English Teaching Overseas – First Head

English Teaching Overseas – Every year, tens of thousands of people go overseas and teach English. Young and old, they go for many reasons: to learn about a new culture, make some money to travel, seek adventure, or just experience something new.

Countries

South Korea

South Korea is one of the best places — if not the best — to teach English overseas. Jobs are abundant, the pay averages $1,600-2,600 USD per month, and you get awesome benefits, like a contract completion bonus, free housing, and airfare reimbursement.

A lot of recent college graduates are attracted to Korea because of the money, benefits, and the fact that Korea takes many first-time teachers. If you don’t have any experience, this country is one of the best options for you. As a place to live, Korea has plenty of things going for it: the food is delicious, the country is dirt cheap, and the people are friendly.

Plus you will find lots of other international young expats there. Since you earn so much money in a country with such a low cost of living, most people leave having paid off a substantial portion of their debts! You could easily walk away after a year of teaching with your loans (school or non-school) paid off AND money for travel!

2. Japan

Japan has a reputation for good jobs which means it also attracts as many people as South Korea. Though the years of easily teaching in Japan and making quick cash are long, long over, people willing to stay at least a year can generally save a substantial sum of money.

While the cost of living can eat up a lot of your salary, especially in Tokyo, there are a number of programs out there (including the government’s JET program) that reward long-term teachers with generous benefits and completion bonuses.

Additionally, the Japanese are incredibly friendly and polite, the food is endless gourmet heaven, and the culture is unique. It’s one of my favorite countries in the world.

3. The Middle East

The Middle East lures many teachers in for one reason: its salary packages. Middle Eastern countries offer incredibly large salaries (up to $70,000 USD per year for an experienced teacher), lots of benefits, and no taxes. A teacher can walk away with around $40,000 USD after one year.

However, this is no place for the recent college graduate. These countries want certified and experienced teachers. If you couldn’t teach at a public school in your home country, you have little chance of getting a job in this part of the world. As such, most of the teachers here are older and more settled and have families.

Dubai, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia are the most popular destinations for teaching English in this region.

4. Thailand

Thailand attracts lots of young and new teachers with its cheap cost of living, warm beautiful weather, tropical beaches, mouth-watering food, and party atmosphere.

Most of the language school teachers are ex-travelers looking to save for future travels…or travelers who thought they were doing that but ended up never leaving. The pay in Thailand isn’t that high ($1,000–1,500 USD per month), unless you teach in Bangkok or at an international school.

However, teaching English in Thailand isn’t about making lots of money — it’s about everything else: the ease of getting a job, the food, the fun-loving atmosphere, the weather, and everything in between. It’s one of the best destinations for young, new teachers, especially in a larger city, since you’ll fit right in.

5. China

As China rises in global stature, its need for English teacher grows as more and more citizens need to know the language for their job. Moreover, the culture puts an emphasis on learning it. As such, it is one of the easiest places to find work. No matter where you go, you can find work, even in saturated cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

You can earn a decent salary teaching English here (upward of $1,500-2,000 USD a month), and many jobs give completion bonuses, free housing, and airfare reimbursement.

China is the brave new world and a country in constant change. It’s a good location for teachers of all abilities — there’s something for everyone there!

6. Prague

Prague has a seemingly abundant supply of teaching jobs. The city has grown in size over the last few years, attracting a variety of tech start-ups and expats, which has created a lot more job opportunities for teachers.

While it’s very hard to get a job in the public school system or a university, there are plenty of language schools in the city to choose from. The pay isn’t as high as other countries in the world and there are few benefits (especially when compared to Asia or the Middle East), but you’re a stone’s throw away from everywhere in Europe.

The city is one of the most beautiful, vibrant, fun, and popular cities in Europe, which makes Prague an excellent central base from which to explore the continent.

7. Spain

Teaching in Spain is one of the best opportunities for anyone looking to work in Europe. There are plenty of jobs, the government has an active program for attracting teachers, and your visa means you can freely travel around Europe.

There are also many opportunities to teach private lessons on the side. You don’t get many benefits (or high pay compared to Asia or the Middle East), but the pay is still enough to live off of.

8. Taiwan

Taiwan is an excellent country to teach English in, thanks to lots of job opportunities (though they tend to be with young kids), high salaries, benefits similar to South Korea, and lots of other young teachers to share a social life with. The country places a high importance on learning English, and you’ll be able to find freelance tutor opportunities besides your regular, steady teaching job!

I loved my time in Taiwan, made some wonderful friends, and adapted to a completely new culture.

English Teaching Overseas –  Third Head

After reading “English Teaching Overseas”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.

I had a lot of fun teaching English overseas. It was on my favorite experiences on the road and it taught me so much about myself. You gain a lot of perspective on life by living in another culture.

While there is an opportunity to teach wherever English isn’t the native language, the destinations above draw the biggest crowds, offer the best pay, the best perks, and are the most fun.

If you are thinking about becoming an English teacher overseas, my advice is to head to one of these destinations and just do it!

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Living in a foreign country, working as a teacher, and making money — teaching abroad sounds nice, doesn’t it?

It almost sounds too good to be true, but luckily it’s an opportunity available to people of various backgrounds, education levels, and experience. Teaching abroad is an incredible experience that gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, explore new frontiers, and forge wonderful new friendships.

There are over 1 billion people learning English as a second language worldwide, so the demand for English teachers is high. You don’t need a degree in English, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree at all to find a position. So what’s the catch? Well, it’s important to remember that hiring requirements are different in each country and school, so you need to find a job that works for your level of education and expertise. Here are some frequently asked questions about the requirements needed to teach abroad.

Do You Need a College Degree to Teach Abroad?

In some countries — especially in western Europe, the Persian Gulf, and parts of Asia — a college degree is officially (and sometimes unofficially) required to be hired as a teacher. Other times, individual schools may have their own requirements, depending on whether they are public, private, or follow a particular teaching methodology.

However, there are plenty of other countries where English speakers without a four-year degree can be paid to teach English, including most of Latin America, Eastern Europe, and certain countries in Asia, such as Cambodia and China.

