Working As A Teacher Abroad

While teaching English abroad you are unlikely to face any type of discrimination from fellow teachers as most are like-minded people who are easy-going and accepting of the world in all its diversity. However, it can be a different story when it comes to employers. In some parts of the world, including some of the most popular teaching destinations, traditional, conservative views and opinions are still commonplace and this can lead to some uncomfortable situations. Many people still have the mistaken belief that all you need to teach English is to be a native English speaker and those that aren’t will never be as good at it. However, this view on teaching couldn’t be more wrong. To be an effective TEFL teacher you need to have a solid understanding of the workings of the language...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a fulfilling and viable long-term career option for many individuals. The demand for English language teachers continues to grow globally, providing a wide range of opportunities for those looking to make a career out of teaching English as a foreign language. One of the main benefits of pursuing a long-term career in TEFL is the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world. Teaching English abroad allows you to interact with local communities, learn new languages, and develop cross-cultural communication skills that are highly valued in today's globalized world. Moreover, teaching English abroad can offer a competitive salary and benefits package, especially in countries where there is a high demand for...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teachers working abroad can expect a wide range of salaries depending on the country, type of institution, qualifications, and experience. In general, salaries can range from $800 to $4,000 per month. In countries with a lower cost of living, such as Vietnam or Thailand, salaries tend to be on the lower end of the spectrum, while in countries like the UAE or South Korea, salaries can be much higher. Several factors influence the salary of TEFL teachers working abroad. Qualifications play a significant role, with teachers holding advanced degrees or specialized certifications often commanding higher salaries. Experience is another crucial factor, as teachers with several years of teaching experience are generally paid more than those who are just...  [Read more]

Yes, it is risky to work in a foreign country without the proper work visa, even if schools are willing to employ you without one. Working without a Z visa poses several risks: Legal consequences: Being caught working illegally can result in fines, deportation, and being banned from re-entering the country. Protection: Without a Z visa, you may not have legal rights and protections that come with proper work authorization, such as health insurance, labor rights, and legal recourse in case of disputes. Safety: Working illegally may make you vulnerable to exploitation, unfair treatment, and unsafe working conditions. Professional reputation: Working without a proper visa can damage your professional reputation and future employment opportunities in the field of education. To ensure a safe...  [Read more]

Teaching English in any environment offers a wide variety of benefits that will enhance your future career, whatever path you choose to follow. If your English teaching experience also included an extended period living and working outside of your home country, then this will certainly look very appealing on your resume when applying for other jobs further down the line. In the modern age where every job seems to have a huge number of applicants and everyone seems to have a degree or other high-end qualifications, being able to add an overseas teaching adventure to your application could well be the difference between securing an interview and being put at the bottom of the pile. So what are the major benefits that teaching English abroad adds to your CV/resume? This is the most obvious...  [Read more]

Yes. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is that it can provide a great environment for learning a foreign language. It is no secret that being fully immersed in a different culture, where you are constantly surrounded by a new language, is the most effective way to quickly develop your understanding. Throughout your time living and working as an English teacher abroad, you will inevitably have endless opportunities to practice your language skills. As well as using the language as you go about your daily life, there is also a good chance that you will have access to local language courses that are far cheaper than those available in your home country. Another possibility is the network of friends that you will likely make among the local citizens. Often people are more...  [Read more]

For some teachers, the main reason for becoming TEFL qualified is to open the door to adventures living and working overseas. However, there are many circumstances where teaching over the internet could also be a great option. For recently qualified teachers it can be a convenient way to gain experience while earning money to fund a trip abroad. It can also be a good way to supplement your income from another job. Whether you are in your home country or already living and working abroad, teaching English as a foreign language online might be worth considering. Setting yourself up as an online language teacher can be surprisingly straightforward and inexpensive. Your biggest expense is likely to be completing a TEFL/TESOL qualification. While completing an internationally recognized...  [Read more]

  Tyler recently found our 120-hour online TEFL course very organized and enjoyed working with his tutor. He found the feedback from the tutor very helpful to develop his skills. He is excited to start working as an English teacher abroad. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Learning Business English is something I am looking forward to learning. For I know it will help develop my skills as a teacher and a learner. I found this unit to be very...  [Read more]

