
Varsity Tutors can enroll you in a supplemental TESOL certification training program designed to help you further your career as an English teacher. TESOL is a professional certification offered by a number of universities and private language companies. It's commonly sought after by educators who specialize in teaching English to non-native speakers and often used to validate one's proficiency at teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL). Earning a TESOL certification is useful for a number of reasons. It can open a lot of professional doors, giving you access to a broader network of jobs around the world. In some cases, you might even be required to hold a TESOL certification (or an equivalent) in order to be considered for a job, or in some countries, to meet the visa requirements.
If you've done any research on teaching English to non-native speakers, you might have come across something called the TESOL certificate. While its name looks similar to the TESOL certification, they're completely different programs. The TESOL certificate is offered by an organization known as the TESOL International Association. This group is a professional organization that offers premium resources that can help you further your careers as an ESL teacher, as well as several TESOL International Association certificate programs that are completely independent of the TESOL certification. With that said, both programs are designed to help career-oriented teachers further their skills in teaching ESL. Regardless of whether you're looking for help preparing for the TESOL certification or one of the TESOL International Association certificate programs, Varsity Tutors can help. Read further to see how we can assist you with preparing for a TESOL certification course.
Is There Anything I Need to Know Before Taking a TESOL Certification Class?
If you want to receive a TESOL certification, you'll first be required to complete a TESOL program offered by an accredited institution. As a general rule, these programs don't require participants to take a comprehensive final exam in order to pass. Instead, you'll be expected to demonstrate your skills in teaching, lesson planning, and classroom management in a classroom environment.
It's also important to know that TESOL certification programs are neither standardized nor are they administered by a single governing body. Many different universities and language academies offer TESOL certification, and while these programs generally cover the same content, they're not completely identical. For example, some programs are short and only run for a few weeks, while others last for multiple semesters. As a general rule, programs offered by universities tend to last between two and four semesters.
Even the prerequisites for receiving a TESOL certification can vary from one institution to another. Some programs require nothing more than a high school degree or GED, while others may require you to possess a bachelor's degree. Be sure to research the requirements of the organizations you're interested in before applying.
With that said, there's one thing you can expect from a TESOL certification program, regardless of which institution you choose: the practicum. It's standard for participants to teach non-native English speakers at some point during the program. In other words, you'll be expected to teach one or more open lessons, and you will be evaluated by your lecturers based on how well you perform during these lessons. This can be intimidating for anyone, even the most experienced educators. Fortunately, you can brush up on your teaching skills by enrolling in a supplemental TESOL certification class before the time.
What Are Some of the Advantages That Come With Completing TESOL Certification Course Provided By Varsity Tutors?
Our TESOL certification course is a supplemental class designed to help you prepare for an official TESOL program. Your lessons will be covered by a professional instructor who has experience teaching English to non-native speakers and is familiar with the structure of various TESOL certification programs. Participating in these courses allows you to learn new pedagogical approaches that can make your lessons fun and engaging. Every lesson covers a different topic related to teaching ESL, with the general structure of the course aligning with your in-class TESOL program. Follow along in a collaborative learning environment as you look at different ways to teach grammar, help students improve their pronunciation, and plan activities that leave pupils feeling excited and fulfilled.
Above everything else, the aim of our TESOL certification class is to help people learn how to become more effective teachers. Because you'll be studying alongside others pursuing the same TESOL certification, you've got the opportunity to collaborate with your peers at any point during the lessons. On top of that, these lessons are also a great way to get you thinking like a teacher. Your instructor can teach you how to sharpen your analytical and critical thinking skills, so you're able to consider multiple perspectives when problem-solving. This can help when dealing with students who struggle to understand your lessons.
What Are Some Topics Covered During TESOL Certification Training?
Since TESOL programs don't typically have comprehensive tests, our TESOL certification training courses aren't set up to prepare you for a final exam. Instead, they're designed to help you improve your teaching skills so you're better equipped for your practicum. What's more, your instructor is able to cover a number of helpful topics that can aid you in becoming an effective ESL teacher. Want to learn more? Let's take a look at some of the material featured in TESOL certification courses.
Part of being an effective teacher is learning how to engage your students, and being able to do that means learning how to plan lessons. There are a number of reasons why you should set aside some time during the week to lesson plan. It gives you the chance to think about your students' needs and preferred learning styles. From there, you can start incorporating a number of different activities into your lessons so that you're able to connect with more students. This can help keep students engaged and having fun as they study English, which usually makes them more open to participating in classroom activities. If you'd like to learn how to create better lessons, our TESOL certification training courses can help. You can explore new ideas for activities, look at different ways to engage with students from different age groups, and even explore ways you can integrate real-world material into your lessons for a more authentic language-learning experience. Because you're participating in a collaborative environment, you'll have the chance to share ideas with your peers. Everyone in the course is pursuing the same TESOL certification as you, and some may already have some teaching experience under their belt. That means you can learn new perspectives, techniques, and teaching philosophies that you can draw upon when interacting with ESL students from different backgrounds.
