How to Teach English Online from South Africa [2024]

From "non-native" tags to erratic Wi-Fi, here's what's making your journey challenging:

1) Non-native speakers

In the ESL game, being a native English speaker is your fast track to success. But with just 9.6% of South Africans qualifying, you're more likely to face the "non-native" hurdle. This label doesn't just sting; it narrows your job prospects as online companies automatically filter you out based on nationality alone.

2) Non-North American accent

Do you speak with a heavy accent? Many job requirements, especially in Asia, demand a North American accent, plus rights to work in the US. That's one more hoop to jump through.

3) Internet stability

Unstable internet is a deal-breaker. An outage can tank your student ratings and create a real challenge to deliver your classes successfully. Many ESL platforms dodge South African teachers for this very reason. Uncapped 20 Mbps ethernet? That's the gold standard for teaching.

4) Electricity: the load shedding struggle

You can't teach online by candlelight. South Africa is hitting a grim record for the most blackout days in a year, lasting up to 10 hours. No power means no Wi-Fi, making you a no-show in a virtual classroom. You'll need a backup power generator or UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) with 4-5 hours of battery life.

5) China's policy shift: a new ESL landscape

In 2021, China's "double reduction" policy flipped the ESL world upside down by banning foreign teachers from tutoring Chinese students and eliminating weekend or holiday tutoring.

The new rules nuked over 500,000 online teaching jobs. With big players like GoGoKid shutting down, the market has narrowed and is more competitive than ever.

Armed with this insider knowledge, we've got South African-specific strategies you need to break into the online ESL market.

6) Prejudice

Goldoni words weren’t wrong. In Asia, there's often a specific, sometimes narrow, perception of what an English teacher should be.

Cultural stereotypes and misunderstandings can create extra hurdles. For instance, South Africans may be wrongly perceived as less proficient in English. This bias can influence hiring decisions, adding yet another challenge to breaking into the online ESL market as a South African.

So, what's the strategy here? Educate and differentiate. Your profile and teaching demo should work hard to counteract these preconceived notions.

While these challenges create some hurdles, they are not impossible to overcome and start a thriving online teaching career. Here's what you'll need to set yourself up for success:

1) 120-hour TEFL certification

99% of ESL jobs demand this qualification. Don't skip it. Here's why:

• Non-negotiable: Schools want professionally trained teachers. The minimum industry standard is holding a 120-hour TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) qualification.
• Global standard: Required by law in many countries, it's necessary for teaching gigs worldwide.
• Skill-up: Beyond the basics, it equips you with proven teaching methods, efficient classroom management skills, and effective lesson planning techniques.

If you don't have a TEFL cert yet, you can get it online and fast-track your career.

2) National Diploma or higher

In many countries, a tertiary qualification, such as a degree, diploma or higher, is a requirement for ESL positions.

Here's the breakdown:

• Flexible fields: Any field of study will do, so no worries if your diploma/degree isn't in education.
• Ongoing education: In-progress tertiary qualifications may also be considered by certain employers.

In South Africa, a National Diploma is usually the minimum standard to get hired.

3) Native English proficiency

You must be fully fluent in English (C2 level) for online teaching. Expect to showcase your language skills through interviews and demos.

Some online platforms favor American or British accents, but what really counts? Clarity. A neutral accent that everyone around the world gets. Local dialects aren’t acceptable when dealing with students worldwide.

Ensure your video introduction is flawless. If English isn't your first language, be prepared to ace a proficiency test. This is your time to shine.

4) No criminal record

Have a clean criminal record. To stay ahead, apply for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) at your local South African police station. Get the ball rolling early; these certificates can take up to six weeks to process.

5) Teaching experience

Got experience? Great, it will count in your favor, but it's not a must-have. Many online teaching gigs provide you with teaching materials, hands-on training, and on-call team leader support. They've got your back if you get stuck.

Online ESL is your low-risk entry into the teaching world. Just gear up with the right tech, and you're good to go.

Tick these boxes, and you're ready to crush it in South Africa's online ESL market.

