Very informative course and gave your much needed exposure and practical learning on the course content. Thoroughly enjoyed it. The extra lessons what to expect after course content, was pretty use... See more
Company replied
While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more
To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more
Review summary
Created with AI, based on recent reviews
What people talk about most
Reviews shaping this summary
I recently explored and completed a short course on Special Education Needs (SEN) and found it very insightful. I learned about how different Special Education Needs (SEN) can affect students, ways to... See more
Company replied
great learning information and easy access to my study exams. i enjoy going at my own pace
Company replied
I did 150 hr TESOL. Kinda surprise about the 'extra tips' lessons, they're the most useful bonus.
Company replied
Company details
Written by the company
International Open Academy (IOA) is a modern Learning Experience Platform that helps learners build practical skills, earn recognised micro-credentials and follow clear career pathways. Our platform adapts to each learner’s pace, interests and goals, offering accessible and job-focused online learning. IOA combines IOA Originals with creator-led courses from YouTube, Instagram and TikTok experts. Members can start quickly with short, mobile-friendly courses and progress through stackable micro-credentials that build real capability. Progress tracking, certificates and structured pathways make learning straightforward and motivating. As a trusted talent partner, IOA focuses on job-ready skills that support employability, upskilling and career change. Learners can explore new interests, strengthen existing skills or prepare for professional opportunities through guided or self-directed learning journeys. IOA has supported over 1.5 million learners in 140+ countries with inclusive, affordable and outcome-driven education. Our mission is to connect practical learning with real opportunities and give learners a clear route from interest to achievement.
Contact info
77 Camden Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 XE80, Dublin, Ireland
- https://international-open-academy.reamaze.com/conversations/new
- www.internationalopenacademy.com
4.3
Excellent
1K reviews
Asks customers to review
This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative
Replied to 100% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 24 hours
How this company uses Trustpilot
See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.
The class was very informative and I…
The class was very informative and I already started a furniture piece with what I learned.
July 11, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi V Dieppa, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that the course was informative and that you've already put your new skills into action—starting a furniture piece is such a rewarding step!
Wishing you continued success and beautiful results in your projects! Warm regards, International Open Academy Team
Misleading TESOL certification – has put my job offer at risk
I enrolled in the TESOL course with International Open Academy believing it would help me take the next step in my teaching career. However, I’ve discovered that the certification they offer is essentially meaningless when it comes to real-world recognition.
The TESOL certificate is “accredited” by ICOES and COES, which sound legitimate, but hold no official weight when trying to validate or legalize documents for international work purposes. I needed this certification to be authenticated and legalized (apostilled) in order to work in China as an English teacher. Unfortunately, I learned too late that this course and its so-called accreditation bodies are not recognized by government institutions — and that has now seriously jeopardized a job offer I had in hand.
This is incredibly frustrating. International Open Academy could have provided genuine guidance, stronger institutional ties, or real accreditation paths — but instead, what they offer is a surface-level product dressed up with flashy claims. There's no proper support or accountability from their side or from ICOES. No one is responding with clear answers.
I am therefore requesting a full refund for the amount paid, and I will also be writing directly to both IOA and ICOES to formally request this. If this is not resolved, I will be pursuing further action.
I do not recommend this course to anyone who needs an officially recognized teaching qualification.
July 14, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Massimo,
Thank you for sharing your feedback, and I’m truly sorry to hear about the frustration this situation has caused. We understand how important it is for certifications to meet specific international requirements, especially when tied to a job opportunity abroad.
To clarify, International Open Academy provides online training and certification for professional development, and our TESOL course is accredited by ICOES, a private accrediting body. While ICOES certificates can be notarized and apostilled in certain cases, they are not issued by a governmental institution, which means embassies or consulates may not always accept them for legalization. We always recommend that students confirm local requirements with the relevant authorities before purchasing additional documentation.
In your case, we did provide detailed guidance regarding the limitations of apostille services and the nature of ICOES accreditation before your purchase. Despite this, we understand you chose to proceed with ordering the ICOES hard copy certificate, which has already been delivered. Since this document was issued and fulfilled directly by ICOES, any refund request would need to be addressed with them.
