Teaching English as a second language (TESL) refers to teaching English to students whose first language is not English, usually offered in a region where English is the dominant language and natural English language immersion situations are apt to be plentiful.
In contrast, teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) refers to teaching English to students whose first language is not English, usually in a region where English is not the dominant language and natural English language immersion situations are apt to be few. TEFL teaching is considered to be more accessible to teachers with less experience. These teaching jobs are also more prone to exploitation with few companies helping to fight against systemic abuses.[1]