TESOL / TEFL Chicago Illinois United States From Lake Michigan to Learning

Chicago’s strategic Midwest location serves as a portal to an array of towns and cities, each presenting unique opportunities for teaching and cultural discovery. Its accessibility to diverse environments—from bustling urban centers to tranquil historic towns—provides TEFL/TESOL educators with a broad spectrum of teaching experiences and cultural immersion. This geographical advantage enriches educators’ perspectives, allowing them to encounter various student backgrounds and educational settings. The rich cultural and educational landscape surrounding Chicago enhances the adaptability and breadth of experiences for educators, making it an ideal hub for those seeking to expand their teaching horizons in the Midwest.

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TESOL / TEFL Chicago Illinois United States: A Premier Destination for TEFL/TESOL Certification

Positioned majestically along Lake Michigan’s vibrant shores, Chicago emerges not just as a city but as a thriving epicenter of cultural diversity and educational distinction. The city’s architectural grandeur, coupled with its storied history and dynamic multicultural tapestry, provides an enriching backdrop for those seeking to delve into the realm of English language teaching. The TEFL Institute, renowned for its robust online courses and prestigious global accreditation, presents an unparalleled pathway for residents of this bustling metropolis to forge a fulfilling career in TEFL/TESOL, transcending geographical boundaries to impact learners worldwide.

Chicago’s unique blend of historical landmarks, such as the iconic Willis Tower and the sprawling Millennium Park, along with its myriad cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, make it an ideal living classroom for aspiring TEFL/TESOL educators. This immersive urban environment fosters a deep appreciation for global cultures and languages, mirroring the diverse classroom settings TEFL professionals often navigate.

Moreover, the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, from the lively streets of Wicker Park to the rich cultural heritage of Bronzeville, offer a glimpse into the world’s myriad cultures, preparing TEFL/TESOL candidates for the broad spectrum of student backgrounds they will encounter in their teaching careers. The TEFL Institute leverages Chicago’s dynamic setting to enhance its curriculum, integrating practical teaching experiences with theoretical knowledge, thereby equipping its graduates with the skills and confidence to excel in the international TEFL/TESOL arena.

Choosing to pursue TEFL/TESOL certification in Chicago through the TEFL Institute is a decision to embrace a world of opportunities. It’s an invitation to become part of a global community of educators dedicated to bridging linguistic and cultural divides, powered by the unparalleled support and resources that the Institute and the city of Chicago have to offer.

Flexible Learning, Global Teaching

Our course offers adaptable learning modes, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments. Upon completion, you’ll be ready to inspire minds and make a difference in classrooms worldwide.

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Accredited Excellence & Global Recognition

Our Level 5 TEFL diploma is not just a course; it’s a passport to global opportunities. Accredited by Highfield Qualifications UK and regulated by Ofqual, this program is synonymous with quality and professionalism in TEFL education.

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Teach English Abroad - Complete Guides

Interested in teaching English abroad but you don’t know where to start? There are over 60 countries on our TEFL Job Centre where you can teach English abroad.
Check out these TEFL country guides to get you the dream job teaching abroad.

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180 Hour Ofqual Level 5 TEFL Diploma
199.00
Course Includes:
180 hour Level 5 Online Training
Level 5 Diploma Training - 38 Credits
Highfield Level 5 TEFL Diploma digital included
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6 months of study time
Completion Time
6-8 Weeks
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300 Hour Ofqual Level 5 TEFL Diploma
309.00
Course Includes:
300 hour Level 5 Online Training
Level 5 Diploma Training - 54 Credits
Training approved by Highfield Qualifications and Regulated by Ofqual
Highfield Level 5 TEFL Diploma PDF Included
60 hour Level 5 Teaching Business English
60 hour Level 5 Teaching Online & One-to-One
Personal online TEFL tutor support
6 months of study time
Completion Time
8-10 weeks
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310 Hour Ofqual Level 5 TEFL Diploma
389.00
Course Includes:
300 hour Level 5 Online Training
10 Hour Virtual TEFL Course with teaching practicum
Level 5 Diploma Training - 54 Credits
Training approved by Highfield Qualifications and Regulated by Ofqual
Free Level 5 Diploma + 10 Hour Certificate delivered to you in a digital version
60 hour Level 5 Teaching Business English
60 hour Level 5 Teaching Online & One-to-One
6 months of study time
Completion Time
8-12 Weeks
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Highlights of Our TEFL/TESOL Programs:
Globally Recognized Curriculum:

Our courses meet international standards, ensuring your certification is valued worldwide.