More South African Teaching Jobs

As a South African, there are four ways for you to find English teaching jobs online:

1. Online ESL companies
2. Online marketplaces
3. Independent
4. The Really Great Teacher Company

Since each path has pros and cons, we've outlined them below to help you decide which suits you best.

1) Working for online ESL companies

These companies specialize in remote ESL lessons and have a structured curriculum ready. You sign up directly with a specific online school and teach their curriculum.

How it works

You sign up with a specific online ESL company and teach as an independent contractor. It's easy for beginners to gain experience, as the schools:

• Plan the ESL curriculum.
• Provide you with the teaching materials.
• Digital classroom setup.
• Offer problem-solving support.

How to get hired

Expect a TEFL interview and a demo lesson. Nailing these can secure your spot. Unfortunately, many schools restrict South Africans from applying.

Pros

• Steady hours: Reliable student flow. No need to hunt.
• Less prep: Pre-made teaching materials that save you time.
• Easy logistics: The company handles scheduling and student management.
• Direct payments: Hassle-free payments directly from the company.
• Set schedule: Regular class timing for predictability.

Cons

• Nationality requirements: Many companies prefer to hire North Americans.
• Fixed schedule: No control over your schedule and workload. Look for guaranteed hours to ensure a steady income.
• Job restrictions: May not be able to teach for other online English companies.
• Pay ceiling: Lower rates with performance clauses. Think $4 - 5 USD for South Africans.
• Career stagnation: No career ladder to climb.
• Low teacher community: Limited scope for professional development.
• Unpaid extras: Student progress reports aren't compensated.

ESL companies are a solid bet if you're looking for ease and stability. But the trade-offs include lower pay and less control.

2) Online marketplaces for teaching

This approach is like Uber but for teachers and students. You join platforms connecting you to students, allowing you to set rates and manage your brand. They take a cut, and you're responsible for everything else.

How it works

Sign up on a third-party platform like:

• Preply
• Cambly
• iTalki
• AmazingTalker

You create a profile, set your rates, and hustle to attract students. The platform takes up to 30% commission for their service and handling of payments. You'll need to market and promote yourself to stand out from the competition. You can command a higher rate if you provide more than basic conversational English, such as interview coaching, where you polish students’ skills for a university or job position.

How to get hired

Record an intro video to showcase your style and price competitively. Be warned: it can become a race to the bottom. Engage with students to keep them coming back.

Pros

• Be your own boss: Flexibility in schedule and teaching style.
• Set your rates: Your skills, your price.
• Less admin: The platform manages student billing.
• Resource access: Some offer free teaching materials.

Cons

• Fierce competition: Students can easily switch teachers.
• Price wars: Risk of undercharging to lure new students.
• Platform fees: Commission of up to 30% eats into your earnings.
• No fixed schedule: Income varies from week to week.
• Restrictive rules: You have to play by the platform's book.
• Unpaid extras: Like self-marketing.

This setup gives you more freedom but also asks for a more entrepreneurial spirit without any guarantee of payment.

3) Teaching independently

Break away from the pack by setting up your own ESL teaching gig. More freedom, but also more hats to wear: you need to be a marketer, teacher, and administrator, all rolled into one. You're essentially starting your own company.

Many teachers who chose this path started working for an online teaching company and gained some experience before adding or jumping into independent work. You can earn higher wages if you specialize in teaching business English or exam preparation.

How it works

Start by getting your feet wet with an ESL company and gaining experience before diving into independent work. You're not just teaching; you're also your own:

• Brand creator
• Service seller
• Content developer
• Schedule and finances manager

You create your own brand, own teaching material, advertise, and sell to students directly. Working independently means you keep 100% of the money students pay.

How to get hired

There's no interview. You're the boss. You must build your client base, so your main job is attracting and retaining students. SEO, social media, promo offers—these are your new tools.

Pros

• Total control: Pick your hours and teaching style.
• Max profits: You keep every dollar you earn.
• Rate freedom: Charge what you think you're worth.

