TEFL - FAQs

What is the difference between TESOL and TEFL?   

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. These descriptions are generally used interchangeably, however, TESOL is more common in the USA and TEFL is more common in the UK.

What does TEFL mean?   

The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is commonly used to refer to training courses that almost anyone can take to learn the skills and knowledge required to teach English to non-native speakers in countries all over the world.

Do I need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad?   

Although it is possible to teach abroad without a TEFL certificate, we recommended that you complete a TEFL course before you set off. Many countries now require teachers to be TEFL certified, and a significant number of employers dismiss unqualified teachers as they assume they lack sufficient skills and knowledge.

Do TEFL teachers need a second language?   

Having some knowledge of the local language may provide a more fulfilling experience when teaching English abroad, but it is not necessary in order to be an effective teacher. At ITTT we provide TEFL courses based on the principle that English is the only language used during lessons.

Are there any age limits for TEFL teaching?   

For many years we have enabled people of all ages to get started on the path to a new career as an English language teacher. As long as you are open to new ideas and keen to work in a classroom environment, your age should not be an issue.

Do TEFL certificates expire?   

Once issued TEFL certificates are valid for life, they do not expire. Wherever you are in the world you can apply for teaching jobs using your certificate as proof that you have received training in a wide variety of topics, including English grammar, lesson planning and classroom management.

What is an ESL teacher?   

"ESL teacher" can be used to describe various situations as teachers in this field work in a wide range of environments and teach vastly different groups of students. However, the common purpose of every ESL teacher is to help people to improve their ability to speak and write in English.

Can I teach English abroad without any teaching experience?   

Although some employers insist on prior experience, due to a high demand in many countries there is no shortage of positions for first time teachers. By completing a TEFL course before going overseas you will learn all the skills and knowledge you need to get started as an ESL teacher.

Can I learn a foreign language while teaching English abroad?   

Learning a foreign language is high on the to-do list of many teachers working abroad. Being able to practice the language on a day to day basis will not only help you to learn it quickly, but will also help you to feel more at home in your new surroundings.

Is it safe for single women to teach English abroad?   

The good news for anyone who is thinking about heading overseas to live and work is providing you do plenty of research and planning in advance, and employ some common sense on arrival, there should be no reason to worry about your safety when teaching English abroad.

Can I teach English abroad if I have children?   

Yes, although you will need to do plenty of research and planning to ensure that you find the right environment for you and your family. But if you are determined to teach English abroad, having children does not need to be a barrier to fulfilling your dream.

How will I make friends while teaching English abroad?   

While it is possible that you will initially feel a little homesick, the vast majority of people who head off to teach English abroad soon develop a new network of friends and colleagues from both their host country and elsewhere in the world.

What is the difference between TEFL, TESOL and CELTA?   

When conducting online research for teaching English abroad you will quickly come across the acronyms TEFL, TESOL and CELTA. Essentially, they represent the basic qualifications that many international employers look for when hiring English language teachers to work in schools or language academies.

Are TEFL teachers in demand?   

The number of people learning English as a foreign language across the world continues to grow every year and there is no sign that this is going to change in the foreseeable future. Due to this seemingly endless growth the demand for qualified English language teachers is extremely high in almost every region of the world.

Is TEFL a good career choice?   

Teaching English abroad often has the reputation of being a short-term adventure that young people do for a year before returning home to a ‘normal life’. However, it is entirely possible to make a successful long-term career out of TEFL and many people do.

Do qualified teachers need a TEFL certification?   

Many fully qualified teachers decide they want to broaden their horizons and head overseas to teach. However, it is often a surprise to find that some of the best jobs require a TEFL certification. In reality, there are many differences between teaching at home and abroad which is why a TEFL qualification is often expected.

