Are TEFL Courses a Scam? (Full Tier List)

[@siphesihlebradbuthelezi2265]

You actually were my teacher/instructor for CELTA years ago in South Africa

[@FergusFadden]

So nice to hear from a formed trainee! I have the best memories of my time in South Africa! What a beautiful country and so many happy memories from training teachers in Durban! Are you still teaching English? In South Africa?

[@jackfetherstonhaugh9608]

Thanks for the content! My honda civic has been doing the job for the last couple of years but I will be doing the CELTA soon :D

[@FergusFadden]

haha, your excellent response prompted me to post in the community tab here and on my Instagram: instagram.com/integratedskillsesl/ Where are you thinking of taking CELTA?

[@jackfetherstonhaugh9608]

@@FergusFadden considering the Oxford TEFL course in Barcelona!

[@englishwithenya]

Same here!!

[@unique4532]

Does this option allow you to teach children ?

[@Tailssonic1999x]

Enrolled on TEFL Academy the other day, then found this video. I was nearly shitting myself as you were discussing TTA, really hoping it wasnt going into C or B. Glad I picked the right one.

[@FergusFadden]

I'd love to hear about your experience on the course sometime! If ever you'd like to join a free TEFL group discussion I host on Saturdays then please feel free to sign up here: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@SalvageDIYers]

Same here

[@nikkiecotton6532]

Same

[@NattiTravels]

Same

[@ryanrandolph4658]

Thank you for the info I am living in the Philippines I currently have a free TEFL and a cheap TESOL but someday I want my CELTA and Delta but I'm working my way up I'm currently getting a better one now

[@FergusFadden]

Taking a long term view with your goals is always a wise choice in my view! Pay attention to everything that happens a long the way - those things may end up being more valuable than your actual certification! Wishing you every success! By the way, if you would like to sign up for my weekly group call where we talk about all things TEFL/CETLA/Digital Nomad then please feel free to join with this link: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@ryanrandolph4658]

@FergusFadden True I will check it out but I am going to be getting the practical experience to while I work My way up now I do admit that I don't have a college degree so it's a constant uphill battle but I want to show them that high school graduates can do it just as good as or if not better than college graduates can.

[@FergusFadden]

100% I completely agree with you. In my humble opinion I would say college degrees are not the be all and end all. If you have an inner drive and willingness to learn in a practical way then there is no reason why a college degree should hold you back and possibly it is a wise decision given the exorbitant fees for college courses!

[@gioma9500]

Thanks, Fergus. What would be your rate for an in-house 120-hour TEFL class with EF? I wonder if you an opinion about that.

[@FergusFadden]

Thanks for reaching out. Honestly, I am not familiar with this EF couse so it would be unfair of me to comment too much. However, 120 hour is a good baseline marker of quality. However, If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@alexismundy5893]

I have just started a 168-hour TEFL with TTA.

[@zinhlemine4904]

How is it so far?

[@Amber-ni2xp]

How is it I’m also interested in this one is it level 3 cwrufucage or level 5 diploma Tefl

[@NattiTravels]

How is it?

[@FergusFadden]

Lot's of people are interested in your perspective! I host free weekend video calls where we chat about training courses, teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@justinereardon8611]

Hi there. Justine here from South Africa. I've just started the TEFL Advanced Diploma 500 hour online course through i-to-i. But am now concerned as it landed a B rating on the scale. Have I made a big mistake? Will this affect my chances of finding employment? I'd appreciate your feedback. Thank you.

[@FergusFadden]

Hi Justine! South Africa is one of my favourite places! I delivered 4 CELTAs there between 2015 and 2017 (in Durban). I will say that my ratings are quite subjective and I am very open to being challenged or others who have another perspective. At the end of the day the rating systems was not put out there to exclude anything that wasn't S+. Each course has it's place for each person. However, If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@archar6165]

Hello, how about London Teacher Training College? This college offers wide ranges of course. Is it reliable and widely-recognised ? Thanks.

[@FergusFadden]

Thanks for reaching out. Honestly, I am not familiar with London Teacher Training College so it would be unfair of me to comment too much. However, If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@havekrub]

Have you tried Arizona State University TESOL Certification Course presented by Coursera? Where it should be classified?

