TEFL vs TESOL vs TESL: Key Differences

If you're interested in teaching English to non-native speakers, you've probably come across a variety of abbreviations: TEFL, TESOL, TESL, and more! It can be confusing. But don't worry, we're here to simplify things.

We'll explain it to you and help you find the right path for you.

What's the difference between TEFL, TESOL, and TESL?

Let's start with the basics:

TEFL, or "Teaching English as a Foreign Language." This term is usually focus on teaching English in countries where English is not the first language, such as Japan, Brazil, or Thailand.

TESL, or "Teaching English as a Second Language," typically refers to instructing individuals who are not native English speakers in countries where English is the dominant language, such as the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom.

TESOL, or "Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.", which includes both TEFL and TESL.

In summary:

TEFL = Teaching Abroad

TESL = Teaching at Home (in an English-speaking country)

TESOL = Both

Can a TEFL certification be used to apply for TESOL or TESL teaching roles?

Of course. In most cases, employers treat all certificates equally, as long as they come from a recognized and accredited institution.

Whether your certificate is TEFL, TESOL, or TESL, the training associated with it is crucial. Many online and offline programs offer interchangeable certificates categorized by market preference.

So yes, with a TEFL certificate, you can still apply for TESOL or TESL positions.

Which certification could choose: TEFL, TESOL, or TESL?

This depends on your teaching goals:

Want to teach in Asia, Europe, or Latin America? Go for TEFL.

If you're aiming to teach English to immigrants or refugees in countries like the USA, UK, or Australia, a TESL or TESOL qualification might be more suitable.

Want maximum flexibility? TESOL might be the safest catch-all option.

However, these distinctions are becoming less strict. Many courses now offer combined TEFL/TESOL programs, so you’re covered no matter where you go.

Do the teaching methods for TEFL, TESOL, and TESL differ? 

Not really. The three teaching methods are similar and focus on:

Speaking and listening

Grammar and vocabulary

Real-life communication

Classes are often immersive, meaning everything is taught in English, even for beginners. Why? Because studies show that students learn faster in the target language.

So whether you teach in Tokyo or Toronto, your teaching methods are largely the same.

Does the certification abbreviation matter to employers?

Generally not. Employers place more value on the quality of the training, the number of training hours (120 hours is the norm), and whether practical internships are offered.

In fact, many job postings mention both TEFL and TESOL, implying that both courses are offered. Therefore, choose a well-reviewed course with reliable support and real value, rather than just a flashy acronym.

Don't be put off by the boring names TEFL, TESOL, and TESL.

They all have the same goal: to help others learn English, both abroad and at home. The most important thing is to choose a course that prepares you for teaching, builds your confidence, and opens the door to the world.

No matter what acronym is on your diploma, the world needs good English teachers. So go ahead, join in, and make a difference!