Are there any age restrictions when teaching English in Asia?   Asia is the number one region for teaching English abroad; however, there are certain restrictions in place in some countries that might limit the options available to you. One area that you might need to consider is your age. Read more

What should I pack for teaching English abroad?   When planning your English teaching adventure there are many things you need to think about, including what to take with you and what to leave behind. So, what should you pack for teaching English abroad? Read more

Will I lose touch with family and friends while teaching English abroad?   It is natural to have a few concerns when heading overseas to teach English for the first time. One area that is a common worry is keeping in contact with loved ones back home. So, how do you keep in touch with home while teaching English abroad? Read more

What does TEFL and TESOL stand for?   

If you have looked into the idea of teaching English abroad you are certain to have come across the acronyms TEFL and TESOL many times and in several different contexts. But what do they actually mean?

Can I teach English abroad?   

One of the reasons why teaching English abroad is so popular is that it is open to a wide range of people from almost any background. All you really need is a TEFL certification and the desire for adventure.

Should I teach English abroad?   

If you are considering teaching English abroad you are sure to have several questions regarding the availability of jobs, the potential longevity of teaching as a career, and what it can lead to in the long-term.

What is TEFL teaching?   

TEFL teaching is an increasingly popular way to travel, earn money and have a great adventure and it is open to almost anyone. If you want to join the thousands of people taking advantage of this opportunity, there are a few things you need to know.

What is TEFL?   

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and a TEFL certificate is the qualification you will need in order to apply for most teaching jobs around the world. By signing up for a TEFL course you can get your new life of travel and adventure under way today.

How long do TEFL certificates last?   

Certificates and diplomas achieved through International TEFL and TESOL Training are academic qualifications. They are valid for life and won’t require renewal at any time. All graduates of ITTT courses are sent an embossed certificate via registered post, as well as a PDF version by email.

What are TEFL acronyms?   

The teaching profession is well known for its use of acronyms. English teaching is no exception, with examples such as, ELL, ELT, TEFL and TESOL. What do these all mean and why are they needed? In particular, what is TEFL teaching?

Why are TEFL teachers important?   

Although teachers in all subjects and environments are vitally important to the continued growth of education around the world, there are a few specific reasons why we think TEFL teachers should be considered important.

What should I teach English beginners?   

Are you teaching English to beginners, but aren't quite sure where to start? Teaching complete beginners can be daunting, but there are a couple of tips and tricks you can follow to turn your beginners into successful English language students in no time.

Do you need a degree for TEFL?   

One of the best things about a career in TEFL is that it is open to almost anyone, regardless of age, background, prior experience, or whether or not you are a native English speaker. But one of the most frequently asked questions is, -Do I need a degree to teach English abroad?-

What level of English is required for TEFL?   

What level of English is required to teach English as a Foreign Language? To answer this we can ask a series of further questions, such as do you have to be an English language expert to teach EFL?

How long does it take to get a TEFL certificate?   

As there are so many different TEFL courses to choose from it is impossible to say how long they will take to complete. Whichever course you choose, it will generally come down to how much free time you have to study and how motivated you are to get your teaching career underway.

Is grammar knowledge important when teaching English?   

This is a question about which there is vigorous debate and discussion. Those who know their grammar tend to say, yes. Those who don’t know grammar tend to be less sure of the importance. However, the fact that there are millions of dollars made each year by publishers selling grammar books tells us something.

Can I be an English teacher without an English degree?   

Do you want to teach English as a foreign language but you don’t have a degree? Don’t despair! Although having a degree might make it easier to find a teaching job, it’s not impossible to teach English without a degree.

Can TEFL be a career?   

Teaching English can certainly be a long-term career if you want it to be. The period of time you spend abroad and teach English is really up to you. Some people like to take a year or two to get experience living abroad, while others stay abroad for decades and some even forever!

Do you need a TEFL If you are a qualified teacher?   

Many qualified teachers decide to make use of their skills and look for teaching positions abroad. When doing so they often believe that they do not require a TEFL certificate since they are already teachers. However, many employers will still require a TEFL certificate since it is a very specialized field in the world of teaching.

