Top Companies That Let You Teach English Online Without a Degree

You don’t need a university degree to start teaching English online from home — and that’s great news for passionate, qualified teachers looking to break into remote education. While many of the biggest platforms used to require a bachelor’s degree, the ESL industry has evolved, and more companies are opening their doors to skilled, motivated teachers with the right training and attitude.

This shift is largely thanks to two trends: the explosion in global demand for affordable, accessible English lessons, and the rise of flexible, student-centered platforms that care more about performance than paper credentials. For those who are TEFL-certified, have strong communication skills, and genuinely enjoy helping others learn, there’s never been a better time to teach English remotely — degree or not.

🎓 Do You Really Need a Degree to Teach English Online?

A degree can help — but it’s not the only way to get hired. Some companies require a bachelor’s degree due to legal regulations (especially for certain visa-backed roles), internal policy, or because it adds perceived credibility. However, these requirements are not universal, and many platforms have shifted toward prioritizing teaching ability, consistency, and student satisfaction over formal education.

For non-degree holders, the key is to stand out in other ways. A 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certification is a must, and having experience with kids, tutoring, or language exchange is a strong plus. Good grammar, clear pronunciation, and a confident, friendly teaching style go a long way. Many successful online teachers without degrees build their careers by focusing on niches like business English, conversation practice, or beginner-level learners.

Ultimately, professionalism, energy, and adaptability often matter more to students than a diploma ever will.

📚 What You Do Need Instead of a Degree

While a degree isn’t always required, there are a few things you absolutely do need to teach English online — and they’re what most hiring platforms care about.

• An accredited 120-hour TEFL certificate is essential. This is your baseline qualification. Make sure it's from a recognized provider and includes practical components or observed teaching if possible. Accreditation ensures the course meets global teaching standards — something hiring managers often check.

• A basic tech setup is non-negotiable: a reliable computer, webcam, headset with microphone, and strong internet connection. A quiet, well-lit teaching space also makes a big difference. Even the most engaging teacher can lose students if the connection is laggy or the audio is poor.

• Extras that help you stand out: A short online teaching practicum can demonstrate your comfort in a virtual classroom. Specialized TEFL modules — like teaching young learners, exam prep, or business English — help you target high-demand niches and boost your profile.

When you don’t have a degree, showing you're certified, prepared, and professional can more than make up for it.

🎯 Companies That Don’t Require a Degree to Teach English Online

You don’t need a university degree to start teaching English online — you just need the right platform. Many companies today focus on skills, communication ability, and TEFL certification rather than formal education. Below is a curated list of platforms that accept non-degree holders. Whether you’re starting out, changing careers, or looking for flexible income, these companies give you a legitimate path into online teaching.

🏆 Best Companies That Hire Non-Degree Teachers

1. Cambly

Cambly is one of the most accessible platforms for new teachers. You don’t need a degree, a TEFL, or any prior teaching experience. Lessons are short, informal, and focused on helping students (mostly adults) improve their conversational English. You get paid by the minute, and you can log in and teach anytime — it’s ideal if you’re looking for maximum flexibility or want to test the waters before committing to a more structured platform.

• 💰 Pay: ~$10.20/hour (paid via PayPal)
• 🌍 Students: Mostly adults from around the world
• 🕐 Minimum Hours: None — work when you want
• 🔧 Bonus: No prep required; Cambly provides prompts to guide your chats

Apply to Cambly

2. Preply

Preply is a large global tutoring marketplace where you can set your own rates and build a personal student base. You’ll create a public profile with an intro video, set your availability, and deliver customized lessons based on student needs. While a degree isn’t required, having a TEFL or good reviews helps you stand out. It’s a great long-term option for freelancers who want control and growth potential.

• 💰 Pay: Set your own rates (common range: $10–$45/hour); sliding commission
• 🧑‍🎓 Requirements: No degree required; TEFL and experience recommended
• 🕒 Minimum Hours: ~8 hours/week preferred
• 🌟 Best For: Teachers who want to build a consistent base of regular students

Apply to Preply

3. italki

italki offers two types of teaching roles: Community Tutor (no degree or TEFL needed) and Professional Teacher (requires certification or experience). You set your own prices and schedule, and there’s no curriculum — lessons are designed around student goals. The platform is popular worldwide, and many teachers build full-time income here.

