To start teaching English as a foreign language, the usual first step is a recognised TEFL qualification, which gives you the methods and confidence to teach. You then build experience and research the countries or online platforms where you want to work, each of which has its own requirements. For most people the path is straightforward: qualify, practise, and then target the country or platform that matches their goals. Qualify, practise, then target the country or platform that matches your goals.
Get a TEFL qualification
A TEFL course teaches lesson planning, language systems, classroom management and methods for teaching learners of English.
It is the standard entry point and what most employers expect.
Build skills and confidence
Practising lesson delivery, even informally, builds the confidence to run a real class.
Some courses include practical or observed components.
Research where to teach
Opportunities exist in classrooms abroad and online. Each country and platform has its own visa, qualification and experience requirements.
Researching early helps you target the right path.
Plan your route
Decide whether you want to teach abroad, online or locally, and align your qualification level and preparation accordingly.
A clear plan makes the first job easier to land.
Deciding between teaching abroad, online or locally
Your starting point shapes your preparation. Teaching abroad involves researching visas and living conditions; teaching online needs reliable technology and self-marketing or a platform; teaching locally depends on nearby language schools and demand.
Clarifying which of these appeals most helps you choose the right qualification level and focus your early efforts, rather than preparing generally and hoping an opportunity appears.
Making your first move count
Your very first role shapes your early experience, so choosing one that offers support and reasonable conditions — even if not the highest paid — helps you build confidence.
Gaining a little experience quickly, whether volunteering or an entry-level role, turns your qualification into a track record.
From there, each subsequent role can be more selective as your experience and preferences become clearer.
What to check
- A recognised TEFL qualification
- Practice delivering lessons
- Research on countries and platforms
- Visa and eligibility requirements
- A clear route (abroad, online or local)
- Choosing abroad, online or local
- Matching qualification to that route
Important distinction
TEFL qualifications support entry to English teaching, but each country sets its own visa and work-eligibility rules, which are separate from the certificate.
Related quick questions
What is the first step?
Can I teach online?
Do I need experience first?
Should I teach abroad, online or locally?
Does the route affect my qualification choice?
Is one route easier to start with?
Does my first TEFL role matter?
How do I build a track record?
Related LCT pathway
The TEFL/TESOL Online pathway at London College of Teachers is the most directly related programme.
Explore TEFL/TESOL Online