There is plenty of information available online that compares the degree requirements for teaching English in over 50 countries around the world. You can also find additional information, such as salary expectations, hiring seasons, and visa requirements, that will help you decide where to go.

Do You Need a TEFL Certificate before Teaching Abroad?

A TEFL certificate verifies that you’ve completed training to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). Though it is possible to find a position without training or prior experience, a TEFL certificate will make the job search easier by opening the door to more opportunities in more countries; otherwise, you’ll have to restrict your search to certain areas. Without a TEFL certificate, you can also work as a volunteer.

Regardless of whether or not it’s required, a TEFL certificate is still recommended. There is rarely any training prior to getting started as a teacher, so the course will teach you the skills you need to provide a good English education to your students. Additionally, it is a requirement for many schools and it is even a legal requirement in some countries. As an added bonus, most TEFL courses will help you find and apply to jobs based on your interests and background.

Do You Need Teaching Experience before Teaching Abroad?

Though teaching experience is useful and it’s what some schools are looking for, the only way to gain experience is to work! Luckily, having teaching experience is not required by most schools, and thousands of English speakers find work every year without prior experience.

However, having a TEFL certificate will make your application more attractive to potential employers and will give you an edge over other applicants. Countries as diverse as Turkey, Mexico, and Kazakhstan will hire teachers with a TEFL certificate but with no experience.

Countries with the most lucrative teaching positions, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, require prior teaching experience, but those countries make up the minority.

Do You Have to be a Native English Speaker to Teach English Abroad?

Whether you need to be a native English speaker to teach abroad depends on where you want to go. Latin American countries do not usually care if you are a native English speaker or not, but the Gulf countries and many major Asian countries — such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam — prefer to hire native English speakers. For some programs, such as the Cultural Ambassador program in Spain, being a citizen of a native English-speaking country is a requirement.

For European citizens, you may have an easier time of finding positions if you’re not a native English speaker by working within the European Union, where there are many positions that are not open to non-Europeans.

If you want to teach English abroad but are not a native speaker, you must consider:

• Your level of fluency
• Your accent and comprehensibility
• Your training and experience. Finding a job will be easier if you have a university degree, TEFL certification, or prior teaching experience.
• Your passport. Citizens of certain countries may have a harder time finding a teaching position due to different visa requirements, though things can be easier if you are already a permanent resident of the country you wish to teach in.

Do You Have to be Young to Teach Abroad?

Some teaching programs are restricted to certain age groups — for example, the French TAPIF assistantship program is only open to people between the ages of 20-35. However, there are so many opportunities out there that people of all ages can teach abroad.

If you’re younger than 20, you may have trouble finding a full-time teaching job, but you can still gain experience in the meantime by volunteering overseas or working at summer camps. If you’re older and are looking to go overseas, you should be able to find work depending on your experience. Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as many Latin American countries have plenty of opportunities for older adults.

Do You Have to Have “Startup Money” before Teaching Abroad?

Photo by David, Ninja Teacher Vietnam Alum

You certainly do not have to pay to teach. Just make sure that you have enough money to cover your flights and the first month of living expenses. Though there are some positions that will cover your flights and “startup costs,” in the Gulf countries, in particular, it’s better to have an emergency fund just in case. The specific amount you’ll need depends on the cost of living where you are teaching, but between $1,000-$2,000 would be a good idea.

Those participating in a volunteer program may have to pay tuition to cover housing and program costs. There are also organizations such as CIEE that will help you obtain a visa, find accommodation, and secure a position in exchange for a reasonable fee.

What Else Do You Need to Teach Abroad?

Teaching English abroad is an exciting way to immerse yourself in a new culture while building your resume. It’s not always easy, but it certainly can be very rewarding.

Though requirements may differ from country to country and school to school, what’s most important is to keep an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Having a TEFL certificate will certainly help expand your options as well. However, if you meet the requirements and you have the motivation and desire to go overseas and make a difference in both your and your students’ lives then you’re all set to begin this eye-opening journey!

After reading “English Teaching Overseas”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. And visit my channel by YouTube.

English Teaching Certificate – First Head

English Teaching Certificate

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English Teaching Certificate –  Third Head

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After reading “English Teaching Certificate”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.

“TEFL” is the acronym for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, or simply, English language instruction for non-native speakers. Also known as Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), English Language Teaching (ELT), and teaching ESL (English as a Second Language). The field of TEFL/TESOL represents one of the fastest growing educational fields in the world, and it presents thousands of excellent professional opportunities for teaching English abroad in all corners of the globe to native and fluent English speakers who earn their TEFL/TESOL certification.

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In practical terms, in the field of teaching English abroad, there is little or no difference between “TEFL” and “TESOL.” They are both acronyms that essentially mean the same thing: teaching the English language to non-native speakers. Likewise, in the vast majority of cases, when it comes to ESL teaching certificates & teaching English abroad, a “TEFL certification” and a “TESOL certification” are the same and the terms are interchangeable.

On a more technical level, TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) is the term applied to the teaching of English to non-native speakers in native English speaking countries, so those who will earn degrees and work domestically in the field in the UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa and US will typically use the term “TESOL.”

Click here to receive your TEFL & Teaching English Online Starter Kit
Learn how to get TEFL certified and begin your online teaching
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TEFL or TESOL Certification and requirements for getting a job teaching English abroad

To Teach English as a Foreign Language in a foreign country (non-native English speaking country), a TEFL Certification is typically required as schools and language institutes want to hire teachers who have received proper training. You don’t need to possess a degree in education, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree to get paid to teach English abroad. Private language schools abroad, online teaching companies and government programs that recruit native English speakers to teach abroad all seek to hire people who have received a certain degree of professional level training.

How does TEFL certification work?

Accredited TEFL certification will provide instruction from a highly qualified instructor covering the skills and tools you will need to work as a professional English teacher. Professional-level TEFL courses must meet certain standards and include live practice teaching.

These standards include:

• At least 100 hours of coursework;
• At least 6-20 hours of practicum (live practice teaching and observation with actual non-native English speakers and NOT role-playing with fellow TEFL classmates);
• An accredited curriculum from a recognized, independent organization within the field;
• Instruction provided by a qualified instructor (who has an equivalent to a Master’s Degree in TESOL or a related field);
• It is also recommended that you take your TEFL certification course from an organization that provides comprehensive job search guidance.

