italki Application Process 2025: How to Become a Teacher on italki (Step-by-Step Guide)

Introduction

What is italki and Why Teach There?

If you’re looking to monetize your language skills or teaching experience online, you’ve probably heard of italki. It’s one of the most popular global platforms where language learners connect with native or fluent speakers for 1-on-1 tutoring sessions. With over 5 million users and growing, italki presents a golden opportunity for freelancers, teachers, and language lovers to earn from anywhere.

What sets italki apart? You don’t need a formal teaching license to get started. Whether you’re a certified instructor or just passionate about helping others learn your native tongue, italki offers a flexible and rewarding way to make money online.

Some key reasons to consider teaching on italki:

• Flexible schedule – You control your hours.

• Global audience – Teach students from all around the world.

• Set your own rates – Earn what you think you’re worth.

• Teach from anywhere – Home, café, or while traveling.

• Low barrier to entry – You can get started even without a degree (for some positions).

italki supports over 130 languages, so whether you speak English, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, or even less-common languages like Swahili or Icelandic, there’s likely a demand waiting for you.

This guide will walk you through the entire italki application process, including requirements, video tips, how to get approved, and what to expect after you’re in.

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Understanding the Demand for Online Language Tutors

The rise of remote work, online education, and global mobility has skyrocketed the demand for language learning platforms like italki. People are now learning languages for travel, business, exams, immigration, or personal growth. And they’re looking for real people to help—not just apps.

italki fills this gap by allowing learners to:

• Find tutors that match their learning style

• Practice speaking in real conversations

• Book lessons on demand at affordable prices

For teachers, this demand creates a steady stream of potential students, especially if you offer a popular language (like English, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese). But even niche languages have their audience—many learners seek native speakers for advanced pronunciation, slang, or exam prep.

So, whether you’re a native speaker, a certified teacher, or a bilingual enthusiast, there’s a real market for you on italki.

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Types of Teaching Roles on italki

Professional Teacher vs. Community Tutor

When applying on italki, you must choose one of two roles:

1. Professional Teacher

2. Community Tutor

Here’s the difference:

Professional Teachers are best for structured lessons—grammar, writing, test prep (IELTS, TOEFL, JLPT, etc.). If you have teaching credentials, go for this—it positions you as an expert and lets you charge more.

Community Tutors are great for informal conversation practice. Think of it like chatting with a local friend who helps you speak more naturally.

Important: You can only apply for one role per language, but you can teach multiple languages under the same account.

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Which Role Should You Choose?

Ask yourself:

• Do I have a degree in education or language teaching?

• Do I want to offer structured lessons with learning materials?

• Am I targeting advanced students or exam takers?

If yes, apply as a Professional Teacher.

If not, and you’re more into helping people casually improve their speaking or listening skills, go with Community Tutor. Many top-earning italki tutors actually start here.

And don’t worry—you can still upgrade your status later. Many Community Tutors become Professional Teachers once they earn certifications or gain experience.

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Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Who Can Apply on italki?

You don’t have to be a teaching veteran to apply on italki. However, you do need to meet some basic eligibility:

• Be 18 years old or older

• Have native or near-native fluency in at least one language

• Have a stable internet connection, laptop or PC with webcam

• Have a quiet and professional background/environment

• Submit a high-quality introduction video

• Provide proof of teaching credentials (only for Professional Teachers)

No college degree is required for Community Tutors. But if you’re applying as a Professional Teacher, you’ll need to upload:

• A teaching certificate (TESOL, CELTA, TEFL, etc.)

• OR a university degree related to education or language

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Languages Accepted on italki

As of 2025, italki supports over 130 languages. Some of the most in-demand ones include:

• English

• Spanish

• Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese)

• Japanese

• Korean

• French

• German

• Italian

• Portuguese

• Arabic

• Russian

• Tagalog/Filipino

• Hindi

But don’t worry if your language isn’t mainstream. There’s growing interest in regional and indigenous languages, as well as sign languages, heritage dialects, and even business-specific language coaching.

Tip: If you’re multilingual, you can apply to teach multiple languages, but each application is reviewed separately.

Step-by-Step italki Application Process

Step 1 – Create an italki Account

First things first—you’ll need to sign up for an italki account. Head to www.italki.com and click “Teach” in the top navigation menu.

