Teaching English online is growing quickly and has become one of the most flexible ways to work with students worldwide. You might think that not having a degree means you cannot get started, but that is not always the case.
Many online English teaching companies do not require a degree, especially if you have strong English communication skills, the right teaching setup, and a recognised TEFL qualification. In this guide, we will look at what you need to start teaching English online, how much you could earn, and some of the companies that may offer opportunities to teachers without a degree.
Teach English Online
Getting TEFL certified is often the first step towards becoming an online English teacher. A TEFL course helps you understand how to plan lessons, manage students, explain grammar clearly, and build confidence as a teacher.
The demand for online English teachers continues to grow as more students choose virtual lessons for flexibility, convenience, and access to international teachers. This means you could teach from home, work part-time around another job, or build a more flexible teaching career while travelling.
Once you complete a recognised TEFL course, you may be able to teach general English, conversation English, business English, young learners, or exam preparation lessons such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Some teachers find their own private students, while others prefer to work with online teaching companies or tutor marketplaces. These platforms often help with bookings, payments, lesson scheduling, and student matching, allowing you to focus more on teaching.
One of the biggest benefits of teaching English online is flexibility. You can often choose your working hours, teach students in different countries, and build a schedule that suits your lifestyle.
What Do You Need to Start Teaching English Online?
To start teaching English online, you do not need a traditional classroom, but you do need the right mix of skills, equipment, confidence, and training. Online English teaching is flexible, but students and employers still expect a professional learning experience.
The first thing you need is a strong command of English. You should be able to explain grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, and everyday communication in a clear and simple way. You do not always need to be a native English speaker, but you do need strong fluency and the ability to help learners understand and use English with confidence.
A recognised TEFL certificate is also highly recommended. Many online teaching companies prefer or require teachers to have TEFL training because it shows that you understand how to plan lessons, manage students, explain language points, and keep learners engaged. If you are new to teaching, a TEFL course can help you build the foundation you need before applying for online teaching jobs.
You will also need a reliable teaching setup. This usually includes a laptop or desktop computer, a stable internet connection, a webcam, a headset or microphone, and a quiet space where you can teach without distractions. Good lighting and clear audio are important because online lessons depend heavily on how well students can see and hear you.
Some companies may ask for a degree, teaching experience, or previous work with children or adult learners, but this depends on the platform. There are also online teaching opportunities where a degree is not required, especially if you have TEFL certification, good communication skills, and a professional teacher profile.
To start teaching English online, you typically need:
- Fluent English communication skills
- A TEFL or TESOL certificate
- A laptop or desktop computer
- A stable internet connection
- A webcam and headset
- A quiet teaching space
- Basic lesson planning skills
- A professional teacher profile or CV
- Confidence speaking to students online
Once you have these in place, you can begin applying to online English teaching companies, tutor marketplaces, or even start finding your own private students.
Are There Any Requirements to Teach English Online?
You do not always need a long list of formal requirements to start teaching English online. In many cases, an accredited TEFL certification, strong English skills, and a professional teaching setup can be enough to begin applying for online roles.
That said, requirements vary from company to company. Some platforms may prefer a degree, some may ask for previous teaching experience, and others may be more flexible.
1. English Language Proficiency
You need to be confident speaking, reading, and writing in English. You do not have to speak perfectly, but you should be able to explain ideas clearly and communicate with students from different backgrounds.
2. TEFL Qualification
A TEFL certificate is one of the most useful qualifications for teaching English online. It shows that you understand how to teach English as a foreign language, not just speak it. Many platforms prefer or require TEFL certification, and it can also help you apply for better opportunities.
3. Equipment and Setup
A good online teaching setup makes a big difference. You will usually need:
- A laptop or computer
- A stable internet connection
- A good-quality webcam
- A headset or microphone
- A quiet, well-lit teaching space
Clear sound, good lighting, and a professional background help create a better learning experience for students.
4. Attitude and Motivation
Teaching online is not only about knowledge. You also need patience, consistency, and the ability to adapt to different learners. A positive attitude can help you build better lessons, stronger student relationships, and better long-term results.
