Have you been thinking about teaching English abroad or online?
The chance to travel, gain valuable professional experience, and make a real difference in communities around the world is incredibly rewarding.
However, many aspiring teachers hesitate to take the first step because of persistent TEFL certification myths. These misconceptions can make the process seem confusing, expensive, or out of reach- when in reality, earning your TEFL certification is one of the most accessible ways to launch a global teaching career.
At Teach Away, we want to help you separate fact from fiction. The global demand for qualified English teachers is higher than ever, and your background may already align perfectly with what schools are looking for.
Let’s clear up the five most common TEFL certification myths so you can move forward with confidence and start your journey toward teaching English abroad or online.
1. Myth: You Need a College Degree in Teaching or English
This is the most common reason people stop their TEFL application before it even begins. Many believe that without a university degree specifically in Education, English, or Linguistics, they cannot be hired.
The Reality
For most TEFL jobs around the world, the focus is on your training and your language proficiency, not your specific academic background.
The Core Requirement: The most essential qualification is a recognized, accredited 120-hour TEFL certificate. This certification shows employers that you understand how to teach a language, which is a specialized skill separate from simply knowing the language. Your TEFL course provides you with practical classroom management, lesson planning, and teaching methods.
The Bachelor’s Degree: Many countries require a bachelor’s degree in any subject as part of their visa process. This is a government rule for granting a work permit, not a rule set by the school about your teaching ability. If you have a four-year degree in Business, Science, Art History, or anything else, you meet this requirement.
No Degree? While a degree simplifies the visa process in many key markets, it is not always mandatory. Opportunities for certified TEFL teachers exist in online teaching and in certain markets that do not have strict degree mandates.
Key Takeaway: Do not let the name of your degree stop you. Your accredited 120-hour TEFL certification is the professional qualification that matters most for teaching English.
2. Myth: Only Native English Speakers Can Get TEFL Jobs
This outdated idea suggests that only passport holders from a few specific countries (like the US, UK, Canada, Australia) are eligible to teach English. This misconception prevents countless highly qualified Non-Native English Speaking Teachers (NNESTs) from applying.
The Reality
The demand for English teachers globally is huge, and schools primarily look for high-quality instruction. What truly matters to employers are your skills:
Fluency and Certification: If you have a high level of English proficiency, can communicate clearly, and possess an accredited TEFL certificate, you are a strong candidate. Your TEFL certification proves you have been trained to deliver effective lessons.
Unique Advantage: NNESTs often make exceptional teachers because they have personally been through the process of learning English. They understand the difficulties students face, can anticipate challenges, and offer genuine empathy, which is invaluable in the classroom.
Global Opportunity: Many schools value a diverse teaching staff. If you are fluent and professionally certified, your application will be competitive in most markets.
Key Takeaway: Your ability to speak English fluently and your TEFL training are far more important than your country of origin. Be confident in your proficiency and professional training.
3. Myth: TEFL Certification is Too Expensive and Takes Too Long
Worry over the cost and time commitment often makes people delay or abandon their plans to become TEFL certified. They see the 120-hour requirement and assume it will take months or years to complete.
The Reality
Getting certified is a quick, worthwhile investment that opens doors to employment around the world.
Time Commitment: The industry standard is a 120-hour course. Reputable online programs, such as those offered through Teach Away, are self-paced. This means you can study and complete modules around your current work or family schedule. While it can be done in 4 to 6 weeks if you study full-time, most people finish it part-time over 2 to 4 months.
High Return on Investment (ROI): The cost of certification is an investment in a new career. In many desirable teaching locations, you can earn a good salary with a low cost of living. Your first few paychecks teaching English will often cover the entire cost of the course, making it a very smart financial choice.
Quality Training: The 120 hours of training are essential. They ensure you are ready for the classroom environment, confident in your lesson planning, and prepared to manage students effectively.
Key Takeaway: The time and money invested in an accredited TEFL course are minimal compared to the global career opportunities it unlocks.
4. Myth: TEFL Jobs are Only Available in a Few Popular Countries
When planning to teach abroad, people often focus on a handful of well-known countries, which can make the job market seem narrow or overly competitive.
The Reality
The need for qualified English teachers exists across the entire globe. English is the international language of business, technology, and culture, driving continuous demand in diverse regions.
The Global Market: While countries like South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam are popular, you can find excellent jobs in:
- Europe (Spain, Czech Republic, Italy)
- Latin America (Mexico, Costa Rica, Chile)
- The Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)
- The Online Sector (Teaching students remotely from your home country or anywhere with reliable Wi-Fi)
Flexibility is Key: Your TEFL certificate is a universal qualification. If you are open-minded and willing to consider several regions, you dramatically increase your chances of finding a fulfilling job quickly.
Key Takeaway: Your TEFL certificate gives you a license to teach anywhere in the world. The jobs are abundant, provided you are prepared to explore different destinations.
5. Myth: TEFL is Only a Temporary Job for Travelers
Many people view teaching English overseas as a "gap year" activity for recent graduates, not a serious, stable profession. This keeps experienced professionals from considering it a long-term career path.
The Reality
While TEFL is a wonderful way to travel, it can lead to a stable and rewarding career in education management and specialized training.
Professional Growth: After gaining a few years of experience, you can pursue advanced positions within language schools:
- Academic Coordinator
- Curriculum Developer
- Teacher Trainer (often training new TEFL teachers)
- Director of Studies (DOS)
Transferable Skills: The skills you gain as a TEFL teacher (cross-cultural communication, leadership, presentation, and curriculum development) are highly valued in all sectors. Many experienced TEFL teachers transition smoothly into corporate training, human resources, or instructional design roles back home.
Specialization: You can become an expert in high-demand areas, such as teaching Young Learners, preparing students for university entrance exams, or focusing on high-level Business English.
Key Takeaway: TEFL is a professional field that offers structured career progression and specialized, marketable skills for a long-term commitment.
Start Your Professional TEFL Journey Today
Your path to a new, global career starts with gaining the right TEFL Course. Teach Away's courses provides the exact professional training that schools around the world demand. Explore Teach Away's TEFL course options today.
Frequently Asked Questions About TEFL
Q: How long does it take to get a 120-hour TEFL certificate?
A: Because most courses are self-paced, the time varies. Most people complete the 120-hour course part-time in about 2 to 4 months, though accelerated options allow completion in as little as 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: Do I need to be a teacher already to enroll in a TEFL course?
A: No, you do not. The purpose of the TEFL course is to teach you the specific skills and methods needed to teach English as a foreign language, regardless of your past professional background.
Q: Is an online TEFL course accepted by schools overseas?
A: Yes, as long as it is accredited and is a minimum of 120 hours. Schools worldwide recognize reputable online providers like Teach Away.