CELTA Course Q&A: Cost, Jobs & Entry Requirements

Do you want to know more about the CELTA course?

If you’re considering CELTA training and wondering what it involves, who it’s for, and whether it’s the right step for you, this guide answers the most common CELTA course questions. Whether you are new to teaching or exploring a career change, understanding what CELTA is and how it works can help you decide your next move.

Have you ever thought about teaching English as a foreign language?

If so, then the CELTA course could be for you. Let us answer some of the most common questions that people may ask about the CELTA at CES.

To explore full course details, visit our CELTA Training Course page.

CELTA Zoom Class

What Is CELTA?

1. What is the CELTA course?

What is CELTA? The CELTA stands for Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, and it is the most widely recognised and respected initial training course that you can do to teach English as a foreign language. It is considered the gold standard qualification for starting a teaching career.

Is CELTA worth it? Absolutely. Those who complete the course have the opportunity to travel around the world and teach English, opening up a wide range of CELTA jobs.

2. Who awards the CELTA qualification?

The CELTA is awarded by Cambridge Assessment English, part of the University of Cambridge.

Who Is CELTA For?

3. Who is the CELTA course designed for?

It is designed for people who want to start a career in teaching English as a foreign language or improve their teaching skills. Whether you are new to teaching or looking to build on your experience, the CELTA course is suitable for a wide range of learners.

Why take a CELTA course? If you’re still deciding, you can also read more about why learners choose this path here.

Common Questions About the CELTA Course

4. What do I learn on the CELTA?

You learn the best techniques and skills required to help develop a student’s level of English. It is not an English language course as such, but rather a course designed to help you become the best teacher that you can be through structured CELTA training.

5. What are the main components of input sessions?

CELTA develops skills in lesson planning, classroom management, language analysis, teaching techniques, reflective practice, etc.

6. Do I need to teach during the course?

One of the things that makes the CELTA the gold-standard course is that you get great experience with teaching real English learners at different levels with supervised feedback. We help to prepare you to deliver these lessons, and then you get constructive feedback on how well the lessons went.

7. What is assessed in the CELTA course?

Assessment is based on your 6 hours of Teaching Practice as well as four written assignments.

Recent Graduate from CES Dublin

8. How long does the CELTA course usually take?

Here at CES, we run many different CELTA courses to suit everyone. For those who want a fast-track course, our four-week face-to-face courses are ideal. We also offer a 5-week fully online course for those who may want that little bit longer to prepare for their teaching practice and assignments.

The great thing about the fully-online CELTA with CES is that you can do the course from the comfort of your home.

For those who may have other things going on, such as work or family commitments, a part-time online course might be exactly what suits you. We have 10-week and 24-week courses, which give you more time to balance your studies with other commitments while still gaining the full CELTA experience and hands-on teaching practice. If you are interested in flexible study, you can explore our CELTA Training Courses Online.

9. Is prior teaching experience required to take CELTA, and do I need to have English as my first language?

You do not need to have previous teaching experience. Many people who take the course with us may be straight out of university or may want to have a change in career. This makes the CELTA requirements accessible to a wide range of applicants.

Around 40% of those who take the course with us do not have English as their first language. You do need to have a strong C1 / C2 level of English (IELTS 7.5) to take part in the course, though.

10. At which CES centres can I take a face-to-face CELTA?

We have face-to-face courses at our schools in Dublin, Edinburgh and Leeds. We have our first course starting this year also, from 25th May until 19th June, at CES Cork.

11. Are there written exams in the CELTA course?

No, CELTA does not have formal written exams. Assessment is continuous through assignments and assessed teaching.

12. Why should I do the CELTA at CES?

CES has expert tutors with extensive experience in teaching English and CELTA training, ensuring you get high-quality guidance throughout the course.

CES offers a range of flexible options, including full-time (face-to-face and online) and part-time courses (online), so you can choose a schedule that fits your needs. With CES, you’ll gain hands-on teaching experience, continuous feedback, and practical skills that are recognized internationally, giving you a strong foundation to start your career and access global CELTA jobs.

Check what our studets are saying:

13. How much does the course cost?

Face-to-face:

Dublin and Cork - €1,890
Leeds and Edinburgh – £1,545

Online:

10-week and 5-week - €1,665 / £1,435
24-week online – €1,800 / £1,550

These figures provide a clear overview of CELTA course cost, helping you plan your training investment.

14. What is the first step to begin my CELTA journey?

First, we must receive a completed application form for one of our courses. All applicants must then complete a pre-interview task, be interviewed, and be accepted onto the course.

Find out more about our CELTA course option here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CELTA and who is it for?

The CELTA course is an internationally recognised qualification for teaching English as a foreign language. It is designed for beginners and those with some experience who want structured, practical CELTA training.

Do I need teaching experience to take a CELTA course?

No prior experience is required. The CELTA requirements are designed to support new teachers as well as those looking to change careers.

Is CELTA worth it if I want to teach English abroad?

Yes, many employers worldwide recognise CELTA, and it can open doors to a wide range of CELTA jobs. The teaching practice component is especially valuable.

How much does a CELTA course cost?

The CELTA course cost varies depending on location and format, typically ranging between €1,665 and €1,890 or equivalent in GBP.

Can I take CELTA online or in person?

Yes, CES offers both face-to-face and online options, making CELTA training flexible and accessible.

What jobs can I get after CELTA?

After completing the course, you can teach English in language schools, online platforms, or abroad, making it possible to teach English with CELTA in many countries.

Ask CES About CELTA

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact CES to learn more about upcoming course dates, CELTA course cost, and how to begin your CELTA journey.

Google My Business: Thinking About Taking a CELTA Course? Interested in teaching English as a foreign language? Our latest CES blog answers common questions about the CELTA course, including who it is for, what the training involves, whether it is worth it, and how it can help you start a teaching career. If you are exploring teacher training for the first time, this is a useful place to start. Read the guide and get in touch with CES if you would like to learn more about CELTA options, course fees, and upcoming opportunities.