Setting the Global Standard for TEFL & TESOL Education
American TEFL Standards is the independent professional body for quality standards, accreditation and recognition in English language teacher education worldwide. We do not train teachers. We define what quality training looks like.
What Is American TEFL Standards?
American TEFL Standards (ATS) is an independent professional standards, accreditation and quality assurance organization for TEFL, TESOL, ESL and English language teacher education providers worldwide. ATS was established to address the need for a credible, transparent and internationally recognized framework for evaluating the quality of teacher training in the global English language teaching industry.
Unlike training providers, ATS does not deliver TEFL or TESOL courses. Unlike government agencies, ATS is not a statutory regulator. ATS occupies the independent space between them: a professional standards council and accreditation body that sets the benchmark for quality and recognizes providers that meet it.
Learn More About ATSAmerican TEFL Standards is not:
- A TEFL or TESOL training school
- A TEFL certification provider
- A government regulator or ministry
- A university or degree institution
American TEFL Standards is:
- An independent professional standards body
- An accreditation and quality assurance authority
- A global professional recognition network
- A research-driven quality benchmark organization
What American TEFL Standards Does
Four interconnected functions that maintain quality in TEFL and TESOL education globally.
Define Standards
We develop transparent, measurable quality standards for curriculum design, trainer qualification, assessment integrity and learner support.
Evaluate Providers
We conduct independent desk reviews and virtual audits of TEFL and TESOL providers against the ATS Standards Framework.
Grant Accreditation
We award accreditation to providers that demonstrate compliance with ATS quality standards, at four progressive levels of recognition.
Verify Quality
We maintain a public registry of accredited providers, issue digital credentials and conduct ongoing quality monitoring and renewal reviews.
ATS Accreditation Levels
A progressive, aspiration-based framework that recognizes quality at every stage of a provider’s development.
Provider Approval
Basic quality compliance for smaller or newer training providers meeting ATS core eligibility criteria.
Full Accreditation
Full independent quality review confirming the provider meets all ATS Standards Framework requirements.
Premier Accreditation
High distinction recognition for established institutions demonstrating excellence across all quality standards.
ATS Centre of Excellence
Invitation-only recognition for flagship global institutions at the highest level of quality distinction.
The Value of Independent Quality Standards
For TEFL Providers
Accreditation differentiates your organization in a crowded market. ATS recognition signals credibility to learners, employers and international partners.
For English Language Learners
An accredited TEFL course means your teacher has been trained by a provider that meets independently verified quality benchmarks.
For the Profession
Shared quality standards raise the professional standing of TEFL and TESOL globally, supporting better outcomes for teachers and students alike.
Ready to Elevate Your TEFL Program?
Join the growing community of quality-accredited TEFL and TESOL providers recognized by American TEFL Standards.