To learn more about what to consider when looking at TEFL certification courses, check out 7 Key Tips to Evaluate a TEFL / TESOL Training School on our TEFL Articles page.

 

International TEFL Academy TEFL Certification Course Options:

• Four-week International Courses in 25 Locations Worldwide
• Online TEFL Certification (11 weeks, part-time)
• Read more about accreditation for TEFL certification here.

Awards & Recognition:

All International TEFL Academy (ITA) courses are internationally accredited. In addition, International TEFL Academy has enjoyed an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2012. 

Since the beginning of 2019, ITA has been named the #1 TEFL school by GoOverseas.com & GoAbroad.com across a range of awards categories for TEFL certification:

• #1 Best Online TEFL Course and
• #1 Best In-person TEFL Class (ITA Chicago TEFL Class).

Check out a full run-down of ITA’s  awards, reviews and recognition in this article.

 

Is it Possible to Earn a Valid TEFL Certification Online?

With the growing prevalence of online education, one question that frequently arises from those seeking to teach English abroad is: can I actually earn a valid TEFL certification online that employers will recognize when I apply for jobs to teach English overseas?

The answer is “Yes” – as long your online TEFL course is accredited and meets all of the standards outlined above.  If you seek a truly professional-level certification that will provide you with the skills, resources and qualifications you need to get a top job, be mindful that many online TEFL  courses – especially the cheaper ones – do not meet these standards. Online TEFL classes that do not include a practicum for example, are not recognized by many language schools and TEFL programs around the world.

To learn more, check out: Is International TEFL Academy’s Online TEFL Certification Course Valid & Accredited?

Will a TEFL Certification Qualify Me to Teach English Online?

Yes it will! In addition to providing a recognized qualification for TEFL jobs overseas, TEFL certification will qualify you to teach English online, a fast growing market that provides opportunities to make money teaching English as a foreign language, whether you are living in the U.S., the U.K., or if you are teaching English abroad in a non-native English speaking country. Many English teachers abroad teach English online part-time as a way to supplement their income as an English teacher at a local school.

Others teach English online full-time, which gives them the chance to move more frequently from country to country while still earning income because they can teach English online from anywhere as long as they have a strong Internet connection. Most teachers are able to make at least $10-$20 (USD) per hour & work schedules are very flexible.

Teach English Online: Your Guide on
How to Make Money & Travel the World.

DOWNLOAD AS PDF FILE

Specialty Training Post Class Graduation:

To enhance their online teaching skills and make themselves more marketable for teaching English online, ITA students and alumni have the opportunity to enroll in an optional ESL teaching certificate: ITA’s exclusive 30-Hour Teaching English Online Specialty Course.

To learn more about teaching English Online, check out Teach English Online Your Guide on How to Make Money & Travel the World.

 

John Bentley

John Bentley is Co-Founder & Senior Writer for International TEFL Academy (ITA), the world leader in TEFL certification for teaching English abroad. A graduate of Harvard University and the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern, John is a recognized expert in the field of TEFL. His articles have appeared across the field’s top websites, including GoAbroad.com, StudyAbroad.com, InterExchange, GoOverseas.com, Adventure Teaching, & many others. He has also spoken as an expert on Teaching English Abroad & TEFL certification at major conferences like MeetPlanGo and Lessons from Abroad (LFA) in Portland & San Diego.

English Teaching Thailand – First Head

English Teaching Thailand

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Second Head

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English Teaching Thailand –  Third Head

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After reading “English Teaching Thailand”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.

Although not quite as popular as nearby South Korea and neighbor China for teaching English abroad, Thailand has nonetheless caught up in terms of being a great place to teach in Asia over the past decade.

A hot, tropical climate (which some people love…), friendly people, and a high but affordable quality of life have all added to the attractiveness of teaching English in Thailand.

If you’re interested in teaching abroad in Thailand, read on for the low-down on teacher salaries, visas, and how to find a job.

In order to teach English in Thailand, most teachers will require native proficiency and a bachelor’s degree. TEFL certification is not always required. The average salary for teaching in Thailand is $800 – $3,500 per month.

Posted: 2/15/2020 / February 15th, 2020

Thailand is an English teacher’s dream. With a low cost of living, incredible food, rich culture, plenty of partying, and a mai pen rai (no worries) attitude, the Land of Smiles is a very popular country for English teachers.

For Thais, English is considered a necessity to work in the global market, so there is always a need for teachers. With language schools, primary schools, universities, and other locations offering English classes, there are numerous avenues for employment.

So, how do you get a job teaching English in Thailand?

In order to do so, you need to be a native speaker from an English-speaking country (defined as the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand) or prove your fluency, and have a bachelor’s degree.

Because of the popularity of teaching English in Thailand, I’d recommend also having a 120-hour TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate to make you more competitive.

With all teaching opportunities in Thailand, salaries vary greatly depending on the location and employer. In hot tourist destinations like Koh Samui, Phuket, and other spots, expect to earn less than what you would make in less exotic locales, because people will accept a lower salary in exchange for the beach lifestyle.

You will earn the most in Bangkok, followed by Chiang Mai.

Here’s a breakdown of the various ways to teach in the country and what to expect with each position:

Public Schools

Public schools are free from preschool through high school. The school year begins in May and ends in March and includes a three-week break in October.

As a public school teacher in Thailand, expect to work full-time, even if you’re not teaching every moment of the day. Responsibilities range from creating lesson plans and exams to grading papers (none of which you are compensated for if it’s on your own time), as well as keeping office hours at school.

Students range in their knowledge and understanding of English, and often there is little guidance in terms of the curriculum you need to create. You’re basically on your own here! Many teachers incorporate games, television shows, and movies into their classes.

In public schools, the student-to-teacher ratio is high, so expect large class sizes.

Salaries range from 25,000 to 40,000 THB ($827–1,317 USD) a month. Teaching in the cities will earn you the most money. You can expect lower salaries in the countryside, but cost of living is so cheap there, you’ll still end up having plenty of extra money!

