If you have experience in the education or travel industry, you might have heard the termTEFL thrown around quite a bit. But what is it exactly? Why is a TEFL certification important? How do you obtain a TEFL certification? These are all great questions, and luckily you’ve come to the right place!
When I started my research process about how to obtain a TEFL certification, I just about quit right then and there. There is SO much information out there, it can be a little scary to start the process. This blog post is going to just scratch the surface of the word of Teaching English as a Foreign Language, so if you’re a beginner, stick around!
If you’ve done your basic research and are looking for the next steps to take, you can check out my blog post on why you should get certified with International TEFL Academy.
Let’s start with the basics… What is TEFL?
TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is a term used to describe the teaching of English in countries where English is not the primary language and may not be widely spoken.
Why is getting a certification important?
Obtaining a TEFL certification is essential for anyone who wants to teach English online or abroad, as it is typically a requirement for most teaching positions and companies. This certification ensures that you can demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively. Additionally, having a certification can increase your chances of finding a teaching position and can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
What are TESL, TESOL, and CELTA?
TESL, TESOL, and CELTA are all acronyms used in the field of teaching English as a second language. While they are related, they do have some differences in terms of their focus and purpose.
TESL: TESL stands for Teaching English as a Second Language. This term is generally used to refer to teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. TESL focuses on helping students develop their language skills for everyday communication and daily life, and the teachers in TESL programs may work with students of all ages and proficiency levels.
TESOL: TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. This term is often used in the context of teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is the primary language. TESOL programs may include courses on teaching English to adults or children, academic writing, and test preparation. TESOL programs may also cover the theory and practice of language teaching and learning, and may include discussions of second language acquisition, linguistics, and cultural issues.
CELTA: CELTA stands for Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults. CELTA is a certification program that is often required for teaching English in certain contexts, such as teaching English in universities or language schools. These courses cover the theory and practice of teaching English as a second language, including lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment. CELTA is a highly-regarded certification program that is recognized internationally.
How Do I obtain a TEFL certification?
There are various ways to obtain a certification. You can complete an online TEFL course or an in-person course at a TEFL training center. Online courses are typically more affordable and convenient, while in-person courses provide hands-on experience and more personalized instruction. These courses often cover topics such as how to lesson plan, classroom management, assessment, teaching techniques, and more!
What are the requirements for obtaining a TEFL certification?
The requirements for obtaining a TEFL certification vary depending on the course provider. Most providers require individuals to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, some courses may require individuals to be fluent in English or have previous teaching experience.
What are the benefits of obtaining a TEFL certification?
Obtaining a certification provides individuals with several benefits, such as gaining valuable teaching experience, developing cross-cultural communication skills, and improving their own language abilities. Additionally, having a TEFL certification can make individuals more competitive in the job market and can lead to higher-paying teaching positions.
Can I teach English online without a TEFL certification?
Yes, it is possible to teach English online without a certification. However, many online teaching companies require their teachers to have a TEFL certification, so having one can increase your chances of finding a teaching position.
What are the job opportunities for TEFL certified teachers?
TEFL certified teachers can find job opportunities in many countries around the world, including Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. Some of the most popular job opportunities for certified teachers include teaching at language schools, universities, and private tutoring. Certified teachers also have the opportunitity to teach with online platforms from their home country or on the go!
What are the qualifications for teaching English abroad?
The qualifications for teaching English abroad vary depending on the country and the type of teaching position. Generally, most countries require TEFL certification, a bachelor’s degree, and fluency in English. Some countries may also require teaching experience, a criminal background check, and a work visa.
How do I find a TEFL teaching position?
There are many ways to find teaching positions, such as through online job boards, recruitment agencies, and networking with other ESL teachers. It’s important to research potential employers and ensure that the job offer aligns with your qualifications and expectations.
One of the reason’s I decdided to become TEFL certified through the Interational TEFL Academy is because they offer job placement assistance to their graduates! This can include assistance with job searching, resume building, and interview preparation. This can be a valuable resource for those who are new to teaching English abroad. If you want International TEFL Academy information to be sent to your email, you can request it by clicking the link HERE.
What is the job outlook for TEFL teachers?
The job outlook for TEFL teachers is positive, as the demand for English language education continues to grow globally. Additionally, many countries are investing in English language education, which is creating more job opportunities for TEFL teachers.
Should I take a TEFL, TESL, or TESOL course?
The course you should take depends on your specific teaching goals. TEFL courses are ideal for those who want to teach English as a foreign language in non-English-speaking countries, while TESL courses are better suited for those who want to teach English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries. TESOL courses are suitable for both contexts.
Are there different course types?
Yes, there are different course types, including basic TEFL courses, specialized TEFL courses, and advanced TEFL courses. Basic courses cover the fundamentals of TEFL, while specialized courses focus on specific areas such as teaching young learners or business English. Experienced teachers looking to enhance their skills and qualifications can enroll in advanced courses.
What are certification levels?
TEFL certification levels vary depending on the course provider, but they typically range from 60-hour basic courses to 120-hour advanced courses. Some providers also offer additional certification levels, such as a Master’s in TEFL.
How long does a TEFL course take?
TEFL courses can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete, depending on the course provider and the level of certification. Basic courses can be completed in as little as two weeks, while advanced courses may take several months to complete.
How much does it cost to take a course?
TEFL course costs vary depending on the course provider and the level of certification. Basic courses can cost as little as $25, while advanced courses can cost upwards of $2,000. It’s important to research course providers and compare prices before choosing a course.