• 💰 Pay: You set your own hourly rate; italki takes 15% commission
• 📚 Role Types: Community Tutor (no degree) or Professional Teacher (with TEFL)
• 🕐 Minimum Hours: None — total flexibility
• 🌍 Standout Feature: Large global student base with strong demand

Apply to italki

4. SkimaTalk

SkimaTalk is a Japan-based platform offering short, 25-minute one-on-one conversation lessons to adult learners. It only accepts native English speakers, but no degree is required. The focus is on natural conversation, so there’s minimal prep. Lessons are conducted over Skype, and you can set your own availability.

• 💰 Pay: Starts around $8/session (25 mins); customizable later
• 🧾 Requirements: Native English speaker; no degree or TEFL required
• 🕐 Minimum Hours: Flexible
• 📌 Ideal For: Chatty, confident speakers looking for a simple teaching setup

Apply to SkimaTalk

5. All Right

All Right specializes in teaching young learners across Europe, and it’s one of the few platforms that openly accepts non-native English speakers. It divides teachers into three categories — native, near-native, and “standard” — and places them accordingly. You can teach one-on-one or group classes, and there’s a clear pay structure based on your fluency level.

• 💰 Pay: $8–$12/hour depending on tier
• 🧒 Students: Mostly children and teens
• 🕐 Minimum Hours: 15/week (6 on weekends allowed)
• 🌍 Great For: Non-native fluent speakers with good classroom presence

Apply to All Right

6. PalFish

PalFish is a mobile-first teaching app popular with young Chinese learners. While it doesn’t require a degree, a TEFL is now mandatory for its “Official Kids Course.” You’ll teach from your phone, often during peak evening hours in China. You can set your own rates, and it’s especially attractive to those who want to teach on-the-go.

• 💰 Pay: $18–$22/hour (after 20% platform fee)
• 📱 Platform: Mobile app; easy to use but requires fast response times
• 🧾 Requirements: TEFL required; no degree needed
• 🔥 Ideal For: Digital nomads or casual teachers who like flexibility

Apply to PalFish

7. Chatschool

Chatschool is a European platform that specializes in adult conversation classes. It doesn’t require a degree or prior experience, but you do need to commit to at least 10 hours per week. The company provides structured materials and group lesson formats. CET timezone preferred, so it’s especially suitable if you’re based in Europe or Africa.

• 💰 Pay: $8–$13/hour
• 🕒 Minimum Hours: 10 hours/week
• 🧾 Requirements: No degree; CET availability preferred
• 🗣️ Best For: Conversational teachers based in European timezones

Apply to Chatschool

8. Tutlo

Tutlo connects you with both adults and children for on-demand English lessons. Classes range from 20 to 60 minutes and follow structured materials, so prep is minimal. While no degree is needed, you must have at least 6 months of teaching experience and a TEFL certificate.

• 💰 Pay: $5–$11/hour
• 📚 Lessons: All pre-designed with specific goals
• 🧾 Requirements: TEFL required; 6+ months of experience
• 🎯 Standout: Instant class matching; great for short, flexible sessions

Apply to Tutlo

9. LatinHire

LatinHire recruits teachers for various companies across Latin America. You won’t teach directly on their platform — instead, they match you with subject-specific roles (English, math, economics, etc.). No degree required, but they prefer native speakers and sometimes ask for basic Spanish or Portuguese.

• 💰 Pay: $7–$13/hour
• 🕐 Minimum Hours: ~5/week
• 🌎 Region: Latin America-focused roles
• 🧾 Good To Know: One application opens doors to multiple placements

Apply to LatinHire

10. Verbling

Verbling is a premium tutoring marketplace that caters to experienced teachers. While it doesn’t require a degree, it does expect solid teaching credentials like a TEFL certificate or prior experience. You can teach from anywhere and set your own rates. The platform is more selective, so it’s best suited for those with a polished teaching profile.

• 💰 Pay: $15–$25/hour
• 🧾 Requirements: No degree, but TEFL or experience expected
• 🕒 Minimum Hours: None
• 💼 Best For: Teachers ready to charge more for premium service

Apply to Verbling

11. Open English

Open English is one of the largest online English education platforms in Latin America. It focuses on teens and adult learners and offers structured lessons using their own materials. While it’s limited to U.S.-based teachers, it provides steady work, especially for those with prior teaching experience.

