Thinking about getting TEFL certified but not sure how long it will take? It’s important to find a program that fits your schedule and goals. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or seasoned educator, the time it takes to get TEFL certified can vary.

In this article, we’ll look at the different options available and help you figure out how long it might take. Understanding the time commitment needed will help you make a smart choice about getting this valuable certification.

What Is TEFL Certification?

There are different types of TEFL certification courses: online, onsite, and hybrid. The duration varies based on course hours, intensity, and full-time or part-time status. Prior teaching experience and English language familiarity may also affect certification length.

TEFL courses are beneficial for those pursuing a career in teaching English as a foreign language, providing training on teaching methodologies, classroom management, and language acquisition.

Obtaining a TEFL certification can enhance qualifications, advance a teaching career, or gain a new skill set, opening up opportunities for teaching English abroad and online.

How Long Does It Take to Get TEFL Certified?

Short Courses: 20 to 60 Hours

TEFL courses vary in length, from short 20-hour courses to longer 60-hour courses. Factors like learning pace, course type (online or in-person), and the schedule from the provider can affect the time to become TEFL certified. Shorter courses are completed in a shorter period, making them feasible for busy schedules. Longer courses offer more in-depth training, but short courses provide fundamental teaching skills and a recognized certification.

They allow quick qualification for teaching English, opening up job prospects sooner. Short courses also benefit those wanting to test teaching before committing to a longer program.

Standard Courses: 100 to 120 Hours

A standard “Standard Courses: 100 to 120 Hours” TEFL certification program usually asks for 100-120 hours of coursework. This includes teaching techniques, classroom management, and language acquisition theory.

Different types of TEFL courses, like online, in-person, and combined courses, have varying lengths and content for the standard 100 to 120 hours certification. But all cover the basic skills and knowledge needed to teach English as a foreign language effectively.

Completing a 100-120 hours TEFL certification course can lead to more job opportunities and higher earning potential for those interested in teaching English abroad. These programs also offer practical teaching experience through observed teaching sessions and lesson planning, preparing future English teachers for success in the classroom.

Extended Courses: 150 to 300 Hours

An extended TEFL course ranges from 150 to 300 hours. It offers many benefits for people seeking TEFL certification. These longer courses provide more detailed training and practical experience. This helps participants develop a solid understanding of teaching methods, lesson planning, and classroom management.

These courses also often include specialized modules. These cover teaching young learners, business English, and exam preparation. Also, extended courses typically involve more extensive practicum components. This allows trainees to gain hands-on classroom experience.

When choosing an extended TEFL course, individuals should consider factors such as accreditation, course flexibility, job placement assistance, and additional fees. Also, applicants should review the course syllabus carefully to ensure it meets their career goals and teaching preferences.

Factors That Affect How Long It Takes to Get Certified

Your Learning Pace

Everyone learns at their own pace. This applies to TEFL certification too. Your previous experience, motivation, and personal circumstances all affect how quickly you progress through the course. For instance, if you’ve taught before, you may move through the material faster. On the other hand, balancing work and family might mean you need more time. The pace at which you learn affects how well you understand and remember the material.

Taking the time you need leads to a more fulfilling and effective certification process. Feeling rushed can lead to frustration and a less valuable learning experience. So, it’s important to consider your own learning pace when pursuing a TEFL certification.

Type of TEFL Course

There are two types of TEFL courses: online and in-person. Online courses can be 40 to 250 hours long, with the average being around 120 hours. In-person courses usually last 4 to 6 weeks and need full-time attendance.

The type of TEFL course you choose affects how long it takes to get certified. Online courses offer flexibility in study pace and schedule, allowing individuals to complete the course at their own convenience. In-person courses require a larger time commitment due to the fixed schedule and daily attendance.

For busy people, online TEFL courses are the best option. They can be done at any time and location, only needing an internet connection and a computer. Some online TEFL courses also have self-paced study options, letting students tailor their learning to fit their existing commitments.

Course Provider’s Schedule

The course provider has flexible options for completing TEFL certification. They offer evening, weekend, and part-time courses, allowing busy individuals to pursue certification at their own pace.

They also accommodate various schedules with both in-person and online courses. This lets people choose the format that best fits their availability and learning preferences.

For example, some may prefer the structure of in-person classes, while others may benefit from the flexibility of online learning.

Over to you

Becoming TEFL certified can take different amounts of time. Some courses take only 4 weeks, while others can take several months. The duration depends on factors like course format, intensity, and schedule flexibility.