How to Make Money Teaching English Online

Teaching English online is a fantastic way to earn money, whether as a side hustle or a full-time job. With the rising demand for English teachers worldwide, you can work from home (or anywhere) and get paid well for your skills.

If you’re a native English speaker (or have a strong command of English), this could be a golden opportunity for you! The best part? Many online platforms don’t require teaching experience—just fluency, a stable internet connection, and a friendly attitude.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about making money teaching English online, including:

✅ How much you can earn
✅ Requirements for becoming an online tutor
✅ Top platforms hiring English tutors
✅ Essential tools and equipment
✅ Tips to maximize your income

Let’s dive in!

Why Teach English Online?

Teaching English online is not just a job; it’s a flexible and rewarding way to make money. Here’s why so many people love it:

• Work from anywhere – Home, café, or while traveling.
• Set your own hours – Teach part-time or full-time.
• Decent pay – Earn anywhere from $10 to $25 per hour.
• Minimal qualifications – Many platforms don’t require a degree.

What Do You Need to Become an Online English Tutor?

1. Fluency in English

Most platforms prefer native speakers (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.), but if you have a strong command of English, you can still get hired.

2. TEFL Certification (Optional but Helpful)

A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate boosts your credibility and increases your chances of getting higher pay. Some platforms require it, while others don’t.

3. A Bachelor’s Degree (Not Always Required)

Many companies prefer a degree in any subject, but some don’t require it. Check the platform’s requirements before applying.

4. A Quiet Workspace & Equipment

To teach effectively, you’ll need:
✅ A computer or laptop (some allow mobile teaching)
✅ High-speed internet (wired connection preferred)
✅ A good-quality microphone & noise-canceling headset
✅ A webcam (for video lessons)

How Much Can You Earn?

Your earnings depend on factors like your experience, the platform, and the number of hours you teach. Here’s a rough idea:

💰 Beginners: $10–$15 per hour
💰 With TEFL & some experience: $15–$20 per hour
💰 Highly experienced tutors: $20–$25+ per hour

Some platforms also offer bonuses for performance, attendance, and referrals.

Best 10 Platforms to Teach English Online

1. VIPKID

VIPKID is one of the most popular platforms for teaching English to Chinese students. Their curriculum follows U.S. Common Core State Standards.

💰 Pay: $15–$22 per hour
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker (USA/Canada), bachelor’s degree, some teaching experience
📝 Sign Up: VIPKID Website

2. QKids

QKids focuses on young Chinese learners (ages 5–12). It requires a 6-hour weekly minimum commitment.

💰 Pay: $8 per 30-minute lesson + bonuses
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker, bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification preferred
📝 Sign Up: QKids Website

3. Cambly

Cambly is different—it connects tutors with students worldwide for casual conversations to improve English skills.

💰 Pay: $10.20 per hour (paid weekly via PayPal)
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker, conversational skills
📝 Sign Up: Cambly Website

4. Palfish

Palfish is a mobile app where tutors teach kids and adults. It offers free talk sessions and structured courses.

💰 Pay: $8–$9 per 25-minute class
📌 Requirements: TEFL certification, native English speaker preferred
📝 Sign Up: Palfish Website

5. iTutor Group

iTutor Group is a Taiwan-based company offering lessons for kids and adults. It requires a 10-hour weekly minimum.

💰 Pay: $18–$24 per hour
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker, TEFL certification
📝 Sign Up: iTutor Website

6. EF Education First

EF Education First provides 1-on-1 or group English lessons to students in Asia.

💰 Pay: $12–$20 per hour
📌 Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification preferred
📝 Sign Up: EF Education First

7. Preply

Preply is a marketplace where tutors set their own hourly rates and work with students worldwide.

💰 Pay: Set your own rates ($10–$30/hr)
📌 Requirements: Fluency in English, teaching experience preferred
📝 Sign Up: Preply Website

8. Lingoda

Lingoda offers live small-group classes to students in Europe. It focuses on structured learning.

💰 Pay: $8–$25 per hour
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker, TEFL certification
📝 Sign Up: Lingoda Website

9. AmazingTalker

AmazingTalker is similar to Preply—tutors set their own rates and teach students worldwide.

💰 Pay: Set your own rates ($15–$40/hr)
📌 Requirements: Fluency in English, teaching experience preferred
📝 Sign Up: AmazingTalker Website

10. EnglishHunt

EnglishHunt provides phone and video English lessons to Korean students.

💰 Pay: $10–$20 per hour
📌 Requirements: Native English speaker, bachelor’s degree
📝 Sign Up: EnglishHunt Website

Tips to Maximize Your Earnings

1. Get Certified (TEFL, TESOL, CELTA)

Having a TEFL certificate can help you land better-paying jobs and stand out from the competition.

2. Apply to Multiple Platforms

Don’t rely on just one company. Sign up for 2–3 platforms to get more teaching opportunities.

3. Teach During Peak Hours

Most students are from China, Korea, and Japan, so teaching during their evening hours will help you get more classes.

4. Maintain a High Rating

Students and parents rate tutors. Be friendly, engaging, and professional to get better reviews and more bookings.

5. Offer Private Lessons

Once you gain experience, consider teaching students privately to set your own rates and earn more.

Final Thoughts: Is Teaching English Online Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a legit way to make money from home, teaching English online is one of the best options.

Pros:
✅ Flexible schedule
✅ Good pay
✅ No commute
✅ Fun and rewarding

Cons:
❌ Some companies have strict requirements
❌ Time zone differences (students may be overseas)

If you love teaching, meeting new people, and working remotely, this could be the perfect side hustle—or even a full-time career—for you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need teaching experience?

No, but having experience helps. Some platforms accept friendly and fluent speakers without prior teaching experience.

2. Can I teach if I have a non-American accent?

Yes! While some companies prefer a neutral American accent, others welcome teachers from the UK, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

3. What if I don’t have a degree?

Some platforms (like Cambly and Palfish) don’t require a degree. Others may allow you to teach if you have a TEFL certificate.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This blog is for informational purposes only. While I strive for accuracy, earnings and job availability may vary. Please research before applying.

Ready to Start Teaching?

If you’re serious about making money teaching English online, choose a platform, sign up, and start earning!

🔹 Got any questions? Drop a comment below! 🔹