Private and International Schools

There are very few differences between public schools and private and international schools, other than the lower student-to-teacher ratio and the fact that salaries are significantly higher since they are not free to attend.

International schools have the most coveted positions, but you’ll need to be an actual certified teacher to get one of them, as the curriculum follows the West’s. Private schools are a little less strict, but you’ll still want to have some experience. You’ll need to have not only a degree but also a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate and prior teaching experience, and be a native English speaker.

If you’ve never taught English before or have only a little experience, you’re unlikely to get a job at one of these schools.

Whereas the public schools follow the Thai system and come with little support, these institutions tend to be more like Western schools, so if you’re wondering what teaching is like there, just think back to what it was like when you went to school!

International schools pay the most, roughly 80,000–170,000 THB ($2,633–5,596 USD) a month (which is well above the typical Thai salary and allows for your lifestyle to be more lavish); private schools pay 60,000–80,000 THB ($1,975–2,633 USD).

These positions also come with a lot of perks: contract bonuses, lots of vacation days, health insurance, and sometimes airfare to and from Thailand.

Universities

Teaching at a university in Thailand can help give you an edge over the competition for other English teaching jobs in the country. But teaching at a university means teaching part-time and earning only 30,000–60,000 THB ($987–1,975 USD) a month.

The upside is that you can also teach at another school part-time, you get a few months of paid vacation, and you are compensated generously should you have to work overtime (about 1,000–1,500 THB, or $33–49 USD, an hour).

Depending on where you teach, your responsibilities will be different. All teachers must come up with lesson plans, but some may also have to teach faculty or have additional sessions outside of the classroom, among other duties.

You may or may not have textbooks to use for your curriculum. Class sizes at universities are notoriously large, about 50 students.

Language Schools

Teaching English at a language school in Thailand is different than at a public or private school. Classes are normally held in the morning before the workday starts to accommodate businesspeople, then again in the afternoon and into the evening for children and adults.

The workweek at language schools extends into the weekend.

At language schools, classes are small and range from four to ten students. As a teacher, it’s your responsibility to come up with lesson plans and activities.

There’s also the option at language schools to work full- or part-time. Full-time teachers make anywhere from 30,000 to 40,000 THB ($987-1,316 USD) per month; part-time teachers make 350–500 THB ($11.50–16.50 UD) per hour.

There are lots and lots of language schools in the country, and jobs are fairly easy to get. They don’t really care about previous experience or even if you have a TEFL certificate (though having both makes it easier to get a job).

You’ll also get very little support from the schools and will basically have to set up everything on your own. You’ll only get paid for actual classroom time.

I didn’t really love teaching at the language schools, but the work was easy even if it was not well paid.

Corporate Training Programs

As a corporate teacher, you teach from a company’s office, giving lessons to their staff. Classes tend to be large, so many employees can attend. Because these programs are quite expensive, the positions are only filled by teachers with experience.

Expect to work during the morning or late at night, as you have to teach people outside business hours.

Corporate teachers make anywhere from 45,000 to 60,000 THB ($1,481–1,974 USD) a month, and it’s normal for the school to cover travel expenses to the company.

Test Preparation

Test preparation in Thailand is different than in other English positions. You must be knowledgeable in a variety of English tests, including SAT or GRE prep (and have finished in the 95th percentile or above), as well as IELTS and TOEIC, both of which are used to test students before they work or study abroad.

As a test prep teacher, classes are either groups or private and take place on both weekdays and weekends. It’s your job to not only teach the courses but also design and develop the course curriculum.

Test prep teachers average about 600 THB ($20 USD) an hour.

Best Job Resources for Teaching in Thailand

There are numerous sites to find jobs teaching English in Thailand. The best one for jobs is ajarn.com as it simply has the most listings and is specific to Thailand. It’s the oldest teaching in Thailand website too.

Other sites with job postings include the following:

• Go Overseas
• Teach Away
• Teaching in Thailand

How to Apply for a Visa

It isn’t hard to apply for the Non-Immigrant B visa necessary to teach English in Thailand and your school will help you do, but there are quite a few steps to getting it and then starting teaching.

First, make sure your passport has validity beyond six months and have passport photos for applications, as well as your original bachelor’s degree, transcripts, and a certified criminal background check.

Next, you’ll need to apply for a visa from outside of Thailand and include a letter from your employer with the job offer. Once you have your visa, your employer steps in and handles the paperwork, completing the remainder of the application on your behalf.

After the visa is complete, you’ll need to have a physical exam and a medical certificate from a Thai doctor and then get your work permit. From there, it’s on to the Immigration Department in order to extend your visa in your passport for 12 months.

The last two steps are to get your tax card from the Tax Department and then your teaching license. Your employer should be able to assist you in all aspects of the process.

It’s important to note that if you choose to teach without these necessary items, you run the risk of getting kicked out of the country and fined.

To be completely honest, my expectations of what my life would be like in Thailand have changed since I first began the process of deciding to teach abroad. When I was back home in the States, I thought less about my actual teaching experience and more about the logistical side of getting all of my paperwork together, arriving in one piece, and finally getting settled.

During orientation is when I began to shape my actual expectations of what living and working would be like for the next year.  Here are a few expectations I had about life as as an English teacher in Thailand, and what the reality has been since I have arrived.

Finding Housing in Thailand

My room in Thailand.

Expectations:

My main housing expectation before coming to Thailand is that it would be incredibly affordable. During orientation we were told to have low standards and just expect a room with four walls, a bed, and a basic bathroom.

Reality:

While housing costs significantly more than I expected, everything about my housing here in Thailand has exceeded my expectations. My agent picked me up when I arrived to town and took me to the apartment building where I live now.

I live in a very nice, furnished apartment with a king sized bed, a fridge, hot water, air conditioning and an incredible view. But this is not the case for everyone! I have friends who were completely on their own when it came to finding an apartment and friends who do not have hot water, a fridge or air conditioning.

My room in Thailand, from another angle.

Having low expectations definitely benefited me in the long run because I was bound to be pleasantly surprised wherever I ended up.

