Apply for the CELTA in 3 Easy Steps

Taking the leap to start your English language teaching career is exciting, but it can certainly be daunting, too. Knowing what to expect as you apply for the CELTA will help take away some of those nerves. At StudyCELTA, we’re here to help with every step along the way. We want you to know what to expect when you apply for the course to help ease the stress. Find out everything you need to know about applying below.

Pre-application Step: Decide where and when you’d like to take the CELTA

Before you apply for the CELTA, you’ll need to decide which course you’d like to take. You need to decide the right course format and type for you. Is it face-to-face or online, full-time or part-time, or would a mixed mode option work best? Then there is the location to pick. We have almost 100 locations to take the CELTA with courses for you to choose from, with courses starting year-round. As you can only apply to one course at a time, consider things like course timings, if you’ll need a visa (for face-to-face and mixed mode courses), and the like. Once you’ve decided when, where and how you’d like to take the CELTA, it’s time to start the application process. If you want to see CELTA courses by start date, you can also check out our CELTA calendar.

Step One: Apply!

The first step is easy: simply fill in this application form. The application can take as little as ten minutes. It asks for your educational and working background, some demographic questions, and, of course, your English level. If you’re not sure if your English level is sufficient, remember that you can take our quick test help you find out.

The most important aspect of the application, however, is the question “Why do you want to take a CELTA?” When your application is screened, the most emphasis will be paid to this little question. Here, you have the opportunity to demonstrate that you have the required English level (native or near-native, i.e. a high C1 or IELTS 7.5). Make sure to take care with your spelling, grammar, punctuation and meaning. Just as important is your reason for applying for the CELTA. CELTA trainees should show enthusiasm for helping others learn English and for their own personal and professional development.

Once you’re happy with your answer and have filled in the rest of the form, it’s time to hit submit! We aim to get back to every application within 24 hours during the work week, so you should have to wait less than a day (or a little longer if you apply over the weekend) for your next steps.

Step Two: Complete the Pre-interview Task

Assuming your application showed the required standard of English, the next step will be a pre-interview task. These tasks vary by location (this is why you need to know where you’d like to take the CELTA before applying). However, if you change your mind about your chosen course location, we will be able to transfer your application (and pre-interview task, if you have completed it).

These tasks are used to assess your English language awareness. You’re not expected to already know everything there is to know about grammar and the English language. It is, however, important that you demonstrate a base line of awareness that shows the tutor you’ll be able to keep up with the intensive course. 

This step usually takes a little bit longer than the initial application form. Give yourself the time to complete them to the best of your ability. Don’t rush and be sure that you’re happy with your answers before returning it to us. Whether or not your tasks sufficiently demonstrate your language awareness will determine if your application is advanced to the next stage. 

However, don’t be stressed about the pre-interview task! And be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to the CELTA Pre-Interview Task too…

Step Three: Interview with the Tutor

If successful, your application package will be forwarded on to your chosen course’s CELTA tutor. They will then contact you to set up an interview. This will usually take place online via a video conferencing platform such as Zoom or Skype, though you may be able to do this in person or on the phone, depending on the course location and your chosen course. Sometimes it’s tricky to find a time that will work for both you and the tutor, so it’s important to be aware of this when applying. This is particularly important if you are applying for a course starting very soon.

The tutor will let you know what to expect from the interview. Like the tasks, the interviews can vary from location to location. However, across all locations, it’s important to demonstrate that you have the required level of spoken English, some awareness of grammar, a desire to learn and grow as an educator, as well as a level of professionalism. Remember, don’t be nervous – it’s not an exam. The interview gives the opportunity for both you and the training centre to see where you’re starting from. We have a handy guide on how to get the most out of your CELTA interview that is very useful as well.

You’re In!

And, that’s it! Following your interview, the CELTA tutor will either offer you a place on a course or offer you some feedback on why you weren’t accepted so you can apply again at a future date.

From start to finish, the application process can take a few days to a few weeks, so it’s important to give yourself enough time to complete the process. Remember that spaces on CELTA courses are allocated on a first come, first served basis, so the earlier you can apply for your chosen course, the better.

It’s not scary, it’s not daunting but it is exciting, as you are opening the door to the wonderful world of English language teaching. So, it’s well worth the time to take these three steps to reach your goal of becoming a CELTA-certified English language teacher!

What are you waiting for? Apply for the CELTA now!