What are the best books for teaching ESL?   

There are many different types of books that are useful in ESL teaching and these fall into three main categories: book series, general teaching theory books, and activity books. The best books for a teacher will depend entirely upon the situation they find themselves in and there is no ‘one answer fits all’ solution.

Can I teach English abroad without a degree?   

Do you want to teach English abroad but don’t have a degree? Don't worry! Although having a degree may make it easier to find a teaching job, teaching English without a degree is still a very real option.

How do I verify a TEFL certificate?   

Employers and TEFL course takers sometimes need to verify a TEFL certificate in order to make sure that the certificate was truly earned and completed by the teacher. Verifying a TEFL certificate is very easy and only involves a few steps.

What does TEFL stand for?   

TEFL refers to Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is an internationally recognised teaching qualification that is provided upon successful completion of a TEFL course. TEFL certificate holders should be able to deliver effective lessons with confidence to ESL students, both young and old.

How to teach EFL   

There are a number of ways we could answer this depending upon the intention of the question. Here we will take the question to mean; “What you need in order to be able to teach EFL”. This has two components, training and knowledge and we will cover both.

Can I teach English with just a TEFL certificate?   

One of the great things about EFL teaching is the variety of backgrounds that the people who enter the profession have. This includes the range of ages, ethnicities, teaching experience and qualifications. There are numerous opportunities available to those with a TEFL certificate to gain EFL jobs. Here we look at how.

How do I become an English teacher overseas?   

Teaching English overseas has become more and more popular in recent years, whether it is just for a short time or something more long term. Make your ambition of teaching English abroad a reality by looking through our step-by-step guide.

Will TEFL certification help you teach English?   

The teaching of English as a second or foreign language is a major part of the teaching profession. It is a serious undertaking for which the consequences of inadequate teacher training can be unfortunate for those wishing to learn English. A certification in TEFL is therefore crucial for EFL teachers.

What is the official TEFL website?   Teaching English is a huge industry worldwide and as such there are multiple nations involved in regulating the industry. As with most worldwide industries there is no single body representing all the different providers. This is important when answering the question; What is the official TEFL website? Read more

Is it hard to get TEFL certified?   

The qualifications required to start teaching ESL are typically: having a good knowledge and use of the English language and a minimum TEFL certification of 120-hours. There are very few other professions where such a quick entry to the job market is available.

Is teaching English easy?   

Before heading overseas to teach English there are several things to consider in order to make the transition a smooth one. You need to pick a destination where there is a strong demand for English language teachers. You also need to have the right qualifications and attitude to appeal to potential employers.

What is EFL?   

Within the world of English language teaching there are many acronyms in use such as EFL. EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language which is used to refer to people who are learning English in a non-English speaking country.

Why should I teach EFL?   

Teaching English offers the chance for anyone who has good English skills, a passion for education, and an adventurous spirit, to really make a difference to their own lives and the lives of others. Once TEFL qualified you will be able to start teaching in the location of your choice.

What does an EFL teacher do?   

The role of an EFL teacher can vary from one job to the next, although there are certain responsibilities that are common to most positions. You will need to create lesson plans, gather materials, set and grade tests, organize homework, and ensure that every student gets the help they need.

Where is EFL taught?   

EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language. Although the acronyms EFL and ESL are commonly used to say the same thing, EFL is technically where English is being taught in a non-English speaking country, while ESL technically occurs in countries where English is a main language.

Should we teach culture in the EFL classroom?   

Every language has developed its own vocabulary for talking about things that are important to that specific culture. To fully embrace a new language it is important to be exposed to as many facets of its culture as possible and as EFL teachers we have the perfect platform to do just that.

Do you need to be bilingual to teach English?   

This question is regularly asked by TEFL trainees and the answer is simple: No, you do not need to speak any other languages in order to teach English overseas. In most situations, English is taught using the principle of immersion, where the only language used in the classroom is English.

