Teaching English as a foreign language on the internet has rapidly gained popularity as one of the easiest forms of remote work. Whether you are a university student seeking a work-from-home opportunity, a remote worker exploring new activities, or even someone looking to change their career entirely, online English teaching has something to offer for everyone. However, before you hit that “apply” button on the ESL teaching position, you will need one crucial requirement – a TEFL certificate.
How does a complete novice get a TEFL certificate and start teaching English online? Read on for an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide.
What Is TEFL?
TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. A TEFL certificate is a qualification that an employer will look out for in a teaching applicant, and in simple terms, it means that an individual is trained to teach English to foreign speakers. It’s not just a piece of paper, it’s a ticket for online and offline teaching opportunities.
Step 1: Evaluate If Online English Teaching Fits You
To answer the questions below, consider exploring English online classes offering introductory sessions:
Am I willing to interact with individuals from diverse cultures?
Am I comfortable utilizing video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype?
Do I have a dependable internet connection, a designated area, and the resources needed for teaching?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then you are almost there.
Step 2: Select the One That Suits You Most from the Multiple TEFL Courses Offered
Factors that influence the decision of a TEFL Courses are:
✅ Course Provider of TEFL
Look out for training with TEFL providers and through organizations such as ACCET, DEAC, and the British Council. It’s better for you to get trained with such TEFL accredited provider and would ease you with online TEFL courses.
✅ 120+ Hours
Look for providers that offer TEFL online courses with a minimum of 120 hours. If you are an aspiring online ESL through TEFL, always know that there are multiple online TEFL courses and you are allowed to avail for these for your online teaching positions.
✅ Online vs. In-Person
When discussing the flexibility of your and your teaching plans, you will find that online courses and teaching are straightforward, uncomplicated, and enjoyable. This is a plus to you if you are an aspiring ESL online teacher as you can start to have some teaching hours booked from these online TEFL courses targeted to aid your online teaching positions.
🌐 Leading TEFL Course Providers
International TEFL Academy
The TEFL Org
i-to-i TEFL
Premier TEFL
BridgeTEFL
Step 3: Finish the TEFL Course
While enrolled, you can expect to learn:
Grammar and essay writing skills.
Planning and managing lessons.
Teaching methods for children and adults with different skill levels.
Online English teaching techniques.
Many courses are self-paced, with some offering tutor support and workshops. Completing the program can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your pace.
Step 4: Craft an Exceptional Online Teacher Profile
With a TEFL certification in hand, you are ready to apply for teaching jobs. Personal teaching profiles are like storefronts, so pay attention to details that can highlight your strengths.
Add these to your resume:
A well-lit, professional headshot
A short introduction video
Details about your TEFL certificate
Relevant teaching experience, however small, such as tutoring.
Languages you teach, your teaching approach, and your preferred style.
Step 5: Sign Up with Online ESL Teaching Platforms
There are numerous teaching platforms available, including those for children and adults as well as professionals and test prep (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.). Cambly, Preply, Italki, VIPKid, PalFish, and AmazingTalker are some of the most well-known.
Cambly: No degree or experience required.
Preply: Set your own rates and schedule.
Italki: Great for one-on-one lessons.
VIPKid / PalFish: Focused on young learners, though some may require a degree.
AmazingTalker: Flexible with competitive pay.
Don’t limit yourself to just one. Applying to 3-5 platforms will increase your chances of rapid hiring.
Step 6: Design Your Online Classroom
For ESL teachers, the following will help professionally:
A fast processor laptop or desktop computer.
HD web camera, in-built or external.
Noise-cancelling headsets with mics.
Stable internet connection of 10 Mbps upload and download.
Good light, and a clean, quiet background.
Encourage your younger learners with props or visual aids, and fun virtual backgrounds.
Step 7: Begin Teaching and Develop Your Skills Further
It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous during your first few lessons. Just remember to:
Build rapport with students
Keep lessons interactive
Provide feedback and evaluate student feedback
With time, you will gain confidence, improve your teaching style, and have a steady base of students.
HOW TO APPLY
APPLY ONLINE
Final Thoughts: TEFL Is Your First Step — Not Your Last
Obtaining the TEFL certificate marks the start of a career that is both flexible and fulfilling. Teaching English online is so much more than teaching grammar and vocabulary. It’s about connecting with people across cultures, helping them achieve their goals, and building a career on your own schedule.
Work from your couch, a beach café, or while traveling the world — the TEFL will enable you to do that.
Ready to Start?
Choose your course, dedicate yourself to learning, and in a few months, you could be teaching students from all over the world. The only thing you need is the TEFL certificate and the willingness to start.
