Should I get tesl vs tefl certified?
Submitted by Liana Paterson on 09/09/2016.
Question Details
I am currently taking a TESL certificate course but was informed that TESL is really only needed if you want to teach in an English speaking country. I am debating dropping out and taking a TEFL course instead. The issue is that it is difficult to find a TEFL course with in class hours near where I live. I am hoping to teach in both Korea and Japan. Does anyone know which certificate is better? Do I need to spend the extra on TESL or will I be ok with a TEFL? From what I understand Japan doesn't require the TEFL at all but Korea does.
Answer
Ideally, a TEFL with in-class hours is better, but if you can't do that due to budget or location constraints, you can definitely get an online TEFL from a reputable company. I currently partner with MyTEFL which offers a 35% discount if you use the code ASIAADV. I wrote a little more about whether or not you need a TEFL and how to get one online here if you're interested! http://www.adventuresaroundasia.com/2015/08/27/should-i-get-a-tefl/
Hi Liana! I'd suggest you take a look at those "dream job" teaching positions you'd hope to get once you are certified. See what the requirements are and from there see which type of certification will be necessary.
Hi Liana- there are so many acronyms! It can be hard to figure out. "TESL" stands for Teaching English as a Second Language, and "TEFL" stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language-- you might also hear "TESOL" which stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Language. TESL is usually heard when referring to English language instruction in countries where English is the national or first language of most students, whereas TEFL is usually hear when referring to English language instruction in countries were English is not the national or first language of most students. Make sense? So if you are planning to travel with your Certificate, most likely you are looking for a TEFL Certificate.