It’s a question that has been debated for years – is TEFL level 5 equivalent to a degree? And the answer is… Well, let’s not give it away just yet.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between a TEFL qualification and a degree, as well as some of the main benefits of the former.
What Is The TEFL Level 5 Certification?
TEFL, or the abbreviation for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is a certificate that allows you to teach English around the world.
In order to teach English, especially in a foreign country, you need to have certain knowledge and certification, and with this certificate, you meet all the requirements for work. And if you’re wondering how to get well-paid jobs as an English teacher, our advice is to definitely pass TEFL Level 5.
Why? With this certificate, you will be able to teach both children and adults through online platforms and in classrooms depending on your choice. The fact is that with this certificate you will get a job much more easily.
What Is The TEFL Level 5 Diploma?
The difference between a certificate and a diploma is in the hours of lectures you attend.
The certificate requires 180 hours of lectures that you can take both online and live, while the diploma requires 300 to 420 hours of lectures.
The diploma offers you the opportunity to learn about business English, test preparation and extended knowledge of English. If you think that these are too few hours to obtain a diploma, there are also 500-hour courses that cover all areas of the language.
What Is The CELTA Degree?
Unlike the TEFL certificate, on the other hand, the CELTA allows for teaching English to adults only. If you want a teaching career in the long run this course should help you do that. This course lasts 120 hours, and if you are unable to attend the lectures in person, you will probably be happy that you can also attend these lectures via online platforms.
There are only a couple of requirements for enrolling in this course, namely that you are 18+ years old, that your knowledge of the English language is at the C1 level and that you are in accordance with the standard required for enrolment in higher education.
It is necessary to commit to this course for a maximum of 4 weeks, as long as it lasts. In addition to learning English, you will master the skills of a good teacher. If you meet all the standards of this course and master the language, in one month you will receive a certificate certified by Cambridge University.
Is TEFL Level 5 Equivalent To A CELTA Degree?
If you were hesitant about which course to enrol in and thought CELTA was better or more reputable – you were wrong.
Although this course has its advantages it does not guarantee that you will get a job over someone with a TEFL certificate. Both courses are equally valued in the teaching world.
If you want to follow the lectures from the comfort of your home, and at the same time spend less money, then TEFL is definitely for you.
The only thing we have to warn you about when taking this course is that great deal of TEFL academies do not have the Ofqual stamp of approval and therefore won’t offer a valid certificate. So, if you are in doubt about which site offers you a valid TEFL course/certification, check teflinstitute.com out, so you can take a look at what it should look like.
What Are The Benefits Of Having TEFL Level 5?
Let’s talk about the benefits this certificate will provide you with.
1. Everlasting Certificate
If you’re still not sure if it’s worth it to complete a TEFL course, then it’s important to note that this certificate lasts forever, just like a college degree. It has no expiration date which offers you the guarantee that you can teach as long as you want.
2. Better Earnings
With this course, in addition to the variety of jobs, you can also count on a well-paid job. Since you get additional education with it, it is reflected in the salary you receive. Even if you plan to do just this job, we assure you that your earnings from teaching English will cover all your expenses, even vacations.
3. Providing Knowledge
If your dream was to teach in a school, with over 100 hours of teaching you will easily acquire the skills of a good teacher. Be sure that you will meet many different people through your work, and who knows, maybe you will even become friends with some of them. If you love children, this is just one of the benefits of this job.
4. You Can Easily Get A Visa If You Plan To Teach Abroad
We will agree that the process of obtaining a visa is exhaustive and sometimes it can take a long time. Sometimes you even end up being rejected. With a TEFL certificate, you don’t have to worry. Your visa will be easily granted for all the foreign countries where you want to teach.
5. It Is Recognized Everywhere
If you like to travel or imagine a life outside your native country – get this certificate. It is far from being a magic lamp, but with it, you will be able to teach wherever you want.
Who Can And Should Pursue TEFL Level 5?
If you are worried about a lack of qualifications or lack of teaching experience – don’t worry anymore.
TEFL only requires you to have prior knowledge of the English language at the B1 or B2 level, and you will master everything else very quickly and easily over the duration of the course. You also need to be at least 18 years old.
With the TEFL course, you can be a teacher even in your 60s. So there is no limit if you have a great desire to improve your English and start a new job.
If you are unhappy at your current job, would like to travel more or are bothered by an income that barely covers the minimum expenses, with a little patience and perseverance, you can change all that.
And, oh, it is essential that you have completed high school or are in your final year to be able to attend this course.
Final Thoughts – Is TEFL Level 5 Worth The Investment?
Considering all the possibilities that a TEFL certificate offers, we can wholeheartedly say that it would be a great investment.
Having this certificate opens many doors for you. With a basic knowledge of the English language and a little effort, you can get a high qualification and become a teacher.
