Teaching English online has become a flexible and lucrative way for South Africans to earn income, build international experience, and even pave the way for overseas teaching roles. With just a reliable internet connection, the right qualifications, and effective self-promotion, you can connect with students around the world—and get paid to do it.
Top Platforms Hiring South Africans
| Platform | Degree Required? | TEFL Cert Required? | Typical TEFL Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenEnglish | No | Yes | 120 minimum | Focuses on Latin American market; group and one-on-one classes |
| HelloKid | No | Yes | 120 hr | Kids-focused; offers hourly pay plus bonuses |
| Cambly | No | No | n/a but recommended | Conversational practice; no minimum cert but higher pay with TEFL/degree |
| italki | No | No (prefers TEFL/Degree) | n/a | Tutor marketplace; set your own rates |
| E Talk | No | Yes | 120 hr | One-on-one lessons; consistent schedule required |
| NovaKids | Yes | Yes | 120 hr | Small-group classes; children’s lessons |
| Native Camp | No | Yes | 120 hr | Unlimited lessons for students; pay per minute |
| VIPKid | Yes (or eq.) | Yes | 120 | China-focused; degree + 120 hr cert (or intern TEFL + degree) |
| PalFish | No | No | n/a | Mobile-app based; boost pay with TEFL |
| AmazingTalker | No | No | n/a | Marketplace; TEFL/degrees boost visibility |
| Preply | No | No | n/a | Tutor marketplace; profile ratings drive demand |
| Twenix | No | No | 120 hr | Less known—check current vacancies |
| TutorABC | No | Yes | 120 hr | Structured curriculum; fixed schedule |
Tip: Many of these platforms allow you to apply without a degree, but having a TEFL certificate (120hr or above) will both broaden your eligibility and unlock higher pay brackets.
You can enrol on any of the following TEFL courses: Online Level 3 TEFL Certificate Online Level 5 TEFL Diploma Combined Level 5 TEFL DiplomaSAVE30Bonus CodeValid Until: Oct 27, 2024Save up to 75% on 120 hour advanced TEFL course Save up to 60% on 180 hour regulated level 5 tefl diploma Save up to 56% on 310 hour hybrid level 5 advanced diploma
Degrees vs. TEFL Certificates
- Native English speaker as the main requirement
- Examples: Cambly, italki, AmazingTalker, Preply
- Pros: Immediate start; no certification cost
- Cons: Lower base rates; harder to stand out without credentials
- TEFL-Focused Platforms
- Examples: HelloKid, OpenEnglish, Native Camp, TutorABC
- Pros: Higher hourly rates; consistent scheduling; better student trust
- Cons: Upfront certification cost (120 hr courses run USD 150–300)
- Degree + TEFL Platforms
- Examples: VIPKid, EF Teach Online
- Pros: Premium pay (USD 18–25/hr); structured contract; often bonuses
- Cons: Competitive; strict hiring requirements; peak-time availability
Choosing the Right TEFL Certificate
- Minimum Entry:
- 120 Hour Certificate: The industry standard that qualifies you for nearly all online ESL positions.
- For Better Pay & In-Person Roles:
- Level 5 Diploma: Includes additional modules (e.g., teaching young learners, business English).
- CELTA or Trinity CertTESOL: Worldwide recognition; required by many brick-and-mortar schools when moving abroad.
Pro Tip: If you aim to transition from online teaching into classroom or overseas internships, invest in a Level 5 Diploma or CELTA. These open doors to higher-paying contracts and government-sponsored programs.
Moving Abroad: Requirements & Internships
- Typical Overseas Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (any field)
- 120 hr TEFL certificate (Level 5) or CELTA
- Clean police clearance; basic health screening
- Finding Internships:
- Check paid-internship listings like the TEFL Academy’s post for a China Paid TEFL Internship to see real-world requirements and benefits (stipend, accommodation, support) 👉 https://www.theteflacademy.com/blog/tefl-jobs/china-paid-tefl-internship-in-china/
- Intern roles often require fewer hours of experience and provide on-job training—perfect for building your resume.
Guaranteed Online Teaching Programs
Some providers offer guaranteed placements and even physical offices where trainees can teach or practice until fully certified:
- MPC Connect: https://mpcconnect.tech/
- The Faculty Global: https://thefaculty.global/
- EF Teach Online (South Africa): https://www.ef.com/wwen/teachonline/south-africa/
These organizations supply hardware support, backup power solutions, and mentor-led training—ideal if you lack home equipment or steady internet.
Additional Resources & Tips
- TEFL Job Board:
- Browse global ESL opportunities and FAQs at the TEFL Academy’s job board:
https://www.theteflacademy.com/tefl-jobs/ - Look for “internship” tags to gain that crucial first-job experience.
- Browse global ESL opportunities and FAQs at the TEFL Academy’s job board:
- Video Introduction & Demo Lessons:
- Watch Yanelisa Bokveld on YouTube for expert guidance on crafting engaging intro videos, demo lessons, and trial-class preparation.
- Self-Promotion:
- Create a standout profile photo and video.
- Collect and showcase student testimonials.
- Maintain consistent availability during peak teaching hours in your target time zones.
Conclusion
By securing at least a Level 5 TEFL certificate, targeting platforms that match your credentials, and leveraging internships or guaranteed-placement programs, South Africans can build a thriving online teaching career—and even transition into abroad contracts. Start today: research job boards, prepare your demo materials, and join the global community of online English educators!