To maintain contact with home while teaching English abroad, there are several strategies you can employ: Yes, there are strategies for maintaining relationships with family members while working as an English teacher in a foreign country. Working as an English teacher in a foreign country can be a rewarding experience, but it can also present challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining relationships with family members back home. Here are some strategies to help you stay connected with your loved ones:  [Read more]

--- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become a popular choice for those looking to work and travel abroad. A TEFL certificate is often a requirement for teaching English in non-English speaking countries. It equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. There are various types of TEFL courses available, ranging from online to in-person, with different durations and levels of accreditation. --- TEFL certificates obtained from European Island countries, such as Malta or Cyprus, are generally recognized worldwide. These countries have a long history of providing high-quality English language education and training teachers. However, it is essential to ensure that the TEFL course you choose is accredited by...  [Read more]

Yes, TEFL teachers can certainly work in international volunteer programs. These programs provide opportunities for individuals to teach English in various countries around the world, particularly in communities where English language skills are limited. Volunteering as a TEFL teacher can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to make a positive impact on the lives of others while gaining valuable teaching experience and cultural insights. One of the key benefits of working as a TEFL teacher in international volunteer programs is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and community. By living and working in a foreign country, you can develop a deeper understanding of the local customs, traditions, and way of life. This cultural exchange is not only enriching for you...  [Read more]

The bottom line is that teaching English abroad is just a job like any other. If you are unhappy with your employer or things simply aren't going as you had hoped, you are free to quit and return home or look for another job at any time. Of the tens of thousands of ESL teachers working in countries all over the world, the vast majority do see out the length of their contract. However, there are always going to be some teachers who decide that the best course of action is to terminate their contract early. Whether it's due to an emergency at home, problems with work colleagues or poor working conditions, if you feel you have to leave you are perfectly at liberty to do so. For teachers who are employed on an hourly contract there should be few consequences to worry about. This would...  [Read more]

  Salih is from Turkey and working as an English teacher. He decided to take his 120-hour online certification course to improve his teaching skills. Even though he had been teaching for 2 years already, he learned a lot of new skills and techniques while working through the 20 units of our course. He is also thinking of teaching English overseas as he would like to live abroad. With his new TEFL/TESOL certificate, the world is his oyster.  [Read more]

Yes, not only is it safe for women to teach English abroad, it is also extremely popular. Every year there are somewhere in the region of 150,000 women working as ESL teachers in countries all over the world. Of these, the majority will find themselves living in modern, thriving cities across Europe, Asia and Latin America that have a similar level of infrastructure and amenities to what they are used to back home. Whether in Rome, Beijing, or Santiago, new teachers will almost certainly find there is an expat community of English speakers who are more than happy to provide local knowledge and information to help them settle into their new life overseas. Unfortunately, nowhere is 100% safe all of the time, but with a few simple precautions single women can head off to teach English...  [Read more]

Yes, not only is it safe for women to teach English abroad, it is also extremely popular. Every year there are somewhere in the region of 150,000 women working as ESL teachers in countries all over the world. Of these, the majority will find themselves living in modern, thriving cities across Europe, Asia and Latin America that have a similar level of infrastructure and amenities to what they are used to back home. Whether in Rome, Beijing, or Santiago, new teachers will almost certainly find there is an expat community of English speakers who are more than happy to provide local knowledge and information to help them settle into their new life overseas. Unfortunately, nowhere is 100% safe all of the time, but with a few simple precautions single women can head off to teach English...  [Read more]

