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Frequently Asked Questions

To get you started, we've listed some of the most popular questions we get asked about TEFL. If you have a question that has not been covered in our TEFL FAQs, please get in touch with our TEFL advisers who will be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

General TEFL / TESOL Questions

What is TEFL?

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It involves teaching English to non-native speakers, usually in countries where English isn’t the first language. With a TEFL qualification, you can teach abroad, online, or even in English-speaking countries.

Can non-native English speakers teach English?

Yes, non-native speakers can teach English. However, some employers may prefer native speakers, so job opportunities can be more competitive. A strong TEFL qualification and proof of English proficiency can greatly improve your chances.

Are there any age restrictions?

Our courses are open to anyone aged 16 and over. While there's no upper age limit, some countries may have age-related work visa requirements, so it’s worth checking local regulations before applying for jobs abroad.

I am a qualified teacher. Do I still need a TEFL certificate to teach English abroad?

Yes. Most schools abroad still require a TEFL certificate, even if you're a qualified teacher, as it provides specific training in teaching English as a foreign language.

Can I take a TEFL course if I have a disability?

Yes. We welcome learners with disabilities. If you need any specific support or adjustments, just get in touch - we’re here to help.

Are Groupon TEFL courses the same?

No, Groupon TEFL courses are often not widely recognised by employers and may come with hidden fees or lack essential support and accreditation.

The TEFL Org Certificates and Accreditation

Why The TEFL Org?

We’re the most accredited TEFL course provider, with certifications recognised worldwide. Our courses are developed by experienced EFL teachers and include dedicated tutor support and lifetime access to our TEFL Jobs Centre. While some courses may seem cheaper, our comprehensive training ensures you're well-prepared for your teaching journey.

Why is accreditation important?

TEFL accreditation means a course has been independently reviewed to ensure it meets high standards in content, delivery, and tutor support - giving you confidence in its quality and recognition.

What is TEFL accreditation?

The course provider is thoroughly checked to ensure adherence to quality standards in course provision and tutor support.

Will a TEFL Org certificate get me a job?

A TEFL Org certificate is widely recognised and has helped thousands of graduates teach English online and around the world. You’ll get lifetime access to our TEFL Jobs Centre, plus CV support to help you stand out to employers.

Is there an international TEFL accrediting body?

No, there isn’t one single global accrediting body for TEFL. Instead, look for courses with recognised external accreditation to ensure quality and credibility.

What is the difference between regulation and endorsement?

Regulation involves strict oversight, including checks on course content, delivery, and student assessment. Endorsement is typically less rigorous and may only verify basic course standards.

When will I receive my TEFL certificate?

You’ll get a PDF certificate within 24 hours of course completion. A hard copy is also available free of charge on request.

Does the TEFL certificate expire?

No, your TEFL certificate is valid for life. However, it's best to use it within two years of qualifying, as employers may ask about gaps in teaching experience.

What does it say on my certificate?

Your certificate includes your name, course title, completion date, and details such as the number of study hours.

Where can I get my TEFL certificate legalised?

Contact TEFL Org for guidance on how to legalise, certify, or apostille your certificate. Requirements vary by country, and we can help you understand the process based on where you plan to teach.

I’ve lost my certificate. How do I order a new one?

If you’ve lost your certificate, simply contact our Customer Services team by emailing info@tefl.org to request a replacement copy. We’ll be happy to help.

How can an employer verify my certificate?

Schools can verify your certificate online or by contacting TEFL Org directly, with your permission.

TEFL Courses

Choosing & Entry Requirements

What qualifications do I need to apply for a course?

You just need to be a native or near-native English speaker with a willingness to learn - no prior teaching experience or qualifications required.

What’s the difference between a classroom, virtual-classroom, and fully-online TEFL course?

Classroom courses: In-person training sessions held at certain locations. Virtual-classroom courses: Live, interactive sessions conducted online via platforms like Zoom. Fully-online courses: Self-paced study completed entirely online, accessible anytime.

How do I enrol?

Simply choose your preferred course on our website, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. Once your payment is confirmed, you'll receive immediate access to your course materials.

Pricing & Payments

Are there any hidden fees?

No, everything is included - course materials, tutor support, assessments, certification, and even postage for your certificate if you request a hard copy.

