19 Apr Level 3 VS Level 5 TEFL From The TEFL Academy: Which One Is Right For You? (No Stress, Just Vibes)
So, you’ve decided to join the TEFL tribe – high five! 🌍✈️ Whether your dream is to teach English on a beach in Thailand, from your couch in Cape Town, or somewhere in-between, there’s one big question you’ve got to answer first:
Where should I do a TEFL course?
My answer to this question is The TEFL Academy. I didn't do my TEFL through them (because it wasn't around when I qualified!), but I've seen the course, worked on the course and I now work for them on a freelance basis. It's a quality, accredited, well-recognised course and I recommend them every time someone asks.
[Read here for my comparison for The TEFL Academy course and the i-to-i TEFL course. And if you're South African, read here for my Guide To TEFL For South Africans.]
But then the next question is:
Should I do a Level 3 or Level 5 TEFL course?
Let me break it down for you: no jargon, no panic. Let’s compare these two options from The TEFL Academy so you can confidently choose the course that fits your vibe (and your career goals).
🎓 What’s the difference, anyway?
Level 3 = Think of this as your solid, no-frills entry ticket into the TEFL world.
Level 5 = This is the VIP pass – a bit more intensive, a bit more impressive on your CV.
📚 Course content
Level 3 TEFL Course (120 hours)
This is the shorter, lighter course – kind of like the backpacker version of TEFL. It covers all the essentials: lesson planning, grammar, classroom management, and how to teach the main language skills. You’ll be ready to teach, especially if you're not aiming for super competitive markets.
Level 5 TEFL Course (168 hours)
This one dives deeper. It covers everything in Level 3 plus extra modules like teaching young learners, teaching online, and even teaching business English. Basically, it gives you more tools in your teacher toolbox.
🧠 If Level 3 is a "starter pack," Level 5 is the "deluxe edition."
🌍 Job opportunities
Level 3:
Great for casual teaching jobs, online platforms, or volunteering gigs. It might get you into schools in less competitive locations – especially where a degree isn’t required. Think gap year adventures and flexible side hustles.
Level 5:
Opens more doors – including higher-paying positions, more reputable schools, and countries with stricter visa requirements. It’s the better choice if you’re going long-term or want to build a serious teaching career.
⏳ Time commitment
Level 3:
You can smash this out in a few weeks if you’re consistent. Fewer hours = quicker completion = the sooner you’re out there teaching and sipping coconuts.
Level 5:
You’ll need to set aside a bit more time (and brainpower). Expect a few months if you’re studying part-time. But it’s totally manageable, even with a job or other responsibilities.
💰 Price tag
Level 3 is cheaper (surprise, surprise). It’s perfect if you're on a budget or just dipping your toe into TEFL.
Level 5 is pricier – but you're investing in better job prospects and potentially higher pay later on. Plus, The TEFL Academy often has juicy discounts, so keep an eye out.
🎯 Who should take what?
Go for Level 3 if:
- You want to try TEFL without committing too much time/money
- You’re just teaching short-term or casually
- You’re heading to a country with lower requirements
Go for Level 5 if:
- You want to teach long-term, online, or abroad (especially in Europe or the Middle East)
- You’re aiming for higher pay or competitive jobs
- You want a more thorough training experience
Final thoughts (and friendly advice)
Both Level 3 and Level 5 will get you in the TEFL game – but the right one depends on your goals. If you’re just testing the waters, Level 3 is a chill place to start. But if you’re serious about teaching and want to stand out, Level 5 is 100% worth the extra time and cash.
Whichever you choose, just know this: you’re about to do something awesome. Helping others learn a language is one of the most rewarding, character-building, life-enhancing experiences out there.
Now go get that TEFL certificate and start collecting passport stamps (or Zoom backgrounds).
Ready to choose your level? Check out The TEFL Academy's website to see what specials they've got going on.
No Comments