7 Online Teaching Companies that Don’t Require a Degree
Scrambling to find your keys while hopelessly trying to avoid the morning traffic doesn’t have to be your reality anymore. As more people start to grasp the benefits of earning money online from anywhere in the world, online teaching has become a great alternative to the traditional work model.
Perhaps you love learning about new cultures but going abroad is impossible for you right now. Or, you’re just looking to earn extra income without stepping out of the front door. Either way, teaching online is the perfect option – whether you have a degree or not.
Visit teach.fm to find online teaching jobs that match your experience and check out these 7 online ESL companies that hire teachers without degrees.
Cambly
Cambly is a great platform if you’re just starting. If you have a good internet connection, you can teach from anywhere in the world and set your own hours (who doesn’t love a flexible schedule?). If you have an hour to spare, simply hop on to the platform and wait for your next student to call – it’s that easy!
Most students are adults, which is great if you prefer a more interactive conversation. You’ll also be able to meet new people from a variety of cultures as Cambly’s client base is from Russia, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia, among others.
Classes aren’t guaranteed, and you may be “online” for an hour with no calls, or you could have back-to-back calls. This can be a bit frustrating when you’re trying to plan your earnings for the week.
Requirements: You don’t have to be a native speaker, but you do have to be proficient in English (obviously). When signing up, Cambly tests your internet connection and audio. You’ll also have to submit a self-introduction video and a short bio.
Earnings: The platform automatically tracks your time, and you’ll earn $0.17/min – $10.20/hour. You’re paid via PayPal every Monday.
Preply
Preply is an online education platform that connects students and teachers from all over the world. There aren't many requirements to become a tutor with Preply, but without prior teaching experience, it can feel as if you’ve been thrown in at the deep end.
You’re able to create your schedule and set your own hourly rate! It can be a little daunting, though, as you’re also responsible for creating your students’ syllabi and all content. Your class bookings are based on your ratings and qualifications.
Requirements: Preply doesn’t have any specific requirements. However, it’s in your best interests to have a TEFL certificate since you'll need to market yourself and your skills.
Earnings: According to Preply, their top tutors can earn up to $550 per week, so it can be profitable if you work hard. You won't get paid for teaching your first class, as Preply takes 100% commission. Once you've made it over this hump, they'll keep 18-30% from each class. The more classes you have, the less commission they take.
Acadsoc
If you're looking for more structure in terms of lesson plans and pay, Acadsoc is a great choice. According to their website, they're one of the fastest-growing English learning platforms, and they have around 400 000 registered Chinese students.
Teachers are expected to conduct one-to-one lessons, which is perfect for anyone who loves creating an intimate and engaging classroom. There are full- and part-time positions available, and teachers can open classes to suit their own schedule. Another great thing about this company is that they provide incentives, including an enrollment bonus!
Requirements: You’ll need a stable internet connection and a reliable device. You also need to be fluent in English, have a TEFL certificate, and be willing to participate in their improvement training.
Earnings: You’re paid fortnightly via Paypal or direct bank transfer and can earn $7- $10/hour.
PalFish
Palfish is an interactive app that runs lessons on iOS/Android phones and tablets, making this an incredibly convenient way to teach anywhere in the world. It's similar to Cambly in that you're able to hop on and tutor whenever you have an hour or two free. However, since most students are located in China, you'll have to set your schedule according to Beijing time.
The platform is conversation-based (free talk), and teachers can create lesson plans based on their students’ interests. You can set your own rates, and marketing yourself is as easy as sharing ‘moments’ and providing free live classes.
Requirements: You need a TEFL certification, but other than a good internet connection, a passion for teaching, and being fluent in English, you’ll be able to get hired without a problem.
Earnings: How much you earn depends on you, but teachers can expect to earn around $10- $18/hour.
Amazing Talker
Amazing Talker is another great option if you’re looking for an opportunity that lets you set your own rates. It’s also great if you’re looking for a flexible teaching schedule and a platform that allows you to create your own teaching materials.
You’ll interact with students of all ages, and it’s a company that provides a very relaxed and supportive environment. There are two class options: 25-minute trial lessons and 50-minute private lessons. You’ll be matched with students according to your background and the student’s learning needs, so you won’t feel like you’re completely alone in attracting potential students.
Requirements: You need to be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certificate and a passion for teaching!
Earnings: You’re able to set your own rates, but top tutors can charge around $25 per class. However, Amazing Talker will take a 15% cut.
SkimaTalk
SkimaTalk is a great option if you don’t have a degree, teaching experience, or a TEFL certificate. They only require you to be a native English speaker. You will have to bring your A-game since SkimaTalk prides itself in delivering quality service to its students. Students rate you on your classes, punctuality, and preparation. The higher your rating, the more classes you get booked for.
If you love learning about Japanese culture, this is a great fit. Teachers deliver one-to-one lessons to mostly Japanese professionals, and classes are about 25 minutes each. SkimaTalk is a great company to work for if you’re just starting and looking to gain some teaching experience.
Requirements: You need to be a native English speaker.
Earnings: You set your own rates, but SkimTalk takes 20% of each session.
iTalki
There are incredible online teaching platforms that provide you with the freedom you deserve, and iTalki is one of them. This is an excellent platform that allows you to connect with students from all over the world and share your culture with them. You can set your own schedule and rates. Teachers are booked based on their profile, introduction video, and student reviews, so make sure you do your best.
There's no set curriculum, so planning your lessons thorough is crucial for more bookings. Picking a niche is another great way to stand out from the crowd, so make sure you know who your students are and what they’re looking for.
Requirements: You’ll need to be at least 18 years old and be fluent in English. Having a TEFL certificate will increase your appeal to new students.
Earnings: Teachers can set their own rates, but the platform recommends starting at $8-12/hour hour to attract students and rack up some good reviews. iTalki takes a commission for each lesson.
There are plenty of incredible online English schools that don’t require teachers to have a degree. If you’re eager to get your feet wet before hopping on a plane and teaching abroad, or you’re simply looking to make extra money, then teaching online is an incredible opportunity.
There are dozens of schools looking for online teachers. Each school has its pros and cons, so make sure you do your research and ensure that the school you choose aligns with your ESL teaching goals. If you’re looking to move abroad, teach.fm can help you find a great position overseas too.
Happy teaching!