[@FergusFadden]

Thanks for reaching out. Honestly, I am not familiar with the "Arizona State University TESOL Certification Course presented by Coursera" so it would be unfair of me to comment too much. I would say thought, if it is from Arizona State university then that in and of itself is a good marker of quality. Having said that, If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@MsClever26]

what made each course score the rank they did. you didn't discuss cost, membership/ alumni support, job placement, accreditation, CV support or anything of the sorts

[@your_english_pal]

As far as I have investigated, the classical CELTA course by Cambridge is the most recognized certificate in the world and, which I aim for, in Asia, yet I've seen some employers prefer the TrinityTESOL one. Do I get it right that there is no big difference between the two and the two are can be recognized interchangeably? I plan to get a CELTA certificate in Thailand, Bangkok - do you have any thoughts about this destination of completing a CELTA course in? Thank you so much in advance!

[@FergusFadden]

Hi there! Yes, you can vert much treat Trinity and CELTA as interchangeable. There are a few minor differences in course content/structure but overall you come out with the same training. I've never had the pleasure of training a course in Bangkok but I have heard many good things about that centre! Having said that, no matter where you take the course in the world you will come out with the same qualification!

[@FergusFadden]

Also, if you're interested I'd like to invite you to a free weekly group call all about CELTA/TEFL. You can join here: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@Paulg51-73]

They are both 'made-up' courses to generate money for the corrupt Education companies. Universities, the so called 'Bastion' of the highest of the highs has become a money-grabbing shit-show. There's more Uni's now than ever before. They're absolute shite! That consist of Lectures and self-study.

[@Amber-ni2xp]

I am interested in doing CELTA Cambridge here in London from a brilliant teacher and good college but when I heard it’s intensive and hard and I saw many online videos how tough it is that people gave up as one need to be strong for it then I m so put off and decide to do Tefl and now their are so many Tefls like diploma level 5 Tefl is best or level 3 Tefl is good and the institutes you mentioned here international is good or TTA is best I mean confused also I prefer in person live sessions so I’m really working hard which one goes for me and what to do do next

[@FergusFadden]

I completely understand the feeling. It's true what they say about the intensity of CELTA but there are other ways of doing it e.g. once a week over 3 to 4 months is offered by some centres. Als,o the intensity does not equate to impossible - the vast majority of people who go for CELTA are successful and find it most rewarding. If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@bluerainbow11]

Where would TEFL institute rank? From what I can tell it appears to be somewhat similar to PremierTEFL so would it rank the same or similar?

[@FergusFadden]

Hi there, I have not taken this course. However, if you'd like to discuss various aspects of the course or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@inspiration12415]

Sir which course provide face to face class .. secondly what level of the course should i choose. I have three yeras teaching experience but not in english subject.

[@spacemooasmr9699]

So stuck between ITA and TTA

[@FergusFadden]

The are both well regarded courses, eitherway you will come out with a good tefl preparation. If you'd like to discuss various aspects of the course or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@ryank2740]

where would you put Canadian university TESOL certifications on the list?

[@FergusFadden]

If they are TESL Canada certifications I would put them on a par with the QQI awards generally. Are you considering taking one of these or have you already taken one?

[@gioma9500]

Wow! Interesting. I had the same question. I have been considering registering for this program at a local college in Vancouver. 130 h / $2.5K vgc.ca/wp-content/uploads/TESL_Diploma-Outline-11.30.2022.pdf.

[@LAQueja]

What do you think of Tefl Institute Boston?

[@FergusFadden]

If I am honest, I can't say I have had any exposure to that institute. However, if you'd like to share a link here I would be happy to have a look. By the way, if you would like to sign up for my weekly group call where we talk about all things TEFL/CETLA/Digital Nomad then please feel free to join with this link: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@Englishstorieswithdaisy]

thanks for the information. I was confused to either go for TTA or the Tefl academy. To some extent I am cleared. I hope to join level 5 course of TTA hoping to teach abroad in Asian countries as I am from India. Do they consider the long gap between last education and current situation. thanks in advance

[@FergusFadden]

I don't think the gap in educational experience should pose you any problems! wishing you every success in the future! If you'd like to discuss more or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, traveling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@verenaoliveira4321]

Good Evening.Thanks for explaiing

[@FergusFadden]

My pleasure! I hope that you found the video helpful! By the way, if you would like to sign up for my weekly group call where we talk about all things TEFL/CETLA/Digital Nomad then please feel free to join with this link: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@realworldtefl]

There's a lot of conventional wisdom that seems to be taught the same way across different TEFL certificate courses. So I would be curious to know if there's an outlier that has a different take on teaching and learning methods?