Here’s what happens during this step:

1. Click “Apply to Teach”

2. Choose whether you’re applying as a Professional Teacher or Community Tutor

3. Enter your email address, create a password, or sign up with Google/Facebook

4. Confirm your email verification link

5. You’re in! 🎉

Once you’ve created your account, italki will ask you to fill out your teacher application, which includes a profile, intro video, and supporting documents.

Important: Just signing up doesn’t make you visible to students. You must first complete and submit your application for review and approval.

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Step 2 – Complete Your Teacher Profile

Your teacher profile is your resume on italki. It’s the first thing students see before they decide to book with you, so it needs to be:

• Clear

• Friendly

• Professional

Here’s what to include:

• Profile Photo: Use a well-lit, professional-looking headshot. Smile. Avoid selfies or blurry pics.

• Display Name: Use your real first name or a name students can call you (no nicknames like “xXteachermasterXx” please).

• Language(s) You Teach: You can add multiple languages, but remember each needs a separate approval.

• Language(s) You Speak: This helps italki recommend you to students who share your language.

• Introduction Bio: Write a compelling description of who you are, what you teach, and how you can help the student. Make it about them, not just you.

• Teaching Experience & Certifications: Especially important for Professional Teachers. Highlight your background.

• Class Types Offered: e.g., Conversation Practice, Business English, Test Prep, Grammar Lessons.

Pro tip: Think of your profile as your storefront. Make it engaging and honest. Use simple, clear language—even better if you include a greeting in the target language!

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Step 3 – Record Your Teacher Introduction Video

This is the most important part of your italki application.

Your video introduction shows students your face, voice, accent, and personality—things no text can capture. Think of it as your elevator pitch.

✅ Video Requirements:

• Length: 1–3 minutes

• Language: Use the language you’re applying to teach. Add subtitles if possible.

• Orientation: Horizontal (landscape)

• Background: Clean, quiet, and well-lit (no noisy cafés or messy bedrooms)

• Format: MP4 or MOV (or record directly on the italki platform)

✅ What to Say in the Video:

1. Greet students and introduce yourself

2. Mention your teaching style and what lessons you offer

3. Describe your background or qualifications (briefly)

4. Invite students to book a lesson with you

Example Script (for English tutors):

“Hi! My name is Sarah and I’m from Canada. I’m a certified English teacher with over 5 years of experience. My classes are focused on conversation, fluency, and confidence. Whether you’re a beginner or preparing for IELTS, I’d love to help you. Book a trial with me and let’s start learning!”

💡 Tips:

• Dress neatly like you would for a class.

• Smile and keep eye contact with the camera.

• Don’t read from a script word-for-word—be natural.

• Speak clearly and at a steady pace.

This video can make or break your application. Practice a few times, record, review, then upload your best version.

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Step 4 – Submit Required Documents

Depending on your chosen teaching role, italki may require different documents.

For Professional Teachers, you must upload:

• Teaching Certificates: TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, etc.

• OR

• University Degree: Must relate to language or education

• Optional: ID verification (to increase trust)

For Community Tutors, documentation is not mandatory—but adding anything relevant (e.g., language test results, volunteer teaching proof) can boost your profile’s credibility.

Document Guidelines:

• Clear scans or photos (PDF or JPEG)

• Must be in English or include a translated version

• Blurry, cropped, or illegible documents may cause delays

This step also includes setting your teaching hours, preferred communication tools (usually Zoom or italki Classroom), and time zone.

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Step 5 – Await Approval and Onboarding

Once you’ve submitted your application, italki’s teacher onboarding team will review it. This usually takes:

• 7–10 business days, but it can be faster (some get approved in 2–3 days)

Your application will be evaluated based on:

• Quality of video and profile

• Language fluency and presentation

• Document validity (for pro teachers)

• Professionalism and clarity

If approved, you’ll receive an email and see your status change to “Active”. You can now:

• Set your lesson prices

• Create lesson packages

• Open your calendar to accept bookings

• Start earning 🎉

If rejected, don’t panic. You’ll often receive feedback on what went wrong—maybe your video had poor lighting, or your bio was too short. You can reapply after 3 months, and many get accepted on their second try.

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Creating a Strong Teacher Profile

How to Write a Great Bio

Your bio is your personal sales pitch. This is where students decide whether you’re worth booking. A good bio should be:

• Short and punchy (150–300 words)

• Focused on student benefits (“I can help you with pronunciation, exam prep, or confidence.”)