Advice:

• Bring something small from home for your room. I brought pictures and my teddy bear and it makes my room feel like mine.
• Don’t settle for the cheapest housing that you can find just because it’s cheap. Live somewhere safe, comfortable, and where you see yourself for your entire time here.

Teaching English in a Thai school

One of my classrooms in Thailand.

Expectations:

On the management side of things, before starting at my school, I learned a lot about how the Thai schools are run differently from Western schools. There is a different communication structure and you aren’t necessarily given all of the details all of the time.

Basically, if you want information you have to ask for it. You also have an agent, who is your actual employer, who is there to help and manage the relationship between you and your school.

On the student side of things, I was expecting to walk into school and have kids greeting me with hugs and high fives excited to learn from their new teacher (naive, I know). I expected to meet all of the Thai staff and teachers and slowly get to know them and become friends.

Fellow teacher in Thailand.

Reality:

For management, the director of my school and the head of the English Department are both women, which is somewhat of a rarity here in Thailand. I was given a complete binder with all of the information that I would need for the year, including a calendar with days off, and my weekly lesson topics.

During my first week of teaching I felt like a rock star. I had the undivided attention of 45 ten year olds because I was new and they were so excited to hear what I had to say. I am very lucky in that I use PowerPoint in all of my classes and have access to every resource possible.

When I arrived at school I was surprised to learn that the foreign teacher’s office was separate from the Thai teachers and thus, I hardly interact with the Thai teachers. There are a few in my classes who are friendly and say hello, but I am still far from making friends like I had expected.

Advice:

• All Thai schools are different and everyone has different experiences. Don’t compare your school, students, or experience with anyone else’s.
• Just be yourself and be able to laugh at yourself. No matter the age of your students, they will appreciate you being genuine and real with them.
• Stay hydrated and well fed while teaching, and don’t forget to put yourself first!

Culture Shock and Cultural Immersion in Your Host Community

My Thai Family (Doctor Daranee’s kids).

Expectation:

Being called the Land of Smiles, I had high expectations when it came to settling down and making friends here in Thailand. I expected to get to my new town and over time, easily be able to make friends with locals and other teachers. I did expect to experience culture shock, although you never know what form it will come in.

Reality:

Making new friends and settling down takes time. I arrived in the middle of the semester which meant that everyone had settled into their friend groups and routines. Thai people are super nervous to talk to native English speakers because they are shy about their English.

I have had people turn and run away after I accidentally greeted them in English instead of Thai. Once you make a Thai friend you will become a part of their family and they will forever hold a piece of your heart. Even after settling down and making new friends, I experience culture shock in ways I never have before.

Traveling in Chiang Mai with friends.

Recently, I have been getting so frustrated with the people who just stare at me as I walk down the street, workout, or eat in a restaurant. Sometimes I just want to scream “say something to me”. Other times I embrace these awkward moments and surprise them with a smile and wave (it’s especially funny when they are trying to sneak pictures of you). While I am still working on making Thai and Western friends, I am happy with the small little group that I have here.

Advice:

• Say yes to everything that fellow teachers or new Thai friends invite you to do.
• Culture shock is real and it hits you at the worst times. Embrace the emotions and talk to your friends and fellow teachers about it. They can relate more than anyone back home can.

Travel and Free Time

View point in Trang.

Expectations:

When you think of Thailand you think of the busy city life in Bangkok, the temples in Chiang Mai, and the beautiful beaches down south. Well, when I found out that I would be living in Southern Thailand I was thrilled to be able to visit the islands often. I also expected to have a decent amount of free time while at school.

I’m there about 45 hours a week and only teach 23 hours so that leaves a good amount of time unaccounted for outside the classroom.

Reality:

At school I have a few 45 minute breaks throughout the day and then a few hours at the end of the day. I try to plan and prepare for my lessons during the day so at the end I can read, blog, or watch Netflix for an hour before going home. I also use this time to research places to travel and things to do around town.

One big reality is that travel is exhausting and expensive. Even though everything here is relatively cheap, it is not free. And cheap still adds up quickly. There are so many things to see, and you probably don’t need to travel far from home to see them. In reality I can only afford big out of town trips once every few weeks.

A view point in my town in Thailand.

Advice:

• Develop healthy hobbies for your free time. I do Sudoku and read before I let myself on Facebook and Netflix.
• You earn in Thai baht and spend in Thai baht, who cares how much is costs in USD.
• Don’t run off and travel every weekend. Stay in your town and explore what it has to offer because those are what you are going to remember when you go back home. Some of my favorite places in all of Thailand are in my town.

As you prepare for your next travel adventure in Thailand, it is hard not to have certain expectations about what the teaching experience will offer. By keeping an open mind, you will be able to adjust to your new life a bit easier and potentially find that the reality is even better than what you had expected.

About the Author:

Hi! My name is Kelsey, I’m 23 years old, and I am a Colorado Native. I’m a sucker for cute dogs, margaritas, and anything outdoors. I am currently living in Hua Hin, Thailand and sharing my adventures from South East Asia!

Teaching English in Thailand is one of the best teaching opportunities in the world, thanks to the country’s cost of living, tropical environment, and laid-back lifestyle.

With so many options for teaching and the ease of getting a visa, it’s a perfect spot to start your English teaching career abroad.

English Teaching Abroad – An Adventure?

English Teaching Abroad – Nowadays, it seems that we’ve all been bitten by the travel bug. If your Instagram feed is full of dreamy seascapes, epic mountain scenery and wanderlust-inducing food pics shared by travel bloggers the world over.

Most of us, given half a chance, would love to see the world and experience new cultures. But not all of us don’t know that this supposed pipe dream is more than attainable.

There is, in fact, an unmissable opportunity to work and travel abroad, well within your reach. One where you get to experience different countries around the world, meet new people, make new friends. And on top of that, make lots of money. So what is it?

Teaching English Abroad – Anywhere.

Yep, you read that right. By teaching English abroad, you can live and travel in almost any country you’ve been dreaming of. From China, Japan, Mexico and Chile, to Spain or the Czech Republic, a job teaching English abroad – and a brand-new life adventure – are just on the horizon.

