What’s the Difference Between TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA?
If you’ve started researching how to teach English abroad or online, you’ve probably run into three acronyms again and again: TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA. At first glance, they might look interchangeable, but there are some important differences worth understanding. Let’s break it down.
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
What it means: TEFL refers to teaching English to students in countries where English is not the native language. For example, teaching English in France, Thailand, or Brazil would be considered TEFL.
The certification: A TEFL certificate is the most widely recognized entry-level qualification for teaching abroad. Online and in-person courses are available, and they typically range from 120 to 150 hours of training. On-site training is 4 weeks.
Why it matters: Employers worldwide commonly ask for a TEFL certificate when hiring English teachers — especially for private language schools and online teaching platforms.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
What it means: TESOL is a broader term that covers teaching English both in English-speaking countries (like the U.S., Canada, or the U.K.) and abroad.
The certification: A TESOL certificate is very similar to TEFL in content and recognition, but the emphasis is slightly broader since it includes contexts where learners are immigrants or refugees in English-speaking countries.
Why it matters: If you plan to teach in an English-speaking country, TESOL is often the preferred credential. Many employers, however, use TEFL and TESOL interchangeably.
CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
What it means: CELTA is a specific teaching certificate awarded by Cambridge English. Unlike TEFL and TESOL (general categories), CELTA is a branded, standardized course.
The certification: CELTA is intensive, usually 4 weeks full-time, and includes a heavy focus on classroom practice with adult learners. It’s highly respected worldwide by British Council schools and more formal institutions.
Why it matters: CELTA is often considered the “gold standard” for teaching adults, but it’s also more expensive and time-consuming than most TEFL or TESOL courses.
So Which One Should You Choose?
Choose TEFL if you want to teach abroad or online and need a flexible, affordable option that opens doors worldwide.
Choose TESOL if you want to teach both abroad and in English-speaking countries.
Choose CELTA if you’re committed to teaching as a long-term career, especially in academic or professional settings, and you’re ready for an intensive program.
If you’re still deciding whether teaching abroad is the right path for you, start simple: download our free guide “Am I Ready to Move Abroad?” It’s a quick self-check to see if teaching English overseas fits your lifestyle.