Can You Teach English Without a TEFL Certificate?

More and more people are making the life-changing decision to move to another country and teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). And, truthfully, it’s no surprise – teaching English abroad is an amazing experience! It opens you up to a totally new culture, allows you to meet amazing people and unlocks a potential that you never knew you had. 

What’s more, there’s more of a demand for quality English teachers than ever before. However, for many adventurous aspiring teachers, it can be quite a daunting prospect with so many questions and concerns.

One of the main sticking points is whether you need qualifications. So, we thought we’d take a little time to shine a light on one of the most fundamental questions every budding TEFL teacher should ask… do you need to be certified to teach English as a foreign language?

So, can you teach English without a TEFL certificate?

Well, in some countries, you don’t need a TEFL certificate to teach English as a foreign language. However, these are few and far between, and in the vast majority of circumstances, you will need to have successfully completed a TEFL course in order to work and earn as an English teacher.

And for good reason. Going into a classroom without the right tools for the job is not fun. For the teacher or the students. A foundational TEFL course gives teachers the essential skills to be able to enter a classroom with confidence.

Do I need English to teach TEFL in Spain? 

Yes. You will need a TEFL certificate and a visa in order to teach English in Spain. Whether you want to work privately as an English teacher or within a school, college or university, having the foundational TEFL certificate is essential. 

Our entry level TEFL course is made up of 160 hours of learning and can be completed in just four weeks. It’s perfect for first-time teachers and instills the foundational confidence and skills necessary to become an English teacher.

It’s also recognised across the globe. So once you've qualified, you can teach anywhere you like! 

Can I teach English online without a TEFL certificate?

The majority of online teaching companies only hire English teachers with a TEFL qualification. Besides this, it’s worth remembering that, just like teaching English in a classroom, teaching English online requires foundational skills and knowledge that are difficult to pick up without completing a TEFL course.

Can I get my TEFL certificate online?

Yes, there are many great options now for English teachers who want to study remotely to become a TEFL teacher.

At TEFL Iberia, we offer a part time online TEFL course that enables students to balance their studies with other life commitments and become a qualified TEFL teacher in just 12 weeks. 

Do I need a degree to teach English in Spain?   

While you certainly need a TEFL qualification to teach English in Spain, a degree isn’t strictly necessary. You’ll need to demonstrate an ability to effectively communicate in written and spoken English (many English teachers are non-native speakers), show a passion and enthusiasm for teaching and learning and have a positive attitude. 

Then, once you’ve built up the required skills and knowledge to begin your teaching career, your personality and individual style will begin to shine through!

Check out the list of courses available at TEFL Iberia and contact us at coordination@tefl-iberia.com to find out more about teaching English in Spain.