The popularity of teaching English as a foreign language is at an all-time high. It’s not hard to see why; with globalism at its peak and the job market in a state of flux, everyone seems to be looking for ways to further their education beyond their home country.
Teaching English as a foreign language is a rewarding and fulfilling career. With the right TEFL certification course, you can easily find employment in most countries worldwide.
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What Does a TEFL Course Mean?
A TEFL (Teaching English as Foreign Language) certificate is a famous international certification course that allows a person to pursue teaching English to non-native speakers abroad or online, professionally.
There are many other popular ESL (English as Second Language) certifications available like TESL (Teaching English as Second Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and CELTA ( Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults). But keep in mind, they do have their differences.
Depending on which location you want to teach English, one type of certification may be more beneficial than another.
Take-away: TEFL certification course is the most regarded and widely accepted certification amongst all the options.
What Does a Standard TEFL Course Include?
To get certified to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL), you will need to enroll in ESL certifications like TESL, CELTA, TEFL, and TESOL and take the necessary exams. You can attend them through their online or in-person course model.
The Standard Course Details:
A standard TEFL course may include approximately 100 hours minimum, depending on the institute, with at least 6-20 hours of practicum, i.e., live teaching experience and observations with actual non-native English speakers.
Some reputable institutes, like Teaching House, offer at least 20 hours additional compared to most of the other TEFL courses, so look out for such classes as extra time means more time with your trainers.
The most reputable courses usually start at $1,000 or so and give the option of attending the course online, abroad, or in person.
Keep in mind, although not compulsory everywhere, it is regarded as an upper hand when you have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree before getting a TEFL certification course.
Take-away: It is recommended that you get your certification from an institute/organization that offers comprehensive job search counseling.
How is TEFL Different From TESL, CELTA, or TESOL?
TEFL vs. TESL
TESL certification primarily focuses on teaching English to non-native English speakers living in native English-speaking areas/countries. Hence, if your goal is to teach English in your home country, TESL is the best option.
Also, TESL doesn’t require any minimum qualifications like a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
TEFL vs. TESOL
A TESOL Certification is for those interested in teaching English to non-native speakers residing in your home country and abroad.
Remember that TESOL is a far more intensive and newer course than TEFL. Usually offered as a graduate program, it has a 150-650 hours course length compared to TEFL’s 100-150 hours course length. But it isn’t as highly regarded by employers as TEFL.
TEFL vs. CELTA
CELTA can just be called the branded version of TESOL. The only difference is that CELTA is affiliated with Cambridge University.
Last Words
Remember, TEFL certification is a great way to ensure you get value for your money and that your employer will take you seriously. It is crucial and can be the first step in your journey to a fulfilling career that you love. Take some time to think about what you would like to do with your life and how this course will help you get there.
This article has helped you inform yourself on the process of getting certified as a TEFL teacher – now all that’s left is for you to take action!
Author Bio:
Alison Lurie is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.