If you’re thinking about taking the plunge and teaching English abroad this year (or even at some point in the far-off future) this guide is a great place to kickstart your research.

We’ve got you covered with everything from figuring out whether teaching English abroad is even a good idea for you in the first place, to the qualifications you need, how to get a visa, advice on choosing the right program for you and the full scoop on the hottest English teaching destinations worldwide. In a nutshell, everything you need to know to find work as an English teacher abroad this year.

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Along the way, we’ll provide plenty of resources for your researching pleasure. If this feels like info overload, don’t panic. You can choose to scroll through the entire guide in your own time or jump forward to the section you’re most intrigued by. And hey, if you like what you read, pay it forward by sharing this guide with a friend or coworker.

OK, granted, we don’t know a whole lot about you personally. But if you’ve got: A degree and you can speak English fluently there is a good chance this is for you.

We feel pretty confident you’re a good candidate for the job. The best part about teaching English abroad is that almost anyone with a degree of any kind can do it – so long as you can speak and write English fluently.

Fresh out of college and not sure what to do next? Whether you’re looking to move into teaching long term, or just keen to travel the world, learn something new and earn some cash in the process, it’s well worth considering teaching English abroad. That’s why new grads, career changers – even newly retired teachers – all look to teaching English abroad every year as their personal ticket to international travel and adventure.

While you do need a degree to teach English abroad (for the most part), you don’t have to major in English, education, or linguistics to qualify for teaching jobs abroad. Yes, that quirky astrobiology degree has a little-known second purpose. It also qualifies you to teach English abroad! There are literally thousands of great jobs open for bachelor’s degree holders of all types, all around the world.

You also don’t have to have a teaching degree to teach English abroad – take it from the hundreds of thousands of English teachers currently living and working abroad who don’t have one, either! And you don’t need to have teaching experience (although there are some incredible teaching jobs for those of you who do have experience and/or a degree in education.)

So, really, it’s not so much a question of whether you can get a job, but which job, in which country, is the best fit for you. More on this topic to come.

• Would you like to spend a year or two in Tokyo, Shanghai or Buenos Aires?
• Do you dream of a life where you walk to work every day along the cobblestone streets of Prague or Florence, or through the colorful street markets of Bangkok or Saigon?
• Do you want the satisfaction of performing a valuable public service, assisting others in achieving their own life goals, all while traveling the world and having the adventure of a lifetime?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes” and you are a fluent English speaker, then teaching English abroad could be right for you.

With English taking hold as the international language of commerce and culture, hundreds of millions of students across the globe are participating in English language classes each year.

From Seoul and Shanghai to Milan and Santiago, there is an unprecedented demand for English instructors. While many people worldwide confront the most challenging job market in generations, teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) provides both viable and accessible job opportunities as well as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the world while gaining invaluable work experience.

Founded in 2010, International TEFL Academy (ITA)  is a world leader in TEFL certification for teaching English abroad and teaching English online. ITA offers accredited TEFL certification classes online and in 21 locations worldwide and has received multiple awards and widespread recognition as one of the best TEFL schools in the world. ITA provides all students and graduates with lifetime job search guidance and has certified more than 25,000 English teachers. Our graduates are currently teaching in 80 countries worldwide.

With more than 1.7 billion people learning English worldwide, demand for native English-speaking teachers is so high that virtually any native English speaker (and many non-native speakers) can teach English abroad professionally with an accredited TEFL certification.

In fact, even without a background in education, it’s not typically a matter of whether you can get a job teaching ESL abroad, but which job in which country is the best fit for you.

The common factor bringing our graduates together is the desire to experience new cultures and travel the world. Teaching English abroad has many benefits:

• Get paid to travel: Teaching English overseas offers you the flexibility to go to a foreign country and discover the world while earning a sustainable income.
• Cultural Immersion: You can fully embrace a foreign culture and live like locals do. Plus, you get to surround yourself with new friends, have interesting new experiences and create new memories.
• International work experience: Boost your resume by gaining valuable experience overseas and showcase your adaptability to work in a foreign market seamlessly.
• Learn a new language: Whether it is Spanish, French or Mandarin, you will put yourself out of your comfort zone and develop your language skills in no time thanks to living in a foreign country.
• Make a difference: You’re teaching English which means that you’ll impact the lives and careers of many non-native English speakers around the world forever.

The requirements for teaching English abroad can differ from one country to another. There are, however, a few common factors that are considered critical to qualify you for teaching ESL overseas:

• Certifications: When it comes to teaching English overseas, an internationally accredited TEFL certification is a key requirement. There is no need for prior teaching experience nor any degree in education as long as you are TEFL certified.
• English fluency: This seems pretty obvious but you do need to be a fluent English speaker to teach English abroad. Being a native English speaker is a must in some countries, while non-native English speakers can also find opportunities to teach English around the globe.
• Education: It is typical to find countries that require a 4-year degree to teach English. However, there are many opportunities, especially in Latin America and Europe, for non-degree holders to find a position as an English teacher as long as they are TEFL certified.
• Criminal Record: Typically, there is a 50/50 chance you will need to obtain and pass some kind of criminal background check if you’re planning on teaching English abroad.

Teaching English Abroad: How Does It Work?

Wondering how you can start teaching English abroad?

ITA Expert advisors share their tips on how to help you teach English overseas and realize your dream of traveling the world while making a difference.

Check out our video library for more video testimonials from ITA graduates and expert tips from our ITA advisors.

Certifications for Teaching English Abroad

While you do not need any prior teaching experience, nor do you need a degree in education to teach English abroad, it is imperative that you hold a proper certification that will qualify you to teach English. But which one do you need? TEFL, TESOL, CELTA… You can find yourself quickly overwhelmed by all of the acronyms when searching for the right certification.

However, when it comes to teaching English overseas, an accredited TEFL certification is the most popular qualification and is recognized by employers worldwide.

TEFL/TESOL/TESL/CELTA/DELTA Differences Explained

“TEFL” is the acronym for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, or simply put, English language instruction for non-native speakers. Also known as Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) or English Language Teaching (ELT), the field of TEFL/TESOL is one of the fastest-growing educational fields in the world, presenting thousands of excellent professional opportunities in all corners of the globe to native and fluent English speakers who achieve their TEFL/TESOL certification. These terms are essentially interchangeable in the international English teaching market, our certifications list both terms.

