Top 10 Language Instructor Certifications

Certifications are important for language instructors in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise in their chosen field. Certifications can provide employers with assurance that an instructor has the necessary knowledge and experience to teach effectively and provide quality instruction. Additionally, certifications can help language instructors stand out from other job applicants, as many employers prefer to hire certified professionals over those without certifications. Finally, having a certification may open up new opportunities for language instructors, such as teaching jobs in universities or private language schools.

This article reviews the top certifications for Language Instructors and explains how they can help advance a Language Instructor's career.

What are Language Instructor Certifications?

Language instructor certification is a type of professional credential that certifies an individual as qualified to teach a particular language. This certification is typically obtained through the completion of a rigorous training program and assessment process, which includes instruction in language teaching methodology, classroom management, assessment techniques, and cultural awareness.

By obtaining language instructor certification, individuals demonstrate expertise in their chosen field and gain recognition for their knowledge and skills. With this certification, they can also increase their job prospects and potential earnings by demonstrating their qualifications to employers. Additionally, certified language instructors often find it easier to secure teaching positions in schools or other institutions due to their credentials.

Having a language instructor certification can also be beneficial for those who want to pursue further opportunities within the field of language education. Those with a certificate may be able to specialize in certain areas such as business English or English for specific purposes (ESP). They may also be able to take on more challenging roles such as curriculum planning or teaching advanced courses. Finally, having this certification can open up doors to new career paths such as becoming an academic advisor or educational consultant.

Pro tip: Make sure to research the requirements for language instructor certification in your state or country. Each country or region may have different criteria, so it's important to be aware of what is needed before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Language Instructor do?

Top 10 Language Instructor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Language Instructors today.

1. TEFL/TESOL Certification

TEFL/TESOL Certification stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language/Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is a certification that allows individuals to teach English in a foreign country or to non-native speakers of English.

It typically takes 4-6 months to complete the certification, although it can be completed in as little as 3 weeks if you are able to attend an intensive course. To get certified, you must complete an accredited course and pass the required exams. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $200-$2,000.

The course includes topics such as teaching methodology, language analysis and assessment, lesson planning, classroom management and teaching techniques. Upon completion of the course and passing the required exams, you will receive your TEFL/TESOL certificate which will allow you to teach English in a foreign country or to non-native speakers of English.

2. CELTA Certification

CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is an internationally recognized qualification for teaching English as a foreign language. It is awarded by Cambridge Assessment English, part of the University of Cambridge in the UK. The course is designed to provide teachers with the skills and knowledge needed to teach English effectively in a range of contexts.

CELTA courses are typically four weeks long and involve both classroom instruction and practical teaching experience. During the course, students learn about language teaching methodology, lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment techniques. They also gain hands-on experience by observing experienced teachers in action and teaching real students.

To get CELTA certification, you must complete an accredited course that meets certain standards set by Cambridge Assessment English. These courses are offered at various locations around the world and can be taken either full-time or part-time. You can find a list of accredited CELTA providers on the Cambridge Assessment English website.

The cost of a CELTA course varies depending on the provider and location, but most courses range from $1,000 USD to $3,000 USD (or more). There may also be additional fees for materials or other services provided by the provider.

3. DELTA Certification

DELTA (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults) is an advanced qualification for experienced teachers of English as a foreign language. It is designed to provide teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to teach English effectively and confidently at all levels.

The DELTA course typically takes between 6-12 months to complete, depending on the type of program chosen and the individual's study schedule. The course consists of three modules: Module 1 (Understanding Language, Methodology, and Resources for Teaching), Module 2 (Developing Professional Practice), and Module 3 (Extending Practical Techniques and Professional Development).

In order to get DELTA certification, you must first complete all three modules successfully. You can do this by taking a full-time or part-time course at a recognized institution, or by completing the modules online. Once you have completed the modules, you will need to submit your portfolio for assessment. This portfolio should include evidence of your teaching practice and any other relevant materials that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of ELT theory.

