Teach English: How to Get Certified, Find Jobs, and Build a Career in India

When you want to teach English, a profession that lets you share language skills while building a stable income. Also known as ESL teaching, it’s one of the most accessible career paths for Indians with good communication skills—no engineering degree required. You don’t need to be a native speaker. What matters is clarity, patience, and a recognized certificate. Millions of Indian students and professionals need help improving their English, and companies, coaching centers, and online platforms are hiring teachers fast.

English proficiency tests, like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Also known as English language exams, are not just for students planning to study abroad—they’re also used by employers in India to judge teaching ability. If you plan to teach English professionally, passing one of these tests shows you’ve mastered the language at a high level. Many institutes require teachers to have at least a B2 or C1 score. These tests aren’t just hurdles; they’re proof you can explain grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary clearly. And if you’re thinking about teaching online or overseas, a TESOL certification, a short, affordable training course designed for non-native English speakers who want to teach. Also known as TEFL, it’s often the minimum requirement for remote jobs with platforms like VIPKid, Preply, or even Indian edtech startups. You can finish a TESOL course in a few weeks, sometimes for under ₹10,000. It’s not a degree, but it’s the credential that gets your foot in the door.

Teaching English isn’t just about grammar drills. It’s about helping someone land a job, pass an immigration test, or feel confident in a meeting. That’s why so many people over 40 in India are switching to teaching English—it’s flexible, meaningful, and in demand. You can work from home, set your own hours, and even build your own students’ group. The best part? You don’t need to wait for a hiring season. Companies are always looking for good teachers.

Below, you’ll find real advice on which certificates employers actually respect, how to prepare for teaching interviews, what salary to expect in India, and where to find the best opportunities—whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills.