How to Get TEFL Certification in Canada

The demand for native English speakers has surged as the globe has grown increasingly globalized and English has become the de facto international language. The first step for people who want to see the world, see other cultures, and launch a rewarding profession is to become certified to teach English as a foreign language.

Here you can find the answers to all your TEFL questions about Canada: How much do TEFL courses cost in Canada? Is a visa required? What are the other requirements to get TEFL certified in Canada?

If you're wondering how to get TEFL certification in Canada, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in.

Do I need a visa to get TEFL certified in Canada?

There are plenty of good reasons to find out how to get TEFL certification in Canada.

The duration of your chosen TEFL program and your citizenship determine whether you need a visa to get TEFL certified in Canada. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you will not need a visa to study or become a TEFL instructor in Canada. If you are an international student, the length of your TEFL program will determine if you need a visa.

Short-term courses, often lasting fewer than six months, do not require study permission or a visa. These shorter programs are frequently categorized as “tourist” or “visitor” activities, and participants can usually enter Canada as tourists and participate in the TEFL course.

A study permit may be necessary for courses lasting more than six months. It is critical to check the most recent immigration laws with the Canadian government or your local Canadian embassy or consulate.

5 other requirements for TEFL certification in Canada

Understanding the requirements to get TEFL certified in Canada, and achieving these requirements, is critical for a smooth and successful registration in your desired TEFL program in Canada. You’ll need to:

• Meet a minimum age requirement: Most TEFL programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old.
• Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent: This is a common educational prerequisite for TEFL courses.
• Prove your command of the English language: You will be expected to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, as this is vital for teaching English to non-native speakers.
• Give a thorough criminal history check: To guarantee the safety of students, many programs will demand a criminal background check.
• Have a dedication to the curriculum and teaching: This is essential, as TEFL certification courses need both effort and commitment. Attending classes, completing assignments, and participating in teaching practice are all required.

How to get TEFL certified in Canada

1. Find a TEFL program that suits your needs

You’re well on your way to finding a TEFL certification program to help you achieve your goals.

The first thing you need to do to get your TEFL certification in Canada is to choose and enroll in a good TEFL course. In-person classes, online classes, and hybrid classes are all possibilities. Think about the time commitment, the content covered, the program’s legitimacy, and the price while deciding on a course of study.

2. Enroll in an accredited program with at least 100 hours of coursework

You are prepared to enroll once you have selected a TEFL program, performed the necessary calculations, verified your visa status, and established that you meet the program’s prerequisites. Application submission, submission of supporting documentation, and payment of any applicable fees are all requirements.

Given that your objective is to secure teaching opportunities in English, you must ensure that you are enrolling in a legitimate program. The TEFL course entails a minimum of 100 hours of coursework, in addition to a practicum component of six hours, which adheres to the global benchmark for TEFL instruction.

The course is generally equivalent to a university course for freshmen. Your opportunities will increase if you make sure that your course has received accreditation from a recognized organization worldwide.

3. Actively participate in your course for successful completion

Modules, teaching strategies, and classroom practice will all be part of your TEFL certification program. Your program will cover lesson planning, classroom management, and various teaching styles. The TEFL certificate is an important credential that can lead to teaching opportunities all around the world, so be prepared to put in the time and effort necessary to earn it.

4. Engage with your instructor and ask questions when necessary

Keep in mind that your instructor is a paid professional whose primary purpose is to ensure your success in your course. Also, keep in mind that your instructor should have at least a master’s degree.

Many teachers want you to enjoy teaching as much as they do. Expect them to explain how to arrange your courses, engage your pupils, and provide feedback.

5. Complete classes and practical training, and get your TEFL certificate

With big cities, nature, and more, Canada makes the ideal place to get TEFL certified.

To get the most out of the course, you should set aside at least four weeks to complete your demanding schedule of TEFL training. Whether you decide to study the course on a part-time or full-time basis, success will depend on your own personal drive and commitment.