In recent years Cambodia has emerged as a popular destination for teaching English abroad. The capital Phnom Penh has plenty of great opportunities year-round, while other cities including Siem Reap, Battambang, and Sihanoukville also offer a significant number of teaching positions. A major attraction for some teachers is that, unlike many other countries in the region, there is no requirement to possess a 4-year degree. Whether you are a newly qualified TEFL graduate looking to gain classroom experience, or an experienced teacher looking to get off the beaten track, Cambodia is well worth considering. The figure you can expect to earn while teaching English in Cambodia will vary depending on your previous classroom experience and the type of employer. As a rough guide, a teacher with...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Benefits of ESL Instruction Abroad 3. Qualifications Required for ESL Teachers Abroad 4. ITTT's TEFL and TESOL Certification Courses Embarking on a journey to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) abroad is a life-changing experience that opens doors to new cultures, languages, and opportunities. ESL instruction abroad not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others but also provides you with a unique chance for personal and professional growth. As the demand for English language skills continues to rise globally, the need for qualified ESL teachers has never been greater. If you have a passion for teaching and a desire to explore the world, pursuing a career in ESL instruction abroad may be the perfect choice for you. Teaching English as a...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher abroad, maintaining work-life balance is crucial to avoid burnout and ensure long-term success in your teaching career. It can be challenging to juggle lesson planning, teaching responsibilities, cultural adaptation, and personal time, but with the right strategies in place, you can achieve a harmonious balance between work and personal life. Work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and job satisfaction. As a TEFL teacher abroad, you may find yourself working long hours, dealing with cultural differences, and feeling the pressure to excel in your teaching role. Without a proper balance between work and personal life, you may experience increased stress, fatigue, and ultimately burnout. 1. Time Management: Prioritize your tasks, set realistic goals, and...  [Read more]

Some people who go abroad to teach English fall in love with their new life overseas and never return to their home country. The majority, however, will return home at some point, whether after a single year or much longer. It can be a difficult experience for some because you are no longer the person you were when you first left home. Everything, from the everyday language to the time zone, the climate to the cuisine, can feel different. Reverse culture shock can be frightening. For many teachers the obvious next step is to continue working as an English language tutor. If you live in or near a relatively large city you are likely to come across language schools and community colleges that provide English lessons to international students, immigrants, and refugees, among others. With...  [Read more]

South Korea is one of the most popular destinations for teaching English abroad. Thousands of new and experienced teachers head to the country every year as it offers competitive salaries and good working conditions. When you also consider that South Korea is one of Asia's wealthiest and most developed countries, with low crime rates and a high-tech infrastructure, its' popularity comes as no surprise. The salary you can expect to earn while teaching English in South Korea will vary depending on where you work and your level of experience. The typical average monthly salaries are as follows. Public schools: First time teachers = 1.8 to 2.0 million KRW ($1,600 to $1,800 USD). Experienced teachers = 2.0 to 2.7 million KRW ($1,800 to $2,400 USD). Private schools: First time teachers = 2.0...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad provides a unique opportunity to enhance communication skills significantly. As a TEFL teacher, you are constantly interacting with students from diverse linguistic backgrounds, which challenges you to express ideas clearly and effectively. This experience helps you develop strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as you learn to adjust your language and teaching style to ensure understanding among students with varying levels of English proficiency. Moreover, teaching English to non-native speakers hones your listening skills, as you must pay close attention to students' responses and questions to provide appropriate feedback and support. One of the most valuable skills gained from teaching English abroad is cultural awareness and sensitivity. Working in...  [Read more]

--- Working as a TEFL teacher in international schools typically requires a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, along with a TEFL certification. Some schools may also prefer teachers with a master’s degree or teaching experience. Additionally, having a teaching license or certification from your home country can enhance your chances of securing a position in an international school. Fluency in English is a must, and some schools may require knowledge of other languages depending on their location and student demographics. --- Teaching in international schools offers a range of benefits, including competitive salaries, accommodation allowances, health insurance, and professional development opportunities. Working in a multicultural environment allows teachers to gain...  [Read more]

Many fully certified teachers choose to teach abroad rather than stay in their home country. Some newly qualified teachers may find it difficult to find suitable employment, so they travel abroad to obtain useful classroom experience, while others may simply be looking for something different. Whatever your motivation, teaching is one of the few professions that allows you to develop your skills and knowledge, gain experience, and increase your employability while traveling the world and seeking out new countries and cultures. If you believe this is the right path for you, the next step is to consider how you will differentiate your CV/resume when applying for the best opportunities in the most exciting locations. A TEFL certificate is required in many cases, even for qualified teachers....  [Read more]

