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TESOL / TEFL Chicago: Train in America's Heartland City

In the culturally rich and diverse city of Chicago, Premier TEFL trainees experience one of America's most multilingual metropolises. With over 30% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, Chicago is the perfect testing ground for aspiring ESL teachers.

TESOL / TEFL Chicago: Train in America's Heartland City

Unlock Your TEFL Potential in Chicago with Premier TEFL.

Chicago's bilingual neighbourhoods — from Polish, Mexican, Chinese, to South Asian communities — give Premier TEFL trainees direct exposure to the language acquisition challenges and opportunities they'll encounter teaching English worldwide.

  • Flexible Learning, Global Teaching

    Our course offers adaptable learning modes, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments.

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  • Accredited Excellence

    Our Level 5 TEFL diploma is accredited by Highfield Qualifications UK and regulated by Ofqual.

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  • Teach English Abroad - Complete Guides

    Over 60 countries on our TEFL Job Centre where you can teach English abroad.

    Complete Guide For Teachers

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Exploring Chicago's Educational Landscape

Diverse Course Range

Diverse Course Range

Premier TEFL offers a wide spectrum of courses, ranging from entry-level certificates for those just beginning their teaching journey, to the in-depth 300 Hour Advanced Diploma designed for those seeking comprehensive mastery in TEFL. This diverse course lineup is tailored to accommodate various teaching aspirations and career paths, ensuring that every educator, regardless of their experience level, can find a program that aligns with their goals. Each course is meticulously structured to provide a robust foundation in TEFL methodologies, equipping educators with the skills necessary to excel in diverse teaching environments, both online and in classrooms around the globe.

Expert Guidance

Premier TEFL offers a wide spectrum of courses, ranging from entry-level certificates for those just beginning their teaching journey, to the in-depth 300 Hour Advanced Diploma designed for those seeking comprehensive mastery in TEFL. This diverse course lineup is tailored to accommodate various teaching aspirations and career paths, ensuring that every educator, regardless of their experience level, can find a program that aligns with their goals. Each course is meticulously structured to provide a robust foundation in TEFL methodologies, equipping educators with the skills necessary to excel in diverse teaching environments, both online and in classrooms around the globe.

Innovative Learning

Innovative Learning

The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) modules and the provision of flexible study schedules in the curriculum are thoughtfully designed to cater to a wide array of learning preferences and time commitments. This innovative approach ensures that learners can engage with the material in a manner that best suits their individual learning styles, whether they are visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or reading/writing learners. Furthermore, the flexibility in scheduling allows students to balance their educational pursuits with personal and professional responsibilities, making it feasible for a diverse group of learners, from busy professionals to full-time students, to advance their education without compromising other areas of their lives. This adaptable and personalized learning environment fosters a more inclusive and effective educational experience, accommodating the needs of a global and varied student population.

Practical Experience

The integration of live Zoom classes and job coaching seminars into the curriculum bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering students hands-on experience in teaching and comprehensive career guidance. These interactive sessions simulate real classroom scenarios and provide essential insights into the job market, equipping aspiring educators with the tools and confidence needed for a successful transition into the TEFL profession. This blend of practical training and professional development ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of teaching English as a foreign language and to seize career opportunities with competence and assurance.

Global Recognition

Global Recognition

Achieving accreditation from esteemed organizations such as Ofqual not only lends credibility but also enhances the global recognition and respect for the certifications offered. This validation signifies that the educational content, teaching methodologies, and assessment criteria meet high international standards, ensuring that graduates possess qualifications that are both trustworthy and valued across various educational and professional settings worldwide. Furthermore, such accreditation reassures students and employers alike of the quality and rigor of the program, making these certifications a reliable benchmark for teaching competencies in the competitive field of English language teaching. This level of recognition is pivotal for educators seeking opportunities both domestically and abroad, as it opens doors to a wide array of teaching positions, enhances professional mobility, and contributes significantly to career advancement within the global educational landscape.

Verified reviews

4.93 out of 5.

Across 1,570 global reviews from students who actually finished and started teaching.

5 97%
4 0%
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Google · 4.7 / 283 reviewsTrustpilot · 4.8

Dawn Bernier KR

November 2025

My experience with premier TEFl has…

My experience with premier TEFl has been a good one! I would highly recommend using them to get a TEFL certificate as they offer a wide range of hours to take. I took the 180 hour course and learned so much and apply what I learn in teaching my English language classes.

Nabil MJ MA

October 2025

Thank you PremierTEFL!

