If you're interested in teaching English as a second language to adults, you'll probably have heard of CELTA as you've been researching, but what is it and is it for you? These FAQs should answer some of the common questions about CELTA.

What is CELTA?

CELTA stands for Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults. The Certificate is an internationally recognised qualification which will help you to get an English-teaching job either in England or Wales or abroad.

Why do I need a CELTA qualification?

In actual fact you don't necessarily need a CELTA qualification; there are some places you can teach without one. However, having the qualification will give you far greater access to higher paying jobs and much more choice about where you teach.

Additionally, studying for a Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults will help you be a better teacher, especially if you have no previous experience. You'll feel more confident planning and delivering lessons after the in-depth training.

How long will a CELTA course take?

A full-time course will normally take around four weeks. There are also some courses where you can study the qualification part-time. In order to achieve the qualification you need to complete 120 hours of study/teaching.

The courses are intensive and you should be prepared for that. Even studying part-time will require a lot of hard work.

How much will it cost?

A four-week CELTA course usually costs in the region on £1,000. This is considered an investment because the qualification enables access to higher paying teaching jobs.

What will I learn?

On a CELTA course you will:
• Learn about the principles of effective teaching
• Develop practical planning and classroom skills for teaching English to adult learners
• Gain hands-on teaching experience
• Gain confidence about your teaching skills

Will I need to sit an exam?

There is no sit-down exam as such but you will be assessed through monitored teaching practice and written assignments. External assessors appointed by Cambridge ESOL moderate each course.

Who can apply?

In order to qualify for a place on a CELTA course, ideally you should:
• Be educated to the level required for entry to higher education, for example A-level or equivalent
• Be aged 20 or over
• Be fluent in English - you should be a native English speaker or be able to use English to that standard.

Where could I teach with a CELTA qualification?

The Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults is the most widely recognised and accepted qualification throughout the world by organisations which employ English Language teachers. You can also use it to teach English as a second language in England and Wales.