The cost of DELTA certification varies depending on which institution you choose to study with. Generally speaking, it can range from £1,500–£3,000 GBP (or equivalent).

4. ACTFL OPI/WPT Certification

ACTFL OPI/WPT Certification is a certification program offered by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). It is designed to evaluate a person’s proficiency in a foreign language. The certification process involves taking an Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and/or a Written Proficiency Test (WPT).

The OPI is an assessment of speaking ability that is conducted over the phone or through video conferencing with an ACTFL-certified interviewer. During the interview, the interviewer will ask questions about various topics and assess the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in the target language. The WPT is an online written test that evaluates reading and writing skills.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you complete your application and take both tests. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to three months to get certified.

To get certified, you must first fill out an online application form and pay a fee of $150 for each test you take. Once your application has been approved, you will be given instructions on how to schedule your OPI/WPT tests. After taking both tests, you will receive your results within two weeks. If you pass both tests, you will receive your ACTFL OPI/WPT Certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which tests you choose to take and how many times you need to retake them in order to pass. For example, if you only need to take one test once, then the total cost would be $150; however, if you need to retake either or both tests multiple times in order to pass, then the total cost could be much higher.

5. Cambridge CELTA Certification

Cambridge CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) is an internationally-recognized qualification for teaching English as a foreign language. It is offered by the University of Cambridge and administered by the Cambridge Assessment English department. The CELTA course is designed to give prospective teachers a thorough grounding in the principles of effective language teaching, and provides practical experience of teaching real students in a classroom setting.

The full-time CELTA course typically takes 4 weeks to complete, although part-time courses are also available which can take up to 6 months. During the course, participants will attend lectures, seminars and workshops on topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, grammar and pronunciation. They will also observe experienced teachers in action and receive feedback on their own teaching practice.

To qualify for the CELTA certificate, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a good command of spoken and written English. They must also pass an assessment that includes written assignments, observed lessons and a final exam.

The cost of the CELTA course varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from £900 - £1,500 (USD$1,200 - $2,000).

6. International Diploma in Language Teaching Management (IDLTM)

The International Diploma in Language Teaching Management (IDLTM) is an internationally recognized qualification that provides language teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage their own language teaching business. The diploma is offered by the International Association of Language Centers (IALC) and is designed for experienced language teachers who want to take their career to the next level.

The IDLTM program consists of four modules: Language Teaching Management, Business Development, Professional Development, and Technology & Innovation. Each module consists of online learning activities, assignments, and assessments. The program takes approximately six months to complete and can be completed at your own pace.

To get the IDLTM you must first register with IALC and pay a registration fee of €150. Once registered, you will have access to all course materials and be able to start your studies right away. After completing all four modules you will receive your diploma from IALC.

The total cost of the IDLTM program is €1,500 which includes registration fees and course materials.

7. ALTE Level 5 Diploma in Language Teaching

The ALTE Level 5 Diploma in Language Teaching is an internationally recognized qualification for language teachers. It is designed to develop and enhance the knowledge, understanding and skills of language teachers. The diploma is awarded by the Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in language testing and teaching.

The diploma requires successful completion of four modules: Principles of Language Teaching, Planning and Delivery of Lessons, Assessment and Evaluation, and Professional Practice. Each module consists of a series of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical activities and assessments. The program typically takes between 12-18 months to complete depending on the individual's availability.

In order to receive the ALTE Level 5 Diploma in Language Teaching, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria including having at least two years' experience teaching English as a foreign language or equivalent qualifications. Applicants must also have taken part in an approved course or training program related to language teaching or assessment within the last five years.

The cost of the ALTE Level 5 Diploma in Language Teaching varies depending on the institution offering it but typically ranges from £800 - £1,500 (GBP).

8. PADI Divemaster Instructor Course

The PADI Divemaster Instructor Course is the first step in becoming a professional scuba diver. This course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and supervise certified divers in a variety of recreational diving activities.

