Becoming an English teacher can open doors to an incredibly fulfilling career—whether you’re teaching literature in your home country or helping students abroad build their confidence in English communication. But the path to becoming an English teacher depends heavily on what type of teacher you want to be, where you want to work, and what age group or skill level you’d like to teach.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—whether you're dreaming of teaching English abroad, online, or in your local school system.
Understanding the Different Types of English Teaching Roles
English teaching isn’t a one-size-fits-all profession. You might find yourself helping kindergarteners learn their first English words in South Korea, coaching business executives in Germany, guiding high school students through Shakespeare in the UK, or running your own online tutoring business from a beach town in Thailand. The possibilities are diverse—and so are the job titles.
Here are the most common roles to consider:
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TEFL/TESOL Teachers
Teach English to non-native speakers in countries where English isn’t the primary language. Most commonly found in Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. These roles typically require a TEFL or TESOL certificate and a sense of adventure. -
ESL Teachers
Work with immigrants or international students within English-speaking countries like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia. You'll support learners in adapting to life and work through language. -
Certified English Teachers
Teach English language or literature in public or private schools in your own country. This path usually requires a formal degree and teacher training. -
Literature or Linguistics Professors
For those who love academic life, teaching English at the university level involves deeper analysis, research, and often advanced degrees (like a Master’s or PhD). -
Private Tutors
Ideal for those who want flexibility. You can teach online or in-person, set your own rates, and work with students of your choosing—whether they’re kids, teens, or professionals.
No matter which route you choose, you’ll be helping others access opportunities, express themselves, and connect across cultures. And you might just learn as much as you teach along the way.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
Your qualifications will depend on the teaching path you pursue. While some roles require formal degrees and licenses, others are more flexible—especially if you're teaching English as a foreign language abroad or online.
A. For TEFL/TESOL Teachers
This is the most accessible path for those who want to teach, travel, and live abroad—especially in countries where English isn't the native language.
- No teaching degree required
- TEFL or TESOL certificate: At least 120 hours from a recognized provider is standard
- Bachelor’s degree: Preferred in many countries (especially in East Asia and the Middle East), but not mandatory everywhere
- Native or near-native English fluency is typically expected
- Clean criminal background check: Required in most visa applications and job offers
Some programs, like EPIK in South Korea or JET in Japan, have specific eligibility rules. Others, like schools in Cambodia or online platforms, may be more flexible.
B. For Certified English Teachers (UK, US, Canada, etc.)
If your goal is to teach in your own country’s school system—whether primary or secondary—you’ll need formal qualifications.
- Bachelor’s degree in English, Education, or a related field
- Teaching qualification: Examples include a PGCE (UK), QTS (UK), or state-issued license (US)
- Supervised teaching practicum: Hands-on classroom experience is a core part of most certification programs
- Background checks: Mandatory for most teaching positions involving minors
This is a longer, more structured route—but it opens doors to stable, long-term teaching careers.
C. For University Professors
Teaching English at the college or university level typically involves academic specialization.
- Master’s degree in English, Linguistics, Education, or TESOL (minimum)
- PhD: Often required for tenure-track or research-focused positions
- Published research and teaching experience are major advantages
- May involve curriculum development, student supervision, and departmental responsibilities
Choose your training path based on where and how you want to teach. Each path requires different preparation—but all offer rewarding ways to make an impact through education.
Essential Skills for a Successful English Teacher
Being a great English teacher takes more than just knowing the language. Whether you're standing in front of a classroom or teaching students online, the right skills will help you connect, inspire, and make a real impact.
Communication
It might sound obvious, but communication is the heart of teaching English. You need to explain things clearly, adjust your tone and pace depending on your students, and be confident in your delivery—especially when breaking down tricky grammar or pronunciation.
And it’s not just about speaking. Good teachers also know how to listen, observe body language, and create space for learners to express themselves without fear of mistakes.
Adaptability
No two students are the same. Some learn visually, others by doing. Some grasp concepts quickly; others need more support. Being able to adapt your teaching style, materials, and expectations to suit different age groups, cultures, and learning levels is key.
This is especially true when you’re teaching English abroad or online, where expectations, language barriers, and classroom behavior can vary widely from place to place.
Organization
From lesson planning to grading assignments and preparing materials, teaching requires solid organizational skills. It’s not just about keeping things tidy—it’s about creating a smooth learning experience for your students.
Well-structured lessons help learners build confidence. Consistent assessment helps you track progress. And thoughtful preparation keeps your classes engaging rather than chaotic.
Creativity
English isn’t just rules and vocabulary. It’s stories, conversations, ideas, and expression. Creative teachers bring this to life—through games, songs, roleplays, media, or storytelling.
