How to Become an ESL Teacher with Online Education

Do you want to know how to become an ESL teacher online? An estimated 1.5 billion people (18% of the world’s population) speak English. That means 82% of the world could use your help! Boundless opportunities across the globe are at your fingertips. Your work as an ESL teacher has a lifelong impact. You can help students of all ages improve their lives. Becoming an ESL teacher is a rewarding career. There is plenty of potential for growth. Whether you already have teaching experience or are brand new, the world of ESL welcomes you. Maybe you’re interested in how to become an ESL teacher in California, Texas, NY, or any of the other states. This article will show you how to become ESL certified. Read on if you are ready to dive in!

Article Navigation: Steps to Become an ESL Teacher | ESL Education Online | Can I Teach ESL Without a Degree? | Requirements & Training | ESL Certification | ESL Teacher Endorsement | What is ESL? | Career Overview | ESL Organizations | Conclusion

How to Become an ESL Teacher Online: The Steps

1. Earn an online bachelor’s degree in ESL or TESOL or a related subject, such as linguistics.

   Here you will learn how to become an ESL teacher. People interested in working as ESL teachers in the K-12 public school system must hold a bachelor’s degree in education. This is the minimum requirement. Ideally this degree would be in English, Linguistics, ESL or TESOL. It usually takes four years to complete an undergrad program. In some states such as California classes in a second language may be required.

2. Complete a student teaching internship in an ESL setting as part of your program.

   An educational internship places students in real classrooms. They learn on-the-go and gain valuable experience in an educational setting. Interns receive a salary and mentorship during this process. They grow through practicing.

   Students may work as a teacher aide, assistant instructor, or give small-group lessons in different settings. This depends on where they intern. Typically internships are one or two semesters in length. This is unlike student teaching, which pairs a teacher candidate with a teacher mentor. This method combines observation with teaching practice under supervision of another teacher. Student teaching allows teachers-in-training to learn from an experienced educator.

   ESL teacher training is typically needed for an ESL teacher degree. Very rarely, like during the pandemic, have teacher candidates been allowed to waive their teacher training requirement.

   Meanwhile, students pursuing a teaching credential that isn’t an ESL teacher degree have some options. They can get ESL certified after receiving their degree, receive a special authorization (an example is a CLAD in California), or get an ESL minor.

3. Take your state’s tests for teacher licensure with an endorsement in ESL.

   Each state has different examinations for prospective ESL teachers. These tests prove that you are qualified to teach English language learners. Examples include the PPR exam (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities) in Texas and edTPA assessment in New York. English learner (EL) coursework may also be required depending on the state. These exams are a supplement to the regular tests each aspiring teacher must pass.

4. Apply for your teaching license.

   Candidates can apply for their initial teaching license upon completion of all examinations. Along with an application, generally fingerprints, passing scores of each exam, transcripts, and verification of the teacher preparation program are needed. All educators across the US must renew their licenses every five years.

5. Begin applying to open positions for ESL teachers.

   Once all previous steps have been completed, it will be time to look for a job. Recipients of their licensure may already be employed. Some organizations choose to offer their interns more permanent work. Other licensed teachers can utilize their universities’ career resources for employment opportunities. A reputable place to start the search is also the top job posting boards for educators called EDJOIN.

How to Be an ESL Teacher – States Examples

• How to Become an ESL Teacher in Texas

  Many people ask how to become an ESL teacher in Texas. Here we have the general pathway. ESL certification in Texas is a straightforward process. You first need a bachelor’s degree. If their degree isn’t in education, then they must complete a teacher education program. They must complete a TESOL certification course, either during their bachelor’s or afterwards.

  An ESL teacher certification which would supplement a teaching credential. A ESL certification in Texas is followed by a Basic Skills, PPR exam, and Supplemental ESL test are required. Once these steps are completed, aspiring educators can apply for Texas teacher certification. Grades from all exams and proof of credentials are needed to apply.

