The Best Companies to Teach English Online: Top 11 Choices

Teaching English online provides an excellent opportunity to work remotely while helping students worldwide enhance their language skills. Whether you are a certified teacher, a fluent English speaker, or someone looking for a side income, various companies offer flexible work schedules and competitive pay rates. Below is a detailed guide to some of the best online English teaching platforms available today.

1. Preply

A global tutoring marketplace where teachers set their own rates and schedules.
No teaching degree required, but experience and TEFL/TESOL certification help attract students.
Tutors teach students of all ages from different countries.
Earnings depend on pricing, typically ranging from $15-$30 per hour.

2. EF Education First

A well-established company offering English instruction to students globally.
Requires a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL/TESOL certification.
Offers a structured curriculum with lesson materials provided.
Teachers earn around $12-$20 per hour.

3. Cambly & Cambly Kids

Provides casual conversation-based English lessons.
No teaching certification or degree required, making it accessible to beginners.
Offers flexible hours; tutors can log in and teach at any time.
Pays around $10.20 per hour for adults and $12 per hour for Cambly Kids.

4. iTalki

A language learning platform that allows tutors to teach their native language.
Tutors set their own rates and schedules.
No degree required, but TEFL/TESOL certification is a plus.
Tutors typically earn $15-$40 per hour, depending on demand and experience.

5. SkimaTalk

Offers one-on-one English lessons to international students.
Requires teachers to be native English speakers but does not mandate a teaching certificate.
Teachers set their own schedules and rates.
Pay starts at $10-$25 per hour.

6. StarKid

Specializes in teaching young learners in Asia.
Requires a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate.
Offers structured lesson plans and training for teachers.
Pays between $18-$28 per hour.

7. Protostar

Focuses on interactive, engaging English lessons for children.
Requires TEFL/TESOL certification and prior teaching experience.
Teachers work with structured lesson materials.
Pays around $15-$22 per hour.

8. TUTORiNG

A platform that connects English teachers with students from various backgrounds.
Offers both structured and freeform teaching options.
Requires a teaching certificate and some prior experience.
Pay ranges from $12-$25 per hour.

9. Lingoda

Specializes in teaching adult learners and business professionals.
Requires a TEFL/TESOL certification and at least two years of teaching experience.
Conducts structured lessons based on a curriculum approved by Cambridge Assessment.
Pays around $11+ per hour.

10. Cafetalk

A flexible platform that allows teachers to set their own prices and schedules.
Offers a wide range of subjects, including business English, test preparation, and general conversation.
Teachers can provide 1-on-1, group, or seminar-based lessons.
Pay varies depending on pricing and student demand.

11. TUTOROO

Connects native English teachers with students for in-person and online lessons.
No formal teaching certificate required, but teaching experience is preferred.
Tutors set their own rates and schedules.
Earnings depend on student demand and location.

Additional Factors to Consider When Teaching English Online

Certifications: While some platforms do not require them, a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification can increase your job prospects.
Scheduling: Some companies require a fixed schedule, while others offer complete flexibility.
Equipment Needs: A stable internet connection, a quiet teaching space, and a good-quality webcam and headset are essential.
Target Audience: Some platforms cater to children, while others focus on business professionals or general learners.
Payout Methods: Payment structures vary, with some companies paying weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Teaching English online is a rewarding career path that offers flexibility, remote work benefits, and the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives. Whether you prefer a structured curriculum or casual conversation-based lessons, there is a platform suited to your needs. By selecting the right company, obtaining the necessary certifications, and leveraging your skills, you can build a successful and fulfilling teaching career online.