Companies That Let You Teach English Online With No Experience

If you’ve been thinking about teaching English online but don’t have a formal background in education, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. The world of online ESL is surprisingly open to newcomers. Many companies are more interested in your attitude, communication style, and reliability than in whether you've spent years in a classroom.

The demand for English teachers continues to grow, especially in regions like Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. What that means for you: even without prior teaching experience, there are dozens of platforms that welcome beginners. What most of them care about is simple—good spoken English, a stable internet connection, and a willingness to engage with students respectfully and consistently.

Some platforms provide lesson materials and walk you through every step. Others let you set your own rates, build your own student base, and grow at your own pace. Whether you want to teach conversational English to adults or help kids build confidence in their speaking, there’s a place for you to get started.

The key is knowing which companies are beginner-friendly—and which ones match your style, schedule, and comfort zone. You might not start with high pay or a full calendar, but if you’re smart about it, you can build momentum quickly and grow from there.

✅ What “No Experience Required” Really Means

When a company says “no experience required,” it rarely means they’re looking for someone completely unprepared. What they actually mean is: you don’t need formal classroom teaching experience. You don’t need to have taught in a school, held a teaching license, or worked as a professional educator.

That said, you probably have more experience than you think. Ever tutored a classmate? Helped someone with homework? Volunteered at a summer camp? Even leading group discussions, coaching, or mentoring younger peers can count as soft teaching experience. Many platforms value that kind of informal background—especially if you can communicate it clearly on your profile or during your interview.

One thing you will notice across almost all platforms: a 120-hour TEFL certification is strongly preferred, and in many cases, it’s required. It shows you’ve taken the time to understand ESL teaching basics—things like lesson structure, student engagement, and error correction. Even if you don’t have traditional experience, a TEFL certificate proves that you’re serious, qualified, and ready to teach effectively.

In short, “no experience” doesn’t mean “no effort.” It just means the door is open, as long as you bring the right tools and mindset.

🧩 Key Factors to Consider Before Applying

Before jumping into applications, it’s worth stepping back and thinking about what you want out of your online teaching experience. Not every platform works the same way, and choosing one that fits your situation can save a lot of frustration down the line.

Pay rates are one of the first things to look at. Some platforms offer fixed rates—usually between $10–$20 per hour—while others let you set your own price and scale it up as you gain reviews. Fixed-rate companies are simpler for beginners, but if you plan to stick with teaching long-term, marketplaces with flexible pricing may offer better earnings over time.

Student types also matter. Some platforms cater mostly to adults, while others focus on young learners or test preparation. If you’re more comfortable chatting with adults or want to specialize in Business English or IELTS prep later on, that should influence your choice.

Scheduling flexibility is another key factor. Do you want to work whenever you’re free, or are you okay with committing to a set number of hours per week? Some platforms require a minimum number of classes, while others are fully drop-in, letting you teach on your own terms.

You’ll also need to meet technical requirements, which typically include a laptop or desktop computer, webcam, headset with microphone, and a stable internet connection (usually a minimum of 10 Mbps upload/download). Some platforms will also ask for browser compatibility or use proprietary apps for teaching.

Lastly, check for country or nationality restrictions. While many platforms are open to anyone fluent in English, others limit applicants to native speakers from specific countries—or favor certain accents. It’s not always fair, but it’s something to be aware of before you apply.

Finding the right platform means balancing all these elements with your goals and strengths. Don’t just apply to the first one you see—apply to the ones that fit.

🥇 Best Online ESL Companies for Teachers with No Experience

Cambly

Cambly is one of the most accessible platforms for new teachers. It’s focused on casual, conversation-based lessons, mostly with adult learners from all over the world—including professionals, university students, and everyday people looking to improve their English through real conversation.

There’s no prep, no lesson planning, and no prior experience needed. You just log in, chat with learners, and get paid by the minute. You’ll be helping students build fluency and confidence while gaining valuable experience yourself.