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes, a £50 deposit reserves your spot, and the remaining balance is due within two weeks of the course date.

Tutor Support & Learning Experience

What support will I receive on the course?

You’ll get access to a personal tutor, comprehensive course materials, and our exclusive Discord community for students and graduates - so you're fully supported every step of the way.

How long does it take to receive feedback on assignments?

You’ll receive assignment feedback within 48 hours of submission.

How do I contact my online course tutor?

You’ll get access to a personal tutor, comprehensive course materials, and our exclusive Discord community for students and graduates - so you're fully supported every step of the way.

What happens if I disagree with tutor feedback?

If you disagree with feedback, you can request clarification or ask for a review of your assignment - we’re here to help you succeed.

Do tutors speak British or American English?

You can email your tutor directly - their contact details are included in your welcome email when you start the course.

My grammar isn’t the best. Will this be an issue?

No, grammar is covered in the course, and prior detailed knowledge is not required.

Do I need to purchase any textbooks for the course?

No, but a grammar reference book is recommended when you begin teaching.

Online TEFL Courses

Does the course prepare me for both online and in-person teaching?

Yes. Our courses are designed to give you the skills to teach in both classroom and online settings, with adaptable methods and practical strategies for each.

How long will it take to complete the online TEFL course?

Courses are self-paced and typically take 10–12 weeks.

What are the technical requirements for online TEFL courses?

A PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone is required, along with specific software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader and Zoom.

In which order should I complete the course?

The course is flexible and can be completed in any order.

What if I need more time to complete my course?

You can purchase extensions ranging from one week to three months.

Combined TEFL Courses (Online + Classroom)

What qualifications do I need to apply for a combined course?

You don’t need any prior teaching experience or qualifications. As long as you’re fluent in English, you’re good to go.

In which order should I complete the online and classroom parts?

It’s flexible! You can start with either. We recommend to begin online to build confidence before attending the classroom session.

Do TEFL Org combined courses include live teaching practice?

Yes. During the classroom part, you'll take part in teaching practice with feedback from your tutor and peers. This is a great way to build confidence.

Level 5 TEFL Diploma

Should I do a 120-hour or Level 5 TEFL course?

It depends on your career goals. A Level 5 course offers more in-depth training and may be preferred for competitive roles, but a 120-hour course is widely accepted and sufficient for many teaching jobs.

What is the benefit of a Level 5 TEFL course?

A Level 5 TEFL course offers more in-depth training, which can boost your confidence and make your job applications more competitive, especially for higher-paying or more selective roles.

Is this Level 5 Diploma internationally recognised?

Our Level 5 TEFL Diploma is regulated by Ofqual (UK government) and recognised by employers worldwide, ensuring your qualification is respected wherever you choose to teach.

What makes a course “Level 5”?

A Level 5 TEFL course is a qualification assessed at Level 5 on the UK’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). Only courses regulated by an Ofqual-recognised awarding body (like TQUK) meet this standard.

Advanced TEFL Courses

Do I need a core TEFL certificate before taking an advanced course?

Yes. Our advanced courses are designed to build on the foundational skills from a 120-hour TEFL certificate. You can enrol once you’ve completed your initial TEFL training.

Can I add on further TEFL courses later?

Yes – you can always build on your TEFL qualification by enrolling on additional courses at a later date. You could take one of several advanced courses to enhance your CV and increase job prospects.Learn more: Advanced TEFL courses

Are advanced courses accredited and internationally recognised?

Yes. As an accredited TEFL course provider, our advanced courses meet high standards and are widely recognised by employers around the world. Learn more about our accreditation here: The TEFL Org Accreditation

Can I bundle multiple advanced courses for a discount?

We offer TEFL course bundles that combine our foundational courses with advanced courses at a reduced price.

Classroom TEFL Courses (In-Person and Zoom Classes)

Where are classroom courses held?

Courses are offered in towns and cities across the UK, Ireland, and Spain.

Is virtual teaching practice recognised by schools/employers?

Yes, virtual teaching practice is valued by employers, especially when in-person options aren't available. While some schools may prefer classroom experience, assessed online practice still shows you're prepared to teach.

How many people are there on the course?