You will be awarded a TEFL certificate upon finishing the required TEFL course. This qualification will open doors to a fulfilling teaching career in Canada and beyond. You should save both a digital copy of your certificate and a hard copy for your records.

Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get matched with 5 TEFL programs in Canada

How much does TEFL certification cost in Canada?

The cost of TEFL certification in Canada varies greatly depending on a number of criteria, including the style of course (in-person or online), the duration of the program, the course provider, and any other features or services offered.

Online TEFL classes are frequently more affordable, with prices ranging from $200 to $600. In-person courses, which often provide more in-depth instruction and hands-on teaching practice, are typically more expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 or more.

When it comes to the question of how much TEFL courses cost in Canada, it’s critical to select a school that fits your budget and career aspirations. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality TEFL certification can be a significant step toward a satisfying career as an English teacher. Make sure to investigate numerous programs, compare their features and costs, and choose the one that best meets your needs and objectives.

4 TEFL programs in Canada to consider

1. 120-hour Advanced TESOL Certificate

• Why? OnTESOL has been at the forefront of TESOL/TEFL education in Canada since 2003, being the first fully recognized online TESOL institute in Canada. The certification leads to TESL Canada Professional Standard 1, a requisite for teaching in Canadian private ESL schools, and will equip you to teach in Canada, other Native English-speaking countries, online, or internationally with a globally recognized credential. Courses feature a robust curriculum, personal tutor, practical assignments, optional live workshops via Zoom, and lifetime job assistance, ensuring a successful teaching career in Canada and abroad.
• Where? Online
• Read OnTESOl reviews

2. 120-Hour Professional TEFL Course

• Why? myTEFL’s accredited TEFL course offers an internationally recognized certificate, personalized feedback, and lifetime access to course materials and job placement assistance. Enjoy full tutor and tech support, an official letter of recommendation, and 24/7 access via multiple devices. Plus, contribute to charity and gain free job placement assistance for life. Invest in your future as a successful English teacher with myTEFL. This is a remote course that you can complete in Canada.
• Where? Vancouver
• Read myTEFL reviews

3. Combined Level 5 TEFL Course Abroad

• Why? The TEFL Academy’s Combined Level 5 TEFL Certificate (168 hours) is widely recognized, which makes all the difference in job applications. Some companies prefer conventional TEFL certification, so this course has 10 hours of classroom teaching and 158 hours of online study. Be prepared to teach with a peer, master classroom management methods, and receive direct feedback from one of the trained TEFL teachers to help you feel comfortable in front of a classroom full of students. After completion, a 10-hour Teaching Practice Certificate is granted. You can take this remote course while you’re in Canada.
• Where? Montreal
• Read The TEFL Academy reviews

4. BeyondTEFL 120-Hour, Self-Paced TEFL Course (Online)

• Why? If you want to embark on a transformative teaching journey, BeyondTEFL is dedicated to fostering meaningful English education experiences. They aim to provide top-tier TEFL certification courses and job support that empowers both instructors and communities. BeyondTEFL is accredited by Ofqual, ACDL (Accreditation Council for Distance Learning), ODLQC (Open & Distance Quality Council), Highfield Qualifications, and TQUK (Training Qualifications UK), as well as a member of Learnovate at Trinity College Dublin. You can complete this remote course from Canada.
• Where? Online
• Read BeyondTEFL reviews

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Getting TEFL certified in Canada will open the door to teaching abroad!

Step into the classroom—then into your dream job!

Now that you know how to get TEFL certification in Canada, the world is your oyster! Courses leading to the TEFL credential vary greatly. Many differ based on the area and resources of the supplier. You should do some digging and study the fine print of your TEFL program before enrolling.

Emailing or calling an administrator is the best way to get in touch with someone quickly. Teachers of English as a foreign language often find themselves in far-flung locations, such as Asia or Eastern Europe. Maybe now you're even thinking about joining them!

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