• Written in the target language, if possible

• Formatted clearly, with spacing or bullet points for readability

Structure your bio like this:

1. Who you are: “I’m a language enthusiast and native speaker from Brazil.”

2. What you offer: “I specialize in helping beginners gain confidence through daily conversation.”

3. Your style: “My classes are relaxed, fun, and completely personalized.”

4. Why choose you: “I’ve helped 50+ students prepare for the IELTS and speak naturally.”

Avoid generic lines like “I love teaching” or “Language is important.” Be specific and personal!

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What to Include in Your Teaching Experience

Even if you don’t have formal teaching experience, you can highlight:

• Language exchange partners

• Volunteer teaching

• Tutoring friends/family

• Speaking multiple languages

If you’ve taught online before (via Preply, Cambly, etc.), mention that. Talk about how you create lesson plans or adjust to different learning styles.

Use keywords like:

• Conversational classes

• Grammar support

• Pronunciation drills

• Cultural context

• Exam preparation

This helps the italki algorithm (and students) understand your niche.

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Setting Your Availability and Time Zone

This might seem minor, but your schedule determines your visibility. Set your availability to:

• Include weekends (high demand)

• Offer early mornings or late evenings, especially if teaching students from other time zones

• Update it regularly to stay active in search rankings

Make sure your time zone is correct—students book in their own time zones, and italki converts it automatically. But if your setting is off, you might miss out on lessons or create confusion.

How to Get Students on italki

How the italki Algorithm Works

Once you’re approved, your next question will be: “How do I get students?”

This is where italki’s algorithm comes in.

The platform uses a combination of factors to rank and recommend teachers to students. The higher you rank, the more visible your profile becomes.

Here’s what influences your visibility:

• Profile Completeness: Fully filled-out profiles with high-quality videos rank higher.

• Response Rate: Reply quickly to student inquiries.

• Booking Rate: More bookings signal popularity to the algorithm.

• Student Reviews: Positive reviews push your profile higher.

• Schedule Availability: Open more hours = more chances to be seen.

• Activity: Log in frequently and update your profile to stay active.

Here’s a smart tip: When you’re just starting, lower your trial lesson rate to attract your first few students. Once you have reviews and bookings, you can gradually raise your rates.

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Getting Reviews and Building Trust

Social proof is king. Students often choose teachers with strong reviews, especially new learners who may feel nervous about booking.

How to get your first reviews:

1. Deliver great lessons from day one.

2. Ask for a review at the end of your trial lesson—nicely and professionally.

3. Follow up with a thank-you message and polite reminder.

Example:

“Thank you for the great class today! If you enjoyed it, I’d really appreciate it if you could leave a quick review. It helps me reach more students. Looking forward to our next lesson!”

Avoid fake reviews or pushing too hard. Organic, honest reviews are what build long-term success.

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Tips for Success as a New italki Teacher

How to Get Bookings Quickly

Every new teacher wants that first student—and then the second, and third. Here are some tried-and-true ways to build momentum fast:

• Offer a very low trial price (as low as $1–$5) to attract curious students

• Be available at peak hours—evenings in China, Korea, Japan, or early mornings for European students

• Respond within minutes to messages and booking requests

• Keep your intro video clear, upbeat, and friendly

• Specialize in something—“Conversational English for Travelers” or “Spanish for Business”

You can also use italki Moments (their social feed) to post content, mini-lessons, or questions. This boosts your profile engagement and shows up in students’ feeds.

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Managing Class Quality and Student Satisfaction

Once the bookings start rolling in, you’ll need to keep your students happy—and coming back.

✅ Here’s how:

• Always show up on time (preferably 5 minutes early)

• Personalize your lessons—ask about their goals, level, and interests

• Use shared materials like PDFs, Google Docs, or Quizlet

• Give homework or follow-up resources when appropriate

• Stay positive and supportive, especially with beginners

Students love when teachers remember small details—like a goal they mentioned or a problem they struggled with. These human touches turn one-time students into loyal clients.

Remember: Student retention is more valuable than constant new bookings. Focus on quality over quantity.

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Payment and Earnings

How italki Pays Teachers

One of the best parts of italki? You get paid for every completed lesson. Payments are processed via:

• PayPal

• Pioneer (formerly Payoneer)

• Skrill

You choose your payout method during setup.

Earnings are added to your italki wallet once the class is marked “Completed.” You can request a payout once your available balance reaches $30.

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Minimum Payout, Currency, and Processing Time

• Minimum withdrawal: $30

• Currency: USD (converted by your payment processor)

• Processing time: 3–10 days depending on the method

Payout schedule: italki processes payments every 15th and 30th of the month, so plan accordingly.