We’re genuinely sorry that the course didn’t meet your expectations in this context. If there’s anything else we can do to support you or clarify further, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you all the best, International Open Academy Team
My course was informative and…
My course was informative and interesting.
There was both written and video lessons included. I learned quite a bit, including some thing I wish I knew before applying for a job at a company.
I will be back. Thank you.
July 12, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Dream Less, Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear that you found the course both informative and engaging, and that the mix of written and video lessons helped you gain valuable insights.
It’s especially rewarding to know that what you learned is already proving useful in your professional journey. We’d be delighted to welcome you back whenever you're ready to explore more!
Wishing you continued success, International Open Academy Team
Certified and Inspired: My IOA TEFL Experience
1. The company ensured that I did not miss out on this course even when there was a serious mixup in my payment details.
2. The customer service were excellent as they proved to be reliable, approachable, prompt and outstandingly helpful every inch of the way.
3. The company did so well in separating the study from the exam, creating no room for cheating, at least to the best of their ability.
4. The courses are standard as they were able to provide learners with the right exposure to relevant details of the curriculum and the job demands.
5. In terms of pricing, both the course and the certificate are affordable relatively.
6. The tutors are great, warm, cheerful and highly professional in their delivery. They ensured learners are equipped with the basics of ESL teaching.
7. In all, it was such a wonderful experience and I look forward to coming back. Until then, I promise to recommend this company to anyone, anytime, any day.
Thank you.
Chigozie Anthony Chikere
July 11, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Chigozie, Thank you so much for your incredible review! We’re truly honored by your kind words and thrilled to hear that your experience—from resolving payment issues to completing the course—was so positive.
It’s especially rewarding to know that our tutors and course structure helped you feel confident and well-prepared for ESL teaching. Your recognition of our efforts to maintain integrity, affordability, and professionalism means the world to us.
We look forward to welcoming you back whenever you're ready—and thank you for recommending us so generously!
Warm regards, International Open Academy Team
IOA CERTIFICATES
I believe that the International Open Academy (IOA) has significantly contributed to my professional development as a teacher. The courses offered are not only informative but also engaging, especially thanks to the use of visuals and video materials that make the learning process much more effective and enjoyable. These multimedia elements helped me grasp the concepts more clearly and retain the information better. As a result, I feel more confident and well-equipped in my teaching practices, and I am now able to apply what I've learned in more practical and impactful ways in the classroom.
July 1, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Pelin, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and inspiring review! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that our courses have made a meaningful impact on your professional development as a teacher.
It’s wonderful to know that the visuals and video materials helped make the learning process more effective and enjoyable for you. That’s exactly what we strive for—empowering educators with tools that are both practical and engaging.
Wishing you continued success and confidence in your teaching journey. We’re honored to be part of it!
Warm regards, International Open Academy Team
The accessibility of each material and…
The accessibility of each material and the topics were great!
July 11, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Edralyn, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you found the materials accessible and the topics engaging—that’s exactly what we aim for.
Your feedback means a lot to us, and we’re so glad the course supported your learning journey. If you ever need anything or want to explore more topics, we’re here for you!
Warm regards, Bruno International Open Academy Team
I just finished the TEFL course and had a great experience!
I just finished the TEFL course and had a great experience. Although I am a retired teacher, I now feel better equipped with many tips and strategies for specifically teaching ESL students. I highly recommend this course, and I look forward to taking additional courses.
July 6, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you so much, Amy! We're thrilled to hear that our TEFL course was a valuable addition to your teaching journey, even as an experienced educator. It’s wonderful to know the strategies and tips for ESL instruction resonated with you. We’d be delighted to have you back for more courses soon — your enthusiasm for continued learning is truly inspiring!
– The International Open Academy Team
Simple and easy platform to navigate
Simple and easy platform to navigate. Informative and useful materials.
July 4, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you, Thomas! We’re so glad to hear you found the course informative and useful. That’s exactly the kind of experience we aim to provide. Wishing you all the best with your new knowledge!
