Top 11 Online Business English Courses to Elevate Your Career

Are you aspiring to join an international company or relocate abroad for your career? Perhaps you’re eager to collaborate with diverse teams from around the globe.

To build a truly global career, mastering business English is essential. Not only is it the official language in more than 70 countries, but it also serves as the unofficial lingua franca for the international business community. Embracing this skill can open doors to countless opportunities worldwide.

Balancing a busy work life with the desire to enhance your English skills can be tough. Fortunately, online business English courses are tailored specifically for dedicated professionals like you! In this article, we’ll highlight our top recommendations for business English tutors and delve into the compelling reasons why studying business English online can be a game-changer for your career.

11 best business English courses & classes online

Broadly speaking, online business English courses fall into two categories:

• Pre-recorded video lessons and online exercises: More affordable and low-commitment options, these resources allow for self-paced learning, though they lack personalized tutor feedback.
• Interactive video chat lessons: Although slightly pricier, these sessions provide expert guidance and the opportunity to practice essential spoken conversation skills in a second language.

1. LingualNeeds: Best for busy professionals

• Best use cases: People with busy schedules who need flexibility
• Cost: Between $5 and $50/lesson, depending on the tutor
• Time commitment: Flexible, with private lessons between 30 and 50 minutes
• Sample topics: Sales, marketing, finance, HR, IT, business calls

LingualNeeds boasts an impressive network of over 32,000 tutors, making it a premier global platform for language learning. Here, you can easily find your ideal personal language tutor tailored to your needs. One of its standout features is the diverse range of learning options available. Whether you prefer personalized 1-on-1 sessions or engaging in small group classes, LingualNeeds has the perfect setup for you to thrive in your language journey.

Private business English lessons can be incredibly beneficial for achieving specific objectives, whether you want to enhance relationships with international partners or master specialized vocabulary to tap into new markets. At LingualNeeds, our online business English tutors will not only guide you through tailored lessons but also develop a personalized growth plan to help you reach your goals effectively.

LingualNeeds starts by asking a series of questions to understand your goals, proficiency level, and schedule. Based on your answers, it provides a curated list of tutors tailored to your needs. You can easily compare their prices, ratings, and biographies to choose the best fit for a trial lesson, available in either 25 or 50-minute sessions.

If you don’t connect with your tutor, feel free to explore other professionals until you discover the ideal fit for your learning style.

This customized strategy effectively targets your weaknesses while equipping you with essential business abbreviations, terms, and vocabulary specific to your industry.

Enhance your accent and language skills by learning directly from native speakers! LingualNeeds offers personalized business English courses that won’t break the bank. With one-on-one lessons starting as low as $5 each, you can receive tailored instruction that fits your budget.

So, if you’re looking to ace interviews, master meetings, and perfect your presentations, sign up with LingualNeeds.

Pros

• Personalized lessons
• Online library of practice exercises, courses, and conversation starters for business English topics
• Variety of learning options, including 1-on-1 sessions and small group classes of up to 6 students
• Vocabulary study tools available in the LingualNeeds app

Cons

• No standard curriculum
• Live video lessons require a strong internet connection

2. Udemy: Best for industry-specific courses

• Best use cases: People who want to take industry-specific business English courses
• Cost: Between $19.99 and $199.99, depending on the course
• Time commitment: Between 1 and 24 hours per course, depending on the course
• Sample topics: Supply chain, customer service, commercial law, email writing, job interviews

If you’re not in need of a general business English course, but instead want to focus on the specific vocabulary relevant to your field, Udemy could be the perfect solution for you! Explore tailored courses designed to enhance your professional language skills in your area of expertise.

Udemy is an innovative platform that empowers users to design courses on a wide array of topics, ranging from coding to business etiquette. Among its extensive offerings, you’ll find hundreds of courses dedicated to mastering business English, many of which are specifically tailored to various career fields. Whether you’re a radiologist, a hospitality professional, or a data scientist, you’re likely to find a Udemy course crafted to enhance your English skills in your industry.

Our courses feature a series of engaging asynchronous video lessons and interactive exercises that you can easily access on your computer or mobile device. With most courses designed to be completed in just a few days, you’ll be able to enhance your skills quickly and efficiently.

