Quality Benchmarks

ATS Global TEFL Standards Framework

Eight interconnected quality standards that define excellence in TEFL and TESOL teacher education, applicable to all provider types globally.

About the Framework

What the ATS Standards Framework Is

The ATS Global TEFL Standards Framework is the intellectual and operational foundation of American TEFL Standards. It sets out eight core quality domains that every accreditation evaluation is measured against.

The framework was developed with reference to internationally recognized quality assurance principles used by accreditation bodies including CHEA, ENQA ESG and British Council Accreditation UK, and adapted specifically for the TEFL and TESOL training sector.

Each standard contains indicators — specific measurable requirements — and each indicator requires documented evidence from the provider. This ensures accreditation is based on substance, not claims.

View the Accreditation Process

The ATS Framework covers:

  • Institutional governance and legal standing
  • Curriculum design and learning outcomes
  • Trainer qualifications and competence
  • Teaching practice and methodology
  • Assessment and certification integrity
  • Online and blended learning quality
  • Learner support and safeguarding
  • Continuous improvement and quality cycles
The 8 Standards

ATS Quality Standards

Every ATS accreditation evaluation assesses providers against all applicable standards. Standards are weighted according to provider type and delivery mode.

1

Standard 1: Institutional Governance & Ethics

The provider operates as a legitimate, ethical and transparent organization with clear accountability structures and published policies.

Legal registration and organizational standing Ethics policy and code of conduct Transparent ownership and management Published fees, refund and complaints policies Student protection and safeguarding framework
2

Standard 2: Curriculum Design & Learning Outcomes

The TEFL or TESOL curriculum is purposefully designed, outcome-focused and aligned with recognized English language teaching methodologies.

Clear and measurable learning outcomes Minimum guided learning hours appropriate to level Coverage of grammar, phonology, lesson planning and classroom management Practical teaching component or simulation CEFR awareness and assessment alignment Online teaching methodology where applicable
3

Standard 3: Trainer Qualification & Competence

All trainers hold appropriate qualifications and relevant teaching experience, and are supported in continuing professional development.

Minimum qualification requirements for lead trainers Relevant English language teaching experience Subject expertise appropriate to course content Documented CPD engagement Trainer induction and performance review
4

Standard 4: Teaching Practice & Methodology

The program includes meaningful practical teaching experience or simulation with structured observation and feedback.

Observed teaching practice hours or simulation activities Feedback framework for practical components Formative and summative assessment of practical skills Reflective practice development Mentor or observer qualification requirements
5

Standard 5: Assessment & Certification Integrity

Assessment is valid, reliable and fairly administered. Certification is issued only to learners who have met stated requirements.

Clear assessment criteria and grading rubrics Internal quality assurance for assessment External moderation or verification process Certificate authenticity and verification mechanism Transparent reassessment and appeals process
6

Standard 6: Online Learning Quality

For online and blended delivery, the learning management system and digital content meet defined standards of quality, accessibility and learner engagement.

Functional and accessible LMS platform Clear learner journey and navigation Synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities Tutor accessibility and feedback turnaround times Technical support and accessibility compliance AI tool use policy where applicable
7

Standard 7: Learner Support & Welfare

The provider demonstrates a genuine commitment to learner wellbeing, guidance and fair treatment throughout the learning journey.

Pre-enrollment information and advice Induction and orientation process Academic and pastoral support availability Complaints and appeals process Fair refund policy and financial transparency Equality and inclusion policy
8

Standard 8: Continuous Improvement & Quality Review

The provider engages in systematic self-evaluation and demonstrates evidence-based improvement over time.

Annual quality review process Learner feedback collection and response Graduate outcome tracking Improvement plan documentation Management review cycle
Evidence Requirements

What Providers Must Submit

Accreditation is evidence-based. Claims alone are not sufficient — providers must submit documentation that demonstrates compliance.

Institutional Documents

Business registration, ownership structure, ethics policy, student protection policy, complaints procedure

Course Documentation

Full course syllabus, module content samples, learning outcomes mapping, CEFR alignment documentation

Trainer Records

Trainer CVs, qualification certificates, CPD records, trainer induction documentation

Assessment Samples

Sample assessments, marking rubrics, graded examples, moderation records, certificate specimens

Student Experience

Student handbook, induction materials, support services information, learner feedback reports

Online Evidence

LMS screenshots or access, course navigation demonstration, technical support documentation

Ready to Be Evaluated Against the ATS Standards?

Begin your accreditation journey with a formal application to American TEFL Standards.

Apply for Accreditation How the Process Works