Online TEFL Course for Teaching in Korea
Get TEFL certified from home in 2-3 months. Required for EPIK and most Korean teaching programs. Korvia partners with LCTT for exclusive pricing.
120+
Hours
Online
100% Remote
2-3 Mo
Completion
$50 Off
Korvia Discount
Why Should You Get TEFL Certified?
Required by Korean Public Schools
EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE, and GOE all require a TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate of at least 100 hours from an accredited program — unless you hold an education degree or teaching license.
Higher Starting Salary
Teachers with TEFL certification qualify for higher salary levels. The difference can be ₩100,000-200,000/month — the certification pays for itself within the first 1-2 months.
Better Classroom Preparation
TEFL training teaches lesson planning, classroom management, error correction, and teaching methodology. You'll feel more confident from your first day in a Korean classroom.
Internationally Recognized
An accredited TEFL certificate is valid worldwide — Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America. It opens doors beyond Korea.
How It Works
Complete at Your Own Pace
Flexible module completion schedules. Those on tight schedules can complete at a pace that's comfortable.
Get Certified from Home
No additional materials or costs. Your certificate is dispatched to your home address upon completion.
Access from Anywhere
As long as you have internet access, you can complete the course from anywhere in the world.
How to Get TEFL Certified
Register
Complete enrollment form and pay via PayPal or credit card.
Get Access
Receive unique login for the digital learning platform.
Study
Complete 4 modules at your pace. Upload assignments for tutor feedback.
Practice
20-50 hours teaching practice. 6 hours leading a real class.
Certified!
Certificate dispatched to your home. Digital copy included.
Register & Pay
Day 1Complete enrollment form and pay via PayPal or credit card.
Get Access
InstantReceive unique login for the digital learning platform.
Complete 4 Modules
2-3 monthsStudy at your pace. Upload assignments for tutor feedback.
Teaching Practice
During course20-50 hours practice. 6 hours leading a real class.
Receive Certificate
1-2 weeksCertificate dispatched to your home. Digital copy included.
LCTT TEFL Course Options
Regularly $299–$499. Korvia applicants receive an instant $50 USD discount!
120hrs
International TEFL
$249 $299
Save $50 through Korvia
- ✓4 study modules
- ✓Tutor support
- ✓Priority grading
- ✓Internationally accredited
- ✓Certificate dispatched
140hrs
International TEFL + TP
$299 $349
Save $50 through Korvia
- ✓Everything in 120hrs
- ✓20 hours teaching practice
- ✓In-class experience
- ✓Hands-on classroom training
- ✓Higher EPIK salary level
170hrs
International TEFL + Extended TP
$449 $499
Save $50 through Korvia
- ✓Everything in 140hrs
- ✓50 hours teaching practice
- ✓Extended classroom experience
- ✓Most thorough option
- ✓Best for career teachers
Who Runs This Course?
The London College of Teachers & Trainers (LCTT) is a global teacher training institute providing a wide range of courses catering to the needs of international teachers. LCTT offers courses that prepare educators for teaching preschool through primary level students worldwide.
The globally recognized TEFL institution is registered in Canada and the UK, and provides certifications and memberships for TEFL candidates internationally.
Teaching Practice (TP) Components
The Teaching Practice consists of the total practical experience: from assisting the real teacher to observing a classroom.
Time log form — filled by you and signed by the organization to confirm completion of 20 hours in-class time. 6 hours must consist of you leading a class teaching English.
Your teaching practice should be classroom-based. This is only 6 hours. Teaching does not count TP under this requirement.
The documentation from the sponsoring organization is not difficult — they just need to allow you to lead a class for 6 hours of TP and sign a time log form.
Institutes Offering TP Options:
Certification
Accreditation
Accreditation offers an external independent confirmation that the course of a teacher training institute has met the acceptable standards of education and competency. London College of Teachers & Trainers has been externally accredited to ensure candidates and teachers worldwide are able to use the qualification at EPIK or GOE program.
What It Proves
A certified TEFL/TESOL teacher with the London College of Teachers & Trainers has been trained to the standard of teaching and learning, has completed study and assignments, is qualified to teach English, and the instructor and training program are accredited worldwide.
Valid for Korea
TEFL/TESOL certificates from LCTT are accepted by EPIK and all Korean public school programs. The certification is mandatory for teaching programs such as EPIK and GOE program.
