If you want to stand out in the world of English language teaching, the 180 hour TEFL course, also known as the Level 5 TEFL Diploma, is one of the most advanced and respected TEFL qualifications you can earn online. But how does it compare to the standard 120 hour TEFL certificate—and is it worth the investment?
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What is a 180 hour TEFL course (Level 5 TEFL Diploma)?
- How it differs from a 120 hour TEFL course
- Who should choose the 180 hour Level 5 TEFL
- The best 180 hour Level 5 courses from leading providers: The TEFL Academy, Premier TEFL, and The TEFL Institute
- Frequently asked questions
What is a 180 Hour TEFL Course (Level 5 TEFL Diploma)?
A 180 hour TEFL course is a comprehensive and intensive program that leads to a Level 5 TEFL Diploma—the same level as a CELTA or Trinity CertTESOL on the UK qualifications framework. It goes beyond the basics to provide advanced training in teaching English as a foreign language, preparing you for more competitive roles and higher salaries in the TEFL industry.
180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma vs 120 Hour TEFL Course: Key Differences
| Feature | 120 Hour TEFL Course | 180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Level | Level 3 (Foundation) | Level 5 (Advanced, Diploma) |
| Total Study Hours | 120 hours | 180 hours |
| Content Depth | Essentials of TEFL | In-depth theory + advanced teaching |
| Practical Training | Basic | More extensive, with specialist units |
| Recognition | Meets standard requirements | Preferred by top employers; higher status |
| Suitable For | Beginners, online/entry jobs | Career-focused, higher salaries, overseas contracts |
| Salary Potential | Standard | Often higher (especially in Asia, Middle East, Europe) |
| Progression | Good for starting out | Suitable for management, exam prep, business English roles |
Summary:
The 120 hour TEFL course is ideal for entry-level teaching and online jobs, while the 180 hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma is designed for those who want more job options, higher salaries, and to stand out in a competitive market.
Who Should Take a 180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Course?
- Aspiring teachers targeting the best schools, higher salaries, or management roles
- Those planning to teach in countries with stricter visa or qualification requirements
- Anyone interested in teaching specialized English (e.g. business, academic, IELTS)
- Career changers who want a professional, globally recognized TEFL diploma
180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma: Top Providers Reviewed
Ready to choose a course? Here’s how the leading institutions compare:
The TEFL Academy – 180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma
- Accreditation: UK government regulated, awarded by Ofqual and Qualifi
- Course Content: Advanced modules covering lesson planning, grammar, classroom management, young learners, business English, and more
- Assessment: Multiple assignments, quizzes, and practical tasks
- Support: Expert tutor support, job board, CV guidance, and lifetime job support
- Highlights: Globally recognized, respected by schools and employers around the world
Premier TEFL – 180 Hour Level 5 Advanced Diploma
- Accreditation: Regulated by Ofqual, certified by Highfield Qualifications
- Course Structure: 11 advanced modules, including teaching business English, exam preparation (IELTS, Cambridge), and teaching young learners
- Flexibility: 100% online, study at your own pace with 24/7 access
- Support: Dedicated tutor support, downloadable resources, and exclusive job search support
- Extras: Free TEFL app, digital certificate, access to Premier TEFL job board
The TEFL Institute – 180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma
- Accreditation: Ofqual regulated, ACDL and ODLQC accredited
- Course Content: Comprehensive focus on advanced TEFL theory, practical teaching skills, specialist modules (Business English, IELTS, one-to-one teaching)
- Assessment: Ongoing assignments, quizzes, and real-world tasks
- Support: Access to academic tutors, career coaching, and an active TEFL jobs portal
- Highlights: Lifetime course access, globally accepted diploma, excellent alumni reviews
120 vs 180 Hour TEFL Course: Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the 120 hour TEFL course if you’re starting out, want to teach online or in entry-level roles, or are working with a tight budget.
- Choose the 180 hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma if you want maximum job opportunities, are targeting high-paying teaching jobs, or plan to work in countries or schools that require advanced qualifications.
Both routes are great for starting your English teaching journey, but the Level 5 Diploma offers a significant advantage for those who want to stand out and earn more.
Get Started with Your 180 Hour TEFL Course
A 180 hour TEFL course is an investment in your future as an English teacher—opening doors to top-tier jobs and giving you the skills to thrive in the classroom. Explore our in-depth reviews of The TEFL Academy, Premier TEFL, and The TEFL Institute on englishteacher.online to find the right Level 5 TEFL Diploma for your career goals!
