Are you planning to teach English abroad maybe in Italy, Spain, or even Asia but not sure which certification you really need? Two of the most popular options are TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
Both certificates can help you start teaching, but they aren’t the same. In this post, I’ll break down costs, recognition, pros and cons, and share my own experience so you can decide which one is right for you.
What Is TEFL? (TEFL Certification Explained)
TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It’s one of the most common English teaching certificates and is available through hundreds of providers worldwide.
TEFL Certification Cost and Duration (120-Hour TEFL)
- Standard requirement: 120 hours (minimum most schools ask for).
- Costs range widely: from €40 online deals to several hundred euros for in-person or hybrid courses.
- Duration: anywhere from 2–12 weeks, depending on how fast you study.
Online vs In-Person TEFL: Which Suits You?
- Online TEFL: flexible and affordable, great if you already have some teaching experience.
- In-person TEFL: usually includes practical classroom practice.
- Hybrid TEFL: a mix of both.
My experience: I completed an online TEFL because I already had teaching experience. If you’re completely new, it’s worth paying extra for the observed practice.
Pros of TEFL
- Affordable and flexible (study at your own pace).
- Great for online teaching or travel-based work.
- Wide range of providers and formats.
- Sufficient for many jobs in Italy and Europe.
Cons of TEFL
- No single accrediting body (quality varies by provider).
- May not be recognized by top schools or stricter countries (e.g., UAE).
- Often lacks observed teaching practice.
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Is CELTA? (CELTA Certification Italy & Abroad)
CELTA stands for Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults. It’s awarded by Cambridge English (University of Cambridge) and is considered the gold standard for ESL teaching.
CELTA Cost and Intensity
- Duration: 4–5 weeks full-time (intensive) or 10–12+ weeks part-time.
- Cost: typically €1,200–€1,700 depending on location.
- Available worldwide, including in Rome, Florence, Milan, as well as London, Manchester, and beyond.
CELTA Recognition vs TEFL: Which Do Employers Prefer?
- CELTA is globally respected and includes observed teaching practice with feedback.
- It’s often required for roles in reputable schools and organizations like the British Council.
- In Italy, many schools don’t require it, but having CELTA definitely sets you apart. Parents also recognize “Cambridge” and view it as prestigious especially if you want to work freelance.
Pros of CELTA
- Recognized worldwide by top employers.
- Strong academic support and feedback.
- Provides real classroom teaching practice.
- Boosts chances of getting higher-paying jobs.
Cons of CELTA
- Expensive compared to TEFL.
- Intensive workload (especially full-time).
- Less flexible (must attend an approved center or hybrid).
TEFL vs CELTA: Which Certificate Is Better for Teaching English Abroad?
The choice depends on your goals and budget:
- TEFL → best for short-term teaching, travel, online teaching, or if you’re testing the waters.
- CELTA → best for long-term teaching careers, higher-paying jobs, and prestigious schools.
Tip: If you want to build a career in Italy (or elsewhere), CELTA is worth the investment. If you just want to support your travels with English teaching, TEFL is enough.
Can You Teach in Italy with Just a TEFL Certificate?
Yes, many schools in Italy accept a 120-hour TEFL, especially if you already have classroom experience. But CELTA can help you stand out for jobs in better schools or freelance teaching with families who value Cambridge credentials.
My Experience: TEFL in Italy and What I’d Do Differently
When I moved to Italy, I started with TEFL. It opened doors quickly, and some schools didn’t even ask for it they just cared about whether I could teach.
But over time, I realized that having CELTA would have helped me:
- Stand out from other teachers.
- Access better-paid opportunities.
- Impress parents when working freelance.
If I could go back, I’d probably have taken CELTA before moving but TEFL has still served me well.
TEFL vs CELTA – FAQs
Q: Is CELTA better than TEFL for teaching English abroad?
A: CELTA is more widely recognized and includes practical teaching. TEFL is cheaper and flexible. Choose CELTA for long-term careers, TEFL for short-term goals.
Q: Can I teach in Italy with just a TEFL certificate?
A: Yes. Many Italian schools accept a 120-hour TEFL. CELTA helps you stand out for higher-paying or more reputable roles.
Q: How much does CELTA cost in Italy?
A: Usually €1,200–€1,700, depending on the city and course format.
Q: Which certificate is better: TEFL or CELTA?
A: It depends on your goals. TEFL is flexible and affordable, CELTA is prestigious and career-focused.
Both TEFL and CELTA are valuable, but for different reasons.
- TEFL is perfect for flexibility, budget, and short-term teaching.
- CELTA is the gold standard if you’re serious about an English teaching career.
If you’ve done either certificate, share your experience in the comments! Did it help you get work in Italy or abroad?
And if you’re job-hunting in Italy, check out my guide to the best job websites for foreigners in Italy.
Ciao for now, and happy teaching!
