Which Online TEFL / TESOL Certificate Course Is Right for Me?

Professional Certificates

Professional Certificates

Comprehensive online TEFL/TESOL certification that qualifies you for the best English teaching jobs worldwide with an accredited TEFL certificate.

Professional Certificates

Foundational Certificates

Introductory-level TEFL/TESOL courses covering teaching English as a foreign language fundamentals to help you build a strong foundation.

Over 70,000 Bridge graduates worldwide
Award-winning e-learning platform for TEFL/TESOL certification online
Personalized support with your own TEFL/TESOL tutor
Earn and share digital badges to showcase your credentials
Access a global job network for TEFL-certified teachers
Fully accredited, internationally recognized online TEFL certification

New to teaching English? You’re in the right place!

Get started with some common FAQs.

What is TEFL?

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. Earning a TEFL certification online qualifies you to teach English abroad or online.

What is TESOL?

TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. This term applies to teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in non-English-speaking countries and English as a Second Language (ESL) in countries where English is the primary language. TESOL is often used interchangeably with TEFL, and earning a TESOL certification online qualifies you to teach English in a variety of settings worldwide. If you’re considering expanding your qualifications, pursuing a TESOL online course can help you gain specialized expertise.

What is a TEFL / TESOL certificate?

A TEFL/TESOL certificate is the primary qualification needed to teach English as a foreign language. Earning an accredited TEFL certification online equips you with the skills and credentials required to qualify for English teaching jobs worldwide – both abroad and online.

Learn More About TEFL Certification

Ready to explore all of Bridge’s TEFL courses?

Download our comprehensive course catalog to discover a full range of accredited TEFL certification programs, including professional development courses, Micro-credentials, and advanced TEFL training to support you at every stage of your TEFL/TESOL journey.

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Camille, from the USA, graduate of the Bridge 120-Hour Master TEFL Certificate and Specialized Certificates in Teaching Young Learners and Teens

What Our Students Are Saying

Experience a
world-class online TEFL learning platform

Dynamic, mobile-friendly content

Complete your online TEFL certification from any device – desktop, tablet, or phone – so you can study anytime, anywhere.

Downloadable resources and interactive learning

Engage with practice exercises, quizzes, and multimedia content designed to reinforce TEFL/TESOL teaching methodologies.

Global discussion board and teacher community

Connect with fellow TEFL trainees and experienced educators worldwide to exchange ideas, insights, and support.

Personalized guidance from a TEFL tutor

Work with a qualified, experienced tutor who provides answers, feedback, and mentorship throughout your course.

Real-world teaching videos

Observe English language teaching strategies in action with classroom demonstrations from experienced TEFL teachers.

Not sure which online TEFL certificate is right for you?


Contact an advisor today!

Earn a TEFL / TESOL Certification You Can Build On

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Demonstrate your expertise with a lifetime certificate

  • Earn a recognized, accredited TEFL/TESOL certification that never expires.
  • Download and print your TEFL/TESOL certificate for free, or order a hard copy shipped worldwide.
  • Every Bridge TEFL certification you earn is reflected on your certificate, with total course hours updated as you complete more training.

Learn more

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Showcase your credentials with digital badges

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  • Share your TEFL/TESOL digital badges on LinkedIn, your resume, and your email signature to attract employers.
  • Employers can click your badge to view detailed, verifiable course information about your certification.
  • Earn a new digital badge for every Bridge TEFL/TESOL certification, demonstrating your commitment to lifelong learning.

Learn more

Learn from expert TEFL/TESOL instructors

Meet our experienced online TEFL course tutors, who provide personalized guidance and support throughout your training. From day one, you’ll be assigned a dedicated tutor who will:

  • Provide detailed feedback on your written assignments 
  • Answer your questions and offer expert advice
  • Support you through every step of your TEFL/TESOL certification online 

With Bridge’s tutor-led courses, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed as a TEFL teacher.

Common Questions About Online TEFL Certification

Earning your TEFL certification online is flexible, convenient, and affordable. Many programs allow you to start the same day you enroll. Follow these key steps to choose the right course:

  • Choose the right number of course hours – Most TEFL certification programs range from 40 to 150 hours, but most English teaching jobs require at least 100 hours of certification.
  • Select a self-paced or instructor-led course – Self-paced courses offer maximum flexibility, while instructor-led courses like the Bridge IDELTOnline™ provide structured schedules and peer collaboration.

Still unsure? Read our guide: Which TEFL Course Should I Take?

Yes! Accredited online TEFL/TESOL certification programs are widely accepted by schools and language centers worldwide, especially in Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Employers may require a minimum of 100 hours of certification, and some prefer a degree or teaching experience as well.

Meet Bridge alumni teaching worldwide with online TEFL certification!

TEFL/TESOL courses cover essential teaching methodologies and strategies, including:

  • Classroom management
  • Lesson planning
  • Teaching receptive and productive skills
  • Phonology and vocabulary
  • Grammar instruction
  • Language testing and professional development

Most TEFL certification programs have no prerequisites and are open to anyone with a strong command of English. Bridge courses require:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Intermediate or higher English proficiency (B1 or above) for non-native speakers

The Bridge IDELTOnline (a university-level TEFL course) has higher English fluency requirements (C1 level or above).

To find the right online TEFL certification program, consider:

  • Format – Self-paced vs. instructor-led
  • Course hours – 100+ hours is the standard for most jobs
  • Content – Teaching methodology, lesson planning, classroom management
  • Tutor access – Courses with personalized tutor feedback provide better learning support

If you’re considering advanced training, a Masters in TESOL online could help further enhance your teaching qualifications.

Course completion time depends on course length and format:

  • Self-paced courses – A 120-hour online TEFL certification course typically takes 4+ weeks to complete, with up to 3 months of access.
  • Instructor-led courses – Structured courses like Bridge Bridge IDELTOnline follow a 12-week schedule with weekly assignments.

Costs vary by course format, tutor involvement, and accreditation level:

  • Basic self-paced courses: $100–$200
  • Comprehensive 100+ hour courses: $300–$500
  • University-affiliated courses (e.g., Bridge IDELTOnline™): $1,000–$1,500

Learn more: How Much Does TEFL Certification Cost?

Accreditation ensures that a TEFL certification program meets academic and professional standards. Look for courses accredited by recognized agencies, such as ACCET (U.S. Department of Education).

Questions to ask a TEFL provider:
  • Is your course accredited? By whom?
  • Does a recognized university or government endorse it?
  • Can you provide a link to official accreditation details?

Yes! Quality TEFL certification programs provide career support:

  • Job Advising Module – Learn how to find English teaching jobs worldwide and online
  • Bridge Job Board – Access global job opportunities and connect with schools
  • Free job resources – Download guides, eBooks, and career articles

Read more about Bridge’s job support for TEFL graduates!

Stay informed with the latest news and insights.

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