• Pay: ~$10.20/hour (paid weekly via PayPal)
• Requirements: No degree, no experience, native fluency preferred
• Schedule: 100% flexible—log in anytime, teach when you want
• Ideal for: Friendly, talkative teachers who want a relaxed entry point

Visit Cambly →

Preply

Preply is a tutor marketplace where you create your own profile, set your hourly rate, and attract students who are looking for personalized lessons. It’s competitive, but also rewarding if you’re proactive about building your reputation.

New teachers typically start with lower rates (around $10–$15/hr) and raise prices as they build reviews. You’ll need to create your own lesson plans based on student needs, which is a great way to develop your teaching skills and niche early on.

• Pay: You set the rate; most earn $10–$45/hour (commission applies)
• Requirements: No degree or experience required; TEFL recommended
• Schedule: You choose your availability
• Ideal for: Ambitious, self-motivated teachers ready to grow a client base

Visit Preply →

italki

italki gives you the flexibility to teach your way, offering two tracks: Community Tutor (no credentials needed) and Professional Teacher (for those with certifications or degrees). As a Community Tutor, you can still attract students by offering informal conversation practice and personalized learning experiences.

You set your own hourly rate and schedule, with most tutors charging between $10 and $25 per hour. The more reviews and repeat students you gain, the more visible—and successful—you become. There are no pre-set lesson plans, so you’ll need to be proactive with content and structure.

• Pay: You choose your rate; typical range is $10–$25/hour
• Requirements: No degree or experience for Community Tutor track
• Schedule: Fully flexible
• Ideal for: Independent teachers who enjoy tailoring lessons and building long-term student relationships

Visit italki →

SkimaTalk

SkimaTalk focuses on quick, 25-minute lessons with adult learners—primarily professionals and university students in Japan. It’s known for being beginner-friendly, with no formal degree or TEFL required, though native-level English is expected.

You’ll create your own lesson content or use their optional materials. Student ratings play a big role in attracting new learners, and consistent positive reviews can lead to strong earning potential. Most teachers start around $10–$15 per session, keeping 80% of that after platform fees.

• Pay: Set your own rate; average $10–$15 per 25-minute session (80% payout)
• Requirements: Native speakers only; no degree or experience needed
• Schedule: Teach when you want—no minimum hours
• Ideal for: Chatty, clear communicators who enjoy brief, focused sessions

Visit SkimaTalk →

Palfish (Free Talk & Official Kids)

Palfish is a mobile-first platform geared toward Chinese learners. There are two main tracks: Free Talk, which is informal conversation-based and open to anyone with a strong command of English, and the Official Kids Course, which requires a TEFL certificate and more structured lesson delivery.

Free Talk sessions can be started whenever you’re online—students message you directly. For the Kids Course, you must commit to a consistent schedule and be comfortable teaching children with energy and enthusiasm. Native speakers with a neutral accent are preferred for both tracks.

• Pay: Free Talk ($10–$15/hr), Official Kids Course ($16–$22/hr)
• Requirements: No degree or experience; TEFL required for Kids Course
• Schedule: Flexible, but Kids Course requires set availability
• Ideal for: Native speakers who are confident on camera and enjoy child-focused lessons

Visit Palfish →

Superprof

Superprof is a global tutoring marketplace where you set your own rate and list your services for any subject—including English as a Second Language. There are no platform-mandated lesson plans, and you’re free to teach conversational English, grammar, business English, or exam prep based on your strengths.

Since students search based on location and subject, a well-written profile and good reviews can lead to steady work. Rates vary dramatically depending on your niche, language pair, and location, but successful teachers regularly charge $20–$50/hr or more.

• Pay: Set your own rate; most earn $15–$40/hr+
• Requirements: No degree, TEFL, or experience required
• Schedule: 100% your choice
• Ideal for: Self-motivated teachers who want total freedom and can market themselves effectively

Visit Superprof →

Engoo

Engoo offers 25-minute one-on-one lessons using pre-made materials, making it especially easy for beginners to get started. The platform supports a global student base, with many learners in Asia and Eastern Europe. Non-native speakers are welcome, which sets it apart from more restrictive platforms.