• How to Become an ESL Teacher in California

  You may be wondering how to become an ESL teacher in California. California ESL teacher requirements follow a linear process. First, candidates must finish a Commission of Teacher Credentialing (CTC) approved teacher preparation program. This can be a bachelor’s degree in elementary or single-subject (secondary) education. Students then need to pass their respective Subject Examinations (CSET) to graduate.

  Applicants can take a post-baccalaureate program that takes 2-3 semesters to finish if they don’t hold a degree in education. Graduates must receive a CLAD (Cross-cultural Language and Academic Development) Certificate. In order to receive a CLAD, coursework in a second language may be required. This authorization allows them to provide classes in English language development.

• How to Become an ESL Teacher in NY

  In NY, ESL docents are called ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) teachers. The steps for how to become an ESL teacher in New York are similar to California and Texas. First, you need a valid NY teaching credential. This can either be in ESOL or in elementary, secondary, or special education.

  If the degree isn’t in ESOL, then an ESOL minor or ESL certificate is required after completion of the bachelor’s program. Teachers must then pass a Literacy Skills Test, Education All Students (EAS) Test, and Content Speciality Test in ESOL (CST). Finally they need to pass the edTPA assessment. These are the requirements for how to become an ESL teacher in NY.

ESL Education Online

There are a multitude of routes for people interested in learning how to be an ESL teacher. Below are the different ESL education options available.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education with ESL Certification

A bachelor’s degree in education with an ESL certification is the most common route for people who want to teach ESL in a K-12 learning environment. A degree takes four years. A certification can take up to a year to finish. Students typically need a bachelor’s degree and proof of field experience to apply for the certification. They must pass a subject matter exam to be considered. Many ESL teacher jobs are available once you get an authorization or certification. If you want to teach at a university or community college, then a master’s degree is required .

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics

This degree prepares teachers in the mechanics of language. This usually takes four years to finish. In order to teach you will need a TESOL certification. A Degree in Linguistics has many benefits for aspiring ESL teachers because they will graduate with a profound understanding of the English language. Syntax, phonology, and semantics are fundamental courses for Linguistics majors. This knowledge, combined with TESOL training, will help aspiring teachers be a wealth of information for their students.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in English

Similar to Linguistics, this degree can be paired with a TESOL certification. The certification would be subsequent to a degree. An English degree is an excellent building block for future ESL teachers. This degree in English can be balanced between grammar, linguistics, literature, literary analysis, as well as critical thinking. Each of these emphases can easily transfer into the world of ESL teaching. You need each of these skills to engage, support, and educate English language learners. Therefore, this degree, combined with TESOL training, creates prepared educators. If you want to teach at a higher level than K-12, then a master’s degree is required.

Online Master’s Degree in TESOL

Master’s degrees in TESOL are advanced degrees. Unless your plan is to teach in college, they aren’t necessary for landing a job in education. However, they do set you apart from other other job seekers. These master’s degrees can be finished in one or two years. A bachelor’s degree is required. A master’s in TESOL focuses more on theory than teaching skills. This is for people who want a career as an English as a second language teacher. Outside of teaching, an MA in TESOL can land you a job as a program director, textbook editor, or curriculum writer. The downside is that these can be expensive, from $8-$30k per year.

Online Doctorate in TESOL

There are many PhD programs that allow students to have an emphasis in TESOL. These are traditionally research-based programs. A master’s degree in a related field like TESOl, ELT, or Education is required. A PhD in TESOL will make you an expert in the field. Curriculum developers, teacher trainers, as well as TESOL educators of any school level are just some of the roles available to you upon completion. Similar to a master’s, a PhD is more theory-based than practice-based. Of course, teacher roles are available with just a bachelor’s degree, teacher credential, and a certificate. What educational route you take depends on your career goals.

Can I Teach ESL Without a Degree?

ESL teacher requirements in the United States vary with each organization. If the employer is a private language company, then they will have their own set of standards. Usually a TEFL certification and prior ESL teaching experience is enough to get hired.

