Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a fantastic way for individuals to travel the world and make a difference in people’s lives. By becoming TEFL certified, you can teach English in any country of your choice and open up new doors in terms of job opportunities and career prospects. If you’re considering TEFL courses, then this guide will provide everything you need to know about becoming certified with one of the best teaching qualifications on the market. 

What is TEFL? 

Put simply, TEFL stands for ‘Teaching English as a Foreign Language’. It’s an internationally recognised qualification that allows people to teach English abroad in countries where it isn’t spoken as a native language. As well as giving you the chance to work abroad, it can also open up more job opportunities here at home too. The most common form of TEFL qualification is known as CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults). This course provides students with an introduction into teaching English as a foreign language and gives them the skills they need to become successful teachers – no matter where they decide to work. 

Different Types of TEFL Course 

There are several different types of TEFL course available, ranging from introductory level qualifications right through to advanced level certificates. Depending on your current level of experience, you may want to start off with an introductory-level course before progressing onto something more advanced once you have gained some experience in the classroom environment. The most popular types of courses include: 

• Online/Distance Learning Courses – These courses are perfect for those who don’t have much free time or want to study at their own pace from home. They usually take around 120 hours and involve online tutorial sessions and online assignments which must be completed within a certain timeframe. 

• Part-time Courses – Part-time courses typically last anywhere from 8 weeks up to 6 months and involve both classroom-based learning and practical teaching experience in real classrooms with real students. During these courses, students will learn about grammar, pronunciation and other aspects of teaching such as lesson planning and classroom management techniques. 

• Full-time Courses – Full-time courses are ideal for those who want to get their certification quickly or who have very little experience teaching English as a foreign language. These intensive courses usually last 4 weeks or less but often involve long days spent both in the classroom learning theory and out on placements observing experienced teachers at work. 

Face-to-Face Courses – Face-to-face courses typically involve attending lectures at an institute or university where instructors are present to give guidance and answer any questions you may have. In addition, many face-to-face programs provide job placement assistance to ensure that all graduates have a chance at finding work after completing their studies. 

Diploma Programs – Diploma programs typically last longer than other types of TEFL courses (usually one year or longer) and are designed for those who want to specialize in teaching English as a foreign language at an advanced level. These programs often require candidates to complete assignments and exams throughout their studies as well as take part in fieldwork placements and internships during their final year of study. 

Conclusion: 

Whether you’re looking for a way into the world of international teaching or just want to add another impressive qualification onto your CV, taking part in an accredited TEFL course could be one of the best decisions you ever make! With so many different types of course available – from online distance learning programs through to intensive four week full time certifications – there really is something out there for everyone! So why not start researching today? Good luck!