A TEFL certificate is an internationally recognized certification to teach English as a foreign language. TEFL certification is the best designation for teachers looking to teach English in countries where English isn’t the primary language.
If you’re seeking an ESL teaching position overseas in a non-English speaking nation, then TEFL is the certification for you. Read on for the lowdown on how a TEFL certificate can help you land that dream job teaching abroad.
TEFL certification is a common requirement for most teaching jobs abroad. When researching ESL teaching jobs abroad, it’s likely that you’ll find job requirements vary across countries. For the most part, though, an internationally recognized TEFL certification is a requirement to teach at most reputable schools abroad. A Bachelor’s degree is a common requirement, but you don’t need to possess a degree in education or previous teaching experience in order to teach English abroad.
A TEFL certificate shows prospective employers you’re qualified to teach English. When interviewing for teaching jobs abroad, you‘ll be expected to demonstrate a strong grasp of fundamental English teaching skills – skills that can only be gained through getting TEFL certified. A TEFL course covers the ins and outs of ESL teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management and how to teach English language skills like reading, writing, speaking, listening, pronunciation and grammar. A TEFL certification equips you with essential skills for the foreign language classroom, like how to identify different learning styles and adapt lessons to suit different student needs.
You’ll have a competitive edge over other candidates who lack a TEFL qualification. The ESL job market is highly competitive. Without a TEFL certificate, you’ll be at a distinct disadvantage; good schools are looking to hire teachers with proper training so will not consider you to be a viable candidate without a TEFL certificate. Even for job openings where the hiring school has not explicitly listed a TEFL certification as a requirement, it is always noticed and could be the distinguishing factor between you and another teaching candidate.
Make this the year you qualify to teach abroad. Find out more about our TEFL course options today!
13 comments
I already have PGDE from Institute of Education, Universuty of London. I also have 17 years of teaching experience and currently teaching in an International school in Nigeria. Do I still need TEFL? Most jobs in Esia and middle East specify this certificate but do I need it? or is there anthing else you will recommend?
Thanks
Stone Kalu
Hi, I am interested in this course. But I have no bachelors degree or masters. I just have a diploma in secondary school teaching and 2 years of teaching experience is all I have. So will I be able to do the TEFL course and find jobs.
And what are the countries that hire teachers in the teachaway website?
Thank you.
Hi Julie,
The TEFL certificate you choose depends on where you want to teach. Each country has it’s own requirements, but in general, a bachelor’s degree in any subject a reputable 120-hour TEFL certificate will land you an English teaching job. Your Master’s degree is another way to help your resume stand out, but won’t exempt you from requiring a TEFL certificate. I hope this helps answer your question!
- Elspeth at Teach Away
Hello,
I have a Master’s in Social/Cultural Anthropology with a Collaborative in Diaspora and Transnational Studies, as well as a B.A in Anthropology with a minor in Sociology. Which English Teaching certificate would you suggest?
Thank You,
Julie
I am interested in the course but I don’t have cash to pay for the fees. Please any scholarship available for Africans?