Teaching ESL in US education has different requirements depending on the state. For instance, California ESL teacher requirements may not mirror Nevada ESL teacher requirements. In view of these differences, each ESL teacher job description will provide clarity. In the K-12 public school system, ESL candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree. Whereas, community colleges often ask for a master’s degree in English, TESOL, or Linguistics. Regardless of where they teach, most ESL teachers have degrees in English, Linguistics, a Foreign Language, Teaching English as a Second Language.

Many teaching jobs abroad or online do ask for a bachelor’s degree in any field plus a certification. However, some simply ask that you get ESL certified. Some examples include a TEFL certification or a TESOL certification. An ESL certification online is sufficient for many jobs. Surprisingly, some schools abroad or online don’t ask for any credentials or degree. Being fluent in English sometimes is good enough to get hired. If you want to teach private lessons, then no requirements are needed.

ESL Teacher Requirements & Training

Requirements for teaching ESL vary. It depends on the country and organization. When looking at job postings, it’s key to understand the ESL teacher description that hiring parties are looking for. This will be a tell for what requirements are needed.

The starting qualifications to teach ESL are simple: Be fluent in English or prove that you have a high level of proficiency. If you aren’t a native speaker, then English test scores like the IELTS or TOEFL may be required for employment. Knowledge of a second language is beneficial but not necessary.

Because English is in high demand across the world, requirements for teaching ESL abroad can be low. Experience isn’t necessary. The best training for learning to be an ESL teacher is to be in the classroom. There are, however, some qualities that are needed. These are important overseas and in the United States.

When thinking of the ideal ESL teacher description, they need to have certain qualities. They need to be good communicators, patient, resourceful, and culturally sensitive.

You don’t always have to be a certified ESL teacher to find employment. This can be the case for teaching private lessons, private language schools, or with some schools overseas. Sometimes prior teaching experience, being a native English speaker, or a bachelor’s degree can be enough to get hired in these settings. However, it does help having an ESL teaching certification like a TESOL or TEFL. Government-sponsored programs in other countries do typically require formal ESL/EFL education.

ESL Certification Requirements

How to Get ESL Certified

The first step for teaching English as a second language certification is knowing how to become ESL certified. It’s important to know where you want to work. This will narrow down your choices. Typically a TEFL is for working overseas. TESOL is generally for teaching in the US. You can find a program near you or find an ESL teaching certification online.

Second, you must know the ESL certification requirements before applying to a course. If the program is taught by a major university, then it’s likely that a bachelor’s degree is necessary. If taught from a private language school, then the requirements are minimal. Knowing the ESL certification requirements will be beneficial in making the right decision.

Finally, choose the best ESL teaching certification online or in person for you. It’s important to factor price, length, cost, job placement, and practice teaching hours offered. Many programs advertise certificates that take 100-120 hours to complete. It’s important to contact each program before applying. They will add clarity for how to get certified to teach ESL. If you are pursuing a teaching credential then your school may already offer ESL certifications or authorizations.

ESL Teacher Certification Online

A teaching English as a second language certification can be completed online. Aspiring teachers can learn how to become an ESL teacher from the comfort of their home. What’s more, there are many ESL teaching certificate options for prospective students.

For example, many universities offer online extension programs which are pathways to a TESOL certification. They typically require a bachelor’s degree for enrollment. They can take up to two years to complete. Other universities offer self-paced TESOL/TEFL certificates online. They require proof of some completed college coursework. These have rolling admissions.

You can receive an ESL teacher certification online through various English academies. They are usually faster to complete. They can show you how to get certified to teach ESL. There are an immense number of options to choose from. The application requirements are minimal (just be a native English speaker).The quality of instruction will vary greatly so be aware before applying. Do your due diligence. Some will focus on bookwork. Others will show you how to be an ESL teacher.

ESL Teacher Endorsement

Endorsements indicate an additional subject and field a professional is qualified to teach. It’s possible to choose an endorsement for a subject (example: math) and grade-level (primary, middle, or high school). If you opt for an ESL endorsement, then you will be allowed to teach English as a second language to the grade-level indicated on the license. Teachers can have multiple endorsements. This expands their scope of employment opportunities.

