If you have ever dreamed of living in a new country, teaching English abroad might be the perfect path for you. Luckily, the rise of online TEFL courses has made getting certified more convenient than ever.
By the way, Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a globally recognized certification that qualifies you to teach English to non-native speakers of the language. Whether you want to teach in Asia, Europe, or Latin America, the certification is your golden ticket.
Above all, the good news is that in 2025, the demand for certified English teachers continues to grow across the world. But to access the best opportunities, you’ll need the right certification from a reputable provider. That’s where we have brought this article up.
Having said that, below are five of the best TEFL course platforms. Have a look at them!
1. The TEFL Institute
The TEFL Institute offers one of the most affordable and efficient entry-level certifications for aspiring teachers. Their 120-hour Advanced Online TEFL Courses are globally recognized, making the platform ideal for beginners.
Some of the prominent course highlights are given as follows:
- Government-regulated by Ofqual UK.
- AQC-approved by the DEAC (US accrediting body).
- Includes lifetime job placement support.
- Mobile-friendly learning with live job coaching webinars.
This course is perfect if you want to teach in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, or China, where a 120-hour certificate is the minimum requirement. You’ll also get 1-on-1 career guidance, and the platform boasts an 85%+ job success rate for graduates.
2. Premier TEFL
Premier TEFL is built for those looking to turn TEFL into a long-term profession. Their 300-Hour Level 5 Advanced Diploma is one of the most comprehensive options available in 2025 and is highly respected worldwide.
Have a look at their course features:
- Regulated by Highfield Qualifications (Ofqual UK).
- Recognized as CELTA equivalent.
- Includes two specialist modules (e.g., Business English, IELTS Prep).
- Optional 10-hour teaching practicum.
- Access to TEFL Explorer, an AI-powered tool that guides your teaching journey.
- Lifetime job board access and one-on-one mentoring.
- Great for placements in South Korea, Japan, and the UAE.
This will help you to aim for higher-paying teaching jobs, especially in competitive regions or online academies. All in all, this course will give you the qualifications and confidence to stand out.
3. The TEFL Institute of Ireland
If your goal is to teach English in Europe, look no further than the TEFL Institute of Ireland. Their 180-hour Level 5 Diploma is regulated by Ofqual and accredited by Highfield. Thus, making it valid across the UK, Ireland, and the EU.
Course Highlights:
- Full government accreditation (UK & Ireland).
- Special focus on European English teaching jobs.
- 10-hour optional live practicum included.
- Comes with free micro-credentials worth €335.
- Career tools availability.
- Ideal for teaching in Spain, Portugal, Italy.
This course offers a strong balance of academic depth, real-world relevance, and a straightforward route into European classrooms or online platforms.
4. i-to-i TEFL
This is one of the most well-known names in the industry, especially among digital nomads. Their 420-hour Advanced Diploma is ideal for those who want an all-in-one package with self-paced flexibility and specialist training.
Core Characteristics of the Course:
- 100% online and self-paced (finish in as little as 6 weeks).
- Modules include Online Teaching, Young Learners, and Business English.
- Trinity CertTESOL option also available.
- Access to over 7,000 global jobs.
- Recommended for gap year travelers or career changers.
The course is particularly useful if you want to teach English online, or if you plan to move between countries frequently while teaching.
5. International TEFL Academy (ITA)
ITA is one of the top-rated American TEFL course providers. If you’re looking for support, instructor-led learning, and hands-on teaching practice, this is the platform for you.
Course Highlights:
- 11-week part-time online course with live instructor support.
- Includes 10–20 hours of real teaching practicum.
- Accredited by TQUK (Level 5, Ofqual recognized).
- Access to lifetime job support and alumni networking.
- In-person training options available in 20+ countries.
- Known for placements in Mexico, Italy, Indonesia.
Although slightly more expensive, ITA offers unmatched community support, academic depth, and career coaching. It’s perfect for teachers who want a premium learning experience and a long-term teaching career.
To Sum It All Up!
With more people pursuing remote work and international experiences, a TEFL certification in 2025 is more powerful than ever. But it’s not just about getting certified — it’s about choosing the right provider for your goals.
Whichever path you choose, make sure your provider is accredited, offers teaching practice, and helps you navigate the world of jobs after certification.