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Application guide

TEFL CV guide

A TEFL CV should show your teaching preparation, communication skills, education, work history, and suitability for the role without overstating your experience.

Make applications clearer

What to include

Keep your CV clear and easy to scan. Schools and platforms often want to see your education, teaching preparation, availability, location, and relevant experience quickly.

  • Short professional profile
  • Education and certificates
  • Teaching, tutoring, training, or youth work
  • Transferable skills such as presentation, support, or coaching

How to describe TEFL preparation

Use honest wording. If you completed a certificate of completion, describe it as course completion and mention relevant study areas such as lesson planning or classroom management.

Common mistakes

Avoid vague claims, unsupported accreditation wording, long paragraphs, and generic CVs that do not match the role.

Prepare your application alongside your course

Use your course notes and activities to make your CV more specific.

View TEFL Courses

Frequently asked questions

Should I include a photo?

Some countries or employers request one, while others do not. Follow the advert and local norms carefully.

Can I include non-teaching experience?

Yes. Training, coaching, childcare, customer support, presentations, mentoring, and leadership can all be relevant.

Should I mention certificate hours?

If your course has stated hours, include them accurately and avoid unsupported recognition claims.

Related guides

Compare TEFL coursesChoose a course that fits your teaching plan.Compare destinationsResearch countries before applying.Browse TEFL jobsReview current job adverts and requirements.Certificate explanationUnderstand what completion means.