If you’ve just obtained your TEFL certification, or if you’re thinking about studying for one, you might be wondering what can you do with a TEFL certificate. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the options open to you. Who knows, maybe we can even help to inspire your next career move!
Holding a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate opens up a range of exciting possibilities. It screams, “I know my stuff!” and “Yes, I can teach your kids English and manage a classroom.” It’s a ticket to teaching English abroad or online, and it’s a confidence booster, big time.
A TEFL certificate isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s a golden ticket to a bunch of cool paths you probably haven’t even thought of. Whether you aspire to make money and travel the world, or seek to supplement your income from the comfort of your own home, a TEFL certification equips you with the skills and credentials to pursue various rewarding avenues.
So, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the world of possibilities that this certificate unlocks.
17 Things You Can Do With a TEFL Certificate
In this list, we’ll delve into the diverse array of opportunities awaiting you with a TEFL certificate, from teaching English abroad to working from the comfort of your own home. Let’s take a look at your options!
Teach English Abroad
If you want to make a difference in the lives of others whilst working abroad, there aren’t many jobs that beat teaching English abroad.
Armed with a TEFL certificate, you can embark on an adventure to countries such as China, South Korea, Thailand, or Spain, where there is a high demand for English teachers. Latin America is also a great destination for TEFL-certified teachers.
You can even make the move if you don’t yet have your TEFL qualification. Many English teachers abroad start out by taking their TEFL course abroad first and then look for TEFL jobs afterward. However, if you don’t have much money saved but still want to get abroad right away, we’d advise looking for a TEFL program that comes with a guaranteed job or doing a TEFL internship. That way you can travel abroad safe in the knowledge that you’ll have some income to support you after you complete your TEFL course.
Becoming an English teacher abroad is an unforgettable experience. It not only allows you to hone your teaching skills in a real-world setting but also provides invaluable cross-cultural experiences and opportunities for personal growth. Whether you prefer the bustling streets of a cosmopolitan city or the serene landscapes of a rural village, there’s an English teaching job suited to your preferences.
Teach English Online
One of the most popular and convenient options for TEFL-certified individuals is to teach English online.
The great thing about teaching English online is that you can enjoy the convenience of working from home or from anywhere in the world with a stable internet connection.
With the rise of online learning platforms and the increasing demand for English language instruction worldwide, online teaching offers flexibility and accessibility. Plus, you can connect with students from different corners of the globe, so the market opportunity is huge.
Platforms like VIPKid, iTutorGroup, and Cambly provide opportunities for you to teach students from all around the world and earn a competitive income while doing so. If you’re just starting out as a TEFL teacher you can expect to make between $10 – $20 per hour teaching online and this can increase as you get more experience.
Check out some online English teaching jobs that you can apply to today. You can also offer private tutoring services as an English tutor.
English Test Preparation
Many students worldwide aspire to study or work in English-speaking countries and require assistance in achieving the required scores on standardized English tests to obtain a position.
You can capitalize on this and specialize in preparing students for English proficiency exams such as the TOEFL or IELTS by leveraging your TEFL certification and English expertise. There are a whole host of test prep companies where you can find work, and you can also offer your services independently.
Whether you choose to work as a private tutor or join a test preparation center, your TEFL certification enhances your credibility as a qualified English language instructor.
With your in-depth understanding of English language principles and teaching strategies, you can provide targeted instruction and practice materials to help students succeed in their exam goals, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on your student’s academic and professional aspirations.
Language Assessment and Testing
From preparing students for tests to moderating them! You can apply your knowledge of English language proficiency standards and assessment principles to work in language assessment and testing organizations.
Whether it’s designing test items, scoring exams, or conducting research on language assessment validity and reliability, your TEFL certification can provide you with a solid foundation in the field of language testing. However, you will need to pass an assessment process if you want to become a qualified examiner.
Start Your Own English Tutoring Business
If you’re entrepreneurial-minded, consider starting your own tutoring business. With your TEFL certification as a testament to your expertise, you can attract clients seeking personalized instruction tailored to their learning goals and preferences.
Whether you specialize in conversational English, business English, or exam preparation, you have the flexibility to structure your services and set your rates.
By leveraging online platforms, social media marketing, and word-of-mouth referrals, you can establish a thriving tutoring business and make a meaningful impact on your students’ language acquisition journey.
Volunteer Abroad
Combine your passion for teaching with philanthropy by volunteering abroad to help underserved communities improve their English language skills.
Many organizations and NGOs offer volunteer programs teaching abroad in various countries where English proficiency can significantly impact individuals’ educational and economic opportunities.
As a TEFL-certified volunteer, you can contribute to community development initiatives, promote intercultural understanding and exchange, and empower individuals to learn English.
Your TEFL certification not only equips you with the necessary teaching skills and knowledge but also demonstrates your commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others, both locally and globally.
Community Outreach and Adult Education
Closer to home, you can partner with community organizations, libraries, or adult education centers to offer English language classes and workshops to adult learners.