Curriculum
LCTT utilizes the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach which encourages students to communicate and use the language in real-life scenarios.
| Module | Topics |
|---|---|
| Module 1 | The History of Methodologies |
| Module 2 | English Grammar |
| Module 3 | Phonology |
| Module 4 | Lesson Planning, English Reading, Speaking, Writing, Listening |
| Teaching Practice | 20/50 hours classroom experience (140/170-hr courses) |
Methodology
Teaching approaches, CLT, task-based learning, and classroom techniques for diverse student groups.
Lesson Planning
How to structure lessons, set objectives, choose activities, and assess student progress effectively.
Grammar & Phonology
English grammar systems, pronunciation teaching, and error correction strategies for non-native speakers.
Classroom Management
Managing behavior, pair/group work setup, and creating positive, engaging learning environments.
Teaching Practice
Real classroom experience (140/170-hr courses). Lead classes, receive feedback, build confidence.
Assessment
Module assessments via MCQ/essay questions. Work is graded by your tutor who provides feedback.
What EPIK Requires in a TEFL Certificate
According to the official EPIK eligibility criteria published on epik.go.kr, a TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate is required for applicants who do not already hold an education degree or a valid K-12 teaching license in their home country.
Minimum 100 Hours
EPIK accepts TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificates of 100 hours or more. Industry standard is 120 hours, which is what most Korvia applicants complete through LCTT.
Accredited Institution
The certificate must be issued by an accredited teacher-training institution. Accreditation means an external body has reviewed and approved the course — always verify this before enrolling.
Online or In-Person
EPIK accepts both fully online and in-person TEFL certificates per the official eligibility page. There is no requirement that any portion be completed face-to-face.
Exemptions Apply
Applicants with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Education, or a valid K-12 teaching license, may be exempt from the TEFL requirement. Check epik.go.kr for current exemption rules.
Source: Official EPIK Eligibility page (epik.go.kr). Requirements may change each intake cycle — your Korvia recruiter will confirm the current rules during your application.
Level 3 vs Level 5 TEFL — What It Means
Some TEFL providers describe their courses using UK Ofqual-style levels. This is industry terminology, not an EPIK requirement — but it may help you understand how courses compare.
| Level | Typical Label | What It Generally Means |
|---|---|---|
| Level 3 | Basic / Introductory TEFL | Entry-level TEFL. Typically equivalent to an A-level in scope. May be enough for hagwon roles that do not require TEFL for salary grading. |
| Level 5 | Advanced / Professional TEFL | Advanced TEFL, the industry-recognized standard for serious language teachers. Often aligned with CELTA-equivalent depth. Typically what public school programs expect. |
Note: EPIK's official eligibility criteria do not reference a specific "level" — the stated requirement is an accredited TEFL/TESOL/CELTA of at least 100 hours. Level labels are a provider convention and may help applicants compare course rigor.
120-Hour vs 180-Hour — Which Should You Pick?
Both are accepted by EPIK if accredited. The question is how much extra practice you want before stepping into a Korean classroom.
| Feature | 120-Hour | 180-Hour (or 170-hr LCTT) |
|---|---|---|
| EPIK Eligible? | Yes (meets 100-hour minimum) | Yes |
| Teaching Practice | Typically not included | 20-50 hours classroom practice included |
| Completion Time | 2-3 months part-time | 3-5 months part-time |
| EPIK Salary Level Impact | May qualify for standard TEFL-credit level | May qualify for a higher salary level when combined with teaching practice |
| Best For | First-time applicants on a budget | Career-track teachers; those wanting the strongest application |
The exact salary level awarded depends on the applicant's full credentials (degree, experience, TEFL, teaching license). See epik.go.kr for the official salary matrix.
TEFL Cost-Value Analysis
TEFL is an upfront cost that typically pays itself back inside the first 1-2 months of teaching in Korea — through a higher salary level.
| Course | USD | KRW (approx) | GBP (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120-hr (Korvia discount) | $249 | ₩340,000 | £195 |
| 140-hr + TP (Korvia discount) | $299 | ₩410,000 | £235 |
| 170-hr + Extended TP (Korvia discount) | $449 | ₩615,000 | £355 |
Rough ROI on a Korean Public School Salary
A one-level salary bump on EPIK typically means roughly ₩100,000-200,000 more per month (exact amount depends on qualification level and region — see the official EPIK salary matrix on epik.go.kr). At that rate, a $249 TEFL course is typically recovered within 1-2 months of teaching. Over a 12-month contract, the differential may compound to ₩1,200,000-2,400,000 in additional take-home.