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Adaptable Online Learning:

Tailored for the dynamic lifestyle of Chicago residents, our courses provide the flexibility to study from anywhere, at any time.

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Dedicated Mentorship:

Receive personalized support from seasoned educators, enriching your learning experience with real-world insights.

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Cultural Hotspots for TEFL/TESOL Students:

The Magnificent Mile: Chicago’s illustrious commercial district, stretches impressively, showcasing a bustling blend of high-end retailers, historic landmarks, and luxurious eateries. This iconic stretch provides a fascinating window into American culture and consumerism, reflecting the diverse facets of urban American life. It’s a place where the pulsating energy of commerce meets the elegance of architectural marvels, offering TEFL/TESOL students a unique perspective on the linguistic and cultural dynamics that shape consumer interactions in a cosmopolitan setting.

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Pilsen: A neighborhood teeming with rich Mexican-American heritage, offers an immersive cultural experience unlike any other in Chicago. With its colorful murals depicting historical and cultural narratives, authentic Mexican cuisine, and lively festivals celebrating traditions such as Día de los Muertos, Pilsen serves as an ideal backdrop for language practice and cultural immersion. For TEFL/TESOL students, engaging with the local community and exploring its cultural offerings can provide invaluable practice in language skills and an in-depth understanding of cultural integration and bilingual communication.

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Chinatown: Its traditional pagoda-style architecture and bustling streets, invites visitors to explore the depth of Chinese culture, traditions, and language. This neighborhood, rich in history and community spirit, offers TEFL/TESOL students the chance to immerse themselves in a linguistic and cultural environment that is both distinct and integral to Chicago’s multicultural identity. From savoring authentic Chinese cuisine to participating in cultural festivities like the Chinese New Year parade, students can gain meaningful insights into language acquisition in a culturally rich context, enhancing their TEFL/TESOL training with real-world experiences.

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Chicago’s prime position in the heart of the Midwest serves as a gateway to a myriad of towns and cities, each with its own distinct character and opportunities for teaching and cultural exploration. This geographical advantage allows for easy access to diverse educational environments, from the bustling urban settings of nearby metropolitan areas to the serene landscapes of smaller towns rich in American history and heritage. These areas provide a wealth of opportunities for TEFL/TESOL educators to engage with different communities, broaden their teaching experiences, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of cultures that the Midwest has to offer. Exploring these regions can enrich educators’ perspectives, offering insights into the varied educational needs and cultural backgrounds of students in the broader American context, thereby enhancing their ability to adapt and thrive in a multitude of teaching scenarios.

Evanston: Home to Northwestern University, offering a blend of academic environment and suburban charm.

Oak Park: Known for its Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and diverse community, providing a serene setting for educators.

Naperville: With its top-rated schools and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for teaching English to young learners and adults alike.

Opting for the TEFL Institute in Chicago signifies a step toward a fulfilling career in English language teaching. Our commitment to your success transcends the completion of your course, encompassing career support, job placement assistance, and access to an extensive network of TEFL/TESOL professionals across the globe.

Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene and status as an international hub offer an unparalleled setting for TEFL/TESOL education, enriching the learning experience with its world-renowned museums, diverse neighborhoods, and bustling art scene. This city, alive with the energy of countless languages and traditions, mirrors the global classroom’s diversity, preparing educators to meet the needs of a wide array of students from various backgrounds and cultures. Chicago’s rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from the historic blues clubs of the South Side to the colorful murals of Pilsen, provides TEFL/TESOL students with a deeper understanding of the multicultural nuances essential for effective language teaching in today’s interconnected world.

Chicago’s myriad neighborhoods, each with its unique cultural identity, offer a rich tapestry of experiences to enhance your teaching skills and cultural understanding.

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Requirement: English language minimum level: Native or advanced speaker. At least an international standard of advanced fluency: C1
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Yes. There are plenty of opportunities for people Who want to teach English online but don’t hold a degree. Once you are qualified, you can find work online using two routes: working for an online school or starting as a freelancer. We would suggest getting some experience working with online companies in the beginning before setting out on your own. Some companies that hire candidates that are not degree holders include Cambly and Latin Hire.

