Choosing between CELTA and TEFL: Key differences explained
CELTA stands for Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages (until recently it stood for Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) and TEFL(Teaching English as a Foreign Language) are two of the most recognised qualifications required for teaching English to non-native speakers.
However, there are a few differences between the two that potential English teaches should be aware of before choosing between CELTA and TEFL to pursue.
Comparing the CELTA and TEFL certifications
One of the major differences between TEFL and CELTA is the prestige and the level of recognition that is associated with each of these courses. While CELTA is usually considered to be the gold standard and is widely recognised by employers worldwide, TEFL certification can vary in terms of content and quality and may not be accepted by employers in the same way as CELTA is preferred.
Another main difference between the two is the focus of teaching. CELTA is specifically designed for teaching English to adults, while TEFL teachers can teach the language to business professionals and children as well.
Additionally, the duration and intensity of the training program between CELTA and TEFL differ greatly. Full-time CELTA training programs are usually more intense and last for four weeks, whereas TEFL courses can vary both in length and intensity and most of them can be completed in a much shorter time than the CELTA program.
As far as course content is concerned, CELTA programs strictly follow the curriculum set by Cambridge English to ensure that all those who graduate receive the same level of good quality training. Here also TEFL certification can vary in content and may not always cover all the subjects in the same depth as CELTA programs.
Cost Differences
Lastly, the cost difference between CELTA and TEFL certifications needs to be factored. CELTA courses tend to be much more expensive than TEFL programs. The cost of CELTA certification can be as high as $4000, which explains why a higher level of recognition is associated with the CELTA certification. That said, an online CELTA qualification tends to be much cheaper than in-person.
On the other hand, TEFL courses can range anywhere from $150-$2,500 depending on the service provider and location. Similar to CELTA, online courses can be more cost-effective.
To sum up, both TEFL and CELTA certification can offer individuals with the necessary qualifications for teaching English as a foreign language, except that CELTA is viewed as a more prestigious option, especially for those wanting to teach the language to adults.
In the end, CELTA is ideal for those wanting to pursue a long-term teaching career in Middle East or Europe, and even for aspiring teachers who don’t have a degree.
For those teachers wishing to teach exclusively in Asia or Latin America, the general consensus is that TEFL is best as it pays more or less same as CELTA certification. Moreover, TEFL allows you to gain a higher qualification without a large investment.