Teaching English online
How can I make money teaching English online to international students?
Projekt-Plan
Why: A 120-hour TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate is the industry standard required by most reputable online platforms.
How:
- Select a provider accredited by bodies like TQUK or Ofqual (e.g., The TEFL Academy or International TEFL Academy).
- Focus on modules covering classroom management and lesson planning.
- Complete the course to understand the 'PPP' (Presentation, Practice, Production) framework.
Done when: You have received your digital or physical TEFL certificate.
Learning Outcome: Mastery of basic pedagogical theories and international teaching standards.
Why: You must be able to explain 'why' a sentence is structured a certain way, not just 'that' it sounds right.
How:
- Study 'English Grammar in Use' by Raymond Murphy.
- Focus on the 12 verb tenses, articles, and prepositions.
- Practice explaining the difference between 'Present Perfect' and 'Past Simple' using timelines.
Done when: You can explain any core grammar point without hesitation.
Learning Outcome: Ability to provide clear, concise grammatical explanations to non-native speakers.
Why: CCQs ensure students actually understand a concept without simply nodding 'yes'.
How:
- For the word 'Ambition', ask: 'Is it a good thing? Does the person want to succeed?'
- Avoid 'Do you understand?' as it yields no proof of comprehension.
- Write down 5 CCQs for 10 common vocabulary words.
Done when: You have a list of CCQs ready for your first 5 lessons.
Learning Outcome: Skill in verifying student comprehension through targeted questioning.
Why: A clean, professional environment builds trust and justifies higher hourly rates.
How:
- Use a neutral wall or a dedicated educational backdrop (maps, alphabet for kids).
- Ensure lighting is in front of you (not behind) to avoid shadows on your face.
- Use a generic external webcam (1080p) for clarity.
Done when: Your video preview looks bright, clear, and professional.
Learning Outcome: Understanding the visual requirements for professional online presence.
Why: These are the leading marketplaces where you set your own rates and schedule.
How:
- Preply: Good for high volume; they take a higher commission (33% decreasing to 18%).
- Italki: Better for community building; flat 15% commission.
- Prepare your passport/ID for the mandatory identity verification.
Done when: Your applications are submitted to at least two platforms.
Learning Outcome: Knowledge of platform-specific business models and requirements.
Why: The video is the #1 factor students use to decide whether to book a trial lesson.
How:
- Keep it under 90 seconds.
- Structure: 1. Hook (Who you help), 2. Experience/Credentials, 3. Teaching Style, 4. Call to Action.
- Speak slowly, clearly, and smile.
Done when: You have a high-quality .mp4 file ready for upload.
Learning Outcome: Ability to market yourself effectively through video communication.
Why: You don't need to create everything from scratch; use proven materials.
How:
- Bookmark 'British Council LearnEnglish' for high-quality grammar exercises.
- Use 'ISLCollective' for downloadable worksheets and video lessons.
- Use 'Breaking News English' for current events-based conversation lessons.
Done when: You have a categorized folder of links and PDFs for different levels (A1-C1).
Learning Outcome: Proficiency in sourcing and organizing educational content.
Why: The trial lesson is a sales pitch; you must prove value immediately to secure a long-term student.
How:
- 0-5 mins: Warm-up & Needs Analysis (Why do they want to learn?).
- 5-20 mins: Mini-lesson (Teach one specific, useful thing).
- 20-25 mins: Feedback and personalized learning plan proposal.
Done when: You have a 25-minute slide deck or outline for your first trial.
Learning Outcome: Skill in performing needs analysis and converting leads into students.
Why: You need reviews to rank higher in search results; low initial pricing attracts early adopters.
How:
- Start at $12-$15 per hour to build momentum.
- Aim for 10-20 completed lessons to get your first 5-star reviews.
- Increase your price by $2-$3 for every 5 new regular students.
Done when: Your profile is live with a competitive entry-level price.
Learning Outcome: Understanding of dynamic pricing and marketplace SEO.
Why: Reviews are the social proof that allows you to charge premium rates ($30+/hr).
How:
- At the end of a successful 5th lesson, ask: 'Would you mind leaving a quick review about what you enjoyed today?'
- Send a follow-up message with a direct link to the review section.
- Use feedback to adjust your teaching style (e.g., more speaking time vs. more grammar).
Done when: You have a standard message template for requesting reviews.
Learning Outcome: Mastery of client relationship management and reputation building.