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On Campus TEFL FAQs

What is the difference between CELTA, TEFL, TESOL?

The CELTA, TEFL and TESOL are all acronyms for basically the same training programs. One subtle difference is the TEFL, (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL, (Teaching English to Students of Other Languages). In short, TEFL implies that the students learning English will be learning a foreign language while the TESOL leaves open the possibility that the students learning English may in fact be foreigners themselves and trying to learn English. Essentially they are all the same.

Can I receive university credit or continuing education units (CEUs) for CMU TEFL?

The Chiang Mai University TEFL program does assist in obtaining University credits for the TEFL course. Please speak directly to one of our representatives regarding the procedures for taking advantage of this assistance.

Do I really need a TEFL certificate to teach English abroad?

A TEFL certificate is the minimum requirement for most positions teaching English abroad. Sometimes employers will hire without a TEFL but in most cases this is just a starting point in order to be able to compete with other candidates for teaching positions.

Is it really necessary to get my TEFL certificate through an accredited institution?

As a graduate from a university accredited program, your TEFL certification will enjoy instant international recognition and respectability. With literally dozens of privately run TEFL courses regularly opening and closing their doors or running large chain operations around the world, the CMU program has chosen to redirect the focus back to the basics and offer a true university academic experience.

Do I have to have a college degree to enroll in a TEFL course?

A college degree is not necessary for enrollment in the CMU TEFL course. Many CMU graduates without degrees have gone on to secure teaching positions here in Chiang Mai by proving themselves through motivation and performance.

Do I have to be a native speaker to enroll in a TEFL course?

You do not need to be a native speaker to enroll in the TEFL course. Many of our non native speaking graduates have secured jobs in positions ranging from the university level to top tier government schools. If you would like to have your English speaking skills assessed, we are happy to arrange a phone interview.

Why should I take a CMU TEFL course?

The Chiang Mai University TEFL Certification program is one of the few TEFL programs in the world that has been accredited by a major international university. The CMU TEFL training program is accepted world wide and besides being instantly recognized around the world, has a very high degree of respectability. The location of Chiang Mai University TEFL program, on the beautiful and historic Chiang Mai University campus, is South East Asia's premier TEFL training facility - unmatched anywhere. Furthermore, the CMU TEFL team of trainers, the most important element of our program, lend their years of teaching and training expertise, attention and enthusiasm to what is now considered Thailand's most effective TEFL training program.

What are the requirements for getting on to the Certificate course?
Anyone is eligible to join the TEFL course. If you are unsure about your abilities, then please speak to us personally and we will discuss your individual concerns.
Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit for the course.

When is the best time to do a course?

Positions for TEFL teachers in Thailand are available throughout the year. Government run schools regularly hire for year long contracts 3 times a year. May/June September/October and February/March. In addition, many of these year long government contractual positions open mid-year due to unforeseen circumstances. Private language schools and institutes generally hire mid-semester as this is the time most students choose to do additional studies. International programs on the other hand will follow the western school calendar beginning in August/September for the first semester, January for the second and June/July for the summer programs. In addition, many other countries follow slightly different calendars as well.

What are the chances of finding a job after the course? Does CMU help with this?

The job market in Thailand, Asia and many places in the world is still excellent. The Chiang Mai University TEFL program has a full time Job Placement Coordinator to assist you by taking advantage of Chiang Mai University's vast network of contacts with national and international educational institutions.

Do I need knowledge of other languages?
There is no need to speak any language other than English while teaching in the classroom.

Online TEFL FAQs

Are there any prerequisites for taking the online TEFL course?
There are no pre-requesits for taking the CMU On-line TEFL.
Can non-native speakers of English take the online TEFL course?
The Chiang Mai University On-line TEFL is not restricted to native English speakers.

Can I get teaching practice with the online course?

At this time we do not formally offer teaching practices with the Chiang Mai University On-line TEFL. We have received numerous requests to include this option however and will consider individual requests on a case by case basis at this time.