Your TEFL certification enables you to design learner-centered programs that address the unique needs and goals of adult language learners, empowering them to participate more fully in their communities and pursue their educational and career aspirations.
Teach English for Specific Purposes
Specialize in teaching English for specific purposes (ESP) and cater to the unique language needs of professionals in various industries such as business, healthcare, or tourism.
With a TEFL certificate and specialized training in ESP, you can design customized courses and materials that address the language skills required for specific job roles and contexts.
Whether you’re teaching business English to corporate executives or medical English to healthcare professionals, you have the opportunity to equip learners with the language skills they need to succeed in their careers.
You can develop customized training programs tailored to the specific language needs and objectives of learners, whether it’s improving communication skills, preparing for international business meetings, or enhancing cross-cultural competence.
English Camp Organizer/Counsellor
Organizing English camps and workshops can be a rewarding way to engage with students outside the traditional classroom setting. Whether it’s a day camp for local students or a residential program for international participants, you can design immersive learning experiences that combine language instruction with cultural activities, games, and excursions.
As an English camp organizer, you have the opportunity to foster a supportive learning environment, build lasting relationships, and inspire students to embrace language learning with enthusiasm.
Host a Language Exchange
Facilitate language exchange sessions where individuals can practice their language skills in a supportive and interactive environment. Whether it’s a conversation club, language meetup, or tandem learning partnership, language exchanges provide opportunities for learners to improve their speaking and listening skills while connecting with speakers of other languages.
As a host, it’s your responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive space where participants can exchange cultural insights, build friendships, and expand their linguistic horizons.
Educational Consulting
Put your knowledge and experience to good use by offering educational consulting services to schools, language institutes, or educational organizations.
Whether you specialize in curriculum development, teacher training, or program evaluation, your insights and expertise can help institutions enhance their English language education offerings and achieve their learning objectives.
Academic Advisor
Guide students on their academic and career paths as an academic advisor specializing in English language education.
You can do this in a school setting, university, or language institute, and your role would involve providing personalized guidance and support to students as they navigate their language-learning journey.
From course selection and study abroad opportunities to career planning and exam preparation, an academic advisor can play a crucial role in helping students achieve their academic and professional goals.
Create Lesson Materials
Use your expertise in English language instruction to create educational content and develop curriculum materials for language schools, online platforms, or publishing companies. Your TEFL certification demonstrates your understanding of language learning principles and pedagogical best practices, making you well-equipped to design engaging and effective learning materials.
Whether it’s interactive worksheets, multimedia presentations, or online courses, your materials can enhance the learning experience, support language acquisition, and foster student engagement and success.
Freelance Writing and Editing
If you have a knack for writing and a keen eye for detail, consider pursuing freelance opportunities in writing and editing. You can even specialize in the field of English language education.
From creating educational content and lesson materials to proofreading and editing academic papers, there’s a demand for skilled professionals who can effectively communicate in English. Freelancing allows you to work on a flexible schedule, choose projects that align with your interests and expertise, and showcase your creativity and expertise in the field.
Get into EdTech
Explore opportunities in educational technology and online learning, leveraging your expertise in English language instruction to develop digital resources, e-learning modules, or virtual classrooms.
With your English teaching experience, you can contribute to the design and delivery of effective and engaging online learning experiences for English language learners worldwide.
Travel Blogger/Vlogger
If you want to combine your love for travel with language teaching, you could look into becoming a travel blogger or vlogger. This can either focus on language immersion and cultural experiences or if you want to a broader niche (with bigger income potential) you can make it more travel-related.
Share your adventures, insights, and traveling tips with your audience through engaging blog posts, videos, and social media content. Whether you’re documenting your travel exploits, your experiences teaching English abroad, or exploring local customs and traditions, your content can inspire others to embark on their own journey and make you money at the same time.
Supplement Your Income
Of course, you don’t necessarily have to think about getting a full-time income through your TEFL certificate, and many people use it to help make a bit of extra money on the side.
Having a TEFL certificate is great if you want to;
Make Money While Traveling
For those with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the world, a TEFL certificate offers the opportunity to earn money while traveling. Whether you choose to teach English abroad, volunteer, or provide online instruction, you can fund your travels while immersing yourself in new cultures and experiences.
Earn Extra Retirement Income
Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of your earning potential. With a TEFL certificate, you can supplement your retirement income by teaching English part-time or on a freelance basis. Whether you’re looking to stay active, engage with others, or simply pursue a passion for teaching, there are plenty of opportunities available to leverage your skills and experience in the field of English language education.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve obtained your TEFL certificate, the possibilities are almost endless. Whether you choose to teach English online, abroad, or pursue other avenues within the field of English language education, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while pursuing your passions and interests.
From traveling the world to making a difference in your local community, your TEFL certification opens doors to exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the world of possibilities with your TEFL certificate today!
James has been helping people teach English abroad for over twelve years. He’s traveled to over 30 countries, lived in 3, and taught English in Chile and online.
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