Read more: What is TEFL Certification?

To get TEFL certified, there are commonly two options:

• Take an in-person TEFL course, such as one of the courses ITA offers in 23 locations worldwide.
• Take an online TEFL course, a more convenient and the most popular option amongst our students.

The cost of TEFL courses typically vary depending on the location of the class, but online TEFL courses are generally cheaper. You can also usually discuss payment plans when you enroll in a course, so finding a TEFL certification course that’s within your budget shouldn’t be too hard.

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Living in a foreign country, working as a teacher, and making money — teaching abroad sounds nice, doesn’t it?

It almost sounds too good to be true, but luckily it’s an opportunity available to people of various backgrounds, education levels, and experience. Teaching abroad is an incredible experience that gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, explore new frontiers, and forge wonderful new friendships.

There are over 1 billion people learning English as a second language worldwide, so the demand for English teachers is high. You don’t need a degree in English, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree at all to find a position. So what’s the catch? Well, it’s important to remember that hiring requirements are different in each country and school, so you need to find a job that works for your level of education and expertise. Here are some frequently asked questions about the requirements needed to teach abroad.

Do You Need a College Degree to Teach Abroad?

In some countries — especially in western Europe, the Persian Gulf, and parts of Asia — a college degree is officially (and sometimes unofficially) required to be hired as a teacher. Other times, individual schools may have their own requirements, depending on whether they are public, private, or follow a particular teaching methodology.

However, there are plenty of other countries where English speakers without a four-year degree can be paid to teach English, including most of Latin America, Eastern Europe, and certain countries in Asia, such as Cambodia and China.

There is plenty of information available online that compares the degree requirements for teaching English in over 50 countries around the world. You can also find additional information, such as salary expectations, hiring seasons, and visa requirements, that will help you decide where to go.

Do You Need a TEFL Certificate before Teaching Abroad?

A TEFL certificate verifies that you’ve completed training to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). Though it is possible to find a position without training or prior experience, a TEFL certificate will make the job search easier by opening the door to more opportunities in more countries; otherwise, you’ll have to restrict your search to certain areas. Without a TEFL certificate, you can also work as a volunteer.

Regardless of whether or not it’s required, a TEFL certificate is still recommended. There is rarely any training prior to getting started as a teacher, so the course will teach you the skills you need to provide a good English education to your students. Additionally, it is a requirement for many schools and it is even a legal requirement in some countries. As an added bonus, most TEFL courses will help you find and apply to jobs based on your interests and background.

Do You Need Teaching Experience before Teaching Abroad?

Though teaching experience is useful and it’s what some schools are looking for, the only way to gain experience is to work! Luckily, having teaching experience is not required by most schools, and thousands of English speakers find work every year without prior experience.

However, having a TEFL certificate will make your application more attractive to potential employers and will give you an edge over other applicants. Countries as diverse as Turkey, Mexico, and Kazakhstan will hire teachers with a TEFL certificate but with no experience.

Countries with the most lucrative teaching positions, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, require prior teaching experience, but those countries make up the minority.

Do You Have to be a Native English Speaker to Teach English Abroad?

Whether you need to be a native English speaker to teach abroad depends on where you want to go. Latin American countries do not usually care if you are a native English speaker or not, but the Gulf countries and many major Asian countries — such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam — prefer to hire native English speakers. For some programs, such as the Cultural Ambassador program in Spain, being a citizen of a native English-speaking country is a requirement.

For European citizens, you may have an easier time of finding positions if you’re not a native English speaker by working within the European Union, where there are many positions that are not open to non-Europeans.

If you want to teach English abroad but are not a native speaker, you must consider:

• Your level of fluency
• Your accent and comprehensibility
• Your training and experience. Finding a job will be easier if you have a university degree, TEFL certification, or prior teaching experience.
• Your passport. Citizens of certain countries may have a harder time finding a teaching position due to different visa requirements, though things can be easier if you are already a permanent resident of the country you wish to teach in.

Do You Have to be Young to Teach Abroad?

Some teaching programs are restricted to certain age groups — for example, the French TAPIF assistantship program is only open to people between the ages of 20-35. However, there are so many opportunities out there that people of all ages can teach abroad.

If you’re younger than 20, you may have trouble finding a full-time teaching job, but you can still gain experience in the meantime by volunteering overseas or working at summer camps. If you’re older and are looking to go overseas, you should be able to find work depending on your experience. Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as many Latin American countries have plenty of opportunities for older adults.

Do You Have to Have “Startup Money” before Teaching Abroad?

You certainly do not have to pay to teach. Just make sure that you have enough money to cover your flights and the first month of living expenses. Though there are some positions that will cover your flights and “startup costs,” in the Gulf countries, in particular, it’s better to have an emergency fund just in case. The specific amount you’ll need depends on the cost of living where you are teaching, but between $1,000-$2,000 would be a good idea.

Those participating in a volunteer program may have to pay tuition to cover housing and program costs. There are also organizations such as CIEE that will help you obtain a visa, find accommodation, and secure a position in exchange for a reasonable fee.

What Else Do You Need to Teach Abroad?

Teaching English abroad is an exciting way to immerse yourself in a new culture while building your resume. It’s not always easy, but it certainly can be very rewarding.

Though requirements may differ from country to country and school to school, what’s most important is to keep an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Having a TEFL certificate will certainly help expand your options as well. However, if you meet the requirements and you have the motivation and desire to go overseas and make a difference in both your and your students’ lives then you’re all set to begin this eye-opening journey!

For many ESL teachers, their first teaching job is also their first time standing in front of a class of expectant students. But with your OISE TEFL certification behind you and the perfect mix of nerves, excitement and confidence you too can land a fantastic opportunity teaching English abroad.

Finding a job teaching English abroad when you don’t have any experience is more than doable. (Teaching English abroad without an ESL certification, though? Not so much!) However, with an abundance of ESL jobs and even more locations to choose from, it can sometimes be difficult to decipher where you should spread your fresh set of TEFL-certified wings.

