TEFL vs CELTA: 10 Major Differences You Should Know in 2024 [Updated]

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The knowledge of a foreign language can boost your employment and possibly give a hike to your paychecks over the globe. There was a time (a few decades back) when having English language skills was enough for the job.

In the current era of globalization, recurrent cultural activities, events, entertainment, and communication resources have stimulated career interests. Therefore, if you are also among those who are looking to embark on the language learning journey, then read on this blog.

Know the terms: TEFL and CELTA

TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language

One of the first TESOL / TEFL certification courses designed to educate English language teachers (the other one being Trinity CertTESOL) was the CELTA certification course established by the University of Cambridge. As a result, with supervised teaching practice, the UK-based CELTA and Trinity CertTESOL courses set industry benchmarks at a minimum of 120 hours. The 4-week CELTA course costs $2,400 on average.

CELTA: Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (but now called Certificate in Teaching English to Speaker of Other Languages)

Currently, there are several CELTA related services and accrediting bodies. TESL Canada, which was introduced in the 1990s to accredit courses delivered at various levels by Canadian universities and teacher training institutes, is one great example. A wide variety of courses are accepted by TESL Canada, from the regular 120-hour curriculum to a complete Master’s degree in TESOL or Applied Linguistics.

What’s best for you? TEFL vs CELTA

There are certain people who do both the certifications to get some skills refreshment. 

TEFL

TEFL (Teaching as a Foreign Language) is a requirement for several positions teaching English abroad in countries around the world as a second language. It is known globally and is one of the most common qualifications in non-native-speaking countries for people looking for jobs teaching English. For several various certifications, TEFL certification is also used as an umbrella word that can be obtained to qualify you to take on those jobs. 

A TEFL certification on your CV would be pursued by most schools or organizations that you might approach for jobs. The credential is not just a piece of paper, but a symbol of your commitment to future employers and that you are serious about the job you want to play. It also indicates that you understand some of the nuances of teaching English as a foreign language and that some of the initial skills you will need have been fitted with.

You may not have to have a degree or be a fluent English speaker of your own to enroll in a TEFL. You need to be over the age of eighteen and fluent in English. If you are a trained instructor, however skilled, you would also need a TEFL to apply as a second language for positions teaching English. Of course, your abilities will be of great benefit to you, but many practices may vary from those carried out to teach other subjects or to speakers of English.

CELTA

CELTA has introduced an English teaching method based on student’s speaking. It has been compared to a totally different as compared to the traditional learning of foreign languages in which we read, write, speak, SWOT, listen, etc. Speaking of foreign language (especially English) was not included in our curriculum. 

CELTA has given a different approach to English. They focus more on guiding the students about talking time, rather than explaining the stuff word by word. In CELTA, different types of learners and teaching approaches can be learned. The lesson plans are divided wisely into various sections in order to develop a learning process easy and engaging for the learners.

For new teachers embarking on their careers or teachers looking to improve their skills, as well as those wanting to move and teach abroad, the CELTA certification is suitable. If it is their first language or not, it is open to all fluent English speakers. All classes will have practical practice in education, too.

Differences between TEFL and CELTA – TEFL vs CELTA

#1 Duration – TEFL vs CELTA

TEFL courses differ widely in duration. They can be as rigorous as one weekend (check closely before completing such a short course, though, as certain employers do not understand the qualification) or can span for several months to about 300 hours of class time. This gives you leeway to deal with any situations that you need to take into consideration. It is, however, necessary to remember that the course should be a minimum of 100 hours of learning time and six hours of teaching experience to receive a certificate of remembering that will be accepted by employers worldwide. 

In general, CELTA services are run on a full-time basis, consisting of 120 hours of class time and six hours of training. This is normally done within four weeks. Some CELTA courses, however, do have a part-time alternative that can be done over a span of approximately three months.

#2 Complexity – TEFL vs CELTA

The complexity of TEFL courses will work around your needs and conditions on the whole. With courses ranging in length, a course that satisfies the criteria but is realistic to complete is easier to select. With class time easy to pick up in the evenings, several lessons are available online, ensuring any further education or job commitments can be accommodated. 

