Why Taking a TEFL Course at University is a Smart Move
If you're heading to university this September, or are a university student thinking about future career options, travel, or simply expanding your skillset, taking a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course could be one of the best decisions you make during your studies. Let us tell you why.
1. It Opens Up a World of Travel Opportunities
One of the biggest perks of getting TEFL certified is the chance to live and work abroad. From Greece to Thailand, the UAE to Singapore, English teachers are in demand almost everywhere. With a TEFL certification, you’ll be able to turn your passion for travel into a viable job - and one that pays!
2. It Makes You More Employable
In an increasingly globalised job market, international experience and intercultural skills stand out on a CV. Even if you don’t plan to teach long-term, a TEFL course shows employers that you’re adaptable, confident, and capable of leading a classroom. It also demonstrates strong communication and organisation, which are key soft skills for many career paths.
3. It’s Convenient During University
University is the perfect time to take a TEFL course.. An online TEFL course can be can completed at your own pace, so it’s great for fitting in around your studies. What’s more, you’re already in a learning mindset. You’re used to studying, writing essays, managing your time, and meeting deadlines, skills that will help you complete the TEFL course successfully. It often feels more natural and less overwhelming to take on extra training while you're still in the rhythm of academic life, compared to trying to do it later while working full-time.
4. It Can Be a Gap Year Game-Changer
Planning a gap year after graduation? A TEFL certificate turns that year into more than just travel- it becomes work experience. You could spend 6–12 months teaching in a new country, earning money, and gaining valuable insights into a different culture, all while avoiding the “what next?” anxiety many grads face.
5. It Builds Confidence and Independence
Standing in front of a classroom and managing students, often in a language that’s not your own, isn’t easy at first. But it pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow. Many former TEFL teachers say the experience gave them the confidence to tackle future challenges in both personal and professional life.
6. It’s a Doorway Into Other Careers
TEFL is more than a short-term teaching option. Many people go on to pursue careers in education, curriculum development, international development, linguistics, or even diplomacy. And for those interested in academic or global non-profit work, TEFL experience is a great stepping stone.
University is about more than just your degree - it’s a time to explore, prepare, and position yourself for a fulfilling future. Taking a TEFL course can be a smart, strategic choice that adds depth to your university experience and opens up a world of opportunities afterward.
If you’ve ever dreamed of working abroad, making a difference, or just doing something different, TEFL might just be your first step.
