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What is TEFL/TESOL?

What is TEFL/TESOL?

This is the most common question we’re asked. These acronyms, as well as others, can be rather confusing, especially considering they can be used interchangeably in some cases. In response to this, we’ve provided a list of acronyms that will hopefully clarify the differences between their meanings:

TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language

TEFL is a term used when English is being taught to non-native English speakers in countries where English is not the official language (i.e. teaching English to Italians in Italy, or to Thais in Thailand).

TESL - Teaching English as a Second Language

TESL is a term used when English is being taught to non-native English speakers in countries where English is the official language (i.e. teaching English to non-native English speakers inside the USA, Australia, Ireland, etc.).

TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

This term is thought to encompass both of the terms described above.

ELT - English Language Teaching

This term is also thought to encompass both TEFL and TESL but is used primarily in the UK.

As the demand for English language skills increases, so too does the demand for teachers. The standard, international qualification required for this position is either a TEFL or TESOL certificate. With this certification, those fluent in English are able to take advantage of their language skills and use them to find meaningful and exciting employment worldwide.

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