Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become one of the most popular career paths for South Africans who want to work abroad, teach online, or build flexible remote careers. One of the most common questions aspiring teachers ask is whether a 120 hour TEFL certificate is enough to secure a job. At the same time, many also wonder how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa and whether the time investment is worth it.
In this article, we explore whether a 120 hour TEFL qualification is sufficient, what employers expect, and how South African teachers can maximize their opportunities locally and internationally.
Understanding the 120 Hour TEFL Certificate
A 120 hour TEFL certificate is widely considered the international minimum standard for teaching English abroad or online. Most reputable schools and online platforms require at least 120 hours of accredited TEFL training before hiring a teacher.
This level of certification typically covers:
- English grammar and language awareness
- Lesson planning techniques
- Classroom management skills
- Teaching methodologies
- Teaching young learners and adults
- Assessment and evaluation strategies
For South African teachers, this qualification provides the foundation needed to start teaching English professionally. Whether you plan to work in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, or teach online from home, a 120 hour certificate often meets the basic eligibility requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get TEFL Certified in South Africa?
One of the most searched questions by aspiring teachers is: how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa?
The answer depends on the format you choose:
Online TEFL Courses
Most South Africans choose online TEFL courses because they are flexible and affordable. A 120 hour online course can typically be completed in:
- 4 to 6 weeks if studying part-time
- 2 to 3 weeks if studying full-time
- As little as 10 to 14 days if studying intensively
Since online courses are self-paced, you can adjust the timeline according to your schedule. This flexibility makes it ideal for working professionals, students, or parents.
In-Class TEFL Courses
In-person TEFL courses in South Africa usually take:
- 3 to 4 weeks full-time
These courses are more intensive and include teaching practice with real students. While they may cost more, they offer hands-on experience that can boost confidence and employability.
So, if you’re asking how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa, the short answer is anywhere between two weeks and six weeks, depending on your study pace and course format.
Is 120 Hours Enough to Teach Abroad?
In most cases, yes. A 120 hour TEFL certificate is enough to teach in many popular destinations, including:
- China
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Spain
- Poland
However, some countries may have additional requirements, such as:
- A bachelor’s degree (in any field)
- A clean criminal background check
- Native or near-native English proficiency
For South African teachers, the 120 hour qualification meets the TEFL requirement in most entry-level teaching positions. That said, highly competitive countries like Japan or certain Middle Eastern nations may prefer candidates with more advanced certifications or teaching experience.
Is 120 Hours Enough to Teach Online?
Yes, in most cases it is. Many online English teaching platforms require a minimum of 120 hours of TEFL certification. Some platforms are flexible, while others are strict about accreditation and course content.
Online teaching has become particularly attractive for South Africans due to:
- Flexible working hours
- Earnings in foreign currency
- Ability to work from home
- No relocation costs
If you are asking how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa before you can start teaching online, you could realistically begin earning within one to two months of enrolling in a course.
When Is 120 Hours Not Enough?
While 120 hours is the industry standard, there are situations where additional qualifications can give you an advantage.
Competitive Job Markets
If you are applying for high-paying positions or jobs in competitive cities, employers may prefer:
- 150 hour or 200 hour TEFL courses
- Specialized certifications in Business English
- Young learner endorsements
- IELTS or exam preparation training
Teaching Experience Requirements
Some schools require teaching experience in addition to certification. If you are new to teaching, gaining practical classroom exposure through volunteer work or internships can strengthen your CV.
Government-Regulated Programs
Certain government teaching programs have stricter requirements beyond a 120 hour TEFL certificate. In these cases, additional credentials may be necessary.
Advantages of Starting with a 120 Hour TEFL Certificate
For most South African teachers, starting with 120 hours is a smart and practical choice. Here’s why:
Affordable Investment
Compared to university degrees or postgraduate diplomas, a 120 hour TEFL course is relatively affordable. This makes it accessible to recent graduates and career changers.
Quick Entry into the Job Market
If you’re wondering how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa so you can start working quickly, the 120 hour route offers one of the fastest pathways into international teaching.
International Recognition
Most accredited 120 hour TEFL certificates are recognized globally. This allows South African teachers to explore opportunities across multiple countries.
Flexible Learning Options
Online programs allow you to study at your own pace while working or managing other commitments.
Should South African Teachers Upgrade Beyond 120 Hours?
The answer depends on your career goals.
If you plan to:
- Teach short-term while traveling
- Teach online part-time
- Gain entry-level international experience
Then 120 hours is typically enough.
However, if you aim to:
- Build a long-term international teaching career
- Move into academic management roles
- Teach in top-tier international schools
- Increase earning potential
Then upgrading to advanced certifications may be beneficial.
Many teachers start with 120 hours and later complete specialized courses once they gain experience and clarity about their career path.
Practical Tips for South African TEFL Candidates
If you’re planning to enroll and are still asking how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa, here are some practical tips:
Choose an accredited provider with international recognition.
Ensure the course includes grammar modules and lesson planning.
Look for courses that offer job placement assistance.
Consider whether you prefer online flexibility or in-class practical experience.
Start preparing your CV while completing your course.
Being proactive during your certification process can help you transition smoothly into employment once you qualify.
Final Thoughts
So, is a 120 hour TEFL certificate enough for South African teachers?
In most cases, yes. It meets the global minimum standard, qualifies you for many international and online teaching jobs, and provides a strong foundation in teaching methodology. For aspiring educators who want to enter the TEFL world quickly and affordably, it is a practical and effective starting point.
If you are wondering how long does it take to get TEFL certified in South Africa, the process can take as little as two weeks or up to six weeks depending on your pace and chosen format. This relatively short timeline makes TEFL one of the fastest ways to access international career opportunities.