How Much Can You Earn Teaching English Online?
Online English teachers usually earn around $10–$20 per hour when starting out, depending on the company, qualifications, teaching experience, and the type of students they teach. Teachers with a TEFL certificate, strong reviews, specialist skills, or experience teaching business English, exam preparation, or young learners may be able to earn more, often around $25–$40 per hour on higher-paying platforms or through private students.
Your income can also depend on whether you work through a teaching company, a tutor marketplace, or your own student base. In general, teaching English online can work well as a flexible side income, while experienced teachers with regular students may be able to turn it into a more stable online teaching career.
Recommended Courses for Teaching English Online
If you want to teach English online, the best starting point is usually a recognised TEFL qualification that helps you understand lesson planning, grammar, student engagement, and teaching methods. For new teachers, a 120-hour TEFL course can provide the main foundation needed to apply for online and international teaching roles.
If you already have a TEFL certificate or want to strengthen your online teaching skills, Premier TEFL’s 30-Hour Teach English Online Course is a useful specialist add-on. It is designed to help teachers prepare for virtual lessons, online classroom delivery, remote student engagement, and online teaching applications, making it a strong choice for anyone who wants to teach English from home or while traveling.
Online English Teaching Companies That May Hire Without a Degree
There are several online teaching companies and tutor marketplaces that may offer opportunities to teachers without a degree. Requirements can change, so always check the latest application criteria before applying.
Engoo
Engoo is often seen as one of the more flexible online teaching platforms for new teachers. It can be a useful option if you are starting out and want to gain experience working with international learners.
Earnings: Around $6+ per hour
Highlight: Flexible entry requirements and a simple way to begin teaching online.
Cambly
Cambly is known for conversation-based English practice and flexible teaching arrangements. Lessons are often informal and focused on helping students improve their spoken English.
Earnings: Around $10.20 per hour
Highlight: Flexible teaching and students from different parts of the world.
Preply
Preply allows tutors to create a profile, set their own lesson price, and teach students through the platform. It can be a good option if you want more control over your schedule and rates.
Earnings: Often around $15+ per hour, depending on your rate and experience
Highlight: You can set your own lesson prices and build your own student base.
Ginseng English
Ginseng English is suited to teachers who prefer working with adults and structured lessons. It may be a good fit if you are interested in teaching in a more professional or business-focused environment.
Earnings: Around $10–$15 per hour
Highlight: Adult learners and structured online classes.
AmazingTalker
AmazingTalker allows tutors to set their own rates and connect with students looking for different types of English lessons. It can be a good option for teachers who want to build their own teaching profile.
Highlight: Flexible rates, flexible hours, and student matching.
iTalki
iTalki is a language-learning marketplace where teachers can offer different types of lessons, including general English, business English, test preparation, conversation practice, and lessons for children.
Highlight: A strong platform for teachers who want to specialise and attract students based on their teaching style.
Open English
Open English connects teachers with learners across Latin America. It may suit teachers who enjoy working with adult learners and students from Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking backgrounds.
Highlight: Large student base and regular online teaching opportunities.
Lingoda
Lingoda focuses on structured language learning and often works with adult learners. Requirements may be stricter than some other platforms, but it can be a strong option for experienced teachers.
Highlight: Structured lessons and professional adult learners.
Can You Teach English Online Without a Degree?
Yes, teaching English online without a degree is possible. While some companies do require a degree, others are more flexible and may focus on your English fluency, TEFL qualification, teaching ability, and online setup.
If you do not have a degree, a TEFL certificate can help strengthen your application. It shows that you have taken the time to learn how to teach properly and that you understand the basics of lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement.
Teaching English online without a degree can be a realistic route if you choose the right platforms, build a strong teacher profile, and continue improving your skills.
Want to Learn More About Teaching English Online?
If you are interested in teaching English online, Premier TEFL can help you choose the right course and understand your next steps. Whether you are new to teaching, looking for flexible online work, or hoping to teach while travelling, the right TEFL training can help you begin with confidence