It’s essential to understand that Udemy allows anyone to create and upload courses, which can lead to significant variations in quality. However, this platform is known for its affordability, making it a great option for those looking to rapidly acquire new skills.

Pros

• Video lessons and interactive exercises
• Detailed reviews from previous students
• Courses often go on sale

Cons

• Students shouldn’t expect feedback on their work
• No certification available

3. Coursera: Ideal for university-endorsed materials

• Best use cases: People looking for university-endorsed business English courses
• Cost: Free to sign up for courses; $59/month or $399/year for Coursera Plus
• Time commitment: Between 10 and 250 hours, depending on the course
• Sample topics: Entrepreneurship, career development, business intelligence, finance, economics, networking, contract negotiation

Do you like the concept of Udemy but wish the courses were a little more rigorous? Head to Coursera!

The database operates in a similar fashion: simply search for terms like “English for business” or “business English” to explore the available programs. While the selection may be more limited, there’s a significant advantage—each course is owned and endorsed by an accredited university. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to earn a prestigious certificate!

Many courses on Coursera are available for free, allowing you to watch videos and review materials without any financial commitment. This ensures that you can explore different subjects without the worry of investing in a course that may not suit your needs.

For those interested in exploring multiple courses, Coursera Plus is an excellent option. This subscription offers unlimited access to more than 7,000 courses and professional certifications, allowing you to enhance your skills and knowledge at your own pace.

Many programs highlight “learner career outcomes,” showcasing statistics that reveal the impact of their courses on alumni’s careers. Often, graduates report receiving promotions or salary increases after completing a course. This information can guide you in selecting courses that have a track record of success.

Pros

• Most courses are free to access
• User ratings for every program
• Official certifications from renowned institutions

Cons

• Requires payment to receive feedback or certification of completion
• Not many specialist business English courses available
• Pre-recorded video lectures offer no opportunity to practice speaking English
• Advanced courses tend to be expensive
• Can be difficult to find information about course pricing before committing

4. EF English Live: Best for slow-paced learning

• Best use cases: People who want to learn business English over an extended period of time
• Cost: Starting at $129/month for 4 private lessons/month for 6 months (pricing available by request)
• Time commitment: At least 12 weeks to see results
• Sample topics: Networking, writing business proposals, job interviews, meetings, problem-solving

Are you ready to invest both time and money into enhancing your professional English skills? If so, EF English Live could be an excellent choice for you.

EF English Live provides an exceptional premium plan designed to help students reach their English fluency aspirations. Their online video course features engaging interactive exercises and assignments that enhance learning. With the flexibility to join group video chat classes around the clock, you can participate whenever it fits your schedule. Additionally, you have the opportunity to book personalized 1-on-1 video sessions for a more tailored learning experience.

EF English Live offers an exceptional blend of flexibility and consistent feedback from expert tutors, making it a top choice for language learners. However, this premium service comes at a cost: the basic plan begins at $129 per month, with a six-month commitment required. For those eager to accelerate their learning, a premium package that includes extra private lessons is recommended, though pricing details are provided upon inquiry.

Pros

• 30-minute classes available 24/7 without needing to book in advance
• 24/7 support hotline for exercises and assignments
• Focus on real-world business scenarios

Cons

• More expensive than other courses
• Can be difficult to cancel subscription

5. The British Council: Best for IELTS exam preparation

• Best use cases: People who want to start with business English basics or prepare for the IELTS exam
• Cost: Free to access some resources; £5.99/month for online self-study; plans start at $88/month for 5 online group classes
• Time commitment: Flexible, with 25-minute private lessons and 55-minute group classes
• Sample topics: Job interviews, client meetings, team collaboration, negotiation

If you’re learning English on your own, you’ve likely discovered the wealth of free resources provided by the British Council. Renowned globally for its excellence in English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, the British Council offers comprehensive teaching programs across every continent.

Explore a diverse selection of online English courses on their website, catering to various learning styles. Choose from live classes and personalized tutoring, or opt for self-study courses that allow you to learn at your own pace. Their budget-friendly self-study program includes engaging interactive exercises and live webinars focused on grammar and pronunciation, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

The British Council administers the IELTS exam, the leading English language test for those pursuing higher education and migrating globally. To support students in their preparation, they offer a range of specialized programs at different price points. Additionally, you can explore their platform and access valuable study tips for free, allowing you to assess their resources before making a commitment.

