I have been playing a Gemeinhardt 3osb for four years. it has an offset g

I have decided its time for an upgrade and my teacher says that the yamaha 481 (all her students have this one) is perfect. but it has an inline g. Im not sure if I want that because with my Gem, I have never needed to use any plugs, not even when I first got it. I dont want to have to use any plugs with my new flute either, so will getting inline vs off set. whats the difference

If you need to get a Yamaha flute, get a 461. That is equivalent to the 481 except with an offset G.

Personally, I disagree with a flute teacher having all their students get the same flute with the possible exception of complete beginners.

Personally, I would suggest going for the 500 series Yamahas if you must get a Yamaha so that you can get the EC head. The 400's and lower come with the same cut of head as the 200's, just with more silver involved, and thus play much like the 200's. That's not a knock against the 200's, because I think they're excellent student flutes, but if you're looking to upgrade, why go for equipment built to a similar standard as the student models? I do agree with Atoriphile's assessment...I don't agree with every student being made to buy the same instrument (also with the possible exception of a first flute). IMO, it shows a lack of understanding of how important a good match between flute and player can be to progress, or possibly a lack of concern for this, neither of which is a good thing. You should really play flutes from many different brands to find one that best suits your playing (and comes from a reputable maker), and then go with that, whether or not your teacher likes it.

There is not any accoustical difference between an inline G and an offset G, so you don't have to worry about the sound.
If you can afford an offset G flute, and the Yamaha 461 suits you, then it should make an excellent step-up flute. Flutist06 has a great point, though, about the EC headjoint on the Yamaha 500 series.
I would, at the very least, ask your flute teacher why all of her students have a Yamaha 481. Also ask about any other flutes that might be suitable for you.
Putting a plug in an inline G should not be something to be ashamed of. There are plugs (or closed hole flutes) in the hands of some very accomplished local musicians in my area. You may even be able to play an inline G when you get used to it, my fingers are long and I don't have any trouble with it. My E key (right hand, ring finger) key is plugged, though, or I would have too much trouble with the low notes.
If you are on a tight budget for a step-up flute, then I would suggest that you consider both inline and offset G flutes. This way, you won't pass up a nicer flute just so you don't have to plug a hole. There are lots of flutes for sale out there, and some very nice used ones can be bought for a good price if you know where to look. Good luck, and I hope your search goes well.

thanks You are all so helpful! I'll talk it over with my teacher thursday, and bring all of your points up.