The difference between TESOL, TEFL, TESL and CELTA certificates

What do TEFL, TESL, and TESOL mean?

TEFL means Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It usually describes teaching English where it is not the main language used in daily life.

TESL means Teaching English as a Second Language. It usually describes teaching people who use English in an English-speaking community.

TESOL means Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is an umbrella term that can include both TEFL and TESL.

Course providers use these terms in different ways. A course called TEFL or TESOL is not automatically equivalent to a particular qualification. Check the syllabus and assessment.

What is CELTA?

CELTA is the Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Authorised centres deliver it on behalf of Cambridge English.

The course includes at least 120 contact hours with tutors. Allow about 80 additional hours for preparation, reading, assignments, and lesson planning.

Assessment includes six hours of teaching practice with adult learners and four written assignments. There is no final examination.

Minimum entry requirements include age 18 or above, English at high C1 level or above, and education at the standard needed to enter higher education.

You can study full-time or part-time, in person, online, or in a mixed format. Full-time courses usually take four to five weeks. Part-time courses can take a few months to a year.

See the official CELTA course details and course formats. Ask your chosen centre for its current entry process, timetable, and fees.

Other named qualifications

Trinity's CertTESOL includes at least 130 guided learning hours and 200 hours of total qualification time. It includes at least six hours of teaching practice with real learners. See Trinity's CertTESOL information.

The SIT TESOL Certificate is a 180-hour course offered in online or in-person formats. Check SIT's course information for current centres, schedules, and entry details.

Which course should you choose?

First check which qualifications your target employers accept. Then compare observed teaching practice, assessment, tutor support, schedule, and total cost.

Ask for a written fee quotation and check what it includes. Do not assume that one course is easier, cheaper, or more widely accepted because of its name or online format.

Course details checked: 7 September 2026. Providers can change fees, schedules, and entry requirements.