How to Become an Online ESL Teacher
Online ESL teachers can make great money and work flexible hours. Find out how to get started today.
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Share Your Passion for Language
If you love kids, have a bachelor’s degree, and want a flexible career that allows you to spend time more time with your own kids, you might want to consider becoming an online ESL teacher. In fact, becoming an ESL teacher was a dream of mine ever since I was a little girl and visited my grandfather in Japan, where he taught English at a private girl’s school. However, I could never quite figure out how to get started. That is why I am super excited to bring you this really cool opportunity.
Why Become an Online ESL Teacher?
There are many really cool benefits to becoming an online ESL teacher that you might not have considered. Keep reading to learn more about the doors this cool gig has to offer.
High-Demand
The demand for ESL teachers is sky-high, especially as more and more students in countries like China are deciding to learn English. That makes it a secure choice!
Decent Pay
The median pay for ESL teachers is around $26 an hour or $50,000 per year. While this won’t make you rich, it is a steady income.
Allows You to Work Some Funky Hours
If you need a career that allows you to work while the kids are asleep, this is a great choice. Many companies hire teachers for students in China and other countries, which means your classes could be super early in the morning or even in the middle of the night!
Opens Opportunities to Travel in the Future
Have you ever wanted to move to another country but aren’t sure you’ll be able to find a job? Then this career is a great choice. There are several organizations that help ESL teachers find placement in countries all over the world on every continent. (Except Antarctica!)
What You Need to Become an ESL Teacher
Typically to become an online ESL teacher, you need at least a bachelor’s degree and a TESL, TEFL, TESOL, or ESL certification. Many places prefer that you have teaching experience, but it is not always a requirement. When I was trying to figure out how to get started as an ESL teacher, I was super confused by all the acronyms. Which certification should I get and where?
According to the University of Toronto, it turns out that those acronyms aren’t the name of the certification itself, but describe who you expect to teach.
Here is the breakdown:
ESL-English as a Second Language
ESL is an umbrella term for English language education.
TESL-Teaching English as a Second Language
This term refers to teaching English in a country where English is the primary language, such as the United States, UK, or Australia. These types of certifications are ideal for people who plan to teach in their home country at some point.
TEFL- Teaching English as a Foreign Language
This refers to teaching English in a country where English is not the primary language, such as China. It might be a good idea to look for programs that specialize in this if you plan to apply to companies like Magic Ears or VIPKids.
TESOL-Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
This is a general term that refers to both TEFL and TESL.
How to Get Certified
There are many online courses designed to help you get the certifications you need. Cost can range from $150 to $1,500 so there is a bit of an upfront investment, but you don’t need to go back to school full-time.
It seems that many places want you to have a 120-hour ESL certification. Some reputable organizations that offer these courses include:
If you are looking for even more great options, check out goAbroad’s list of excellent programs at all price points!
Places Hiring Online ESL Teachers
There are many great options if you are interested in this career. While VIPKid and Magic Ears tend to be the most well-known, they aren’t the only choices. Here are some more great options!
Conclusion
If you are looking for a way to use that bachelor’s degree to make a steady income, you might want to consider investing in an ESL certification today! Or check out some other great ways to make money from home.