A training activity that does not need to be carried out for English language learners will also involve classes. This will assist you as a student with challenges such as time or ease to not have to fit into timetables and availability. Answer these courses with caution, though, as some employers will prefer to hire persons that have taken courses that require practical familiarity with related learners with whom you will work. That may also be underestimating the importance of the strategies that you will pick up from practice in real life.

CELTA certification courses, on the other hand, usually run as full-time courses, as described above. Some six hours of practice, plus any extra homeschooling that needs to take place, will be a normal day on the course. On top of this, instructional preparation with realistic reviews and written assignments would need to be done. It is a genuine four-week obligation that would not work with other duties, such as a full-time job. 

CELTA certifications are often focused on the awareness that you have a strong understanding of the principles of grammar. It would entail extra work for those completing the course for whom this is not the case. That will bring time and strain to the course, and on both full and part-time courses, that is valid for people.

#3 Certification and Credibility – TEFL vs CELTA

Since TEFL is such an umbrella word and courses vary, studying individual courses and looking for a reliable course provider is worth the effort. That said, TEFL certification courses are globally accepted and will provide you with the real skills you need to complement your qualification if you do appropriate study. 

Your TEFL certification course should provide a minimum of 120 hours to be deemed adequate by employers in both research and practical experience. Be aware of rates that sound too good to be real, but also realize that more is not the same as more. Prior to signing up, review the credentials of both the course and its leaders.

Because of the Cambridge influence, CELTA certification courses do hold a heavy draw. Few employers around the world may require applicants to be directly accredited by CELTA, although several alternatives are available that do not exist in most countries. While other courses are capable of this too, the course is known for its ability to prepare successful teachers. A person need to get a CELTA credential which is more likely to favor those who have an eye on longer-term work abroad.

Also Check: Top 15  free tefl course in 2021

#4 Cost – TEFL vs CELTA

A standard TEFL online course will cost about £ 200, while for 120 hours, a high-standard, premier online course will cost upwards of £ 300. For a simple, twenty-hour course, classroom courses vary from around £ 240 to around £450 for in-depth, 150-hour premier courses.

A more costly option, with fees typically around £1,400, is CELTA. 

Obviously, the cost to an individual can rely on their current circumstances, any loss of earnings incurred by participating in the courses and traveling to and from classes and training held in person.

#5 Value – TEFL vs CELTA

It is important to note that less does not always equal to more prices, nor does it represent a better choice for a higher price in itself. 

If you are considering a TEFL certification course, prior to committing to it, comprehensively study a course. Considerations such as employability, who runs the course and how competent they are, and what help you will get in the future. There are several TEFL courses that match the criteria well with the credentials you can get at a great price. It is also essential that you ensure that any course you take covers the criteria to which you will require it. Just completing a course will not provide any benefit if it does not prepare you for the job you are set to do!

Similarly, review the conditions you need to determine if a CELTA is suitable. It is a serious financial undertaking at about three times the price of most in-depth TEFL courses. The price of CELTA is partially low to its global reputation and prestige as a highly successful and comprehensive path. It can make you stand out from other candidates, but it won’t be the only thing that will help you do so. 

All courses require determination and devotion to finish successfully, but this is especially true of CELTA. However, this will be a further positive for employers. If your goal is to work only with youth, it is worth exploring if CELTA is the right choice for you, since it is more adult-focused than other courses available. 

A CELTA course could be an excellent investment in your future career if you are considering teaching in the long term, either at home or abroad.

#6 Advantages and Disadvantages – TEFL vs CELTA

Both programs have their strengths and disadvantages and can be based on your preferences and what you are going for. Here are some pros and cons of each to help. 

Generally, TEFL certification courses have more versatility in when and when they are finished. Both in-person and online, they are available and can be full or part-time. They are a cheaper option and are recognized as a qualification and certification to teach worldwide. They can be carried out by someone who, irrespective of current qualifications, is fluent in English and over the age of eighteen. Because they differ in length, before heading off globe-trotting, they open many choices and represent an opportunity for a backpacker to add another skill to their rucksack.

