Best Ways to Get Paid to Teach English on Skype

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Making Money

Teaching English online via Skype is a lucrative side hustle or full-time gig that lets you work from anywhere while helping students learn English. Here are the best platforms and details to get started:

1. SkimaTalk

Average Rate: $16 - $30/hour (20% commission to the platform).
Requirements: None; native English speakers preferred.
Time Commitment: Flexible; set your own schedule.
Highlights:
Teach conversational English to students worldwide.
Payments via PayPal (monthly).

2. Qkids

Average Rate: $16 - $20/hour.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree and teaching certificate (TEFL, TESOL, etc.).
Time Commitment: Minimum 6 hours/week.
Highlights:
Teach young learners in China.
Bonuses for excellent performance.
Monthly payment via direct bank transfer.

3. Preply

Average Rate: $15 - $25/hour (commission: 18% - 33%).
Requirements: None; proficiency in English and passion for teaching.
Time Commitment: No minimum required.
Highlights:
Flexible schedule and rates set by you.
Pay through Payoneer, PayPal, or Skrill.
Commissions decrease as you teach more hours.

4. VIPKID

Average Rate: $14 - $18/hour + incentives.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree and 2 years of teaching experience.
Time Commitment: No minimum.
Highlights:
Focused on teaching students in China.
Choose weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payment (PayPal or bank transfer).

5. Palfish \udc1f

Average Rate: $12 - $17/hour.
Requirements: TEFL/TESOL certificate; native speakers from select countries.
Time Commitment: Flexible, no minimum.
Highlights:
Teach via the Palfish app or Skype.
Payment through Payoneer or Chinese bank accounts.
No degree required!

6. Cambly

Average Rate: $10.20/hour.
Requirements: None; native English speakers.
Time Commitment: Flexible, no minimum.
Highlights:
Get paid to chat with English learners worldwide.
Weekly payments via PayPal.
No certification or degree needed.

7. Open English

Average Rate: $10 - $15/hour.
Requirements: TEFL/TESOL certification and teaching experience.
Time Commitment: Minimum 10 hours/week.
Highlights:
Catered to Latin American students.
Bi-monthly payments via direct bank transfer.

8. Lingoda

Average Rate: $8 - $13/hour (\u20ac7 - \u20ac11).
Requirements: English proficiency (C2 level) and a teaching certificate.
Time Commitment: Flexible, no minimum.
Highlights:
24/7 availability for lessons.
Payment even for cancellations (50% rate).
Monthly payouts via PayPal or bank transfer.

9. Tutlo \udd8d

Average Rate: $5 - $11/hour.
Requirements: TEFL certification and 6+ months of teaching experience.
Time Commitment: None; create your own schedule.
Highlights:
Focuses on conversational English.
Monthly payments via PayPal.

10. iTalki

Average Rate: Minimum $5/hour (15% commission to the platform).
Requirements: Certification for Professional Teachers; none for Community Tutors.
Time Commitment: Flexible; choose your own schedule.
Highlights:
Teach through personalized lessons.
Payment via PayPal, Payoneer, or Hyperwallet.
Teach more to reduce commissions.

Summing it up

Earning Potential: Most platforms offer $10 - $30/hour depending on experience, qualifications, and student demand.
Tools Needed: Reliable computer, fast internet, webcam, and noise-canceling headset.
Optional Certification: TEFL/TESOL can enhance earnings and credibility but isn't always required.
Flexibility: Many platforms allow you to set your schedule, making it perfect for side hustles.

Pro Tip: Start with a platform that matches your skills and certifications, then gradually expand to others to maximize your teaching opportunities!