Endorsements differ from certificates. A certificate serves as a teacher’s license. It gives them permission to work. Endorsement’s supplement a certificate. Certificates don’t require endorsements. Endorsements are considered an “add-on” to a license to teach. Certificates take longer to complete. Endorsements are less time intensive. A teacher can pursue new endorsements while already working.

An ESL endorsement can be obtained after a teacher has received their initial license. Usually there are approximately 12-18 credits of coursework. ESL endorsements are becoming more widely used as student populations become increasingly diverse. This is especially true as the number of English language learners in American classrooms is growing. This increases the need for teachers with ESL training.

What is ESL?

Firstly, what does ESL stand for? ESL is an acronym for English as a Second Language. This ESL meaning refers to teaching English to English language learners (ELL) who have a different primary language. These people live in a country where English is either necessary or it’s the official language. An example is a person from a non-native English-speaking country who studies in a country like the US, England, or Canada. It’s easy to confuse ELL vs ESL. There is a relation, but the meanings are different. English as a Second Language is a global subject. Earth’s population is over 8 billion people. 1.5 billion of them speak English.

What is ESL Education?

ESL education is a system for helping English language learners (ELL’s) gain English proficiency. Students come from families whose primary language isn’t English. This type of instruction helps learners gain multiple language skills like reading comprehension, listening, and speaking. ESL education occurs in K-12 schools, universities, community colleges, and language academies. ESL classes can be in someone’s home or online.

What is the Difference Between ESL and …

• ESL vs. TEFL

  TEFL is an acronym for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Many ESL teachers carry a TEFL certification. It’s easy to confuse ESL and TEFL. Although part of the ESL umbrella, TEFL refers to teaching English in a country where it’s not the first language spoken. Hence, to the students English would be considered a “foreign” subject. ESL typically means teaching English to non-native speakers in a country where English is the primary language. English as a Second Language teachers commonly work in K-12 educational systems.

• ESL vs. TESOL

  TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is more flexible than TEFL or ESL. A person with this ESL certification would be able to work abroad or in the United States. ESL, as stated before, is exclusive to teaching English in an English-speaking country. A TESOL certification opens the door to a wider range of ESL careers. TEFL teacher training curricula focuses more on grammar skills, while TESOL stresses speaking.

• ESL vs. TESL

  TESL represents Teaching English as a Second Language. It means that English is taught in a country where English is the primary language. Students speak other languages as their mother tongue. This sounds similar to ESL, which it is. People use them interchangeably. In fact, TESL, TESOL, and TEFL may even allow teachers to work in the same settings.

• ESL vs. ELL

  ELL stands for English Language Learner. This is a non-native English speaker who is learning English. ESL is a curriculum and methodology used to help ELLs improve their English. ESL is a tool to support ELLs. English language learners improve their vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, listening, and speaking skills with ESL classes.

• ESL vs. ENL

  ENL means English as a New Language. ESL prioritizes English development in its classes. It’s curriculum targets areas like vocabulary, grammar, and reading. ENL fosters English growth through integration with other subjects. Language acquisition serves as a dual-outcome. In certain states the terms ENL vs ESL are used interchangeably.

• ESL Teacher vs. Bilingual Teacher

  A bilingual teacher is fluent in both English and their student’s mother tongue. They give lessons in both languages. Usually these students come from a similar cultural background with the same first language. ESL is distinct. ESL classrooms may have students with multiple primary languages. Being an ESL teacher means you only teach in English. This creates an immersive experience for the class. Traditional subjects like math, science, or geography can have bilingual classrooms. The focus of ESL classes is to develop their pupil’s English proficiency.

ESL Career Overview

What is an ESL Teacher?

If learning English is the destination for English language learners, then ESL teachers serve as their guide. An ESL teacher is someone who helps non-English-speaking students improve their English. At their core they are language lovers. They have a passion for learning. They also want to help others achieve their dreams.

An English as a second language teacher can be a native or non-native English speaker. They typically have a bachelor’s degree, often in ESL, and ESL teacher training of some kind. This may be an ESL certification or ESL degree.