Cons

• Marketing mastery required: From SEO to social media, you must know how to sell yourself and keep the students coming.
• Client hunt: No students served on a plate. You've gotta hustle and build your client base over time.
• Admin load: All paperwork is on you. You're only paid for teaching hours, not hours working on your business.
• Brand building: Your reputation is your lifeline.

In short, going independent is like launching a startup. More freedom, potentially more money, but also a lot more responsibility.

4) The Really Great Teacher Company: A balanced path

Fancy a middle ground between a strict ESL company and the wild west of independent teaching? The Really Great Teacher Company offers a balanced path. You become part of an evolving teaching community with global reach and real chances for career growth.

How it works

You sign up with The Really Great Teacher Company and become part of a managed teaching community. Thanks to the company's broad client base, you'll be matched with students from online language schools across the globe.

How to apply

The process is streamlined. A vetting process may include interviews and demo lessons, but it's straightforward and clear-cut.

Once accepted, you get access to students from around the globe that match your schedule. You can be working in as little as 72 hours.

Pros

• Consistent income: Timely payments and a steady flow of students make life predictable.
• All-in-one service: They handle everything from getting students to managing your schedule.
• Career growth: Opportunity for internal promotions and professional development.
• Wellness initiatives: Access an online community of peers, special interest groups, and continuous learning.
• 24/7 support: Tech and operational help is always just a click away.
• Global exposure: Work with diverse students across multiple time zones.
• Supplemental income: You're not tied down to only working with us. You can teach on other platforms and fill any gaps in your schedule with us.
• South African friendly: Tailored hours and a deep understanding of South African culture create a welcoming environment.

Cons

• Base pay: It might be lower than going solo, but it's steady, and all admin work is sorted.
• Set procedures: The Really Great Teacher Company has performance contracts with schools, so specific teaching methods must be followed.

For South Africans, this company is a solid choice. Not only are you recognized, but you're also valued for your unique contributions. The Really Great Teacher Company should be on your radar if you aim for a balanced ESL career.

Choosing the correct online teaching route can be a game-changer for South Africans in the ESL industry. Factors like pay rates, schedules, and support can make or break your experience. Here's a quick overview of popular platforms hiring in South Africa and what you should consider.

Choosing Your Online Teaching Path

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Evaluate Your Teaching Priorities

What's most important to you? A steady paycheck, flexible schedule, or maybe being your own boss? Know your must-haves to zero into what you really want.

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Factor in:

Your Skill Level

• Beginners might prefer the structure of ESL Companies or The Really Great Teacher Company.
• Veterans might find independent or teaching marketplaces more lucrative.
• Technical and teaching support can save your day. Make sure it's available and responsive.

Pay Rate

• Max earnings: Go Independent.
• Steady pay: ESL Companies or The Really Great Teacher Company with the freedom to supplement your income on other platforms.

Remember, it's not just the hourly pay. Check for any hidden fees, terms, or extras.

Commitment Level

• Fixed schedule? Go with ESL.
• Need flex time? Online marketplace.
• Balanced: The Really Great Teacher Company

So, you've weighed your options. Next step? Let's turn that classroom virtual to jumpstart your ESL career in South Africa!

As a WFH teacher, you're responsible for setting up your classroom and providing your own tech, including a laptop, strong Wi-Fi, and a backup power source.

Tech Essentials: Get Your Gear On Point

Gearing up to teach online? Your tech setup is just as crucial as your teaching skills. Here's the lowdown:

• Solid PC or laptop: Think for Intel® Core™ i5, 8GB RAM with a 2.0 processor or higher. Your computer is the backbone of your digital classroom. A mobile phone or iPad won't cut it.
• HD webcam: At least 2 megapixels. Your face is your brand. Ensure it's not blurry.
• Noise-canceling headphones with microphone: Skip the echoes and distractions that'll make your students tune out. Keep the focus on your voice. If students can't hear you clearly, will they return for more classes?
• High-speed internet: Aim for 20 Mbps, both upload and download. Speed tests are part of your interview. Check yours on speedtest.net.
• LAN cord and adapter: Ditch the Wi-Fi; go LAN cable. It connects directly to your router, meaning less lag and a more stable connection.
• Backup internet source: Blackouts happen. Use your mobile phone's hotspot as a backup. One GB of data should cover ten 25-minute lessons.
• Backup power generator or UPS: With load shedding a fact of life, you can't afford to cut out mid-lesson. Ensure you have a UPS with 4-5 hours of juice (2000VA). Your students (and your paycheck) will thank you.