– The International Open Academy Team
I do not recommend the Face Painting Course
I took the Face Painting Course and cannnot recommend it to anyone. Multiple errors, spelling mistakes, audio issues in the video sections.
I did reach out to the customer service and was offered a fre course to make up for this. Customer service was quick to get back to me and professional.
Please bear in mind that not all of their courses include a certificate.
June 29, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Rebecca, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, and I’m really sorry to hear that you were disappointed with the Face Painting course.
Regarding your concern about the certificate: the inclusion of a certificate of achievement depends on the specific deal purchased. As a general rule, our courses do not automatically include a certificate, and it is offered as an optional add-on. However, certain promotional offers or bundle deals may include the certificate at no extra cost. We always recommend checking the terms of the deal at the time of purchase, and if there’s ever any uncertainty, our support team is here to help clarify.
That said, I’d really encourage you to reach out to our support team directly so we can take a closer look at your enrollment and resolve any outstanding questions or concerns about your course and certificate. We genuinely want to improve our service and would love the opportunity to make this right for you.
Thanks again for your feedback—we’re listening and working on improvements.
Warm regards, International Open Academy Team
GRESA MEMA
My friend told me about the TEFL course and it is extremely good. I am very inspired by the reviews my friend told me about you. I would like to learn more about you and tell you and others what else there is to this course. I appreciate the long period allowed to complete the ten modules. and it is very easy to use. The course content was clear, well structured and engaging — perfect for both beginners and experienced teachers.
June 15, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you so much, Gresa! We’re thrilled to hear that the TEFL course lived up to the recommendation and that you found the content clear, well-structured, and engaging. It’s wonderful to know that both the flexibility and ease of use made a positive impact on your learning experience. We’d love to hear more from you anytime, and we’re excited to have you as part of our community!
– The International Open Academy Team
Review of TEFL Course
It was interesting, easy to follow and not at all repetitive.
May 29, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you, Julie! We’re so glad to hear you found the course interesting, easy to follow, and well-paced. That’s exactly the kind of experience we aim to provide. Wishing you all the best with your new knowledge!
– The International Open Academy Team
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
An affordable and convenient way to get a certified TEFL online.
June 13, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you so much for your kind words, Omer! We're thrilled to hear that you found the TEFL course affordable and convenient. Congratulations on earning your certification — we wish you every success in your teaching journey!
– The International Open Academy Team
Couldn’t recommend enough!!
Couldn’t recommend enough!!! Customer service are amazing my dad completed the bartending course and I had some issues with the account and the certificate and customer service replied within minutes and sorted it all out for me on the day! Thankyou so much to the customer service team that are so kind and helpful
June 12, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you so much, Luana! We're absolutely delighted to hear that your dad enjoyed the bartending course and that our support team was able to assist you quickly and kindly. We understand how important it is to have things run smoothly, especially when it comes to certificates, and we’re so glad we could help.
Your recommendation means a lot to us — and we’ll be sure to share your kind words with the entire team!
– The International Open Academy Team
Taking the TESOL course from IOA
Taking the TESOL course from International Open Academy (IOA) was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. This course gave me a solid foundation in teaching English as a second language and equipped me with practical strategies, teaching methodologies, and the confidence I needed to step into the classroom as a professional.
What made the experience even more meaningful was how I discovered IOA. I was introduced to this trusted learning platform through Nova English Center in Bien Hoa, Vietnam. Thanks to their guidance and support, I was able to access a reputable and affordable TESOL program that fit perfectly with my learning goals and schedule.
The course content was clear, well-structured, and engaging — perfect for both beginners and those with some teaching experience. It not only taught me how to manage a classroom and create effective lesson plans, but also deepened my understanding of language acquisition and student motivation.
Today, I am proud to say that I am a certified English teacher — confident, capable, and passionate about helping others learn. I highly recommend the IOA TESOL course to anyone who wants to start their teaching journey. And a big thank you to Nova English Center for connecting me to such a valuable opportunity!
June 5, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and inspiring review, Nguyenhuyen!
We’re thrilled to hear that the TESOL course provided a solid foundation for your teaching career and gave you the tools and confidence to step into the classroom. Your success is exactly what we aim for!