How long does it take to get TEFL certified?   

The time taken to study and graduate from a TEFL course will depend upon the type of course you take, be it in person or online. It will also depend upon which level of course you take. Here we will discuss both these variables and what they mean in terms of time allowance for certification.

Can I teach English abroad in my gap year?   

Taking a gap year between school and university, between university and a first job, or at any other time in your life is an increasingly popular option. Although some people can afford to head off without any money concerns, many people embrace TEFL as a way of earning cash on the road.

Is there discrimination in TEFL?   

Although most TEFL teachers are very accepting of differences, you will sometimes come across employers who are less so. Discrimination on the grounds of race, age, native language, and appearance are all possibilities when applying for jobs in some countries around the world.

Where are the cheapest places to teach TEFL?   

The initial costs of starting a journey teaching English abroad include your TEFL certification, transport to your chosen destination, and living expenses to see you through to your first payday. But which popular countries for teaching overseas offer a lower than average cost of living?

What are the pros and cons of TEFL?   

Teaching English abroad has many amazing benefits that make it a once in a lifetime experience, including the freedom to travel and the chance to make lifelong friends. However, you should also be aware that it can be very hard work and living away from home can sometimes be difficult.

Do accents matter when teaching English abroad?   

Everyone who has ever taught English has done so with some sort of accent, no matter where in the world they are from. Although some accents are stronger than others, as long as you speak clearly there is no reason to worry about using your own accent in the TEFL classroom.

How is teaching business English different from general English?   

General, conversational English lessons make up a large bulk of all English lessons taught around the world, although there are also certain specialist areas of the language that provide excellent opportunities for some teachers. One of the most common areas is business-related English which is popular in many different countries.

What are the most common TEFL scams?   

The vast majority of people involved in the recruitment of TEFL qualified teachers are honest and reliable, but there are always a few bad apples looking to catch you out. Here we look at some of the more common TEFL scams and how to avoid them.

Which English should be taught in the TEFL classroom?   

When we say that we teach English, we often do not associate this with the different types of English out there. Here we will focus on two ‘Englishes’, those of American and British. We will consider the main differences in spelling, grammar, pronunciation and other factors

What do TEFL teachers wear?   

Before you jet off to start teaching in a school or language center overseas it is important to know what dress code you are expected to adhere to. Some schools will expect a shirt and tie, while others will be happy with jeans and a t-shirt.

Is TEFL worth it?   

The value of continuing education, including acquiring a TEFL certification, can spark diverse views. However, we are positive of its value, particularly in today's context, where mere fluency in English is not enough to excel as an English language teacher.

What are TEFL accreditation bodies?   

Numerous TEFL course providers exist and you can ascertain their trustworthiness by inspecting the official bodies that accredit their courses. Courses vetted by a third-party institution typically ensure the quality and professionalism of their academic materials.

What is the difference between EFL and ELL?   

The terms EFL and ELL are often confused. Briefly, EFL is an acronym for English as a Foreign Language, designating the course or class. On the other hand, ELL stands for English Language Learner, referencing the student.

Is TEFL internationally recognized?   

A training course holds little value without global accreditation and acknowledgment. Every TEFL course provided by ITTT undergoes external validation and accreditation to meet international norms and is widely recognized by employers worldwide.

How many hours do TEFL teachers teach?   

Providing a definitive answer to this question is challenging given the various influencing factors, including the nature of the job, the country where you are teaching, and the students' age group. We advise conducting comprehensive research before committing to any teaching position to ensure clarity from the onset.

What are TEFL standards?   

TEFL standards generally encompass three primary areas. The first involves accreditation and moderation, concepts that are frequently misconstrued. The second pertains to the various kinds of certificates issued. Lastly, standardization could relate to the different types of courses available.

What is the difference between TEFL and IELTS?   