TEFL courses are not often enough, however, and a more comprehensive certification would be asked by some employers. Although this does not hinder your ability to find jobs, opportunities are often likely to occur in countries where a TEFL is more than enough, your range will be minimal. Courses may also vary in standard, although some thorough research from potential applicants can combat this. 

As an option, CELTA certification offers one of the most coveted foreign language teaching credentials in the country. It is widely respected and equips participants to go out and instruct with great skills. Any employers will stipulate that this quality must be certified, while others may look at it more favorably. For someone looking at a long-term career teaching English at home or abroad, it is a perfect investment and will unlock completely new doors of their own.

It is one of the costliest courses, however, and allows applicants to be able to devote a considerable amount of time to the course to obtain the certification. That may not always be necessary and candidates for the jobs you are looking for. In some situations, you must hold higher credentials that are necessary for other courses. Usually, an interview must be approved, and there is a greater demand in terms of the anticipated workload than there is on various TEFL courses.

#7 Greater Commitment – TEFL vs CELTA

Generally, CELTA is seen as a contribution both in time and in resources. The benefits for this are a qualification that would be adequate to get you recognized in virtually every career for which you might be trying to use it. In certain situations, though, a TEFL can be almost as effective in finding work, and in general, a TEFL provides more consistency in the classes you can take, the way you take it, and the time the course is done. Applying for the best TEFL certification will be a great deal. 

#8 Career Commitments – TEFL vs CELTA

Some TEFL certification courses are better than others at this. CELTA courses will find you get some help, but this ranges in terms of consistency. Since, at the time of finishing a course, there is no promise of a position, but everything can come down to your willingness and desire to go out and see what’s on offer.

#9 Prerequisites – TEFL vs CELTA

You will be able to join a suitable TEFL certification course if you are over 18 and can speak English fluently. You may not need to have any credentials for higher education. On the other hand, a CELTA course allows students to go through a rigorous selection process and interview process, and credentials are likely to play a much more significant role in winning you a position in the selection. CELTA courses have a very high completion rate because of this.

#10 Course Reputation – TEFL vs CELTA

CELTA and TEFL are actually TEFL services, but are supposed to refer the speakers to various target markets, areas of specification, and instructional approach. 

Still, with CELTA gaining worldwide recognition as the highest standard of TEFL software, TEFL certification remains a few steps forward. 

TEFL is also popular and has become widely adopted around the world, especially in the UAE, Thailand, Japan, the United States, Malaysia, China, and many more. It is actually mandatory for trainers and teachers wanting to have a career in teaching to have a TEFL degree in those countries. 

What should you choose – TEFL vs CELTA?

It is necessary to choose what best fits your needs, as with any course, qualification, or investment. There is no reasonable response to determine which choice is best , since it depends on the time constraints, financial position, wants, expectations, and expectations. 

If you need a cheaper alternative that allows flexibility to work around existing obligations, then one of many great TEFL certification courses should be considered. If, though, capital is no challenge and you are searching for a degree that matches a long-term career objective of teaching English either at home or abroad, good value begins to be reflected by the CELTA.

To see which would suit your needs and where you are likely to be teaching, always look at the fine print of any bid. When wisely selected, both paths will reflect outstanding value, and several possibilities await anyone who takes the plunge and commits to each.

It can be a hugely satisfying opportunity to teach English overseas or at home to individuals who do not speak it as their natural language. Rejoice in your students’ successes and know that you have made a very positive difference in their lives. Start your journey today by applying for a course, then find out where your useful, new-found skills can be used!

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Recommended Read:
– What is TEFL Certification
– Top 10 TEFL Certification Program in 2021
– Top 5 Programs to Get Your TEFL Certification in South Africa
– Top 50 Best TEFL Certification Courses
– TEFL Vs. TESOL

 

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