Pros

• Globally recognized organization
• Hundreds of resources available for free, including proficiency tests
• More affordable self-study options available

Cons

• Focus on UK English only
• Limited selection of free online courses

6. Wall Street English: Ideal for intensive learning

• Best use cases: People who want a more intensive language-learning experience
• Cost: Pricing available only by request
• Time commitment: At least 4 hours/week
• Sample topics: Negotiation, mergers and acquisitions, telephone skills, job interviews, presentations

Wall Street English presents a meticulously designed online business English course, blending the reliability of a traditional language school with the convenience of online learning. Originally renowned for its network of in-person language schools, the company expanded its offerings during the pandemic to include a comprehensive online curriculum. If you appreciate the effective methods of established language education but desire the flexibility that online courses provide, Wall Street English could be the perfect fit for you.

Wall Street English presents the Business Partner course, tailored for international business professionals seeking to enhance their English skills. This course combines online and in-person classes that focus on real-world business challenges, allowing you to learn practical business English effectively. Additionally, you’ll gain exclusive access to MyEnglishLab, an interactive online platform filled with supplementary exercises for each lesson, along with dedicated support from your instructor whenever you need assistance.

Pros

• Both online and in-person classes available
• Focus on real-world business scenarios
• Course materials developed with the Financial Times

Cons

• Higher commitment than other courses
• More expensive

7. Kaplan International: Great for obtaining work experience

• Best use cases: Studying alongside obtaining professional work experience
• Cost: Pricing available only by request
• Time commitment: Full-time study with additional internship hours
• Sample topics: Business management, legal frameworks, & social sciences

Kaplan International offers specialized pathway programs in business, law, social sciences, science, and engineering. These innovative programs combine online learning with virtual internships, providing students with valuable hands-on experience while they pursue their academic studies.

The Foundation Certificate and Pre-Master’s courses are thoughtfully designed to prepare students for advanced education and future career opportunities. However, it’s important to note that these are intensive full-time programs, making them unsuitable for those who are already balancing work or other studies.

These courses offer a unique blend of education and virtual internships, making them perfect for students eager to gain practical experience in a professional setting while they learn.

Pros

• Offers both online and in-person courses
• Focuses on academic preparation
• Partnership with Virtual Internships providing access to 3,500+ host companies

Cons

• High level of commitment required
• Not as flexible as other courses

8. Alison: Best for learning specific business English skills

• Best use cases: Learning specific Business English skills in your free time
• Cost: Free
• Time commitment: 2 to 15 hours per course
• Sample topics: Business communication, English grammar, vocabulary, hospitality, tourism

Alison’s complimentary online Business English courses provide an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to enhance their English skills in a professional setting. The curriculum encompasses a variety of topics, including fundamental grammar, effective communication for business meetings, and practical tips aimed at acing job interviews. Whether you’re starting out or seeking to refine your expertise, these courses are designed to empower your career growth.

While it lacks personalized speaking practice and tutor feedback, this option stands out as an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.

Pros

• No cost, providing free access to educational content
• Wide range of topics suitable for various professional needs
• Flexible online access allows learners to study at their own pace

Cons

• Limited depth in course materials compared to paid options
• Absence of personalized guidance or feedback

9. Talaera

• Best use cases: Combining self-study with online tutoring

• Cost:
  • Free self-study courses
  • One-hour tutoring sessions start at $45
  • $8/month to access online group conversation classes
• Time commitment: Varies per course, typically 1 to 2 hours per session
• Sample topics: Emails & Messaging, General Speaking, Meetings, Presentations, English Basics, Culture & Etiquette

Similar to Alison, Talaera provides specialized English learning programs specifically for business professionals, enhanced by personalized one-on-one tutoring. These tailored lessons focus on improving your professional communication skills, ensuring you gain confidence and effectiveness in your workplace interactions.

When you join Talaera, we match you with the perfect English instructor tailored to your needs. Your journey begins with a 45-minute initial assessment, where we gather insights to design a personalized learning plan just for you. Within 24 hours, you’ll receive valuable feedback from your teacher, along with a clear strategy to enhance your skills. Following this, you’ll progress through engaging 60-minute individual sessions to keep your learning on track.