These two abbreviations denote very distinct concepts. TEFL refers to training programs and the subsequent certifications people acquire to teach English. Conversely, IELTS is an English proficiency exam utilized by employers and immigration offices to evaluate an individual's English language skills.

Which is better, TEFL or CELTA?   

In your exploration of teaching English overseas or online, you will have likely encountered the terms TEFL and CELTA. Simply put, both TEFL and CELTA are globally recognized teaching credentials that provide you with the opportunity to teach English in various locations worldwide.

How do I become a great English teacher?   

To embark on the journey of becoming an English teacher, proficiency in English and a TEFL certification are generally necessary. However, to transition from a good to a great teacher, you will need additional qualities such as patience, adaptability, confidence, and exceptional communication. A top-notch TEFL course can aid you in developing these vital attributes.

Which countries accept TEFL?   

Acquiring a TEFL certification is often a prerequisite for well-paid English teaching positions with favorable work environments, irrespective of your preferred global location. With this certification, you become eligible to seek teaching positions in virtually all countries that have English teaching opportunities.

What are the different types of TEFL programs?   

Within the field of English language teaching there are several types of learner that you might come across, each requiring a specific approach from the teacher in the classroom. Here we will look at some of the most common TEFL programs such as general English, business English, and teaching young learners.

What is a TEFL curriculum?   

Within the majority of the TEFL industry, five student levels typically exist. Here, we will explore these levels, providing a sample of the syllabus content for each. Bear in mind that English language proficiency is cumulative; hence, each level encompasses all preceding levels.

What is the difference between EFL and ESL?   

Those versed in English language instruction will likely recognize the acronyms ESL and EFL, though they may not fully grasp their precise definitions. Despite their often interchangeable use, ESL and EFL technically differentiate between teaching English in countries where English is the primary language versus those where it is not.

What not to do as an EFL teacher?   

As an EFL teacher, it often takes a while to establish your footing and figure out effective strategies for achieving desired results in the classroom. Yet, there are certain habits or actions that teachers frequently initiate from the beginning of their careers, which may inhibit their progress.

Where can I get free TEFL lesson plans?   

Designing a lesson plan is an important responsibility for English teachers, especially when they are just starting their career. A well-constructed lesson plan offers a strong framework that aids the seamless transition from one activity to another, and guarantees that the primary objectives of the lesson are achieved.

Which is the best age group to teach English?   

As you embark on your TEFL journey, it is important to identify which age group aligns best with your teaching style to aid your job search. Some teachers relish the vibrancy and dynamism of young learners, while others thrive in the more tranquil environment of adult classes.

Is it easier to teach English to children or adults?   

Teaching English worldwide caters to various age demographics, prompting the question: which is the easiest age group to teach? The answer isn't straightforward, as each age group presents unique challenges, and certain teachers might be better equipped to handle specific groups.

How do you deal with misbehaving TEFL students?   

Teaching English exclusively to adults typically presents fewer disciplinary concerns within the classroom, unlike teaching young learners where such challenges may be more prevalent. Nevertheless, employing a few strategic tactics can significantly improve classroom management in these scenarios.

How do you motivate TEFL students?   

Motivation plays a critical role in learning a new language. Young learners typically engage well when the process is enjoyable. Adult learners, on the other hand, often have a specific goal driving their learning. Teenagers may occasionally require extra encouragement from their teachers to optimize their learning outcomes.

What are the 4 skills in TEFL?   

Teaching English as a foreign language involves a balanced focus on four key skills. Speaking and writing, termed 'productive skills', necessitate the active creation of language. On the other hand, reading and listening, referred to as 'receptive skills', involve understanding and interpreting the language.

What skills do TEFL teachers need?   

Aspiring to teach English abroad or online requires certain personal attributes that can significantly impact your success. Key qualities for a teacher include being well-organized, adaptable, patient, and willing to invest effort in preparing your lessons effectively.

What is the best method for teaching English?   