It has been an absolutely rich learning experience with PremierTEFL.Actually, the course is well-structured,and full of useful information/content that every new English language teacher would need to dive into the world of modern teaching either online or in-person.I highly recommend this.

Victoria Birch GB

September 2025

Excellent online training experience

I recently completed a TEFL course with Premier TEFL, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. The course content was thorough, well-structured, and incredibly engaging. It provided a perfect balance of theory and practical knowledge, giving me the confidence and skills to start my teaching journey.

The platform was user-friendly, and the modules were easy to follow, with clear explanations and useful resources. I especially appreciated the real-world examples and interactive elements that made the learning process enjoyable and effective.

The support from the Premier TEFL team was outstanding—they were responsive, professional, and genuinely invested in my success. Whether I had a technical question or needed career advice, I always received helpful guidance.

By the end of the course, I felt well-prepared to teach English abroad or online. I highly recommend Premier TEFL to anyone looking to earn their certification and take the first step into the world of TEFL. It's a fantastic investment in your future!

Jose A. Moreno PA

July 2025

This company met my requirements

I looked at several TEFL companies before I chose PremierTEFL, and I decided to go with them because of their fast and reliable customer support, and the UK government accreditation for their online TEFL Course which stood out. This company met my requirements regarding what I wanted in an online TEFL Course.

Brendan G FR

July 2025

Great certification!

I've waited several years to write this review, and after 5+ years, this certificate has really opened doors and allowed me to prosper in what I do. To be able to get higher jobs, you'll need to pair it with other niche certifications, but this is enough to be able to teach in most countries in businesses or online and start developing your own reputation as a teacher.

Aubrey US

July 2025

I was able to secure an English…

I was able to secure an English Teaching position at a school in Poland. They even offer a course that teaches you how to use Artificial Intelligence to help with lesson planning! The program is not hard, but you need to apply yourself and you will pass the quizzes and test.

Chloe GB

July 2025

Amazing experience!

Really helpful course with lots of interesting information that will be so useful on an upcoming volunteering trip and later in my career!

Mary Beth Hutting AL

July 2025

Premier TEFL is a Great Program!

Premier TEFL was well organized and full of information and professional tips that I can use immediatly to make a great TEFL teacher. Great graphics and visuals were also used to help illustrate a topic. There were many ready - to - use resources included in the lessons. Great learning experience

Valerie AR

June 2025

I’ve A Truly Outstanding TEFL Course Experience!

I’ve just completed the Premier TEFL course and I couldn’t be more satisfied. The content was clear, practical, and well-structured—perfect for both beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. I especially appreciated the flexibility of being able to study online at my own pace, which made the learning experience smooth and stress-free.

The modules were engaging and packed with real-world teaching strategies, and the reflection tasks really made me think about how to apply what I learned in the classroom. I now feel confident and well-prepared to start my teaching journey.

Thank you, Premier TEFL, for creating such a high-quality course and

Lisa Lamon MX

September 2025

I love Premier

I love Premier! It's put together in such a great way, and it's easy to follow and learn.

Mark Lorenzana MX

September 2025

Great experience with Premier TEFL

I loved my experience with Premier TEFL. The online courses were very easy to follow, and the content itself was very informative. What I liked too is that you can download the app and continue the lessons on your smartphone. I am now a TEFL qualified teacher! :)

Oleksandra Kulyha AT

June 2025

Splendid!

The course was clear, practical, and very informative. I found the content on the test format and assessment criteria especially useful. The teaching strategies helped deepen my knowledge, for sure!

I particularly liked the recommendations for further development, as they offered clear guidance on how to continue improving as an IELTS teacher. These suggestions were realistic, relevant, and easy to implement in my own teaching practice.

Larissa Gonçalves ES

June 2025

I recently completed the Premier TEFL…

I recently completed the Premier TEFL course and I’m genuinely impressed by the quality and structure of the program. The modules are clear, informative, and well-paced, covering everything from lesson planning to teaching young learners and business English.

What stood out the most was how practical and applicable the content is — I feel much more confident and prepared to enter the classroom now. The quizzes and assignments really helped reinforce my understanding, and the platform was easy to use throughout.

I would definitely recommend this course to anyone looking to start or advance their TEFL career. It’s a solid foundation with excellent resources and guidance.

Zosia Korbaś PL

June 2025

great course!