The course typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on the individual’s level of commitment and experience. It consists of classroom instruction, practical application, and open water dives. The course covers topics such as dive theory, dive planning, dive site management, risk management, equipment maintenance, and teaching methods.

To become a PADI Divemaster Instructor you must be at least 18 years old with an Open Water Diver certification or higher. You must also have logged at least 60 dives prior to enrolling in the course.

The cost of the PADI Divemaster Instructor Course varies based on the location and provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This cost includes all materials needed for the course such as textbooks, DVDs, logbooks, etc., as well as instructor fees and certification fees.

9. IELTS Teacher Training Course

IELTS Teacher Training Course is a comprehensive program designed to help teachers become certified in teaching the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The course covers all aspects of IELTS instruction, including test preparation and delivery, assessment, and classroom management. It also provides guidance on how to effectively use the IELTS materials in the classroom.

The course typically takes around 8 weeks to complete and consists of both online and face-to-face sessions. During the online sessions, participants will learn about the structure of the IELTS exam and how to best prepare students for it. They will also be taught strategies for teaching IELTS material successfully. In addition, they will be given access to practice tests and other resources that can help them better understand the exam. During the face-to-face sessions, participants will have an opportunity to practice their teaching skills with real students in a simulated classroom setting.

To get certified as an IELTS teacher, you must complete this training course and pass an online assessment at the end of it. The cost of this course varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

10. TOEIC Teacher Training Course

The TOEIC Teacher Training Course is a comprehensive program designed to help teachers learn how to effectively teach the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC). The course provides teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to help students prepare for and succeed on the TOEIC.

The course consists of five modules: Introduction to the TOEIC, Teaching Strategies, Test Preparation, Listening Comprehension, and Reading Comprehension. Each module focuses on a different aspect of teaching the TOEIC and includes topics such as test structure, test-taking strategies, language development activities, and more.

The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. It can be taken online or in person from an accredited institution.

The cost of the course varies depending on where it is taken. Online courses typically cost between $100-200 USD while in-person courses may cost more.

Do You Really Need a Language Instructor Certificate?

When it comes to language instruction, many people wonder if they really need a language instructor certificate. The answer depends on the individual’s goals and situation. For some, a language instructor certificate is necessary in order to teach professionally. For others, it may be optional or even unnecessary.

If someone is looking to teach English as a second language (ESL) or any other language professionally, then they should definitely consider getting certified as a language instructor. This will give them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field of language instruction. It will also demonstrate their commitment and proficiency in this subject area to potential employers or clients.

On the other hand, if someone wants to learn a foreign language for personal enrichment but does not plan to teach professionally, then a language instructor certificate may not be necessary. In this case, taking classes from a qualified teacher or participating in an exchange program could be just as effective.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a language instructor certificate depends on their own specific goals and situation. If teaching professionally is their goal, then obtaining certification is likely essential for success in this field. However, for those who simply wish to become proficient in another language for personal reasons, certification may not be necessary at all.

Related: Language Instructor Resume Examples

FAQs About Language Instructor Certifications

1. What types of language instructor certifications are available?

Answer: The types of language instructor certifications available depend on the language being taught, but some common certifications include TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language), and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).

2. How long does it take to get certified as a language instructor?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of certification being pursued and the program chosen, but most programs require at least 100 hours of instruction and can take up to several months or longer.

3. What are the requirements for becoming a language instructor?

Answer: Requirements vary depending on the certification program chosen, but most programs require applicants to have a minimum level of education, such as a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; demonstrate proficiency in the target language; possess good communication skills; and be able to pass an exam or assessment.

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a language instructor?

Answer: Again, costs vary depending on the type of certification being pursued and the program chosen, but most programs cost between $500 and $2,000 USD.

5. What is included in a language instructor certification program?

Answer: Most certification programs include classroom instruction in teaching methodology, practice teaching sessions with real students, course materials and/or textbooks, access to online resources, lesson planning assistance, and assessment/testing components.