Another important skill that every educator should have is good classroom management. Unruly students take away from everyone's learning experience, and you need to know how to handle them in a way that doesn't escalate the situation. It doesn't matter whether you're teaching kindergarten, elementary-aged students, teens, or adults, there's probably going to come a time when you'll encounter a disruptive student. The way you choose to handle this situation will impact the way students perceive your lessons. If you're too lenient, you could lose control of the classroom. This is something you especially want to avoid when teaching ESL, as it typically means that your students will revert back to their first language rather than practice their English skills in class. However, if you're too strict, you could scare or anger your students. This can also be a problem because when students don't feel comfortable, they typically don't like to participate. A TESOL certification training instructor can teach you how to handle disruptive students in a way that doesn't take away from the learning experience. You can learn several different methods to help get students back on track. Sometimes solving a problem student is as simple as paring them with a partner who can help them, or implementing activities that work with their preferred learning style. With the help of our courses, you can learn how to assess the situation on a case-by-case basis, identifying the needs of the disruptive student and looking at how you can help them succeed.
Of course, classroom management and proper lesson planning aren't the only teaching skills you need to know. Good ESL teachers also need to know how to teach the following five language skills effectively: speaking, listening, reading, writing, and pronunciation. Unless you're working as a self-employed ESL teacher, you probably have a textbook curriculum that informs you on how to teach these different skills. While it's important to follow the curriculum, understand that not everyone benefits from standardized material. People learn differently, and the only way that you're going to be able to engage with all of your students is by adopting a multifaceted teaching approach that speaks to multiple learning styles. If you need ideas of how you can diversify your teaching methods, our TESOL certification training class can help. Every lesson gives you the chance to learn an alternative approach to teaching. Pay attention to how your instructor engages everyone in your class, and try to replicate some of those same methods in your personal lessons. Also, don't hesitate to ask your instructor for advice when needed. They can recommend supplemental material you can introduce into your English classes, give you tips for adapting games and activities so they fit with the theme of your current lessons, and offer advice on how to incorporate multiple teaching styles into your activities. Over time, you can learn how to take almost any popular activity and transform it into a game that targets a specific skill, like listening or pronunciation––and once you're able to do that, you'll be better equipped to help all your students improve their English skills, even the ones who've struggled to get ahead.
A lot of ESL teachers find grammar to be one of the most difficult subjects to teach. For starters, native English speakers learn grammar differently than non-native speakers. While you probably learned complex grammar rules at some point during grade school, chances are, you've forgotten the specifics of the different verb tenses. You probably know what's correct by how it sounds, and you automatically pick up on the nuances between tenses like present perfect and past perfect, but you may not know the specific rules off the top of your head. As you already know, ESL students don't learn this way. They don't know what sounds right or wrong and need to know the rules to avoid making any mistakes. Sometimes, they just want to know why a certain verb is irregular or why we use the present perfect tense to talk about events in the past. Unless you've studied English grammar or you already have experience teaching it, you probably don't know how to answer these questions off the top of your head. Don't worry, most English speakers don't. But you can learn how to teach grammar more effectively through our TESOL certification training courses. Follow along as your instructor shows you how to demystify grammar using diagrams and easy-to-understand explanations. Learn how to introduce complex grammar rules in a way that doesn't overwhelm and confuse your students, and explore various ways to connect grammar rules with concepts students have already mastered. If you can help students overcome their challenges with grammar, you can remove one of the biggest barriers preventing them from participating in class––the fear of making a mistake.
Will I Be Able to Fit a TESOL Certification Training Class Into My Busy Schedule?
We understand that you've got other obligations. Between school, work, and personal responsibilities, most people don't have the time to take a training course on top of their other obligations. That's why we've tried to make our training program as flexible as possible. Let's look at some ways you can participate in this program without overworking yourself.
One of the ways we tried to make our lessons more convenient is by adding multiple courses throughout the week. When you register for a TESOL certification training program, you'll have the option of choosing between several available courses. Each course meets on a different day and time during the week. Choose the time slot that works best for you. That'll be the time you meet for lessons.
You'll also notice that we offer two different types of courses, a two-week and four-week course. Pick which course you want to enroll in based on your own needs and preferences. Both courses cover the same content and have the same amount of hours, but the two-week version is more intensive. It's usually the preferred choice for people who're looking to complete our program as soon as possible. If you have a particularly busy schedule or you'd rather spread your material out over a longer period of time, the four-week TESOL certification training course can offer a more relaxed learning experience.
Did you know that our courses give you the freedom to study from anywhere? The last thing most people want to do at the end of the day is to spend more time sitting in traffic. You already spend enough time traveling to and from work or school, which is why we've chosen to host our lessons online through the Live Learning Platform. This gives you the opportunity to study anywhere that's comfortable for you. Choose to collaborate with your peers and instructor from the comfort of your own home, from the library, or at your favorite coffee house. It's completely up to you. All you need to get started is a reliable internet connection and a computer or portable device. Also, don't think that the lessons are any less engaging just because they're online. Our courses are 100% live, giving you access to lectures in real-time using smart tools like virtual whiteboards and video chat. That way, you can participate in activities, ask questions, and collaborate with your classmates in a learning environment that simulates traditional classroom lessons.
How Can I Get Started?
Now that we've looked at some of the benefits that come with our TESOL certification courses, let's look at how you can get set up. If you'd like to participate in a collaborative learning environment that helps prepare you for your TESOL practicum while also teaching you how to be a well-rounded ESL teacher, we can help. All you have to do is contact Varsity Tutors and speak with one of our educational consultants about the TESOL certification training course. We're available to answer any additional questions you may have about the program. If you do decide to register, we'll place you in the next available course that aligns with your current schedule. If you're not able to find time to study right now, don't worry. New courses open up at the beginning of every month, so you'll always be able to join one of our courses at a time that works best for you.