KRW and GBP figures are approximate conversions for reference. Actual currency conversion at time of enrollment will vary. Course fees are charged in USD.
How TEFL Affects Your EPIK Salary Level
EPIK uses a salary matrix that combines degree level, teaching license, TEFL certification, and experience. Adding a qualifying TEFL may move you up one salary level — for example, from Level 2 to Level 3 — at the entry point. Always cross-reference the official epik.go.kr salary matrix during application.
Level 2
Bachelor's degree, no TEFL, no teaching license. Entry-level placement.
Level 3
Bachelor's degree + accredited 100-hour+ TEFL, OR Bachelor's in Education. A qualifying TEFL typically moves Level 2 applicants into this band.
Level 1 / Special
Advanced credentials — Master's in relevant field, valid K-12 teaching license, or extensive qualifying experience. TEFL alone does not grant this level.
Verify Your Level
See our dedicated EPIK Salary Levels guide for the current 2026 matrix, or check the source on epik.go.kr.
Level placement is ultimately decided by EPIK HQ based on submitted documents. Exact thresholds may change each intake cycle.
When to Start TEFL Relative to Your EPIK Application
TEFL is one of the few parts of the EPIK application you control entirely. Start it early — you can take it in parallel with gathering other documents.
Enroll in TEFL. This gives you buffer time to complete 120-170 hours without pressure.
Begin EPIK application with Korvia. TEFL can still be in progress — submit certificate once earned.
TEFL certificate should be completed and in hand. Upload to EPIK application.
All documents (including TEFL) must be submitted and apostilled. No late additions accepted at this stage.
Exact deadlines vary by intake. Your Korvia recruiter will share the current-cycle timeline once your application begins.
Terms
Pricing & Payment
This course is demonstrated and sold in USD. Your local currency value is shown for suggestion purposes only. There is no additional cost; the displayed cost includes all necessary course materials. The course fee must be paid in full earlier than receiving course access and instructions.
Refunds & Cancellations
The course fee is non-refundable.
TEFL Course FAQ
Do I need prior teaching experience?
No. The course is designed for beginners with no previous teaching experience. It covers everything from basic methodology to classroom management.
Is this course accredited?
Yes. LCTT is internationally accredited and the certificate is recognized by EPIK, Korean immigration (for E-2 visa), and teaching programs worldwide.
How long does the course take?
Most candidates complete the 120-hour course in 2-3 months studying part-time. You can work at your own pace — some finish in as little as 4 weeks.
Can I take this course without a degree?
Yes. There are no degree requirements to enroll in the TEFL course. However, you will need a bachelor's degree to teach in Korea regardless of TEFL certification.
Will the certificate expire?
No. Once you earn your TEFL certificate, it is valid for life. There is no renewal or expiration.
Is this course in British or American English?
The course materials use British English, but both British and American English are accepted in assignments and teaching.
Are there extra fees for textbooks?
No. All course materials are included in the enrollment fee. There are no hidden costs.
When can I start applying for jobs?
You can begin your EPIK or hagwon application while taking the course. You must complete the TEFL at least 6 weeks before your arrival in Korea.
Does EPIK accept online-only TEFL certificates?
Yes. According to epik.go.kr eligibility guidelines, EPIK accepts both online and in-person TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificates of at least 100 hours from an accredited institution. There is no requirement that any portion of the course be completed in person — though courses with teaching practice components typically count toward a higher salary level.
What's the difference between a 120-hour and a 180-hour TEFL course?
The 120-hour course is the industry-standard minimum for EPIK and most Korean teaching programs. Longer courses (140, 170, or 180 hours) typically add teaching practice and extra coursework. LCTT offers 120/140/170-hour options; some providers market 180-hour bundles. For EPIK eligibility, 120 hours is sufficient — for a higher salary level you generally need 100+ hours with a teaching-practice component.
Can I start TEFL and EPIK at the same time?
Yes, and many applicants do. You can begin your EPIK application while studying — but your TEFL certificate must be completed and in hand well before contract signing, typically at least 6 weeks before arrival in Korea so it can be included in document submission.
Are all 120-hour TEFL courses equal?
No. Accreditation, tutor support, assessment method, and teaching-practice components vary widely between providers. EPIK and Korean immigration require the course to be from an accredited institution — always verify that your provider lists a recognized accrediting body before enrolling.
Get TEFL Certified Today
Start your TEFL course now and be ready to teach in Korea. Korvia applicants save $50 instantly.