How to select the right TEFL course?

Choosing a TEFL course based on your work experience

For students without teaching experience

• 300 or 420-hour TEFL course, select extra modules that help close some gaps in your resume
• Online, local, or blended, but choose a course that focuses sufficiently on practical exercises to help you discover how to deal with teaching situations.
• TEFL course providers that also offer a TEFL internship are a good bridge to the work experience that is often required/desired for paid TEFL jobs. These can be interesting programs, especially for non-native speakers.

For students with teaching experience outside of English language teaching

• 180-hour online TEFL course, including specialization modules fitting your personal needs, like grammar and teaching young children

For students looking for a paid teaching job abroad

• 300 or 420 hours (online) TEFL course, even if you already have teaching experience outside or in language teaching
• Take the TEFL course in the country where you want to work, so you can get specific tips and help to find a local TEFL job.
• For students who want to teach English in China for pay, a 180-hour online TEFL course is the minimum requirement, but a more extensive course with practical components will increase your chances of finding a job

For students looking for a volunteer teaching job abroad

• A Level 3 or a 120-hour online TEFL course to learn the basics of teaching English

Choosing a TEFL course based on the type of work you want to do

For students looking for a well-paid teaching job abroad: 

• A 300 or 420-hour online TEFL course, if you already have teaching experience outside or in language education.
• A local TEFL course in the country where you want to become a teacher.

For students looking for a volunteer or temporary teaching job abroad:

• A 120-hour online TEFL course to learn the basics of teaching English