Caroline: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...and have a job here. It's easy for me to do whatever I want and need without the language barrier. That's why I teach English. I want my students to also be able to accomplish their dreams, no matter what they are. My short-term goal is to provide what is necessary for my students to...
Education & Certification
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas - Bachelor in Arts, Linguistics
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas - Master of Arts, Applied Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- Greek
- Music
- +13 subjects

John: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...towards their career goals, I am committed to providing personalized guidance and support every step of the way. Through a dynamic and interactive teaching approach, I strive to cultivate a stimulating learning environment where curiosity is nurtured, critical thinking is encouraged, and success becomes inevitable. I believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge;...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Master of Science, Finance
- CFA Institute - Associate in Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- NBDHE - National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
- CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science
- SHRM-CP - Society for Human Resource Management- Certified Professional
- +620 subjects

Janine: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...I am looking forward to teaching them in person this year. I have my own Zoom room that we can use, and am more than willing to obtain the texts/other things that I need to help you. I am here to help you better understand your subject material. I am very laid back and outgoing,...
Education & Certification
- New York Institute of Technology - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Professional Certifications
- Study Skills and Organization
- College Accounting
- +63 subjects

William: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...I have been tutoring and teaching online for over 10 years. I have a background in mechanical engineering and design, and have tutored several related subjects, such as algebra, geometry, physics, science, and computer aided design. I also have experience teaching English grammar, writing, phonics, public speaking, and interpersonal communication. I lived abroad for several...
Education & Certification
- Central Connecticut State University - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Calculus
- Math
- Public Speaking
- +8 subjects

Morgan : Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...several months out of the year. This year (2023), I've spent two months in Utah and two in Michigan. I love to cook, read, play video games (currently working my way through Breath of the Wild!), play with my cats, and enjoy the outdoors when it's not too hot & humid! I can't wait to...
Education & Certification
- York University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- University of Essex - Master of Fine Arts, Directing and Theatrical Production
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- Performing Arts
- Art
- +18 subjects

Alicia: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...homeschool groups of up to 100 children. I have also taught in adult small groups and church based schools for children. I have had a lot of first hand experience teaching children with autism and dyslexia. I understand the struggles that children can have with this and every small step, every gain is victory in...
Education & Certification
- California University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Laws, Prelaw Studies
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Elementary School Reading
- Saxophone
- Math
- +31 subjects

Nichole Marie: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...but will be confident in solving problems. I like to start with the basics of reading, recognition of letter sounds and phonics as the first block in a series of building blocks to comprehensive reading. So, reading and listening to music is a past time that I enjoy very much. I also enjoy playing board...
Education & Certification
- Point Park University - Bachelor in Arts, Behavioral Sciences
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker
- LSW - Licensed Social Worker
- Social Sciences
- +25 subjects

Karen: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...stimulating, encouraging, and adaptive to the varied needs of the students. I utilize interesting and interactive curricula, incorporating continuous conversation and speaking throughout the lesson. I am a mother and a grandmother with a varied career in education and the business world, as a marketing and sales professional in the software industry. I love books...
Education & Certification
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Early Childhood Special Education
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Real Estate License - New York
- Real Estate License
- Managerial Accounting
- +61 subjects

Latoya: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...my education for applied behavior analysis from Southern Illinois Carbondale. I also have two years of tutoring experience. My tutoring style is to personalize our study time to focus on the sections you need help with and help you gain the skills needed to improve your understanding of the field as well as organize your...
Education & Certification
- Hannibal Lagrange - Bachelor's, Organizational Management
- Walden University - Master of Science, Psychology
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale - Master of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- BCABA - Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst
- Other
- +3 subjects

