As there are no set guidelines that providers have to follow, choosing a suitable online TEFL course is not always straightforward. A quick online search will reveal a large number of course options offered by companies of all shapes and sizes. The good news is there are several long established TEFL course providers that offer quality training courses that will set you up for a teaching career whether short or long-term.
What do I need to consider when choosing an online TEFL course?
Initially you should look at the course length as this will indicate the level of instruction and who the course is aimed at. Courses with a study time of under 100 hours are typically aimed at providing an introduction to EFL teaching that is ideal for anyone thinking about working in the voluntary sector. This area of teaching provides a vital service in many parts of the world and can also give the teacher an amazing cultural experience that will live long in the memory.
What length of online TEFL course do I need to earn good money?
If you want to apply for teaching jobs that offer a good salary you will typically require a TEFL certification of at least 100 hours. Courses at this level are generally great value for money and cover all the most important subjects that first-time teachers require, including teaching methodologies, classroom management and grammar structures. ITTT’s 120-hour TEFL certificate course with tutor & videos is a particularly popular option as it covers a wide range of theory subjects and comes complete with a set of videos that give further depth to each topic.
Is there anything else I need to know when choosing an online TEFL course?
One simple rule to remember is to avoid choosing the first or the cheapest course that you come across as it might not be good enough to secure the type of employment you are looking for. It is recommended that you spend some time researching the country or region that you plan to work in to ensure you are aware of any specific expectations of employers or restrictions on working visas related to TEFL qualifications. Some research into the course provider is also a good idea as it should provide an insight into the training experience of previous graduates.
