Dreaming of a job where you can work from anywhere, connect with people worldwide, and help others master English? Teaching ESL online is now one of the most flexible and rewarding career paths out there. Whether you want to earn extra cash, start a new profession, or travel while working, there’s an online teaching platform that’s right for you.
But with so many options, finding the best ESL company can feel overwhelming. To help you take the next step, here’s a detailed guide to the top online ESL companies for 2024. Each section explains what makes each platform unique, what they require from teachers, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Cambly
Cambly is well-known for its simplicity and accessibility. If you’re looking for a super flexible way to get started with teaching English online, Cambly is a fantastic option.
What is Cambly?
Cambly is a tutoring platform that connects English learners from all over the world with native or fluent speakers. The focus is on conversation skills, so most lessons are informal chats rather than structured grammar or exam prep.
Who are the students?
Cambly’s students come from every continent—adults and children—looking to improve their speaking and listening abilities. Many are preparing for work abroad, university interviews, or travel.
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers simply log into the platform whenever they want. There’s no minimum commitment or set schedule—you can teach for ten minutes or several hours at a time. Cambly manages all payments and scheduling, making it easy for you to focus on teaching.
- Hourly Rate: $10–$12 USD, paid weekly via PayPal
- Requirements: No degree, certificate, or prior teaching experience needed—just fluency in English and a stable internet connection
- Pros: Flexible schedule, easy signup, good for beginners
- Cons: Lower pay compared to more advanced platforms; lessons are casual so may not suit those looking for structured teaching
Who is Cambly best for?
Ideal for new teachers or anyone who wants to fit teaching around another job or studies. Also great if you enjoy casual conversation and helping people practice English in real-time.
2. VIPKid
VIPKid is a leading platform for teaching English online to children in China. If you enjoy working with young learners and want a more structured environment, VIPKid is a strong choice.
What is VIPKid?
VIPKid offers one-on-one lessons based on an interactive curriculum designed to help children ages 4–12 learn English. The company provides all lesson materials—so there’s no need to create your own resources—and supports teachers with training and an active community.
Who are the students?
All VIPKid students are children living in China whose parents want them to get ahead with English. Many are learning English for school, future study abroad, or to improve their global opportunities.
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers set their own availability in 30-minute blocks. Most classes are booked during peak hours (early mornings and evenings) due to the time difference with China. After applying and passing a short interview/demo class, teachers get access to the VIPKid platform.
- Hourly Rate: $14–$22 USD per hour (including incentives)
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (in any field), eligibility to work in the US or Canada; teaching certificate (like TEFL/TESOL) preferred but not always mandatory
- Pros: High hourly rate, curriculum provided, supportive teacher community
- Cons: Hours may not fit everyone’s schedule due to time zone; application process can be competitive
Who is VIPKid best for?
Perfect for those who love teaching children and want a structured environment with ready-made materials. Especially good if you live in the US or Canada and can work early mornings or evenings.
3. EF English First (Education First)
EF English First, part of the global Education First group, is one of the biggest names in language education. They offer both online and in-person teaching jobs.
What is EF English First?
EF focuses on high-quality language instruction for students of all ages—children, teens, and adults. The company provides its teachers with professional development resources, structured lesson plans, and opportunities for career advancement.
Who are the students?
EF’s online students are diverse—ranging from schoolchildren to professionals seeking better job opportunities. Many are based in Asia (especially China) and Europe.
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers usually commit to set hours each week (often 6–8 minimum), which helps ensure steady income. EF provides training and an onboarding process so you’re well-prepared before you start lessons.
- Hourly Rate: $12–$20 USD
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree required; TEFL certificate preferred; native-level English proficiency
- Pros: Stable schedule, career development options, consistent pay
- Cons: Less flexible than some platforms; must commit to regular hours; more paperwork during hiring
Who is EF best for?
A good choice for teachers who want long-term stability, career progression, and professional support—especially those seeking a “real job” rather than just side gigs.
4. Lingoda
Lingoda is a European-based online language school known for its structured curriculum and focus on adult learners.
What is Lingoda?
Lingoda offers group and private lessons to adults across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Teachers use Lingoda’s lesson materials—which cover grammar, business English, conversation practice, and test preparation—so there’s no lesson planning required.
Who are the students?
Lingoda’s students are mainly adults—working professionals who need English for their careers or personal growth. Group classes are kept small (usually 3–5 students).
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers choose their shifts from available slots and can teach as much or as little as they like. Lingoda handles scheduling, payments, and student placement.
- Hourly Rate: $12–$15 USD
- Requirements: Teaching certificate (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA) and teaching experience preferred
- Pros: Flexible schedule, prepared lesson plans, diverse international students
- Cons: Slightly lower rates than some competitors; must be comfortable leading group classes
Who is Lingoda best for?
Great if you prefer teaching adults and want ready-to-use materials. Also ideal if you’re based in Europe or nearby time zones.