Whether you're finding new ways to teach phrasal verbs or designing a lesson around a viral video, creativity keeps your students engaged and helps them remember what they’ve learned.
Cultural Sensitivity
When teaching internationally or working with diverse groups, cultural awareness goes a long way. Simple gestures, idioms, or classroom norms might not translate the way you expect.
Being culturally sensitive helps you avoid misunderstandings, build trust, and create a respectful, inclusive learning environment. It’s not just about being polite—it’s about being effective.
The best English teachers aren’t just instructors—they’re mentors, motivators, and lifelong learners too.
How to Get Certified (TEFL, TESOL, or QTS)
Once you know which teaching path fits your goals, the next step is getting qualified. Whether you're aiming for a flexible international career or a classroom job in your home country, certification is your ticket in.
For TEFL/TESOL
These certifications are essential for teaching English as a foreign language abroad or online. They focus on practical classroom skills and language teaching methodology.
- Choose a recognized provider: Look for courses regulated by Ofqual (UK), accredited by DEAC (US), or otherwise internationally recognized
- 120 hours is the standard: This is the minimum most employers expect. Anything less won’t cut it.
- Study format: Choose between online, in-person, or blended programs based on your schedule and learning style
- Add-on modules: Consider specializations in Business English, Young Learners, IELTS/TOEFL prep, etc.
- Teaching practice: While optional, classroom experience (real or simulated) makes you more competitive
A good TEFL or TESOL course not only boosts your resume—it gives you the confidence to teach in real-world settings.
For QTS or State Certification
If you’re pursuing a career in your home country’s school system, you’ll need a formal teaching credential.
- Bachelor of Education: Or a subject degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification like a PGCE (UK) or state certification (US/Canada)
- Supervised teaching practicum: This is usually a mandatory component of your training
- Licensing exams: These vary by country or state (e.g., Praxis in the US, Qualified Teacher Status assessments in the UK)
- Background checks and registration: Often required to legally teach in schools
This path takes longer but leads to more structured teaching roles, often with job security, pension plans, and clear advancement opportunities.
Where You Can Teach: Career Pathways
The beauty of becoming an English teacher is the sheer variety of paths you can take. Whether you're craving adventure, flexibility, or long-term stability, there’s an option for you.
A. Teach Abroad (TEFL Jobs)
If you’ve got a TEFL certificate and a taste for travel, the world is open.
- Asia: High demand and competitive salaries in places like South Korea, Japan, China, and Vietnam
- Latin America: Vibrant culture and flexible hiring (often no degree required)
- Europe: Opportunities in Spain, Italy, and Eastern Europe—some require EU citizenship or work permits
- Middle East: Lucrative salaries in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar—usually require a degree and experience
You’ll find roles in kindergartens, public schools, language centers, and even universities or businesses.
B. Teach Online
Perfect for digital nomads, side hustlers, or anyone who wants to work from home.
- Online platforms: Companies like Cambly, Preply, and iTalki hire freelance teachers
- Students: Kids, business professionals, and exam candidates around the world
- Flexible hours: Teach when you want, from wherever you are
- Pay varies: Some platforms set your rate, others let you decide
As online education grows, teaching English virtually is becoming a full-time career path for many.
C. Public or Private Schools in Your Home Country
For those with formal teaching qualifications, local schools offer a structured and reliable option.
- Public schools: Usually government-funded with steady pay and benefits
- Private schools: May offer higher salaries and smaller class sizes but with higher expectations
- Stability and growth: Many teachers build long-term careers with pensions, holidays, and advancement pathways
D. Universities and Academic Institutions
This path is for teachers who want to dive deep into language, literature, or research.
- Lecturing: Often includes leading seminars, supervising students, and publishing work
- Requirements: Usually a master’s or PhD in a relevant field
- Opportunities abroad: Many universities in Asia and the Middle East hire foreign English professors
If you're academically minded and enjoy adult learners, this can be a fulfilling, well-respected career.
Whichever path you choose, English teaching can take you places—literally and professionally.
How to Gain Teaching Experience (Even If You're New)
Everyone starts somewhere—and when it comes to English teaching, you don’t need years of experience to begin. What matters is showing initiative, practicing your skills, and learning how to teach real students, even in small ways.
Volunteer Locally
Check with community centers, refugee support organizations, or language exchanges in your area. Many offer free English programs and are often in need of volunteer teachers or assistants. This gives you hands-on experience, especially in working with learners from different backgrounds.
Offer Free or Low-Cost Online Lessons
Start by teaching friends, language exchange partners, or beginner learners via platforms like Preply, iTalki, or social media. You can even promote your services through Facebook groups or Reddit threads. Every session you teach builds confidence—and gives you examples to include in your teaching portfolio.