Your first interview or mock lesson is your tech's debut. Don't let glitches and blackouts mess with your flow. South African online teachers need a Plan B, so get geared up, and you'll be unstoppable.

Designing Your Perfect Online Classroom

Ready to set up your teaching space? Let's dive in.

• Good lighting: Helps students see your mouth movements. A desk lamp or selfie ring light should do. Position it behind your computer, aiming at your face.
• Good props: If you're teaching children, props are essential. Think flashcards, puppets, and visual aids like maps or charts to make lessons engaging and help reinforce concepts.
• Quiet space: Distractions kill focus. Create a calm teaching zone. If it buzzes, rings, or talks—it's gotta go.
• Distraction-free: Ensure children, visitors, or pets won't walk into your frame. Make a secure play area with portable fencing or a playpen if you have the room.
• Keep the focus on you, not your decor: Teaching from your bedroom? Keep your bed or any personal information in the background.
• Ergonomic chair and desk setup: Space to stretch those legs and a chair that's got your back. Comfort is key and keeps your energy up.

Your teaching space reflects your professionalism. A great classroom setup boosts your performance and your students' engagement. Check out our tips for the ultimate home teaching setup.

Getting paid in USD is fantastic, but don’t forget about the taxman. As an online teacher, you must understand your South African tax obligations when earning foreign income as a provisional taxpayer.

Most online jobs classify you as an independent contractor. This means you must file and pay your taxes directly to the government instead of having regular Pay As You Earn (PAYE) deductions taken from your paycheck.

So, you are liable to register for Provisional Tax if you earn income online. Here's how it works:

• Estimate your total annual income.
• Calculate the expected tax on that income.
• Make regular payments to the tax authority throughout the year.

Failing to make these payments on time can lead to penalties or interest charges from SARS (South African Revenue Service). Provisional tax is a way to pay your taxes during the tax year. It's an advance payment of the tax you'll owe based on your actual income and deductions.

Provisional taxpayers must submit two provisional tax returns (IRP6) per year and make the payment due:

• First return: Within first 6 months (August)
• Second return: End of tax year (February)

You file a final tax return at year-end when your actual income and deductions are known. The provisional tax payments are then credited against your final liability.

SARS offers TaxTim, an online tool to simplify calculating and paying provisional tax.

To make provisional tax smooth, get advice from a tax pro tailored to your situation. Keep good records, meet deadlines, and adjust estimates if income changes. This prevents surprise tax bills and aids financial planning.

6 Financial Tips for Online English Teachers

1) Cash flow and risks:

Teaching English online offers freedom, like setting your hours and rates. Since you're the boss, you must manage your income and cash flow, especially if you're freelancing.

2) Rollercoaster earnings

Working in an open marketplace means your income is a rollercoaster. You have to hustle to build a steady student base. No guaranteed income, just a lot of competition.

3) 30-day cash flow plan

Plan a 30-day cash flow budget to keep track of money coming in and going out. It'll help match your earnings with your bills.

4) Safety net

Aim for enough savings to cover at least three months of living expenses. It's your financial freedom fund for slow months or emergencies.

5) No extra perks

As an independent contractor, don't expect perks like a pension or sick leave—you're flying solo on those. So budget accordingly.

6) Additional income streams

Worried about the ups and downs? Hedge your bets with a stable, lower-paying job. It's like a financial safety net when freelance life gets wobbly.

For more tips, read our make money teaching online article.

Here it is—the ultimate game plan for ESL success in South Africa. Trust me, there's an online classroom somewhere waiting for you to log in. Just keep knocking on those virtual doors. With your tenacity and the proper skill set, that online ESL position is well within your reach.