The first and single-most important criteria we want to consider when evaluating a TEFL certification is the legitimacy of the qualification. Many TEFL certification providers have sought to gain legitimacy through accreditation. An accredited course has been audited by an independent agency for meeting specific requirements.
However, because there is no single, internationally recognized body regulating the ESL profession, no standard set of requirements exists. Furthermore, while some generally accepted criteria are applied for qualifying ESL teachers across the ESL industry, these are not applied, administered, or regulated in a consistent manner.
Some TEFL certification providers have taken steps to gain accreditation and become regulated by the UK Office of Qualifications and Examinations (Ofqual). In doing so, the TEFL certifications they issue must regularly demonstrate that they comply with the UK Government’s regulations for qualifications, and are an accurate indication of the knowledge, skills, and understanding acquired by someone who has earned the qualification.
There are nine qualification levels, starting at Entry Level and ending at Level 8. Each level indicates the the knowledge, skills, and understanding attained through the qualification. An example of a Level 8 qualification would be a doctor of philosophy degree (PhD).
Why Do We Recommend Ofqual Regulated TEFL Certifications?
Ofqual was set up by the UK government to regulate exams, qualifications and tests. It is a non-ministerial government department and as such has a level of independence, reporting directly to parliament.
Ofqual provides standardization and recognition by regulating qualifications such as a TEFL certification.
An Ofqual regulated TEFL qualification enables prospective ESL teachers to evaluate TEFL certification courses that satisfy government regulations, and enroll in the course with a high level of assurance that their TEFL qualification is both legitimate and internationally-recognized.