The role of an ESL teacher often goes deeper than just learning a language. They also serve as a window and bridge to English-speaking culture. ESL teacher skills required are inclusion, creativity, empathy, patience, and cultural competency.

The first thing to remember about ESL teachers is that this is a broad profession. Teachers can teach English as a second language to students in the US. Similarly, they also can work in a different country, teaching English as a foreign language to local students. Both pathways are exciting and highly rewarding. Both options have different educational requirements.

What Does an ESL Teacher Do?

An English as a second language teacher educates students who are learning English. These teachers prepare students of any age in all areas of the English language. This includes speaking, reading, writing, and listening. They may be a primary teacher or work in a supportive role.

Being an ESL teacher means you most likely will be in a classroom. It’s possible to give private lessons to small groups or one-on-one.The duties of an ESL teacher will vary. In classrooms, they can expect to create a curriculum, prepare lessons, give homework, and assess the progress of students. Private ESL teachers may have other tasks based on the needs of their students.

English as a second language teachers at schools work primarily with students who immigrated from a different country. Besides teaching, their role is to ensure their pupils are adjusting to their new life. They provide support and comfort to their classes.

ESL teachers may be viewed as unofficial ambassadors to the United States. They often share their culture and interests with their students.

They work in a wide variety of environments. Community colleges, universities, preschools, language schools, or high schools are just some of the organizations that hire ESL teachers. These settings may be online or in person.

Should I Become an English as a Second Language Teacher?

Becoming an ESL teacher has many benefits. Demand for ESL teachers in the US and abroad is high. A median ESL teacher salary in the US is healthy at $59,720 per year. The work environment and schedule can be flexible. Teachers can find jobs online, abroad, and at all levels of our education system. Teaching ESL offers a worldly perspective. ESL teacher requirements can be lower than other industries. ESL teacher training online or English fluency sometimes is all you need to get hired for some jobs. Teachers are providing service by helping learners grow. They can develop powerful bonds with their students.

On the other hand, working in diverse cultural environments can be tiring. Leading students with different English levels can be challenging. ESL teachers must adapt and be flexible. Finding a job that pays well enough can take time. Not every school has the same resources and facility conditions. ESL teachers can expect to work long hours. Teachers may feel a lack of support from their school.

Is It Hard to Be an ESL Teacher?

ESL teaching, like any form of education, can have its challenges. Not all ESL jobs are equal. Some schools give instructors more responsibilities than others. Each school will have different resources and teacher support available. Before accepting an offer, it’s important to fully read the ESL teacher job description. Also, desired qualifications to teach ESL depend on each employer.

Each group of students will be different. Engaging students, maintaining order, and ensuring that they learn will take work. As stated before, some ESL teacher skills needed are patience and cultural competency. It is necessary to keep your student’s culture in mind when teaching. How does society in their country view teachers? What challenges are they facing in this new country?

ESL is more than grammar and verbs. An ESL teacher job description may omit this detail. It’s an introduction to our way of living. It’s an important role. At times it can be hard. When students have that “aha” moment it makes the job rewarding. Remember this: You are building each student’s foundation in the English language and culture. It’s a fulfilling journey.

ESL Teacher Skills & ESL Teacher Qualifications

Certain skills are needed to become an English as a second language teacher. You must be fluent in English, flexible, creative, organized, patient, culturally competent, and empathetic. Great teachers have curious minds. They love learning. Professional teachers instill trust, connection, and inclusivity in their classrooms. They want to see their students succeed.

ESL teacher qualifications are typically a bachelor’s degree and/or some form of ESL education. This depends on where you want to work. Ideal candidates have a degree in English, Linguistics, or TESOL.

A TEFL, TESOL, or TESL certification are accepted ESL teacher qualifications for certain jobs.
In the US, these jobs include private language schools, after school programs, some adult education programs, and some government organizations. The options are even greater overseas. Given that TEFL, TESOL, and TESL teachers are in high demand globally, job opportunities are abundant outside of the US. These same entities plus public schools are willing to hire certified teachers abroad. Candidates who want to work in the K-12 school system need at least a bachelor’s degree combined with a TESOL certification.