Over time, numerous methodologies for teaching English as a foreign language have been developed and refined. Some approaches have proven more effective than others. Here we explore several enduring methods and provide a brief overview of scenarios where these approaches might be most suitable.

How do I make a good TEFL lesson plan?   

Several components contribute to the development of effective lesson plans, although it is essential to understand the underlying reason for lesson planning to begin with. We will explore these reasons, providing insights into what constitutes a quality plan. Lastly, we will offer some broad guidelines for your lesson planning process.

What are the most common concerns for first time TEFL teachers?   

As a new TEFL graduate, it is natural to have numerous queries about your initial teaching position. This article explores some of the most prevalent worries among first-time teachers and offers practical strategies to tackle them in the classroom.

What is English for Specific Purposes?   

Numerous variants of English language courses exist, and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is one such type. ESP classes are tailored for learners requiring proficiency in job-specific language for their daily work. Instances of ESP courses include English for Aviation, English for Hospitality, and English for Tourism.

How do you teach English one-to-one?   

Most teachers are accustomed to instructing groups, regardless of their size. However, one-on-one teaching presents its own distinctive hurdles, especially during the planning stage, that need to be addressed for effective lessons. In this context, we will explore some of these challenges.

How to stay safe while teaching English abroad?   

While most individuals enjoy a secure and rewarding experience teaching English abroad, potential risks are always present. Yet, by adhering to a few basic guidelines, you can effectively minimize these risks and concentrate on enjoying all the exciting opportunities in your new environment.

Is 30 too old to teach English abroad?   

Teaching English knows no age limits as individuals of all ages are engaged in teaching English across the globe. Your proficiency in the English language is the key factor when pursuing a TEFL course or applying for jobs. Age should never hinder your passion for teaching and making a difference in the lives of language learners.

What are the main differences between American and British English?   

While British and American English share the same language, there are notable differences that English teachers need to be mindful of. These disparities in vocabulary and grammar can sometimes confuse both students and instructors. However, with proper guidance, these dissimilarities can be effectively addressed and overcome.

Are all TEFL / TESOL courses the same?   

When exploring various TEFL or TESOL training courses, it's crucial to avoid assuming they are all synonymous or adhere to identical standards and offerings merely because they incorporate terms like TEFL or TESOL in their names.

Can you teach English overseas or online without a Degree?   

While the significance of a Bachelor’s degree cannot be downplayed, it isn't an absolute necessity for teaching English abroad (https://www.teflcourse.net/teaching-english-without-degree/). Many positions overseas do require a degree as a minimum prerequisite. However, in current times, teaching English overseas or online (https://www.teflcourse.net/online-tefl-courses/) without a degree is a realistic option, thanks to TEFL / TESOL certification.

Do I need a TEFL / TESOL certification to teach English overseas or online.   

The significance of a good quality TEFL / TESOL course cannot be underestimated. Not only will you have qualification from a well respected course provider (https://www.teflcourse.net/best-tefl-course/), but your future employers will be well aware of the quality of training needed that you would have received by said course provider.

Do TEFL / TESOL certificates expire?   

Once obtained, a TEFL / TESOL certificate remains a valuable asset throughout one's career, offering immediate employment prospects upon completion or in the future. This enduring qualification serves as a versatile tool, facilitating teaching opportunities and income generation worldwide.

What is the difference between TEFL and TESOL?   

TESOL, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, encompasses the instruction of English to non-native speakers, regardless of the location, whether it be within English-speaking nations such as the U.S. or elsewhere. Conversely, TEFL, Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is specifically designed for teaching English in areas where it is a foreign language.

Are free or cheap TEFL / TESOL Certification courses worth it?   

Let's start by considering two well-known saying:

• "There's no such thing as a free lunch.”
• "You get what you pay for.”
• “It’s as good as the paper it’s written on.”

With these adages in mind, let's delve into the world of free and cheap TEFL / TESOL certificates and look at the potential issues that might present themselves.