The materials were clear, well-structured, and easy to follow, even for someone new to teaching. The course offered a great balance of theory and practical application, with plenty of real-world examples. I especially appreciated the feedback from tutors—it was detailed, encouraging, and helped me grow as a future teacher. I now feel confident and well-prepared to teach English abroad. Highly recommended!

Jade ZA

June 2025

I always come back to Premier TEFL

I always come back to Premier TEFL. They're the best and their courses are so easy to navigate!

Tina Baketaric RS

June 2025

reliable platform

I wholeheartedly recommend Premier TEFL to anyone seeking a reliable and encouraging platform to embark on or enhance their TEFL journey. The support and resources provided are outstanding, and I am grateful for the invaluable experience I have gained through this program.

Sumaiya Sultana IN

June 2025

I had a great experience with Premier…

I had a great experience with Premier TEFL. One of the features I truly appreciate is the option to extend the course duration. As someone managing a hectic schedule, this flexibility allowed me to continue learning without added pressure. Another standout aspect is the 100% pass mark required for all assignments. While it might seem challenging at first, it really ensures you fully understand the content and gain mastery over the material—something I now value deeply. The curriculum itself is very well-structured, thoughtfully laid out, and easy to follow. Each module builds clearly on the last, with detailed explanations and helpful examples. Overall, Premier TEFL offers comprehensive TEFL programs with a user-friendly platform, a responsive support team, skilled and experienced tutors. The course is perfect for self-paced learners looking to build strong, practical teaching skills in TEFL.

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Recognised by

Our Friends & Accreditations

Highfield (Ofqual Regulated)

Center Number: 21338

DEAC | AQC

Curriculum Approved Centre

OTCAC

OFQUAL

Regulated Provider

  • 14-Day Money Back
  • Employer Verification
  • Guaranteed Pass
  • Personal Job Coach
  • Jobs Board Membership
  • 54,000 Graduates
  • CELTA Equivalent Level 5 Courses
Questions & answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to take the course?

No degree is required to take our TEFL course. However, some countries do require a degree to be eligible for a teaching visa, so it’s worth checking the requirements of the country you’d like to teach in.

What qualifications do I need to teach English abroad with TEFL?

To teach English abroad with TEFL, most employers require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in any field. Additionally, obtaining a certification is highly recommended. The standard requirement for certification is usually a 120-hour course, although some countries or employers may have specific preferences or requirements. It's essential to research the requirements of the country or institution where you plan to teach.

Do I need any teaching experience?

No prior teaching experience is required. The course is designed for beginners and provides everything you need to confidently teach English.

Can I teach English abroad with TEFL if English is not my first language?

Yes, you can still teach English abroad with TEFL certification even if English is not your first language. Many non-native English speakers successfully teach English as a foreign language. However, it's crucial to have a proficient level of English language skills and fluency, as well as the necessary qualifications and certifications.

Will I need to speak the local language to teach English abroad with TEFL?

In most cases, speaking the local language is not a requirement for teaching English abroad with TEFL. English immersion classrooms are common, where only English is spoken to create an optimal learning environment for students. However, having some knowledge of the local language can be beneficial for daily living and cultural integration. Additionally, some employers may prefer or require basic proficiency in the local language, depending on the location and type of institution.

What TEFL certificate is best?

The best TEFL courses will match your personal needs. Knowing what you're looking for will help narrow your options and allow you to choose faster.

  • Do you want self-study or in-class experience?
  • Want to study on an app?
  • Expect a personal study tutor?

All of these factors will impact your decision.

Employers seek 120 hours of TEFL training for entry-level teaching jobs. This is the industry standard and the minimum amount of TEFL training you should undertake.

At Premier TEFL, our most popular courses are our Level 5 qualifications that include certified teaching practice. They help you qualify for more jobs, better pay and are trusted and respected globally by employers.

The best TEFL training providers will have:

  • A range of courses to pick from
  • Excellent customer reviews
  • Knowledgeable staff to advise you
  • Heaps of alumni testimonials
  • Quick response times
  • External accreditation
  • A clear path to employment for you to follow once you graduate
How much can TEFL teachers earn?

Salaries for English teachers may vary according to location:

  • Online: $12–$30/hour
  • Asia: $1,800–$3,000/month
  • Europe: $1,200–$2,000/month
  • Middle East: $2,500–$4,000+/month
  • Teachers with Level 5 qualifications earn the most.
Take the next step

Start Your TEFL Journey in Chicago

Premier TEFL in Chicago offers a globally recognised certification, a vibrant multicultural setting, and ongoing career support — your gateway to teaching English worldwide.

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