While the pay is on the lower end—especially for non-native speakers—it’s a useful stepping stone if you’re new to teaching or looking to build confidence and gain reviews. Lessons are short, straightforward, and easy to follow thanks to the structured curriculum provided.

• Pay: ~$2.50–$10/hour depending on location and nationality
• Requirements: No degree or experience required; TEFL recommended
• Schedule: Fully flexible, you control your hours
• Ideal for: Total beginners who want structured support and low-pressure practice

Visit Engoo →

---

Fluentbe

Fluentbe connects English teachers with adult and business learners across Europe. Classes are one-on-one or small groups, and all materials are provided, so there’s no lesson prep. While prior experience is preferred, certified new teachers are welcome.

Fluentbe offers reliable scheduling and professional development — a solid stepping stone if you’re just starting out but want more than casual conversation gigs.

• Pay: $10–$12/hour
• Requirements: TEFL and degree required; some experience preferred
• Schedule: 4–10+ hours/week
• Ideal for: Certified teachers seeking structured lessons and regular hours

Visit Fluentbe →

Twenix

Twenix focuses on short, 26-minute lessons with adult learners — mostly professionals from Spain, Italy, and Latin America. Lessons are conversation-based and materials are provided, making it beginner-friendly. There’s no need to attract your own students or maintain a public profile.

It’s a great way to gain consistent teaching experience in manageable sessions.

• Pay: $7.50–$16/hour (varies by country)
• Requirements: TEFL or equivalent preferred
• Schedule: Flexible, on-demand
• Ideal for: Teachers who enjoy guided conversations with motivated adults

Visit Twenix →

LatinHire

LatinHire contracts teachers for a variety of Latin American education companies. You don’t need to market yourself, and all lessons are pre-planned. If you’re a native or fluent speaker with a TEFL certificate and basic Spanish or Portuguese, you’ll likely qualify.

It’s ideal for those who want steady online teaching without the hassle of self-promotion.

• Pay: $7–$13/hour
• Requirements: TEFL preferred, basic Spanish or Portuguese, some experience ideal
• Schedule: 5+ hours/week minimum
• Ideal for: Teachers looking for ready-made lessons and regular work in Latin America

Visit LatinHire →

Skyeng

Skyeng is a large online English school catering mainly to students in Russia and Eastern Europe. Teachers conduct one-on-one lessons through Skyeng’s interactive virtual classroom, Vimbox, which includes built-in resources and structured lesson plans. While the pay is relatively low, the platform offers a steady stream of students and reliable scheduling—something many new teachers value.

Both native and non-native speakers are welcome, and the emphasis is more on availability and consistency than elite credentials. It's a practical choice for teachers looking to build up experience in a predictable and supportive environment.

• Pay: ~$3.50–$5/hour
• Requirements: No degree or experience needed; TEFL recommended
• Schedule: Minimum 20 hours/week commitment
• Ideal for: Teachers who value consistent bookings and guided lessons

Visit Skyeng →

CafeTalk

CafeTalk is a Japan-based tutoring marketplace where teachers can offer lessons in English—or virtually any skill, from cooking to piano. It’s highly customizable: you set your own rates, decide your subjects, and create your own curriculum. ESL lessons are a popular option, but many teachers also branch out into other language or academic offerings.

The platform has a loyal user base in Japan and across Asia. With strong self-marketing, you can grow a flexible online teaching business that blends your personal interests with ESL teaching.

• Pay: You set your own rates (typically $10–$28/hour)
• Requirements: No formal teaching experience required
• Schedule: Fully self-managed; no minimum hours
• Ideal for: Independent teachers with diverse skills and creative lesson ideas

Visit CafeTalk →

🎯 Choosing the Right Platform for Your Style

Not every online teaching platform works for every teacher. Your goals, personality, and teaching preferences all play a role in finding the right fit. Here’s how to narrow down your options based on your style:

• Want structure and ease?
  Platforms like Cambly and Engoo are ideal. You don’t need to create your own materials, and students come to you. These sites are best for beginners who want a soft landing into the world of online teaching.