[@FergusFadden]

This is a very apt observation and also a great question. To be honest I am not aware of a course that does something quite "out there". The only thing that really occurs is Scott Thornbury and Luke Medding's "Teaching Unplugged" or "Dogme" method. However, that is pretty well known at this stage and isn't actually a course in and of itself. Interesting question - food for thought!

[@FergusFadden]

Also, if you're interested I'd like to invite you to a free weekly group call all about CELTA/TEFL. You can join here: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@Paulg51-73]

Yes

[@FergusFadden]

quite the succinct comment :) If you'd like to discuss more or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, traveling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@mustaphaidir9484]

Hi, I would like to ask about your opinion on the World TESOL Academy, where would you rank it and is it reliable as I am currently trying to find a reliable TEFL certificate and am considering TTA, Premier TEFL, and World TESOL Academy. Thank you very much in advance

[@mohammedsalah2309]

There is another CELTA or Trinity level qualification called SITTESOL

[@dann547]

Thank you for the very thoughtful and valuable video. I'm hoping to teach in Cambodia via The TEFL Academy. My only quibble with your video was regarding your savage takedown of The World TESOL Academy. Have mercy; it must have at least one redeeming quality. Not saying, just sayin'.

[@FergusFadden]

I wish you all the very best luck with your TEFL academy course! And of course, no course is without some redeeming feature :) By the way, if you would like to sign up for my weekly group call where we talk about all things TEFL/CETLA/Digital Nomad then please feel free to join with this link: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@Tailssonic1999x]

Enrolled in TTA myself the other day. Really looking forward to it.

[@FergusFadden]

wishing you every success!

[@unique4532]

Hi I’m in the US looking to teach aboard online to children. What is the best school

[@FergusFadden]

"What is the best school" - is far too much of a subjective question to answer broadly. However, If you'd like to discuss the topic generally or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@MyNameIsOzymandias]

Nice video. I want to work in Asia. Have you ever heard about SEE TEFL in Thailand/Chiang Mai? I don't know if it's legit or not. I have a bachelor's degree, but I have no teaching experience. I'm non-native speaker but I can speak English fluently like a native speaker. What's the best choice for me? Money is an issue for me and I don't want to get scammed in a country I'm not familiar with.

[@FergusFadden]

Hi there, In some ways I think you have answered your own question; "Money is an issue for me and I don't want to get scammed in a country I'm not familiar with" - if you have any doubt about the validity or how well recognized the course is then my advice would be to avoid it. Having said that, it won't do any harm to; -email the school and ask for information - do they provide observed teaching practice? - Does their certificate have recognition internationally? if so, how? -Ask them for testimonials and reviews -ask them do they support you in finding a job after you have completed the course.

[@Tailssonic1999x]

Your best bet is to ask on a Reddit sub for TEFL / English teaching

[@smirkuz]

Thank you VEEEEEEEEERY VERY MUCH for this video :)

[@FergusFadden]

I'm glad you liked it! If you're interested I also run a free call all about CELTA and TEFL on Saturdays. Feel free to sign up for session here: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@verenaoliveira4321]

Fantastic your Speech 😅

[@teacher.antonia_paixao]

Fergus, what do you think of Bridge Educational TEFL?

[@FergusFadden]

Some good reviews out there and the syllabus is quite fleshed out. Definitely not the worst course out there. However, without a teaching practicum that includes observations and feedback, I wouldn't put it any higher than a B on the tier list. Have you taken that course?

[@teacher.antonia_paixao]

@@FergusFadden Yes, I have taken some courses at Bridge Education. They provided feedback on lesson plans and observations, although the observations were recorded rather than live. My head tutor was Terry McLean, and she was quite demanding, which made the experience rigorous but rewarding.