There are typically 4 to 20 students per classroom.

What time does the course start and finish?

Weekday courses run 9 AM–6 PM, Monday to Wednesday. Weekend courses are 9 AM–8 PM on Saturday, and 9 AM–6 PM on Sunday.

Are there any breaks on the course?

Yes, there are short breaks, including a lunch break.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included. You can bring your own or purchase it nearby.

Is accommodation provided?

No, accommodation is not included in the course fee.

TEFL Jobs

Do I need a university degree to teach English abroad?

Not always. Some countries or schools require a degree for visa or hiring purposes, but there are many opportunities available for non-degree holders as well.

Do I need to speak the local language?

No, English is the only language used in the classroom. That said, learning a few local phrases can be helpful for daily life and cultural integration.

What are the best TEFL destinations?

The best TEFL destinations vary based on your goals—whether you're seeking high salaries, cultural immersion, or a relaxed lifestyle. Countries like South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, Spain, and Thailand are popular choices for English teachers abroad. Each offers unique opportunities and experiences. For a detailed overview, you can refer to this guide: Top TEFL Destinations This Year.

Can I teach English if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the nature of the offense and the visa requirements of the country where you want to teach. Some countries may restrict work visas based on certain criminal records.

Are you guaranteed a job after the course?

No job is guaranteed, but around 80% of our graduates find work within two months. You'll need to apply and interview, but we provide tools and support to help you succeed.

Can TEFL Org set me up with a job on completion of the course?

While we don’t place you in a job directly, you’ll get lifetime access to our TEFL Jobs Centre, where you can search and apply for teaching opportunities worldwide.

Will I be able to apply for a job straight after the course?

Yes, once you’ve completed your training, you’ll be fully equipped to apply for TEFL jobs and start teaching online or in the classroom.

Do I need teaching experience to find a good teaching position?

No prior experience is required. There are plenty of opportunities for newly qualified TEFL teachers, as well as roles for those with experience - all around the world and online.

I completed my TEFL course through a different course provider. Can I still apply for roles advertised on the TEFL Jobs Centre?

No, the TEFL Jobs Centre is exclusively for TEFL Org graduates. However, you can explore our Recommended TEFL Jobs listings or read our guide on Where to Find TEFL Jobs for other opportunities.

Teaching English Abroad

Do I need a university degree to teach English abroad?

Not always. Some countries or schools require a degree for visa or hiring purposes, but there are many opportunities available for non-degree holders as well.

Do I need to speak the local language?

No, English is the only language used in the classroom. That said, learning a few local phrases can be helpful for daily life and cultural integration.

What are the best TEFL destinations?

The best TEFL destinations vary based on your goals—whether you're seeking high salaries, cultural immersion, or a relaxed lifestyle. Countries like South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, Spain, and Thailand are popular choices for English teachers abroad. Each offers unique opportunities and experiences. For a detailed overview, you can refer to this guide: Top TEFL Destinations This Year.

Can I teach English if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the nature of the offense and the visa requirements of the country where you want to teach. Some countries may restrict work visas based on certain criminal records.

Teaching English Online

Which TEFL Org course is best if I plan to teach English exclusively online?

Our 120-hour Premier Online TEFL course is a great starting point for teaching English online. For more comprehensive training, consider our 200-hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma, which offers deeper insights into teaching methodologies.

Is the 120-hour certificate enough for online platforms, or should I take the Level 5 Diploma?

The 120-hour certificate meets the basic requirements for many online teaching platforms. However, the Level 5 Diploma provides more in-depth training, which can enhance your qualifications and open up more opportunities.

Can I teach English online without a university degree or native-speaker status?

Yes, many online platforms hire teachers without a university degree or native-speaker status. A TEFL certification and proficiency in English are often sufficient.

How do I find legitimate online-teaching jobs and avoid scams?

Use trusted job boards like TEFL Org’s Jobs Centre. Be cautious of platforms requiring upfront fees or offering unrealistic salaries. Research companies thoroughly before applying.

Teach English Locally

Can I use TEFL certification to teach in my home country?

Yes, many TEFL graduates use their qualification to teach English locally – either in schools, language centres, or through private tutoring. Just check if additional requirements apply in your country.