You might have heard the claim: “If you get a TEFL, you don’t need a degree to teach English.” It’s tempting to believe—especially if you want to get started fast. But here’s the truth: while a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) can open doors, it can’t unlock every one.
Most reputable schools, language centers, and even online platforms still require a bachelor’s degree—not just as a hiring preference, but often as a legal condition for issuing your work visa. Without it, your options shrink dramatically. You might still find work, but the jobs will be fewer, the pay will be lower, and in some countries, you won’t be able to work legally at all.
That doesn’t mean a TEFL isn’t valuable. In fact, it’s a must-have alongside your degree for many positions, and it gives you the practical skills to succeed in the classroom. Other respected certifications include:
• TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
• CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
• DELTA (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults)
But here’s the bottom line: if you want the freedom to choose where you work, earn a competitive salary, and avoid visa headaches, a bachelor’s degree is still your golden ticket. A TEFL is your accelerator, not your replacement.
So invest in yourself. The time and effort you put into getting your degree will pay off for the rest of your teaching career.