Teaching English online isn’t just for native speakers anymore. As more platforms recognize the value non-native English teachers bring to the classroom, opportunities are expanding — and fast. If you’re fluent in English, certified, and passionate about teaching, there’s space for you in this growing global industry.

In this post, we’re covering 5 of the best online ESL platforms hiring non-native English teachers in 2025, including pay details, requirements, and what to expect.

Non-native teachers bring something powerful to the classroom: experience. You’ve been in your students’ shoes, navigated the challenges of grammar and vocabulary, and built fluency through dedication. That empathy can make your teaching more relatable and effective — and many companies are starting to notice.

The key? Fluency, certification (like a TEFL), and confidence.

Now, let’s dive into the best online ESL platforms open to non-native speakers.

1. Engoo

2. Preply

Students: Global, mostly adults

Pay: You set your rate (typical: $10–$25/hour); Preply takes 18–33% commission

Requirements: None officially — just fluency and a strong profile

TEFL Needed? Not required, but highly recommended

Highlights:

• Full control over your pricing and schedule
• Marketplace-style — students find you
• Flexible and independent

Good For: Teachers who want to grow their own client base

3. italki

Students: Global learners of all ages

Pay: You set your own rate; 15% commission

Requirements: C2-level English (advanced fluency), intro video

TEFL Needed? Not mandatory, but a plus

Highlights:

• Popular with non-native teachers
• You can offer structured or conversational lessons
• Excellent for building long-term student relationships

Good For: Experienced speakers who can present themselves professionally

4. Fluentbe

Students: Primarily Polish adult learners

Pay: ~$10 per hour

Requirements: 1 year of teaching experience (online or in person)

TEFL Needed? Yes, especially if you don’t have a degree

Highlights:

• Group or one-on-one lessons via webcam
• Very flexible scheduling
• Focus on adult learners

Good For: Non-native teachers with experience who prefer teaching adults

5. All Right

Students: Kids aged 4–12 (mostly from Russia, Poland, Spain, and Italy)

Pay: $8–$12 per hour based on fluency level

Requirements: TEFL + experience (if no degree)

TEFL Needed? Yes, unless you have a degree

Highlights:

• Categories for non-native, near-native, and native teachers
• Incentive program available
• Weekend hours required

Good For: Non-native teachers who enjoy working with children and want to grow with a school

💡 Tips to Improve Your Chances

If you’re a non-native speaker applying to online ESL platforms, here are a few tips to boost your chances:

• Get TEFL Certified – It shows professionalism and gives you essential skills.
• Record a Confident Intro Video – Your spoken English matters more than your passport.
• Highlight Your Language Journey – Use your own success as a learning model for students.
• Proofread Everything – Your writing needs to be flawless (even tiny errors can hurt your chances).

✨ Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be born in a native-speaking country to teach English online. What matters most is fluency, confidence, and commitment. These five platforms are a great place to start building your online teaching career — even if you’re just starting out.

Whether you love working with adults or children, want full control over your schedule, or prefer structured lessons, there’s a platform here for you.