5. Open English
Open English is one of the most established platforms for teaching English online in Latin America.
What is Open English?
Open English specializes in helping adults and teenagers from Latin America improve their English skills. The company offers both private and group lessons using its own curriculum.
Who are the students?
Most students are adults and teens living in countries like Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico, and others across Central and South America. Many need English for work or school advancement.
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers usually commit to a consistent weekly schedule (often 10–15 hours/week), which leads to reliable income. Open English provides all lesson plans and training materials.
- Hourly Rate: $10–$15 USD
- Requirements: TEFL/TESOL certificate preferred; previous teaching experience strongly encouraged; native-level fluency required
- Pros: Regular hours, supportive environment, opportunities to teach motivated adult learners
- Cons: Must commit to set hours; slightly lower pay than some Asian-focused platforms
Who is Open English best for?
Best suited for teachers who want stability and enjoy working with Latin American students—especially if you speak some Spanish or Portuguese (not required but helpful).
6. SkimaTalk
SkimaTalk is a popular platform connecting teachers with students from Japan and beyond for conversational English practice.
What is SkimaTalk?
SkimaTalk lets teachers set their own rates and schedules while focusing on informal conversation lessons. While many students are Japanese professionals seeking business English or travel skills, there are also learners from other countries.
Who are the students?
Most SkimaTalk users are working adults in Japan who want practical English skills for business meetings, presentations, or overseas travel.
How does it work for teachers?
Teachers create detailed profiles listing their qualifications and interests. Students book lessons directly based on teacher availability and rates.
- Hourly Rate: You set your own rate; average $10–$16 per lesson
- Requirements: Native-level fluency; no degree required
- Pros: Complete control over schedule/rates; relaxed class structure; easy entry
- Cons: May need to build up your student base; less support than larger platforms
Who is SkimaTalk best for?
Ideal if you want total flexibility over your schedule and pricing—and enjoy informal conversation rather than formal lesson planning.
7. TeachAway
TeachAway isn’t a tutoring platform itself but an international recruitment agency that lists hundreds of ESL jobs worldwide—including top online teaching positions.
What is TeachAway?
TeachAway partners with governments, schools, universities, and edtech companies to recruit qualified teachers for both online and overseas positions. Listings range from short-term tutoring gigs to full-time salaried jobs.
Who are the students?
It depends on the employer: some roles involve teaching children online (like VIPKid), while others seek tutors for adult learners or even university professors.
How does it work for teachers?
Create a free profile on TeachAway’s site, then browse and apply to jobs that match your skills and interests. Requirements vary by posting but typically include a degree and TEFL certificate.
- Hourly Rate: Varies widely ($10–$25+ USD), according to employer
- Requirements: Varies by job—most require a degree & TEFL certificate
- Pros: Huge variety of opportunities; can find full-time jobs with benefits; not limited to one platform
- Cons: Application process may be competitive; requirements depend on employer
Who is TeachAway best for?
Excellent if you want a one-stop shop to search many reputable ESL jobs—both online and abroad—including well-paid full-time positions with benefits.
Comparative Table
| Company | Hourly Rate | Minimum Hours | Student Type | TEFL Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cambly | $10–$12 | None | Adults & Children | No |
| VIPKid | $14–$22 | None | Children | Yes (Degree) |
| EF English First | $12–$20 | 6–8 | All ages | Preferred |
| Lingoda | $12–$15 | Flexible | Adults | Preferred |
| Open English | $10–$15 | 10–15 | Adults & Teens | Preferred |
| SkimaTalk | $10–$16* | None | Adults | No |
| TeachAway | $10–$25+ | Varies | All ages | Varies |
*You set your rate on SkimaTalk.
How to Choose the Right Platform
When deciding where to apply:
- Qualifications: Some platforms require degrees or certificates (like VIPKid or EF), while others don’t (like Cambly or SkimaTalk).
- Student Age Group: Decide if you prefer working with children (VIPKid), adults (Lingoda), or both.
- Flexibility vs Stability: Platforms like Cambly offer extreme flexibility but lower pay; companies like EF provide more stability but require fixed hours.
- Income Expectations: Check average hourly rates and decide what fits your financial needs.
- Support & Community: Larger companies often offer teacher support groups, training sessions, and ready-made materials—great if you’re just starting out.
- Location Considerations: Some companies only hire from specific countries or cater mostly to certain regions/time zones.
Final Thoughts
There’s never been a better time to teach English online. Whether you’re looking for flexible side gigs or a new full-time career, these platforms offer something for every background and interest level.
Take your time exploring each option above. Consider your goals—whether it’s flexibility, income consistency, professional growth, or just meeting people worldwide—and choose the company that matches your vision.
If you want even more opportunities (and higher pay), consider getting a TEFL certificate—it unlocks access to more jobs and helps you stand out from other candidates.
Start your journey today—and help open doors for students around the world while designing your ideal career!