We're also grateful to the Nova English Center in Bien Hoa for introducing you to International Open Academy — it’s always wonderful to see our global partners helping students find the right path.
Congratulations on becoming a certified English teacher! We’re so proud to be part of your journey and wish you all the best as you inspire and support your students.
The International Open Academy Team
paying for certificate
I did the tefl course on here with a creator link I found on youtube. The creator mentioned that they send you the pdf certificate for free after you complete the course that you can use for applications.
But when I completed mine, I did not get a single pdf. The course purchase does not specify that the digital certificate is not included. After finishing the course, I now have to pay 33$ for a digital certificate. What's the point of buying a course when I can't even redeem a single certificate or proof of completion. It makes no sense because with the course quality, which has no videos or any other materials, you're paying all that money for nothing tbh. Not a single piece of usable documentation at all!
June 4, 2025
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Sisasenkosi,
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We're sorry for the confusion caused.
At times, we’ve included certificates in specific promotions, but these offers do change. It sounds like the YouTube video you used may contain outdated information—while the coupon may still be valid, the details of the offer might no longer apply. We always recommend that resellers and content creators keep their information updated, but unfortunately, we can’t guarantee the accuracy of third-party materials.
We also want to clarify that our Help Center and Terms of Use clearly state that certificates are optional extras, not included by default with course purchases.
We couldn't locate any contact from you in our system, and this issue could likely have been resolved quickly if you'd reached out to our support team. To assist you now, we've sent a request via the Trustpilot platform to get your contact information. Alternatively, you can email us directly at support@internationalopenacademy.com—we’re happy to help.
The International Open Academy Team
My TESOL Journey
The TESOL online course provided a solid foundation for teaching English as a second language. The course was well-structured into clear modules, which made it easy to follow and stay on track. Each module built on the previous one, offering a gradual and manageable learning experience. The flexibility of the online format allowed me to study at my own pace, which was ideal for my schedule. Overall, this TESOL course delivered strong foundational knowledge in a flexible and organized way. I now feel more prepared to start my teaching journey and would recommend the course to others looking for an accessible introduction to teaching English.
May 30, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Lester,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We’re delighted to hear that you found the TESOL course well-structured and accessible, and that the flexible format suited your schedule. It's wonderful to know you now feel confident and prepared to begin your teaching journey.
We’re proud to be part of your professional development and truly appreciate your recommendation.
Best of luck in your teaching career!
The International Open Academy Team
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Kamar,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you loved the course and found it helpful. Your feedback means a lot to us and inspires us to keep creating valuable learning experiences.
Wishing you continued success on your journey!
Warm regards,
The International Open Academy Team
The content of the course was detailed…
The content of the course was detailed and provides all the tools you need to successful
May 10, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Cece,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you found the course detailed and well-equipped with the tools needed for success. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we’re so glad the course met your expectations.
Wishing you all the best on your journey ahead!
Warm regards,
The International Open Academy Team
Valuable experience
Good material to review through the module. I enjoyed reviewing all the different areas that were offered to me!
May 13, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi John,
Thanks so much for your positive feedback! We're delighted to hear you enjoyed reviewing the course material and exploring the different areas offered. It's great to know the content was valuable and engaging for you.
If there's anything we can improve to make your experience a full 5 stars, we’d love to hear from you!
Warm regards,
The International Open Academy Team
Loved the selection of courses
Loved the selection of courses. Easy to navigate between classes if taking multiple classes at one time as I was.
It's set up to flow easily and it does.
:
May 10, 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from International Open Academy
Hi Melissa,
Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful review! We're so glad you enjoyed the variety of courses and found the platform easy to navigate—especially while managing multiple classes at once. That smooth learning flow is exactly what we aim for!
We hope you continue enjoying your learning journey with us. If there's anything we can do to make it a 5-star experience next time, feel free to let us know!
Warm regards,
The International Open Academy Team
The Trustpilot Experience
Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.
Companies can ask for reviews via automatic invitations. Labeled Verified, they’re about genuine experiences.
Learn more about other kinds of reviews.
We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.
Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.
Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.
Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.
Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.