In contrast to LingualNeeds, Talaera does not offer the option to select your instructor or participate in a trial lesson, making it challenging to determine if you’ll have a good rapport with your teacher. Additionally, with tutoring sessions beginning at $45 per hour, these services may be financially inaccessible for some students.

For just $8 a month, you can join four group speaking sessions guided by an experienced tutor. Keep in mind that each session accommodates up to nine students, which means your individual speaking time might be somewhat limited.

Pros

• Offers tutor-led lessons
• Self-study courses cover a range of practical topics

Cons

• Tutoring sessions are expensive
• Group speaking sessions can be chaotic

10. LSI: Best for business English exam takers

• Best use cases: To pass business English exams
• Cost:
  • Group classes range from $39 to $179 per week
  • $8/month to access online group conversation classes
• Time commitment: Up to 25 hours of teacher contact per week, plus at least 4 hours of self-study
• Sample topics: Intensive English, English for Business, Exam Preparation (TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, Cambridge), Specific Purposes (Medical, Legal, Aviation)

With more than fifty years of expertise, Language Studies International (LSI) presents an online Business English program tailored for professionals. This dynamic course aims to boost your confidence in business communication, featuring lessons that emphasize essential skills like negotiation and effective presentation techniques.

Throughout the program, LSI offers a wealth of tools and resources designed to enhance your learning experience. You’ll engage in interactive exercises, analyze real-life case studies, and participate in practice scenarios that simulate genuine business interactions with fellow students—all supported by the guidance of a dedicated online tutor.

Pros

• Wide range of course types
• Completion certificate for each stage of progress
• Access to the LSI Learner Management System to keep on top of your studies

Cons

• More costly than other courses
• Inflexible schedule

11. University of Washington (Coursera): Best for breakdowns of communication methods

• Best use cases: Detailed explanations of business communication methods

• Cost:
  • Free to view lessons
  • $59/month
  • $399/year
• Time commitment: Over 125 hours
• Sample topics: Networking, meetings, planning & negotiating, making presentations

The University of Washington’s Business English Communication Skills program on Coursera is designed to enhance your English proficiency specifically for professional environments. This course will empower you to communicate more effectively in the workplace.

This dynamic five-course program dives into essential business skills, including networking, conducting meetings, project planning, negotiation techniques, and effective presentation delivery. You’ll culminate your learning experience with a capstone project, where you’ll showcase your enhanced written, visual, and audio communication abilities.

These self-study lessons and tasks are designed to systematically expand your vocabulary and master essential terminology, empowering you to communicate effectively in diverse situations such as business negotiations, phone calls, written reports, emails, and presentations.

Keep in mind that you can audit courses on Coursera at no cost! This allows you to explore the material without any financial commitment. However, if you want to complete graded assignments—like business English writing tasks—and earn a course certificate, you will need a subscription, which can be paid monthly or annually.

Pros

• Free to view
• Flexible program structure
• Certificate of completion from the University of Washington

Cons

• Lack of real-time tutor guidance and feedback
• Completion of course requires over 125 hours of study

5 benefits of an online business English course

An increasing number of professionals are dedicating their evenings to online business English courses to enhance their career prospects in today’s global marketplace. Let’s explore some of the key advantages of learning English through an online language program.

1. Boost your salary

Let’s face it: the primary reason to enroll in a business English course is the financial advantage it offers. English is the dominant language in international business, and as a result, those who speak it often enjoy higher salaries. Research shows that learning English can increase your average annual income by 18%. Achieve full proficiency, and that boost can soar to an impressive 30%!

If you’re aiming for financial success in an international career, honing your business English skills is essential. Proficiency in English opens the door to a wealth of opportunities across various industries. Mastering business English not only showcases your abilities but also connects you with some of the world’s leading brands, allowing your existing hard skills to shine even brighter. Invest in your language skills to elevate your career prospects!

2. Improve your career prospects

You may already feel quite confident in your English abilities. Perhaps you converse with friends exclusively in English or have experience working in an English-speaking setting. If you were to assess your skills, you might be surprised to find that you’re operating at around a C1 level!