Cindy: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...graduate studies in a western country. Because I taught college English, I can assist with research papers and other academic endeavors. For students who really just need help with speaking and listening, I can assist and provide tips on improving pronunciation. So why was it so important to me to make English my career? As...
Education & Certification
- Metropolitan State College of Denver - Bachelor of Science, Education
- North Carolina Central University - Master of Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Professional Certifications
- Science
- Other
- +14 subjects

Adrian: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...TESOL certification and over 15 years of experience teaching English globally. I'm a patient and supportive tutor who makes learning comfortable and helps students build confidence at their own pace. I work with Arizona State University's K-12 Step Up Tutor program while seeking additional tutoring roles. Additionally, I'm currently a candidate for ASU's Accelerated Master's...
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- Languages
- Spanish 1
- +82 subjects

Sanya: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...booking travel, managing calendars etc. Although I love my job I always feel I wanted to do more, I felt I wasn't making much of an impact and contributing to society. Working with senior managers has helped me to become a well rounded individual but something was missing. I've always looked for ways I can...
Education & Certification
- John Jav College - Bachelor in Arts, Science, Technology, and Society
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Math
- Elementary School Writing
- Other
- +14 subjects

Jeannie: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...I have taught and tutored children from ages 3 and up. Besides teaching in a classroom, I have also tutored children both in-person and online in kindergarten readiness, homework help, and English as a foreign/second language. I am also a Certified TEFL and TESOL Teacher. Although my preference is teaching/tutoring children, I am open to...
Education & Certification
- Miami Dade College - Associate in Science, Early Childhood Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- Spanish 1
- Kindergarten Readiness
- +9 subjects

Fredina: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...but are not limited to national level: speaking course, book, reports, guided reading 1-11, children, teen, and adult writing courses; international: vocabulary building; grammar (adventures, building, writing, phonic); interactive communication skills: public, social, professional; word development; beginner and advanced. Continuing my educational journey, I am now a certified behavior change specialist. The Behavior Change Specialist...
Education & Certification
- Cleveland State Community College - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Liberty University - Master of Divinity, Religious Education
- Ashland University - Doctor of Philosophy, Health and Wellness, General
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Adult Health and Wellness
- REGENTS
- College Application Essays
- +52 subjects

Rhonda: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...school months. I am passionate about writing and English. I have taught high school for most of my career, and have been an incredibly successful AP English Literature and Composition teacher as well as a Dual Enrolllment college instructor. My approach to teaching is very targeted. I like to assess students, find their strengths, and...
Education & Certification
- California State University, Fullerton - Master's/Graduate, English
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- FTCE - Florida Teacher Certification Examinations
- Other
- High School Government
- +34 subjects

Mona: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Science, Math and Arabic. I have reached both elementary and older students. In my experience helping struggling students for tests, we always seem to have the most fun (with remarkable advancements). I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary...
Education & Certification
- Alexandria University - Bachelor of Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Alexandria University - Master of Science, Epidemiology
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- PRAXIS
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- MCAT
- +76 subjects

Susan: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...learners who were studying for the TOEFL. This class, as it turned out, was almost completely full of young nannies from all over the world for whom taking English classes was a requirement, and two non-nannies who happened to be young Italian men. It was a FUN semester! My target students were young adults --...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Notre Dame of Maryland University - Master of Arts, Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- ACT Writing
- SAT Reading
- +29 subjects

Patricia: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...to succeed. I am eager to incorporate fun into every lesson. When students are having fun, they are learning. I give my students the extra tricks and tools they can use to overcome learning obstacles. I bring energy and joy to each lesson. I find that an energetic classroom is the easiest way to keep...
Education & Certification
- Bob Jones University - Bachelor of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- FTCE - Florida Teacher Certification Examinations
- Elementary School Reading
- Viola
- +11 subjects

Abel: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...State University alumnus with a Bachelor's degree in Linguistics and my TESL/TEFL certification. I enjoy tutoring students in English, specifically English Grammar. Growing up with English as my second language, I struggled in school in English and Grammar classes. Taking linguistics and diving deeper into language and English Grammar, I enjoy being able to help...
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Adult Literacy
- Elementary School English
- ESL/ELL
- +11 subjects

Ben: Portland TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages instructor
...foreign language. My favorite subjects to tutor are Russian, Japanese, and English, but I also am available to tutor in math (elementary to calculus), science, and SAT/ACT/AP prep. I have over five years of experience in both in-person and online tutoring, and I am passionate about helping students reach their academic and personal goals. I...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- Bridge Education Group - Certificate, Teaching French as a Second or Foreign Language
Subject Expertise
- TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- PE - Principles and Practice of Engineering - Architectural
- Elementary School Science
- UK A Level
- +211 subjects