Work From Anywhere by Teaching English Online
Are you ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind and start living the remote lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of?
Teaching English online could be the answer you've been searching for - offering you the chance to work remotely while exploring new countries, meeting new people, and creating a flexible, fulfilling life for yourself.
What Does It Mean to Teach English Online?
Teaching English online means working as a language tutor or instructor using video platforms, either through a marketplace like Preply or via structured programs like VIPKid or Cambly. You can teach children or adults from around the world—sometimes with a fixed curriculum, other times with lessons you create yourself.
The flexibility is real. So are the time zones. You might teach a student in Tokyo at 6 a.m. or host lessons for Brazilians at midnight. Welcome to global work.
Do You Need a Degree or TEFL Certificate?
Not always. Many platforms will hire you without a degree, especially if you’re fluent in English and can demonstrate teaching ability.
Here’s a breakdown:
No Degree Needed: Cambly, Preply, PalFish (freelance)
TEFL Preferred or Required: VIPKid, iTalki, TeachAway, EF Education First
With a Degree (More $$$): Higher pay, eligibility for structured ESL programs
Getting a TEFL certificate (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) significantly improves your chances and helps you understand how to structure effective lessons. Affordable options include The TEFL Org, The TEFL Academy, and International TEFL Academy.
With a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, you can be qualified in just four weeks and start earning from anywhere in the world. This isn’t just a job - it’s your gateway to travelling the world and starting a career that allows you to be financially independent in any part of the world.
Read on to find out the benefits of a face-to-face TEFL course as compared to an online TEFL course:
Hands-On Experience: Many people transitioning into teaching worry about feeling unprepared when stepping into the classroom for the first time. With a face-to-face TEFL course, you’ll gain real classroom experience, teaching actual students. Imagine starting your teaching journey with the confidence that comes from already having stood in front of a class and succeeded - it’s a huge boost when you finally move onto teaching English online.
Faster Job Placement: Many people are concerned about how soon they can start working. With a face-to-face TEFL course, you’re fully certified and ready to apply for higher-paying online teaching jobs ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 USD per month in just 4 weeks. Employers often prefer candidates with in-person training, meaning you’ll likely receive online teaching job offers faster. This is your quickest route to remote work, allowing you to start earning and living abroad sooner than you might expect.
Comprehensive Support: One of the biggest fears for new teachers is feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start. In a face-to-face course, you'll get personalised feedback and guidance from experienced instructors, ensuring your questions are answered and you're fully supported throughout the program - something online TEFL courses can't always offer.
Higher Earning Potential: Many teachers are concerned about how much they can realistically earn. Face-to-face TEFL graduates often secure higher-paying jobs as compared to online TEFL course graduates, with earnings between $1,000 and $2,000+ per month. When living in countries with substantially lower costs of living than back home, this gives you the financial freedom to live comfortably and pursue your remote life adventures.
Imagine having a skill that not only open doors immediately but continues to benefit you for life. By completing a 4-week intensive face to face TEFL course, you’ll have the flexibility to earn a sustainable remote income wherever you are.
Unlike many other opportunities, in just one month, you could be ready to start a rewarding remote job that allows you to travel, earn $1,000-$2,000 per month, and build the freedom-filled lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. It’s the fastest path to securing a remote career and unlocking future opportunities for lifelong success.
With over 12 years of experience, Teacher’s Friend provides more than just a TEFL certification. Starting at USD $850, you’ll receive 1:1 personalised support, ongoing lesson planning assistance, essential teaching resources, and access to a global network of teachers and digital nomads. With Teacher’s Friend, you'll be fully prepared to kick-start your teaching journey with confidence.
Book a call with Georgie, the founder of Teacher’s Friend, to dive into the details and next steps for getting a TEFL certification.
YES! I WANT TO TEACH REMOTELY!
Best Platforms to Teach English Online (2025)
Here’s a list of trusted platforms hiring online English teachers—whether you’re new or experienced:
VIPKid: Teach Chinese students. Structured curriculum. Must have a degree.
Preply: Set your own rates and schedule. No degree required.
Cambly: Conversational practice. Super flexible. No experience needed.
iTalki: You set the price and build your client base. TEFL helps.
TeachAway: Offers both online and in-person teaching opportunities.
English First (EF): Reputable company with structured lessons.
AmazingTalker: Up-and-coming platform with global students.
Pro tip: Don’t apply to just one. Start with 2–3 platforms, compare schedules and pay, and build up reviews.
How Much Can You Earn Teaching English Online?
Your earnings depend on the platform, your experience, and whether you build your own clientele.
Low range: $8–12/hour (Cambly, PalFish)
Average: $15–25/hour (Preply, iTalki, EF)
Top tutors: $30–60/hour (niche specialties, private students, test prep)
Some teachers work part-time for side income; others earn $2,000–$4,000/month by stacking classes or running their own courses.
Pros and Cons of Teaching English Online
Pros:
Flexible hours (you set your schedule)
Work from anywhere with Wi-Fi
No commute or dress code
Great for travelers or parents at home
Cons:
Pay can be inconsistent or low starting out
Burnout from back-to-back video calls
Time zone challenges
Some platforms have strict policies or student cancellations
It’s real work—but for many, it beats the office.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Here’s what you actually need to begin teaching:
A laptop or desktop with webcam
High-speed internet (10 Mbps+ upload recommended)
Headset with mic (e.g., Logitech H390 or equivalent)
A quiet, well-lit space (your “classroom”)
Payment account (PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer)
Optional but helpful:
Virtual background or plain wall
Whiteboard or props (especially for kids)
TEFL certificate (basic 120-hour course)
Tips for Landing Your First Students
Create a great intro video – Clear, friendly, and confident. 1 minute is plenty.
Offer trial rates – Start low, get reviews, then raise your price.
Ask for student reviews – Reviews = trust.
Stay consistent – Log in regularly and open time slots. Platforms reward activity.
Show up early – First impressions matter more when you’re working through a webcam.
Teaching English online is a business. The better your profile, the more you earn.
*This week's article is credited to Georgie Snape from Teacher’s Friend
This week’s article is sponsored by Teacher’s Friend. Fulfill your dream of a remote life! Travel the world while making a difference! Teaching English abroad or online opens doors to remote work opportunities. Discover how to get started with Teacher’s Friend.
FAQ
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You can earn anywhere from $10 to $60 per hour teaching English online. Entry-level platforms like Cambly pay around $10–$15/hour, while experienced teachers on sites like Preply or iTalki can charge $25–$50/hour or more. Full-time tutors may earn between $2,000–$4,000 per month depending on hours and demand.
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To qualify, most platforms require fluent or native-level English, a stable internet connection, and a computer with a webcam. Some companies prefer or require a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate, but others like Cambly and Preply allow you to start with no formal teaching background.
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Yes, many platforms hire new teachers with no experience. Sites like Cambly, PalFish, and Preply let you start with minimal credentials. While experience helps, strong communication skills and a professional profile can quickly lead to regular students and higher rates.
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The best company depends on your goals. VIPKid is great for structured lessons and higher pay (degree required). Cambly is ideal for beginners with no experience. Preply and iTalki give you full control over your schedule and rates, making them perfect for freelancers.