Do a TEFL Practicum
Some TEFL courses include optional teaching practice or an observed module. If your course doesn’t, you can still set up mock lessons with peers or record short sample classes. These practice sessions help solidify your skills and look great to employers.
Try Entry-Level Online Platforms
Several platforms (like Cambly or PalFish) accept teachers without prior experience. They’re not always the highest paying, but they’re a great way to start building experience and developing your teaching style in a real-time, low-pressure setting.
Experience doesn’t always mean paid—start small and build your portfolio.
Building a Great English Teaching CV and Application
First impressions matter—especially in a global job market. Your teaching CV and application should reflect not just your qualifications, but your personality and professionalism as a teacher.
Highlight Teaching Experience (Even Informal)
Tutoring a friend? Volunteering? Leading a conversation group? It all counts. Be specific about what you taught, how often, and what tools or materials you used. Employers want to see that you’ve worked with learners—even in a non-traditional context.
Emphasize Language-Related Skills
Strong communication, writing ability, public speaking, or intercultural experiences (like study abroad or travel) are relevant. Even if you're new to teaching, these show that you can connect with others and understand the challenges of learning a new language.
Include Certifications
Your TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or other certifications should be front and center. Include the number of hours completed, any specializations (e.g., young learners, business English), and whether the course included teaching practice.
For TEFL Roles: Go Visual
Many TEFL jobs—especially online—ask for more than just a resume. Include:
- A professional headshot (smiling, well-lit, neutral background)
- A short, friendly intro video
- A teaching portfolio with your CV, lesson samples, and testimonials
Tailor your application to each job—employers can tell when you’ve made the effort.
Where to Find Jobs and How to Apply
Once you’re trained and ready to teach, the next step is landing a job—and there are more options than ever before. Whether you want to work from home, teach in a classroom overseas, or join a public school system, the key is knowing where to look and how to present yourself.
A. TEFL Jobs Abroad
Most TEFL positions are listed on dedicated job boards, school websites, or through recruitment agencies. Some of the best places to start include:
These jobs range from kindergartens and private language schools to universities and corporate training roles. Make sure your application includes your TEFL certificate, CV, intro video, and professional references when requested.
B. Online English Teaching Jobs
Teaching English online is one of the most accessible ways to get started, especially if you want flexibility or plan to travel.
- Popular platforms: Cambly, Preply, italki, AmazingTalker
- Niche platforms: those focused on exam prep, business English, or specific age groups
- Go independent: Create a personal website, promote your services on LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube, and engage with students directly
Don’t overlook active Facebook groups for ESL teachers and freelancers—many job leads are shared informally there.
C. Certified School Teaching Roles
If you're certified to teach in your home country, look for roles through:
- Government and regional Ministry of Education websites
- Job portals like TES Jobs
- Local school board listings or independent/private school networks
- Alumni and educator networks, including university career services
Tailor each application to the job—use keywords from the job post, and keep your tone professional but warm.
What Salary Can You Expect?
Salaries for English teachers vary widely depending on your qualifications, location, and type of job. Here’s a rough breakdown:
TEFL Jobs Abroad
- Asia:
- Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Taiwan, China, Japan: $1,200–$3,500/month
- Often includes housing, visa support, and sometimes flights
- Europe:
- Spain, Italy, Czech Republic: $900–$1,800/month
- Fewer benefits, but great lifestyle and travel access
- Middle East:
- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar: $2,000–$4,000/month
- High pay, but stricter job and visa requirements
Online Teaching
- Entry-level platforms: $10–$18/hour
- Mid-tier and niche platforms: $15–$30/hour
- Independent tutoring: $25–$60+/hour depending on your niche
Certified Teachers (Home Country)
- Public school teachers: $30,000–$70,000/year
(varies by country/state, years of experience, and union involvement)
University Lecturers
- $40,000–$120,000/year or more, often with research or administrative responsibilities
Keep in mind cost of living, benefits, and job security—not just base salary.
Is This the Right Path for You?
Teaching English isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. It takes patience, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose. But for the right person, it offers incredible freedom, cultural immersion, and the chance to genuinely impact lives.
You might thrive as an English teacher if:
- You’re passionate about language and communication
- You want to travel or live abroad while doing meaningful work
- You enjoy helping others reach their goals
- You're comfortable with a bit of uncertainty and personal growth
Things to Consider:
- Flexibility vs. structure: TEFL and online teaching are more fluid; public school roles offer more stability
- Qualifications matter: Some roles have strict requirements, while others are more accessible
- It’s not always easy: You’ll need to manage different cultures, language barriers, and student needs
- But it’s deeply rewarding: Watching students gain confidence, pass exams, or speak freely is a powerful feeling