TEFL

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is the most widely recognized credential for English teachers who work with students whose first language is not English. TEFL certification typically requires 120+ hours of instruction in second-language acquisition theory, classroom management, lesson planning, and observed teaching practice.

Related credentials:

• TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages): Often used interchangeably with TEFL, though TESOL is the more inclusive term and is favored in academic settings.
• CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults): Cambridge's professional certification, considered the gold standard for adult English teaching. Generally more rigorous than basic TEFL certifications.
• DELTA (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults): Cambridge's advanced credential for experienced English teachers, equivalent to a master's-level qualification.

For homeschool families and corporate clients evaluating English instructors, TEFL/TESOL or CELTA certification combined with a university degree in linguistics or language education is the standard professional baseline.