If you’re interested in teaching English as a foreign language, or TEFL, as it’s commonly known, then getting your certification first is essential. While you could get a job without certification and start working right away, you’ll probably find it much easier to find a position with the right credentials.
We look at the benefits of getting your TEFL certification and explain where and how to get one. We also take a look at what an employer requires from applicants, and how to leverage the previous experience that you have under your belt when applying for these positions. Let’s dive in!
Why is TEFL Certification Important?
If you’re thinking about teaching English abroad then getting your TEFL certification is a must. There are a number of reasons why this is the case, but the most important one is that this will show potential employers that you’re qualified for the job.
A number of employers will require applicants to have a valid TEFL certificate before even considering hiring them. If you don’t have one, you’ll probably be put on a waiting list until you do. And in some cases, you’ll be rejected altogether.
Another reason is that TEFL certification programs give you a leg up in the job market. You’ll find that there’s stiff competition for English teaching jobs, especially if you’re looking to work in Asia or South America. Having a TEFL certification shows that you’re serious about being a teacher and that you have a basic grasp of the best practices. It also means that you have a certain level of qualification that people who don’t have it don’t have.
How to Get a TEFL Certification?
The first thing to do if you’re looking to get qualified for TEFL is to research your options. There are a number of different TEFL certification courses that you can choose from, so you’ll want to make sure you pick one that suits your needs and your budget.
You can find TEFL courses online or in person. The in-person courses are often more expensive, but you will have the benefit of being able to ask questions and interact with other students face to face. Online courses tend to be cheaper and more flexible, but you might have to do some extra research to make sure you find one that’s reputable.
Once you’ve found a course that you’re interested in, you’ll want to look at the syllabus and make sure it’s valid and up to date. Take a look at what previous students have said about it, too.
Pros of Having a TEFL Certification
There are a number of benefits to having a TEFL certificate. For one, it shows potential employers that you are qualified to teach English. You’ll likely find it much easier to find work with a TEFL certification. Employers will be more likely to hire you since you have a basic grasp of the best practices in the field and you’re qualified to teach English.
In addition to that, you’ll be able to charge more for your services. You’ll also be able to move to another country easily if you want since you’ll have all the necessary credentials. Another benefit of having a TEFL certification is that you will be able to gain valuable experience in the field before you get a TEFL job. This will make you stand out when applying for jobs and will make it easier to find work at all.
Cons of Having a TEFL Certification
While there are a number of benefits to having a TEFL certificate, there are a few downsides to consider, too. For one, you will have to pay to get your certification, which can be expensive depending on the course you take.
In addition to that, it will take time to finish the course and receive your certificate. You won’t be able to start teaching right away, which can be a downside for people who need to start working as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Teaching English as a foreign language has become increasingly in demand. It will certainly be a lucrative career choice for those with the certification to prove their skills. The demand for foreign language instructors is also increasing at a rapid pace. The TEFL certification is one of the most sought-after and coveted credentials for those who want to teach English as a foreign language.