ESL Teacher Salary

The salary of an ESL teacher will vary with each state. In 2021 the median salary for ESL teachers was $59,720 per year according to the BLS. The salary gap for ESL teachers between states is enormous.

Median salaries of ESL teachers in Oregon are the highest ($94k per year). Next are California ($85k per year), New York ($73k per year), New Jersey ($70k per year), and Connecticut ($68k per year). Additionally, the median salary for an ESL teacher in Texas is $55,080 per year. Salaries of ESL teachers are the lowest in New Mexico ($32k per year). Next are South Dakota (39k per year), Kansas ($40k per year), Nebraska ($40k per year) and Georgia ($41k per year).

The top-paying metropolitan areas that pay well beyond the national mean are Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($97k per year), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA ($92k per year), San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($90k per year), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($88k per year), and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($88k per year).

ESL Careers & Job Opportunities

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% decline in the demand for ESL teachers in the US over the next ten years. In spite of this, almost 5,000 jobs are expected to open up each year. The demand for teachers will continue to grow as the percentage of English language learners in schools gets higher. People passionate about teaching English as a second language can feel comfort knowing that 82% of the world needs English classes.

Those who teach English as a second language have many skills that are transferable. Therefore, they have access great career opportunities. Below are some interesting professions that are ideal for ESL teachers:

• International Student Recruiter for Universities ($42-$58k per year)
• Interpreter or Translator ($49k per year)
• K-12 Teacher (approx. $61k per year)
• Career and Technical Education Teachers ($61k per year)
• Social Services Manager ($57-$90k per year)

Are ESL Teachers in Demand?

Demand for ESL teachers in the US is growing. In 2018, one in four US residents spoke a language other than English at home. This means that approximately 20% of our countries’ population will need ESL classes. Even though the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) expects a 6% decline in employment over the next ten years, roughly 4,700 positions are forecasted to open each year. Job opportunities abroad for a certified ESL teacher is immense. Every country with a different first language is looking for instructors to teach English. Become an ESL teacher online to widen the pool of potential students.

Professional Organizations for ESL Teachers

• National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE)

  This non-profit was established in 1975. Its mission is educational equality. Hence, it advocates for quality bilingual education. Members have access to an educational community, and webinars, in addition to professional development resources at discounted rates.

• National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)

  This organization is 100 years old. It strives to improve the quality of English education and instruction. Access, powers, agency, affiliation, as well as impact are the pillars of this agency. Members receive support through networking, career resources, conferences, and publications about the industry.

• Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

  This organization offers a global community to its members. TESOL connects teachers from all across the world. Career resources, networking events, educational courses, and advanced research tools are available to members. Additionally, membership includes reduced rates for courses and grants for school.

• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

  This non-profit provides a robust catalog of resources for ESL and bilingual teachers. Expert and innovative, ASCD members receive a subscription to Educational Leadership magazine, discounts on professional books, and discounts on school supplies, in addition to unlimited access to online content. This includes courses, webinars, and podcasts. The ASCD learning community is great for collaboration and networking.

• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)

  This global organization advocates for improved multilingual education. Collaboration, inclusivity, innovation, integrity, passion, as well as quality are its driving principles. Members benefit from a community of 11,000 language professionals. Volunteer opportunities, professional development courses, mentoring programs, and special interest groups are available with membership.

Become an English as a Second Language Teacher Today!

You now know how to become an ESL teacher. This article taught you how to get ESL certified, steps for an ESL education, and how to become an ESL teacher in different states. For example, you now know how to become an ESL teacher in Texas. Also, you have the resources to become an ESL teacher online.

There is an abundance of great ESL careers out there. You now have a starting point to pursue them. The choice is now yours. Now you must decide where you want to teach. Learning about educational opportunities near you or online would be a good next step. Knowing who you want to teach is also important to decide. You can make a powerful impact not only in an English learner’s life but yours as well. Become an English as a second language teacher today!