More Tips For Taking a CELTA or TEFL Certificate Course

Some Reader Questions:

What is the best way I can ensure a pass on the CELTA or TEFL certificate course with an A? I have to admit that I am bit nervous. Is it really that demanding? Do you foresee any trouble with me passing the course for teaching English as a Foreign or Second language?

Any additional advice or recommendations you have would be greatly appreciated.

My Responses:

The tips I've provided in the articles should help you.

Teach English Abroad - Online TEFL Programs

If You Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know

Advice for Becoming Certified to Teach English Before You Leave for A Foreign Country

12 Helpful Tips to Pass the CELTA or TEFL Teaching Preparation Course

How to Expand Your Recognition and Become Known as an Expert in Your Field


Yes, it's that intensive when given at a CELTA authorized certifying center. Here are some additional points to consider in preparing for and taking a CELTA course.

Yes, you should pass if you pay rapt attention during input sessions, take copious notes,
study regularly and keep up with assignments. Further things that might help you include:

Taking a selection of clipped photos, office supplies, newspapers, guidebooks, flyers and post cards from your hometown.

Learning where the local department store, "Five and Dime" or "Dollar" store is nearest your CELTA program site. You’ll be there a lot to pick up cheap materials.

And while you’re at it - don't plan on "partying" during the course.

Having a good grammar book reference and a good dictionary will also be helpful. Take your laptop PC along with you on the course too, if you have one.

During the course don't ever hesitate to ask ANY question you might have no matter how insignificant or "trivial" you think it might be. If you want to know or aren't sure, others likely are too so you'll be helping not only yourself, but your classmates.

Be sure to mentally prepare for an intense, high-input experience. That's what it's designed to be. That's what you're paying the big bucks for. So take advantage of it, don't fear it.

You definitely should plan on scheduling your time and getting needed rest regularly.

Again, don't plan on "partying" during the course.

This is an all-too-common error on the part of CELTA program attendees that usually gets them into "serious Guacamole" before they realize what's happening. The "tears and anguish" we CELTA trainers see during the last week or so of the course almost always come from the “cutesy-poo” and hunk "party animals" of the group. By then it may be too late to "pull it out" and pass which is what you're on the course to do.

Focus

Focus - what are you here for? To “see the sights and party”? I think not. (and, I hope not!)

Did I mention, don't plan on "partying" during the CELTA or TEFL certificate course?

Hey, actually you can "party" when it's over - so you might consider staying over an extra few days just for that and "seeing the sights". That's usually the best idea if you can manage it.

That all being said, you should do fine and pass your CELTA or TEFL certificate course with flying colors.

Good luck and let me know if I can help you in any way.

About the Author

Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an English language teaching and learning expert author and university professor in Cali, Colombia. Live your dreams in paradise, find romance, high adventure and get paid while you travel for free. For more information on entering into or advancing in the fascinating field of teaching English as a Foreign or Second Language send for the no-cost pdf Ebook, “If You Want to Teach English Abroad, Here’s What You Need to Know”, by sending an e-mail with "free ELT Ebook" in the subject line. For comments, questions, requests, to receive more information or to be added to his free TESOL articles and teaching materials mailing list, e-mail: lynchlarrym@gmail.com