• Prefer independence?
  Preply and italki give you the freedom to set your rates, craft your own lessons, and grow your student base. There’s more hustle involved, but also more control over your schedule and income.

• Comfortable with kids and phones?
  Palfish is mobile-friendly and popular with younger learners. If you’re animated, patient, and enjoy working with children, this app-based platform might be a natural fit.

• Focused on building a long-term business?
  If you're in it for the long haul, platforms like Superprof and CafeTalk let you expand beyond just ESL. You can diversify your offerings and create a personal teaching brand that goes beyond hourly lessons.

The best part? You’re not locked into one platform forever. Many successful online teachers try two or three to find the right rhythm—and that’s a smart way to get started.

📈 Tips to Succeed Without Experience

Just because you don’t have classroom experience doesn’t mean you can’t succeed as an online English teacher. Plenty of new teachers have built thriving online careers by starting smart and showing up consistently. Here’s how to give yourself the best shot:

• Get TEFL certified.
  A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the standard baseline—go for one that’s accredited and includes practical training or feedback. Even platforms that don’t require a certificate will value the confidence and preparation it gives you.

• Create a professional intro video and bio.
  Your profile is your storefront. Speak clearly, smile, and explain what kind of teacher you are. Be warm, relatable, and genuine—this matters more than sounding “perfect.”

• Use discounted trial classes to gain traction.
  On open marketplaces like Preply or italki, offering low-cost trial lessons helps build your first reviews. Once you’ve proven your value, you can raise your rates and attract loyal students.

• Focus on student satisfaction.
  Be reliable, kind, and responsive. Many platforms track ratings and rebookings, so consistency and friendliness go a long way. Small touches—like remembering a student’s goals—set you apart.

• Join teacher communities.
  Whether it's a Facebook group, subreddit, or Discord server, being part of a teacher group helps you stay motivated, troubleshoot tech issues, and swap ideas for lessons or student engagement.

You don’t need a perfect resume to succeed—you just need a solid setup, a learner’s mindset, and a commitment to helping your students grow.

🪜 Scaling Up: From First Job to Career

Your first online teaching job might not pay much—but it’s a stepping stone, not the destination. The key is to treat it as part of a bigger plan. Here’s how to turn those early hours into a real teaching career:

• Start small, but think big.
  Entry-level platforms like Cambly or Engoo are great for gaining comfort and building a routine. Even if you’re earning $10/hour or less, use that time to collect positive reviews, polish your teaching voice, and refine your approach.

• Specialize and stand out.
  Once you’ve taught for a month or two, add a niche to your profile. Business English, IELTS prep, pronunciation coaching, or teaching young learners can all justify higher rates—and they’re in demand. Many TEFL providers offer short top-up courses to help you specialize fast.

• Look for platforms with internal growth paths.
  Some companies (like Preply or italki) reward top tutors with featured rankings or extra visibility. Others offer digital badges for completing internal training modules. These extras help you raise your rates and build credibility over time.

• Transition when ready.
  As your teaching improves, consider gradually shifting toward open marketplaces or private clients. Many successful teachers start on Cambly or SkimaTalk and later build their own lesson packages or websites to attract long-term, high-paying students.

Scaling up isn’t about chasing every opportunity—it’s about improving with intention and using each stage to unlock the next.

📋 Quick Comparison Table

🚀 Final Thoughts

You don’t need classroom experience to start teaching English online — just a solid TEFL certification, some basic gear, and a willingness to show up and grow. Plenty of platforms are willing to give new teachers a chance, especially those who bring energy, patience, and good communication skills.

Each company has its own rhythm. Some make it easy to jump in with pre-made materials, while others reward teachers who put in the extra effort to stand out. Don’t be afraid to try a few — it’s the best way to figure out where you fit and what kind of students you enjoy teaching.

Once you get started, stay consistent. Build reviews, take feedback seriously, and keep developing your skills. Over time, you’ll not only earn more — you’ll teach better, feel more confident, and have the freedom to choose your path.

Start small, stay consistent, and the rest will follow.