CELTA: Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
CELTA is the most widely recognized English teaching qualification in the world and the most requested by employers. It is an introductory teaching course awarded by Cambridge English language assessment. It focuses on developing practical techniques, and includes face-to-face or online teaching practice with groups of learners, which will give you the confidence you need to begin teaching after finishing the course.
What is in the CELTA course?
The CELTA course covers the principles of effective teaching, and gives you a range of teaching techniques and practical experience. You get hands-on teaching practice and observation of experienced teachers, and you’ll apply your learning by delivering communicative language teaching.
All CELTA Programs
Below is an overview of all CELTA program delivery options. Each program leads to the same internationally recognized CELTA qualification; only the mode of study and schedule differ.
1. CELTA Full-time Face-to-Face
• Format: In-person training at the center
• Duration: 4 weeks 5 days per week
Features:
o Live teaching practice in physical classrooms
o Immediate tutor feedback
o Collaborative learning with peers
o Suitable for immersive, intensive study
2. CELTA Part-time Face-to-Face
• Format: In-person training at the center, spread over a longer period
• Duration: About 10 weeks, 3 days per week
Features:
o Teaching practice takes place in physical classrooms
o More time to absorb content and develop lesson planning skills
o Regular tutor guidance and peer collaboration
3. CELTA Part-time Online
• Format: 100% online, delivered live through Zoom/online platforms
• Duration: 9 Weeks 3 to 4 days per week
Features:
o Online live sessions and self-study
o Teaching practice online with tutor guidance
o Enables balancing study with daily commitments
4. CELTA Mixed Mode (Online & Face-to-Face)
• Format: Combination of online and in-person teaching practice
• Duration: 5 Weeks
Features:
o Online learning for written components
o Face-to-face teaching practice with real learners
o Best of both learning environments
All CELTA programs:
✅ Lead to the same official CELTA qualification✅ Include assessed teaching practice
✅ Are supervised by Cambridge-approved trainers
The difference lies only in how you study — not what you achieve.