related field. In some cases, a Master's degree may be required, especially for more senior or specialized positions. In addition to educational qualifications, most international schools require teachers to have a teaching certification or license. This could be a...  [Read more]

If you are bored with the everyday grind and want a new life that is full of travel and adventure, TEFL could be the perfect option for you. First you need to choose the right TEFL course to suit your situation and then work your way through the training. Once you have completed the course and you have your TEFL certificate in hand you will be ready to head overseas to start work as an English language teacher in the country of your choice. 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]

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]

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

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]

From Sumo wrestling, the most authentic Japanese cuisine you’ve ever tasted, ancient castles and Pagodas, skiing in the mountainous north and beach hopping in the tropical south, ancient and bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan caters for every type of traveller. Japan is unlike any country you’ve ever been to with the most bizarre but fascinating experiences available throughout the country, and a scenery like no other. A distinct balance between ancient and modern- Japan opens up a whole new world. Nagoya is an ideal destination for an in-class, immersive TESOL course experience in Japan. It is the fourth largest city in Japan, which means that as a TESOL student, you get the full experience of high paced life in Japan, but at a much lower cost than bigger cities like the...  [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]

Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. The culture is warm, friendly and genuine. There is a big expat community out there, so you’re in a new and exciting culture but also engaging with many different cultures through the expat network as well. The travel opportunities are wonderful, either around Thailand itself or to neighboring countries. AND the food is delicious and fresh! Hua Hin is a beautiful city on the beach in central Thailand, approximately two and a half hours away from Bangkok. The area has some amazing beaches, mountains, viewpoints, temples, night markets, water parks, and dining experiences for you to choose from and enjoy at any time of the year. Hua Hin itself features a beautiful, powdery sand beach, plenty of waterside seafood restaurants, a lively night market...  [Read more]