Also note: italki takes a 15% commission from every paid lesson. So if you charge $10, you’ll receive $8.50. This covers their platform costs, support, and student acquisition.

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Pros and Cons of Teaching on italki

Advantages of Using italki

👍 Flexibility
Teach when and where you want. Great for digital nomads, parents, or anyone seeking side income.

👍 No need to hunt for students
italki brings learners to you—you just need to make your profile appealing.

👍 Teach your way
Design your own curriculum, teaching style, and price points.

👍 Diverse student base
Work with learners from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and more.

👍 Low startup cost
You don’t need expensive equipment. A laptop, camera, and good internet are enough.

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Limitations to Consider

👎 No guaranteed income
You earn based on bookings. It can take time to build momentum.

👎 High competition
Some categories (like English or Spanish) are crowded. Standing out takes work.

👎 Platform control
italki can change rules or suspend profiles if they find violations.

👎 15% commission
While standard for most platforms, it does cut into your earnings.

That said, most successful teachers find the benefits outweigh the drawbacks—especially once they build a loyal student base.

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italki vs Other Language Teaching Platforms

How italki Compares to Preply, Cambly, and Verbling

There are many online language teaching platforms out there, so how does italki stack up?

italki is unique because it allows both certified and casual tutors, supports 130+ languages, and lets you create your own lesson packages.

If you’re a beginner or looking for long-term flexibility, italki is one of the best platforms to grow with.

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Why italki Might Be the Better Choice

• More global exposure

• More autonomy (pricing, schedule, style)

• Active community of learners

• Helpful support and resources

• Ideal for scaling into full-time work

Whether you’re just starting or already an experienced educator, italki gives you room to grow, earn, and impact lives worldwide—without the stress of setting up your own website or marketing campaigns.

Conclusion

Is italki Worth It for New Language Tutors?

If you’re passionate about teaching, love connecting with people across cultures, and want a flexible way to earn money from anywhere—then yes, italki is absolutely worth it.

It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, and it won’t make you a millionaire overnight. But it offers something better:

• Freedom to set your schedule

• Autonomy to build your own teaching brand

• Access to a global pool of eager learners

• A community that supports and encourages your growth

Whether you’re a certified professional or someone who just loves helping others learn a new language, italki gives you a platform to start small and grow steadily. Many teachers who once struggled to find students are now earning consistent monthly income—and loving the work they do.

The application process can feel intimidating at first, especially with the video and document uploads. But once you’re in, you’ll see it’s all worth it.

Just remember:

• Treat your application like a job interview.

• Be honest and personable in your video.

• Optimize your profile like it’s your business card.

• And once approved, deliver high-quality lessons that keep students coming back.

You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to be authentic, consistent, and committed to your students’ success.

So, is now the right time to apply?

If you’re still reading, then yes—it is. Your future students are already on italki, searching for someone just like you.

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FAQs

Can I Teach Without a Degree on italki?

Yes. If you apply as a Community Tutor, you don’t need a degree or teaching certification. You just need to be fluent in the language you’re teaching and capable of guiding learners through conversations and casual practice.

For Professional Teachers, however, you do need to provide proof of a degree or certification in education, linguistics, or a related field.

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How Many Languages Can I Teach?

You can apply to teach multiple languages, but each one requires a separate application and approval. For example, if you’re bilingual in Spanish and English, you can submit separate applications for each.

Make sure you’re fluent and confident in every language you plan to teach—students expect native or near-native guidance.

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What if My Application is Rejected?

Don’t panic. Many teachers are accepted on their second or third try. You’ll usually receive feedback explaining what to improve—such as a better-quality video, more detailed profile, or clearer proof of credentials.

After addressing the issue, you can reapply after 3 months.

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Is italki Good for Full-Time Income?

Yes—but it takes time. Many teachers start part-time and gradually build a base of regular students. Top earners on italki can make $2,000–$4,000/month or more, especially if they specialize in high-demand niches or offer premium packages.

Your success depends on:

• Your teaching consistency

• Student satisfaction and reviews

• Your availability and pricing

• Niche or language specialization

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Do I Need Teaching Certifications to Get Approved?

Only if you’re applying as a Professional Teacher. You’ll need:

• A teaching license/certificate (e.g., TEFL, TESOL, CELTA)

• Or a degree in education, linguistics, or the language you teach

For Community Tutors, these are optional—but still helpful.

Even without certifications, you can stand out with a great video, a clear bio, and a willingness to personalize your lessons.

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