Teaching English online has become one of the most popular side hustles—and full-time careers—for people all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a flexible way to earn money or you’re passionate about helping others improve their language skills, online teaching offers a rewarding opportunity. But before you dive in, there are a few key things you need to understand.
First off, teaching English online isn’t just about knowing the language—it’s about knowing how to communicate effectively and create an engaging experience for students, regardless of their background or skill level. Let’s break down the essential things you need to know to make it in the online teaching world.
1. Understanding the Demand for English Teachers
The demand for English teachers has skyrocketed, especially in non-English-speaking countries like China, South Korea, and Japan. Many students in these countries are eager to learn English, driven by the desire to improve their career prospects or pursue educational opportunities in English-speaking countries. As the world becomes more connected, the ability to speak English is increasingly seen as an essential skill.
However, teaching English online isn’t just limited to international students. Adult learners from all around the globe are taking online courses to improve their communication skills, whether for personal growth or professional reasons. Additionally, companies often hire English teachers to conduct business English training for employees looking to improve their communication in the workplace.
2. The Requirements: What Do You Need?
Before you can start teaching English online, there are certain qualifications and tools you’ll need. While the requirements can vary depending on the platform you choose to work with, here are the basic things you should have:
Education and Certifications
In most cases, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in any field. Some platforms may not require this, but it can certainly give you an edge when competing with other teachers. Many students prefer teachers with a higher level of education.
When it comes to certifications, TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) are the most widely recognized. Although not every platform requires these certifications, they’re an excellent way to improve your skills and enhance your credibility.
Tech Requirements
Since you’ll be teaching online, having the right technology is essential. Most platforms require a stable internet connection (at least 10 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload speed) and a webcam to communicate with your students. Additionally, a good-quality microphone is crucial for clear communication.
You’ll also need a quiet, well-lit teaching space—preferably with minimal distractions. Many online teaching companies have strict guidelines about background noise, so it’s important to create a professional environment.
Experience and Personality
While teaching experience can be beneficial, it’s not always a requirement. Many platforms are willing to train you if you’re enthusiastic and willing to learn. That said, any experience in teaching, tutoring, or even coaching can help you stand out. Having a patient and engaging personality will also help you connect with students and create a positive learning environment.
3. Choosing the Right Platform
One of the most critical decisions you’ll make as an online English teacher is choosing the right platform to work with. There are numerous companies out there, each offering different benefits and requirements. Here’s a rundown of some popular ones:
VIPKid
VIPKid is one of the largest online platforms for teaching English to children in China. The platform is highly competitive but offers good pay and flexibility. Teachers typically work with children aged 4-12, teaching one-on-one lessons based on a pre-designed curriculum. VIPKid requires a bachelor’s degree and teaching experience.
Italki
If you prefer to teach adults, Italki could be a great choice. Italki connects English teachers with learners from all over the world, offering both one-on-one lessons and group sessions. While a degree or certification isn’t strictly required, having TEFL/TESOL certification can make you more attractive to potential students. Italki operates on a self-scheduling basis, meaning you can choose when to teach.
Cambly
Cambly is another popular platform that provides a flexible teaching schedule. Unlike VIPKid, Cambly allows teachers to work with students of all ages, from beginners to advanced learners. You don’t need a degree or certification to get started with Cambly, which makes it one of the easiest platforms to enter. However, Cambly typically pays less per lesson compared to other platforms.
Preply
Preply offers a similar experience to Italki, where teachers can set their own hours and rates. The platform caters to both adult learners and children, and you’ll find a variety of teaching materials available. Preply does not require a degree or certification, but teachers with credentials tend to attract more students.
Teaching Business English
If you’re interested in teaching professionals or business English, platforms like English Class 101 or Open English specialize in this niche. These platforms focus on improving the English skills of individuals in the corporate world. You may need to have experience in a professional field or be prepared to adapt your teaching to specific business needs.
4. How to Set Yourself Apart
Once you’ve chosen a platform, you’ll want to make sure you stand out from other teachers. Here are a few tips:
Be Clear About Your Niche
Some teachers specialize in specific types of English teaching. For example, you could focus on business English, conversation practice, or even exam preparation (such as TOEFL or IELTS). Clearly defining your niche will help attract students looking for specific types of lessons.
Create a Strong Profile
Your profile is your first chance to make an impression on potential students. Take the time to craft a compelling bio, highlighting your qualifications, experience, and teaching style. Make sure your profile picture is professional and friendly. Many students will also look for trial lessons, so offering a few discounted or free trial sessions can help build your reputation.
Invest in Teaching Materials
Though many platforms provide lesson plans, having your own materials or a unique approach to teaching can set you apart. Use interactive activities, games, or even cultural lessons to make the classes engaging. Personalized teaching will help students feel more motivated and supported in their learning journey.
Get Feedback and Improve
As you begin teaching, ask for feedback from your students. Positive reviews will help build your reputation, and constructive criticism will help you improve as a teacher. You can also seek professional development through workshops or advanced certifications to continue growing your skills.
5. Setting Your Schedule and Earnings
One of the major advantages of teaching English online is the flexibility. Most platforms allow you to set your own hours, so you can work as much or as little as you want. This is particularly appealing for people looking to supplement their income.
When it comes to earnings, rates can vary significantly depending on the platform and your experience. On average, teachers can earn anywhere from $10 to $25 per hour, with some platforms offering bonuses or incentives for completing a certain number of lessons.
While teaching English online can be profitable, it’s important to be realistic about the time investment and the effort required to build a loyal student base. Marketing yourself through word of mouth, social media, or even your own website can help attract more students and increase your income.
6. The Challenges You Might Face
Like any job, teaching English online has its challenges. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Time Zone Differences: If you’re teaching students in different countries, be prepared to work outside of typical working hours. This can mean early mornings or late evenings depending on where your students are located.
- Technical Issues: While most platforms have support for tech issues, there’s always a chance of internet problems, frozen screens, or software malfunctions.
- Student Engagement: Keeping students engaged, especially in online settings, can sometimes be tricky. It’s important to be adaptable and find creative ways to make your lessons enjoyable.
7. Is Teaching English Online Right for You?
If you’re patient, adaptable, and enjoy helping others learn, teaching English online can be a fulfilling and flexible career. With the demand for English teachers on the rise, there are plenty of opportunities to get started. Whether you want to work part-time or full-time, this career can offer you the chance to earn a steady income while making a real difference in people’s lives.
Remember, it’s not just about knowing English; it’s about knowing how to teach it in an engaging and effective way. As you gain experience and build your online teaching business, you’ll find your rhythm, improve your skills, and enjoy the rewards of being a part of a global learning community.
Ready to start teaching? The world is waiting for you to help them master English—one lesson at a time.