Like any job, income is mostly based on your experience working for online companies. Usually, you start at a lower rate of about $10 -$12 per hour, which is increased by bonuses based on your teacher rating or the number of classes you take. If you have experience and are working in a specific niche, such as business English, as a freelancer, you can charge anything up to $35 per hour to teach English online.

Earning your certification in teaching English as a foreign language is a great way to see the world while getting paid. TEFL certification programs can help you gain the skills and qualifications needed to begin a teaching career abroad. You do not need any previous experience or qualifications to take a Course.
Government agencies or external bodies, such as Ofqual, ensure reputable programs are academically rigorous, employ highly qualified instructors, and help students secure teaching jobs. A Level 5 TEFL course is equivalent to a CELTA course at a fraction of the cost giving you the peace of mind that your qualification will be recognised online or abroad.

Free Course to Teach English online with our 30-hour course.
Learning how to teach English online is swiftly becoming an appealing option for anyone interested in teaching English as a foreign language in an ever-increasing online world.

One thing to look out for in a TEFL course is that the company offers an Ofqual-regulated Level 5 certification. This means the content, teaching, and materials have been scrutinised and are of high quality.
A qualification regulated by the UK Office for Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) can be awarded to learners. Another alternative is an externally accredited certification; however, you should ensure you get at least 120 hours of training, which is the industry benchmark for employers worldwide.

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is primarily teaching non-native speakers English without the use of translation. This means you won’t need to know their first language. TEFL teachers will need the knowledge and know-how of the methodologies to teach in this way. This is why teachers will first need to complete a  course and gain the qualification.
It is widely used to either teach English online in one-to-one or small group scenarios or to teach English abroad and is sometimes even used as an easier way to travel.

The TEFL Institute have no other qualification criteria to complete one of our courses. As long as you have a decent level of English and are aged from 18 upwards, you will be eligible to gain your lifetime certification.

The short answer is no. Most employers are happy with the international standard of 120 hours accredited TEFL training. This is the International standard in most countries worldwide.

First and foremost, aspiring teachers must be outgoing and confident, and not afraid to make themselves look a little silly, especially when teaching children. Expression is a huge part of the methodologies to be able to get your point across. You’ll warm up to this in time and it all takes practice.
We suggest people to be at least 16 with a C1 level of English or higher. If you’re not sure, we have a free English test. We also would recommend people who work on their initiative as it is an online course and you will need to be your motivation.

With all the different TEFL qualifications and hours, choosing the right course might seem confusing, but it needn’t be! We would recommend the industry standard 120-hour over a Level 5 if you fit most of the following criteria:
You have a minimum of a BA degree in any discipline.
You’re a native English speaker with a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa.
You’re seeking work in a country with a high demand for English teachers.
We would suggest a Level 5 over a 120-hour TEFL course if you fall into the following:
You do not have a degree.
You have no previous teaching experience.
English isn’t your first language, or you don’t have a passport from one of the countries listed.
You aim to work in a country with a competitive job market or online.
You don’t feel confident about teaching and want the most comprehensive training.

TEFL certification lasts a lifetime and allows you to advance your qualifications in your teaching career.

Speaking another language isn’t necessary for TEFL. Not having foreign language skills won’t prevent you from finding a TEFL job abroad or online. All you need to teach English is a certificate and, in some cases, a degree. You’ll find that few jobs will list a requirement for other languages – those that do are typically bilingual institutions.

If you’re looking for a new career in teaching English online or want to have a year abroad, the first step is to get your online TEFL certification. Why spend hours hunting for the right provider who offers in-class TEFL courses and finding a job when you can do both at the same time. Take your certification online and start looking for your new TEFL job through our jobs board.

The most important thing for non-native English speakers is researching the visa requirements for the country you are considering applying for a TEFL job. Certain countries will only grant visas to teachers from specific English-speaking countries, typically the USA, UK, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. It could take longer to find TEFL work than a native English teacher, but as long as you have the right qualifications, there’s an excellent chance to find a great teaching job with perseverance.

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Chicago: A Melting Pot of Opportunities for TEFL/TESOL Educators

Chicago’s blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and educational prowess makes it an exceptional starting point for your TEFL/TESOL certification journey. Whether you’re attracted to the architectural marvels, the diverse culinary scene, or the city’s rich literary heritage, Chicago provides an inspiring and practical backdrop for your educational endeavors. The TEFL Institute leverages this vibrant setting to deliver an engaging and comprehensive learning experience, setting the stage for a rewarding teaching career both locally and internationally.

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