• 💰 Pay: $13–$15/hour
• 📍 Apply here

12. Lingoda

Lingoda is a Europe-based online school that provides group and private lessons to adults following the CEFR framework. While you don’t need a degree, you must have a TEFL certificate and at least 2–3 years of experience. You’ll also need to be legally able to freelance, as Lingoda does not sponsor work visas.

• 💰 Pay: $7.85–$12.34/hour
• 📍 Apply here

🧠 Bonus: 5 More Platforms Worth Exploring

These platforms also hire non-degree holders, but may be better suited to experienced tutors or those with a specific teaching niche:

• AmazingTalker – Global student base with a wide pay range ($16–$100/hour). You set your own rate and compete via your profile.
  📍 Apply here

• Engoo – Known for fast onboarding and low barrier to entry. Pays less than average but offers consistent work.
  📍 Apply here

• Cafetalk – Based in Japan, this platform targets adult learners. Tutors often specialize in conversation, test prep, or cultural topics.
  📍 Apply here

• Learnlight – Corporate English platform for professionals. Requires TEFL and at least 2 years of experience.
  📍 Apply here

• SuperProf – A tutoring marketplace across many subjects. You set your own price and manage your own clients.
  📍 Apply here

📈 How to Stand Out Without a Degree

Not having a degree doesn’t mean you need to look like an amateur. With the right strategy, you can still build a strong, competitive profile and earn well teaching English online.

Start by stacking your credentials. A fully accredited 120-hour TEFL certificate is the baseline — but you can go further. If you have an associate’s degree, be sure to mention it on your teaching profile. Some platforms count it toward eligibility, and it shows you’ve committed to your education. Add a short practicum to prove real teaching experience (even if it was online), and then consider a specialty course in areas like young learners, business English, or IELTS prep. These extras not only improve your teaching — they help you stand out to platforms and students.

Next, choose companies that give you room to grow. Platforms that let you work with the same students long-term are ideal. This allows you to build rapport, get better reviews, and fill your schedule faster. Students tend to stay loyal to teachers they connect with, which means fewer gaps and steadier income.

Finally, find your niche. Are you great with kids? Do you have a clear accent or professional background that lends itself to business English? Can you help students reduce their accent or pass language exams? Specializing makes your profile more attractive and helps you attract the kind of students who value your strengths — even without a traditional degree.

🌍 Turning Online Teaching Into a Real Career

A degree might open doors — but it’s not what students care about most. What they remember is your energy, your clarity, and how comfortable you make them feel speaking English. If you’re patient, engaging, and know how to explain things simply, you’re already ahead of the game. The truth is, students aren’t looking for academic credentials — they’re looking for connection, consistency, and progress.

That’s why online teaching is more than a side hustle. It can grow with you — right from your home. Start small, then gradually raise your rates. Build a base of loyal students who keep coming back. Add a specialty — maybe it’s kids, pronunciation, or IELTS prep. With time, you’ll gain confidence, improve your teaching, and stand out on any platform.

And if your long-term dream is to travel or live abroad, online experience can help get you there. Schools in places like Thailand, Cambodia, or Latin America often value practical classroom skills over formal degrees. Having real teaching experience — even if it’s virtual — makes you a stronger candidate, especially if you’ve built a track record with a TEFL certificate and good student reviews.

Start where you are, with what you have. You don’t need a degree — just determination, skill, and a willingness to grow.

📌 Final Thoughts: No Degree? No Problem.

You don’t need a university diploma to be a great teacher — especially online. What you do need is a TEFL certificate, a clear voice, and the kind of presence that makes students feel motivated and understood. The online ESL world is evolving fast, and more platforms are opening their doors to passionate teachers who don’t follow the traditional path.

If you’re consistent, communicative, and willing to keep learning, there’s real potential here — not just for a side income, but for a flexible, rewarding career. Whether you want to teach part-time or build toward something bigger, your degree status doesn’t define your success. Your attitude, skill, and drive do.

Whether you want to teach part-time or build toward something bigger, your degree status doesn’t define your success — especially in today’s remote-first teaching world. Your attitude, skill, and drive do.