ESL Teacher

An ESL Teacher teaches English to students whose first language is something other than English. You might work for an English language school or provide lessons privately to individuals or small groups of students. ESL Teachers generally follow a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages) program which may focus on speaking, reading or writing. ESL Teachers often work with migrants or refugees from various cultural backgrounds.

ESL Teachers need to be patient and able to work with students with a wide range of abilities. You’ll need to be organised and be able to plan and follow a teaching program. An ESL Teacher must have excellent communication skills and be able to meet the needs of several students at one time.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $78,000
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a esl teacher?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Blended, On Campus
12 - 24 months
$0 - $67,699
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
11020NAT

Diploma of English Language Teaching (TESOL)

On Campus, Online
18 months
$0 - $4,860
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
11021NAT

Certificate IV in English Language Teaching (TESOL)

On Campus, Online
12 months
$0 - $3,820
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Master of Teaching (Secondary) - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

On Campus
24 months
$0 - $8,900
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Master of Education (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages - TESOL)

Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $45,400
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Graduate Certificate in TESOL

Blended, On Campus
6 months
$0 - $15,264
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Master of Arts (TESOL)

On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $8,880
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
EALD Teacher ELICOS Teacher ESL Teacher TESOL Teacher + 1 more
10989NAT

Certificate IV in Communicative TESOL

Blended
6 months
$3,400
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Common questions

Further reading

What Does an ESL Teacher Do?

21st December 2022)

Is Primary School Teaching Right for You?

22nd April 2024)

How To Become a Primary School Teacher in Australia

24th September 2022)