Chicago, the third largest city in the US, offers world-class cuisine, architecture, museums, sports, shopping, cultural attractions, and more.
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicagoans enjoy boating and swimming in the lake during the summer,as well as biking, running, and rollerblading down the scenic Lake Shore Path year round.
Blues, Jazz, and Gospel have firm roots in Chicago, and you can still hear these soulful genres performed today at clubs and festivals. Chicago is also home to many theatres, where you can enjoy Broadway musicals, dramatic theater, improvisational sketches, comedy routines, and much more.
Whether your interests lie in exploring the different neighborhoods, going to free outdoor concerts at Millennium Park, or catching a Cubs game, Chicago offers something for everyone.
The School
TEFL Institute’s Chicago school is located in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood at the corner of Irving Park Rd. and Wolcott Ave., just one block west of the Irving Park Brown Line Station. Free parking is readily available in the neighborhood. Restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars are all within walking distance.
The facility features two classrooms, a computer lab, and a kitchenette, and is equipped with whiteboards, a video projector, a video recorder, free Wi-Fi, and a library of ESL books and resource materials.
Each Chicago course is led by an experienced instructor, who has at least a Master's degree and over five years of TEFL teaching experience. Class size is limited to 12 students for optimal learning and interaction.
The course meets Monday through Friday for four weeks. The course runs 4PM - 9PM.
The topics covered range from speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar. The Chicago course also includes a practicum (student teaching, tutoring, and/or observation). Students will complete their practicum hours during the four-week course period.* Check out the course syllabus for more information, and be sure to view our videos on youtubefeaturing testimonials from Chicago course alumni.
Students are required to purchase their TEFL Professional Textbook, Workbook, Practicum Book in advance. See our bookstore for prices.
*Students will not receive their certificate until all course work and practicum is completed.
Housing
TEFL Institute does not provide housing. However, we are happy to assist you in finding accommodations. Several hostels are nearby with prices ranging from $26-$34 USD and up per night. Hostel options include Chicago Getaway Hostel and AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel.
Short-term furnished apartments and subleased rooms are available throughout the city year round. Temporary sublets/room shares will run from $350 and up, depending on the number of roommates, the neighborhood, and amenities.
Transportation
Chicago has two airports: Chicago O’Hare Airport in the north and Chicago Midway airport in the south. Amtrak and Greyhound provide service to central Chicago. Once you arrive in the city, Chicago Transit Authority offers excellent public transportation by bus and train, and taxis are readily available as well.
Climate
Chicago is a truly Midwestern city featuring hot summers and cold winters. Always choose clothing based on the season and check long-range weather forecasts before traveling.
Tuition Includes
Tuition Includes:
Tuition DOES NOT Include:
TEFL Institute course fee
Job placement assistance
Pre-enrollment and departure advice
Assistance finding housing
Video of your final presentation to send to potential employers
Graduation ceremony
Certificate
Job search and resume workshops
Course materials
Accommodation and meals
Personal expenses
Travel to and from the course
Visa, if needed (TEFL Institute cannot provide student visas)
Airport pickup
Medical insurance (TEFL Institute can recommend medical insurance)