Teach Online Photo by Thomas Lefebvre on Unsplash
There are countless opportunities for earning money online, and one of the most rewarding and flexible options is teaching English. Whether you’re a native speaker or highly proficient in English, there’s a growing demand for online English teachers worldwide.
This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about earning money by teaching English online, from the necessary qualifications and equipment to the best platforms and potential earnings.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
Qualifications Required to Teach English Online
To teach English online, you typically need to have a certain level of proficiency in the language, often demonstrated through qualifications. Here are the key qualifications:
Native or Near-Native English Proficiency
Most online teaching platforms require you to be a native speaker or to have near-native proficiency in English. This ensures that you can teach the language effectively.
TEFL/TESOL Certification
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is often required. These certifications equip you with the skills and methodologies to teach English effectively. They can be obtained through various online courses, often taking anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete.
Bachelor’s Degree
While not always mandatory, many platforms prefer or require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree. The degree does not necessarily need to be in education or even in English.
“Having a TEFL certification can greatly enhance your chances of securing a teaching position online, as it demonstrates your commitment and understanding of teaching methodologies.” – Jane Smith, Online ESL Teacher
Equipment Required
Teaching English online requires some essential equipment to ensure smooth and effective communication with your students. Here’s what you’ll need:
Reliable Computer
A laptop or desktop computer with a high-speed processor and sufficient RAM is crucial for handling video calls and educational software.
High-Speed Internet Connection
A stable and fast internet connection is essential to avoid disruptions during your lessons. Aim for a minimum of 10 Mbps download and upload speed.
Quality Headset and Microphone
A good quality headset with a built-in microphone ensures clear audio for both you and your students, minimizing misunderstandings.
Webcam
A high-definition webcam is important for maintaining eye contact and building rapport with your students.
Quiet Teaching Environment
A quiet, well-lit space free from distractions helps create a professional teaching atmosphere.
“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams
Training Required
While having a certification is a good start, ongoing training can help you stay updated with the latest teaching techniques and tools. Here are some training avenues:
Online Courses and Webinars
Many platforms offer continuous professional development courses and webinars to help teachers improve their skills.
Peer Support and Communities
Joining online communities and forums for ESL teachers can provide valuable insights and support from fellow educators.
Practice Teaching
Gaining experience through practice teaching or volunteering can boost your confidence and effectiveness as an online teacher.
“Continuous learning is key in the teaching profession. Stay curious and always look for ways to improve your methods.” – Emily Johnson, ESL Training Specialist
Personality Teaching English Online Suits
Teaching English online isn’t for everyone. Here are some personality or character traits that can make you more successful in this field:
Patience
Patience is crucial as students may have varying levels of proficiency and learning speeds.
Communication Skills
Being able to explain concepts clearly and effectively is essential for teaching a language.
Adaptability
Different students will have different needs and learning styles. Being adaptable allows you to tailor your lessons accordingly.
Tech-Savvy
Comfort with technology is important since you’ll be using various online tools and platforms.
Passion for Teaching
A genuine interest in teaching and helping others learn can make your lessons more engaging and enjoyable.
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey
Platforms That Manage Teaching English Online
There are numerous platforms where you can teach English online. Each platform has its own set of requirements, pay rates, and student demographics. Here are some of the most popular ones:
VIPKid
VIPKid connects teachers with students in China. Teachers must have a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL/TESOL certification. The platform offers a structured curriculum and pays between $14 to $22 per hour.
iTalki
iTalki allows you to set your own rates and schedule. It’s a marketplace where students choose teachers based on their profiles and reviews. You can teach any language on this platform, not just English.
Cambly
Cambly focuses on conversational English. You don’t need a degree or certification, making it a good option for those just starting. The pay is lower, around $10 to $12 per hour, but it offers a flexible schedule.
Preply
Preply is similar to iTalki, allowing teachers to set their own rates and schedules. It offers a variety of subjects, including English, and teachers can attract students through their profiles and ratings.
5. Qkids
Qkids caters to young learners in China. It requires a bachelor’s degree and some teaching experience. Pay ranges from $16 to $20 per hour, and the platform provides lesson plans and materials.
“Choosing the right platform can significantly impact your teaching experience and earnings. Consider your qualifications, teaching style, and target student demographic when selecting a platform.” – Michael Brown, Online Teaching Expert
Payment Methods
Understanding how you’ll be paid is crucial when choosing an online teaching platform. Here are common payment methods:
Direct Deposit – Some platforms offer direct deposit into your bank account, which is convenient and often free of charge.
PayPal – PayPal is a popular payment method for its ease of use and wide acceptance. However, be aware of transaction fees.
Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Wise is known for its low-cost international transfers, making it a good option if you’re working with a platform based in another country.
Payoneer – Payoneer is another global payment service that is widely accepted by many online teaching platforms. It’s known for its low fees and efficient service.
Possible Earnings Per Platform
Earnings can vary widely depending on the platform, your qualifications, and your experience. Here’s a breakdown of potential earnings:
VIPKid – Teachers typically earn between $14 and $22 per hour, with opportunities for bonuses.
iTalki – Earnings depend on your rates, which you set yourself. Experienced teachers often charge $20 to $50 per hour.
Cambly – Cambly pays around $10 to $12 per hour, which is lower than other platforms but offers great flexibility.
Preply – Like iTalki, you set your own rates. Top tutors can earn $30 to $50 per hour, depending on their specialization and reviews.
Qkids – Qkids pays between $16 and $20 per hour, with additional bonuses available.
“Maximizing your earnings as an online teacher involves not just choosing the right platform, but also optimizing your profile, gathering positive reviews, and continuously improving your teaching skills.” – Lisa Green, Veteran Online Tutor
Can You See Yourself Teaching English Online?
Teaching English online is a lucrative and flexible way to earn money. By meeting the necessary qualifications, investing in the right equipment, and choosing the best platforms, you can build a successful career in this field.
Whether you’re looking for a full-time job or a part-time gig, the demand for online English teachers is growing, offering ample opportunities to make a substantial income.