[@FergusFadden]

Recorded observations are definitely a positive addition to any course. And, if I could update my thoughts based on your experience I would say that in some cases the recorded version can allow for more thoughtful feedback, rather than trying to catch everything in the moment! I'm really happy that you have had such a positive experience and that your tutor, Terry was so professional!

[@verenaoliveira4321]

Night ! Oh.it seams very Interesting.

[@justwritenow.]

Thank you for this!

[@FergusFadden]

Of course! I am glad you found this helpful! By the way, if you would like to sign up for my weekly group call where we talk about all things TEFL/CETLA/Digital Nomad then please feel free to join with this link: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@ilangodfrey6496]

what about TEFL UNIVERSAL?

[@jacksonm2729]

This is pretty neat. Thanks pal!

[@FergusFadden]

Glad you liked it! Are you currently considering taking a TEFL or CELTA?

[@FergusFadden]

Also, if you're interested I'd like to invite you to a free weekly group call all about CELTA/TEFL. You can join here: calendly.com/integratedskillsacademy/join-the-wait-list-cfg-free

[@jacksonm2729]

@@FergusFadden I'm currently enrolled in TTA (S tier!), i'm a few modules away from completing the program.

[@kulwinder7564]

Are online courses valued as much as offline

[@FergusFadden]

When it comes to CELTA, the online and offline course results in exactly the same certificate - so in that sense they have the same 'value'. Where it comes to the question "are they valued" the same, I would say there is a large degree of subjectivity to that question. However, from my own perspective I would say they are mostly (but not always) seen as pretty much equivalent especially in a world where a lot of teaching happens online.

[@nasirchnasir6970]

I know International TEFL academy is the best center ❤❤❤❤

[@FergusFadden]

they are indeed highly recommended :)

[@nasirchnasir6970]

@@FergusFadden Thank you my best teacher

[@Xd09873]

What about world TESOL?

[@maybeangie9536]

What about AVSE?

[@FergusFadden]

Hi there! I can't say I am very familiar with that course! However, if you have a link to the syllabus I would be happy to review it :)

[@englishwithenya]

Loved this video! Informative & entertaining!

[@FergusFadden]

I'm really glad you liked it! I see you are based in South Africa? I have delivered CELTA courses in Durban twice and absolutely loved it over there!Are you currently teaching or thinking about taking another TEFL certification?

[@silvergold4579]

ITTT?

[@FergusFadden]

Hi there! If you'd like to discuss various aspects of the course or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@p.c.p.a11.11]

With AI, our jobs as ESL teachers will become extinct ...So start looking for another job..

[@FergusFadden]

I wonder about this - I see where you're coming from. However, my contention is that the more AI pervades everything the more us humans will come to value real human contact rather than the robots. If you'd like to discuss more or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, traveling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@khothatsomoshodi4465]

Is TEFL Universal legit?

[@FergusFadden]

Thanks for reaching out. Honestly, I am not familiar with "TEFL Universal " so it would be unfair of me to comment too much. However, If you'd like to discuss various aspects of their offering and what it would mean or if you are a teacher or thinking about getting into TEFL, CELTA, life coaching, or the digital nomad life? I host free weekend video calls where we chat about teaching, travelling, and making the most out of these opportunities. Please feel free to sign up here: integratedskills.mykajabi.com/book-an-appointment

[@Teacheralexander3]

The Telf Academy is recommendable to look for jobs abroad?

[@FergusFadden]

The TEFL Academy is a highly reputable course. Where are you based? and where are you thinking about teaching?

[@Teacheralexander3]

@@FergusFadden I'm in Venezuela, and Teach English either online or on-site

[@RafiullahLangove]

I'm given a TEFL certificate without test isn't it scame? It's from china

[@verenaoliveira4321]

😅❤😮

[@Stanbily]

S A+ A B C ?

[@FergusFadden]

It's just a grading system from this thing called a "tier list". Tier lists have been popular on the internet over the past few years. The grading is nothing official, they really just mean "best" to "worst". Are you thinking about taking a TEFL course?