To become a TEFL teacher and teach English in multiple countries, you will need to obtain the necessary qualifications and certifications. Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in any field, along with a TEFL certificate. A TEFL certificate is typically a 120-hour course that covers the fundamentals of teaching English as a foreign language. Some countries may also require a teaching license or a higher level TEFL certification, such as a CELTA or DELTA. It's essential to research the specific requirements of the countries you're interested in teaching in to ensure you meet their standards. TEFL teachers have a wide range of job opportunities available to them in multiple countries. You can work in private language schools, public schools, universities, businesses, and even online....  [Read more]

Almost anyone who has the desire to teach English abroad can make their dream come true. Although you will find some restrictions regarding teaching experience and academic qualifications in some countries, there are plenty of great destinations around the world where a TEFL certificate is all that is required. Whatever your background, work history, or age, there is the perfect teaching job waiting for you somewhere in the world. Yes, you can start a new career teaching English abroad without any form of teaching experience. Due to a huge demand for English language teachers in countries all over the world, tens of thousands of English speakers head overseas every year to work in a variety of different classrooms. Of this number, approximately 90% will have never worked in any kind of...  [Read more]

The worldwide job market for native-English speakers with a TEFL certification is simply huge. Whether you head to Europe, Asia, Latin America or even Africa, you will have plenty of countries to choose from. However, if you dream of living and working in an English-speaking country, you might find it a little more difficult. While English language instruction is generally in high demand in English-speaking countries, the necessary teachers can normally be found within the country's own population, leaving little need to hire teachers from abroad. Another stumbling block is that work permits and visas can be particularly difficult to secure, especially for American citizens. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule so it is still possible to fulfill your dream. There are many...  [Read more]

Due to a government backed scheme to improve English language proficiency across the country, Vietnam has seen a boom in ESL teaching jobs in recent years. As well as having plenty of teaching positions, Vietnam also offers a great mix of cosmopolitan cities, laidback beach resorts, and lush tropical countryside. The relaxed way of life is another reason why an increasing number of teachers are deciding to move here, particularly those who are used to working in other Asian countries with a more strict approach to life and work such as South Korea, China, and Japan. With so much in its favour it is no surprise that Vietnam is currently one of the fastest growing destinations in the world for teaching English abroad. The average salary for ESL teachers in Vietnam is around $1,000 USD...  [Read more]

  As ITTT is the market leader in TEFL certification, it is no surprise that we maintain a very strong social media presence on all the main platforms. On Facebook you will find a wealth of information on all things TEFL, provided by our team of experts and an army of trainees, course graduates, and working teachers from all corners of the globe. Our Facebook page has in excess of 100,000 followers, which makes it a must-visit resource for anyone who is thinking about or is currently undertaking a TEFL certification course. Once you are TEFL qualified and have started work in your own classroom you can also add your own insight into the life of a teacher to help other trainees who are just starting out on their TEFL journey. Over on YouTube you will find our channel has a huge...  [Read more]

Being the fifth largest country both in terms of population and land mass, there are plenty of TEFL Jobs in Brazil, particularly in the more populous cities, as well as in some smaller towns. A teacher equipped with TEFL qualifications usually can find work relatively quickly. It’s a lot easier to get a job if you’re already staying in the country. Very few schools here will bother offering you a job while you are abroad. The typical TEFL job salary pays well enough to lead a comfortable lifestyle by local standards, but don’t expect to be able to save much money or go traveling a lot on your income in Brazil. Most prospective English teachers in Brazil come to this country with only a visitor’s visa and then look for a TEFL job once they get here. It’s really very rare for an...  [Read more]

YES. Teaching English to private students is a very common practice for thousands of teachers who live and work abroad. For many it offers a great way to earn extra income on top of a salary earned from working in a language school, while for others it becomes a full-time job once they have found enough clients. In certain situations, working as a private tutor is the most common form of income for foreign teachers. In some large European cities where language schools tend to only hire teachers from within the European Union, you will find large numbers of American teachers working as private tutors due to the high demand for English language instruction. Whether it is your main income or just to top up your salary, working as a private English language tutor can be a perfect option for...  [Read more]