How To Make Money Teaching English Online [ $2,500/mo]

In recent years, the demand for online English teachers has increased significantly, making it a lucrative and viable option for individuals looking to earn money from the comfort of their own homes.

With the rise of globalization, English has become the universal language of communication, and individuals who are fluent in English can use their language skills to earn a decent income by teaching online. Whether you are a native speaker or a non-native speaker with a good grasp of the language, teaching English online is a great way to supplement your income or even earn a full-time income.

In this article, we will you how to make money teaching English online. From choosing the right platform to creating engaging lesson plans, we will cover everything you need to know to succeed in this field. Additionally, we will provide you with resources and tools that can help you improve your teaching skills and attract more students.

How to Make Money Teaching English Online?

Step 1: Choose the Right Platform

When it comes to teaching English online, choosing the right platform is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for you. Some of the most popular platforms include VIPKid, Magic Ears, DaDa, and QKids.

Before choosing a platform, it’s important to do your research and consider factors such as the platform’s requirements, payment structure, and teaching style. Each platform has its own set of requirements, such as a bachelor’s degree, teaching certification, and prior teaching experience. Some platforms may be more flexible with their requirements, while others may have strict qualifications.

Payment structures can also vary between platforms. Some platforms offer a fixed rate per hour, while others may have a tiered system based on the number of classes taught or the number of students in a class. Additionally, some platforms may offer bonuses or incentives for referrals or excellent performance.

Teaching styles can also differ between platforms. Some may provide pre-made lesson plans and require little customization, while others may allow for more creativity and flexibility in lesson planning. It’s important to consider your teaching preferences and find a platform that aligns with them.

Step 2: Meet the Requirements

To become an online English teacher, it’s important to meet the requirements set by the platform you choose. While the specific requirements may vary between platforms, there are some general qualifications that are commonly required.

One of the most common requirements is a bachelor’s degree, preferably in English or education. This is because many platforms require their teachers to have a certain level of education to ensure high-quality instruction. Some platforms may accept degrees in related fields, while others may be more strict.

Another common requirement is a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. This certification provides training on how to teach English as a second language and is recognized by many platforms as a prerequisite for teaching. There are many online courses available to obtain a TEFL or TESOL certification.

In addition to education and certification, many platforms require their teachers to have a reliable internet connection, a quiet teaching space, and a webcam. Some platforms may also require prior teaching experience, although this is not always the case.

It’s important to carefully review the requirements of each platform you’re interested in and ensure that you meet them before applying. Meeting the requirements will not only increase your chances of being hired but will also help you provide high-quality instruction to your students.

Step 3: Create Engaging Lesson Plans

Creating engaging lesson plans is a key component of successful online English teaching. Your lesson plans should be designed to engage your students and help them improve their language skills in a fun and interactive way. Here are some tips for creating engaging lesson plans:

• Know your students: Before creating your lesson plan, it’s important to understand your students’ needs and abilities. Consider their age, skill level, and interests to create a lesson that will resonate with them.
• Use a variety of resources: Incorporate a variety of resources such as videos, images, and interactive activities to make your lesson more engaging. There are many online resources available to help you create dynamic and interactive lesson plans.
• Incorporate games and activities: Games and activities can make learning fun and help keep your students engaged. Consider incorporating games and activities that promote speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
• Provide feedback: Providing feedback is an essential part of teaching. Offer constructive feedback to your students to help them improve their language skills.
• Be flexible: Be prepared to adjust your lesson plan based on your students’ needs and interests. Your lesson plan should be a guideline, not a rigid structure.

Step 4: Set a Schedule (don’t use lists)

Setting a schedule is an important aspect of becoming a successful online English teacher. By establishing a consistent schedule, you can ensure that you’re able to provide quality instruction to your students while also managing your personal life.

When setting your schedule, it’s important to consider factors such as your availability, time zone differences, and the peak hours of the platform you’re teaching on. Many platforms cater to students in China, so if you’re located in a different time zone, you may need to adjust your schedule accordingly.

It’s also important to consider how many hours you want to work each week and how much time you need to dedicate to lesson planning and preparation. Many online English teachers work part-time, but it’s possible to work full-time and earn a significant income.

Once you’ve established your schedule, it’s important to stick to it as much as possible. This helps to build a relationship of trust and consistency with your students, which can lead to positive reviews and increased bookings.

However, it’s also important to be flexible and make adjustments as necessary. For example, if you need to take time off for personal reasons, communicate this with your students and the platform as soon as possible. This can help to avoid last-minute cancellations and negative feedback.

Step 5: Maximize Your Earning Potential

Maximizing your earning potential is an important aspect of becoming a successful online English teacher. While the pay structure may vary between platforms, there are several ways to increase your income.

Firstly, consider teaching during peak hours. Many platforms cater to students in China, so teaching during their peak hours can increase your chances of getting bookings and earning a higher hourly rate.

Additionally, many platforms offer bonuses or incentives for referrals, excellent performance, or teaching during peak hours. Take advantage of these opportunities to increase your income.

Another way to increase your earning potential is to specialize in a specific area of English instruction, such as business English or test preparation. By developing expertise in a specific area, you may be able to charge a higher hourly rate and attract more students.

It’s also important to provide high-quality instruction and receive positive reviews from your students. Many platforms allow students to leave feedback after each lesson, and positive reviews can increase your chances of getting bookings and earning a higher income.

Finally, consider teaching on multiple platforms to increase your income streams. However, be sure to carefully manage your schedule to avoid overbooking and burnout.

Final thoughts

Teaching English online can be a highly rewarding and flexible way to make money from home. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can maximize your earning potential and build a successful online teaching business.

Remember to invest in your teaching skills, market yourself effectively, and prioritize building strong relationships with your students. By doing so, you can build a loyal client base and increase your monthly earnings.

Whether you are a seasoned pro-teacher or just starting out, the opportunities to teach English online are abundant and can provide a steady source of income. With dedication and hard work, you can easily earn $2,500 or more per month teaching English online.

So why not take the leap and start your online teaching journey today?