Even with your existing skills, enrolling in a business English course could prove beneficial. Earning a certificate from a reputable program can open doors to exciting new opportunities. In fact, many large multinational companies require candidates to possess a recognized English proficiency certificate as a prerequisite for employment.

This applies to countless master’s degrees and MBA programs around the globe. If you’re proficient in English but lack a formal qualification to demonstrate your skills, it’s wise not to delay addressing this gap. If you have the opportunity, pursue that certification now to pave the way for your future success.

Earning a qualification in business English is more than just a formality; it demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and a proactive attitude toward your career. It reflects that you are a dedicated individual with a growth mindset—exactly the type of employee that companies want to nurture. Even if you don’t acquire new skills, having a business English certificate can still set you apart from the competition, giving you a valuable advantage in the job market.

3. Focus on relevant skills for your goals

Mastering a second language is a journey that can feel endless, especially when it comes to honing your business English skills. While enrolling in a course to advance an entire CEFR level may seem like an appealing shortcut, true improvement often requires time and practice.

Although study time is always valuable, it can be ineffective for busy professionals. To achieve quicker results, it’s essential to streamline your focus. Opting for a course tailored specifically for business English learners allows you to apply your new skills more rapidly, increasing the chances that you’ll notice daily benefits from your efforts.

Tailored business English courses cater to nearly every sector, including finance, software engineering, and human resources. There are even specialized programs designed for managers and executives. This allows you to master the essential business vocabulary specific to your field, enhancing your professional communication skills.

For many office workers, mastering common office phrases can significantly enhance their conversational fluency. Remember, it’s not your overall English skills that colleagues evaluate; it’s how effectively you communicate within your professional context that truly matters.

A business English course can also help you improve functional vocabulary, like some of these helpful phrases:

4. Learn on your own time

Online business English courses cater to busy professionals navigating the 9-to-5 hustle. These courses are tailored for individuals who are eager to learn but have limited time to study. They focus on equipping learners with the essential language skills needed to advance their careers effectively.

These courses are crafted for the busy, driven professional who juggles a packed schedule. Whether you’re hitting the gym at dawn, dropping the kids off at school, or carving out thirty minutes to study before diving into your workday, these programs seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle.

Online business courses offer unparalleled flexibility for busy professionals compared to traditional English classes. With an online English course, you can study from virtually anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. This convenience allows you to balance your learning with your active work life seamlessly.

Experience the freedom of learning without the stress of a rigid schedule. Unlike traditional classes that require you to rearrange your evenings, these courses allow you to study at your own pace. Whether it’s during early mornings, lunch breaks, weekends, or whenever you have the energy, you can choose the best time for you. Designed specifically for busy professionals, these courses seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle.

5. Discover opportunities for a global career

If you aspire to a global career, mastering business English is crucial. To establish yourself as an international leader in your industry, achieving at least an intermediate proficiency in English is highly recommended.

Lacking the essential English language skills tailored to your industry can hinder your professional growth, even if you’re a true expert in your field. Don’t allow the language barrier to limit your career potential! Take charge of your future by enrolling in an online business English course designed to enhance your communication skills.

Mastering English not only enhances your chances of securing a position with US companies, but it also unlocks doors at numerous multinational corporations (MNCs) around the globe. Even in countries where English isn’t an official language, many MNCs have embraced it as their main means of communication, making English proficiency a valuable asset in today’s interconnected job market.

Imagine the possibilities with companies like Nokia in Finland, Airbus in France, or SAP in Germany. By enhancing your business English skills, you can unlock job opportunities across the globe. The world will truly become your oyster!

Find the best business English course for your needs

Enrolling in an online business English course can significantly enhance your career prospects. To select the right course for you, start by identifying the specific benefits that matter most to your professional growth.

Are you seeking a distinguished business English certification from a renowned language institution to enhance your LinkedIn profile? Perhaps you need a quick guide to business English vocabulary for negotiations, or tips on effective presentation phrases and email writing? Identify your primary goal and choose the option that best meets your needs.

Ready to elevate your language skills? Dive into personalized 1-on-1 lessons with online business English tutors at LingualNeeds. Whether you’re seeking tailored instruction for your specific industry or lively conversation classes, our approachable tutors are here to help you enhance your English proficiency. With flexible scheduling available 24/7, you can seamlessly fit lessons into even the busiest of lifestyles.