So, without further ado, here’s our guide to the best locations with teaching jobs abroad for anyone with little to no experience.

China 

When you combine one of the world’s largest economies with an expansive population keen to master the English language you’ll have a hotbed of ESL teaching jobs up for grabs. From pre-K to adult language learners, teaching English in China will give you the opportunity to teach English grammar, conversational English, business communication and more.

With so many positions available, choosing one can be a tough decision, that’s why we recommend Teach Away’s Explore Program. Teach Away has partnered with China’s largest and most-reputable schools to give you access to a number of ESL jobs in the countries most sought-after destinations, so you can be sure you’re in good hands while you’re abroad.

Latest ESL teaching jobs in China >

Japan 

Japan has certainly become an increasingly popular destination in recent years for TEFL grads. While this has made ESL teaching positions slightly more competitive, there are still a number of great opportunities for teachers of all experience levels. One of the most popular and reputable ways to land a job teaching in Japan is through the JET program. Run by the Japanese government, this program typically hires new college and university grads to work as ALTs (assistant language teachers) in the public school system or at a private language school.

Private tutoring is also popular in Japan and it’s usually fairly easy for ESL teachers to pick up a few extra (well-paid) hours each week with students looking for a little extra guidance.

Latest ESL teaching jobs in Japan >

South Korea 

The popularity of Japan as a teach abroad destination has skyrocketed in recent years, due to large demand for ESL instructors and the wonderful quality of life on offer. This has also meant that competition for roles has become tough, but nevertheless there are still good opportunities for inexperienced teachers to be found if you’re prepared to search for them. Private tutoring is also popular here and it’s usually easy to pick up a few extra, and well paid, hours each week with students looking for a little extra guidance. The peaceful, unique culture is both welcoming and captivating.

Latest ESL teaching jobs in South Korea >

Online 

Teaching English online is a perfect opportunity to ease into international education without getting on a plane. Whether you’re not quite ready to move abroad or life just gets in the way, you don’t have to give up on your dream of teaching English abroad.

The demand for online teachers has reached an all-time high as of late and the increasing number of young and adult English language learners around the world shows no signs of stopping. The best part about this gig? You can teach from the comfort of your own home, put your new ESL teaching skills to the test and set your own schedule.

Try out this handy online teaching pay calculator to find out just how much you can make each month!

So there you have it! The beginner’s guide to teaching English abroad if you have zero experience.

After reading “English Teaching Abroad”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.

ESL Teaching – What is an ESL Teacher?

ESL Teaching – ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers specialize in helping non-native speakers of all ages and levels learn both the formal grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation of spoken and written English, while giving them confidence in the common usage of the language in order to communicate clearly and comfortably with native English speakers.

The globalization of business and the influx of immigrants to the U.S. have both driven the growth of English language learners and the need for educators who are skilled in teaching this unique group of learners.

According to Face the Facts USA, a Project of George Washington University, 10 percent of all public school students in the United States are English as Second Language (ESL) Learners/English Language Learners (ELLs), meaning they have limited English proficiency. However, less than 1 percent of public school teachers are English as a Second Language (ESL) instructors (or one ESL instructor for every 150 students), thereby highlighting a demand for ESL instructors in our increasingly culturally diverse world.

Amidst the creation of programs in schools across the county designed to address the needs of the students, a number of professional acronyms have emerged that have created a bit of confusion. Given the lack of cohesion nationwide regarding ESL instruction, it is quite common to find state boards of education and private industry/business utilizing one or more acronyms, often describing the same type of instruction. Presented here are the most commonly and authoritatively accepted definitions for the various terms related to teaching English to non-native speakers.

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Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): The acronym TESOL is a general industry term used to describe educating English Learners. Within TESOL, the following terms are used:

• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL): TESL involves teaching English to speakers of other languages and it most often interchanged with the term ESL teaching/teachers. TESL/ESL teachers may work for public or private PK-12 schools; private tutoring companies; companies/organizations; and colleges/universities, just to name a few.

• Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL): TEFL involves teaching English abroad where English is not the primary language. TEFL educators may work for international schools, international companies, international organizations/associations, and international universities, just to name a few.
• English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): The term ESOL is generally used when describing programs outside of a PK-12 setting that are designed for ELLs who seek proficiency in social and academic language; ESOL programs, which may also be referred to as English as a Second Language programs, generally teach basic grammar, vocabulary and colloquial terms and phrases to ELLs in a community college, community program, or online program setting. However, states like Florida utilize the ESOL title to describe its academic endorsement for public school teachers and it is commonly used interchangeably with ESL and TESL.
• English Language Learner (ELL): ELL simply refers to students who are not currently proficient as English speakers and are in the process of developing their English language skills. ELL students are referred to as such in both ESL specific classes and regular content area classes that they are integrated into. ELL is a universally accepted term for English language learners in the K-12 setting, as well as among adult non-native English speakers who in the process of learning English.

It is typical for undergraduate and graduate programs and primary and secondary endorsements for ESL in public school settings to be labeled using the acronyms ESOL, ESL, ELL, TESL, and TESOL.

ESL Teaching –  What is an English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher?

ESL teachers work with English Language Learners (ELLs), or those students for whom English is not their primary language. ESL teachers work with ELLs to help them acquire fluency in English, both spoken and in the written word. ESL teachers, who may work with students of all ages, from kindergarten through twelfth grade, must achieve state-specific credentials in ESL if they work in a public school setting.

ESL teachers also serve as a cultural bridge for students, linking a student’s native culture with their new cultural experience in the United States. As such, ESL teachers help students recognize the similarities between the two cultures.

However, ESL teachers should not be confused with foreign language teachers. Unlike foreign language teachers, who educate students with whom they share a common language, ESL teachers most often educate students with whom they do not share a common language. Because of this, ESL teachers are trained to offer basic explanations using repetition, demonstrations, and pictures.

Qualifying to Become an ESL Teacher

An education in ESL may be obtained through a state-approved teacher preparation program at the undergraduate or graduate level, or it may be a certification program that serves as an additional endorsement to a current teaching license at the elementary or secondary level in a public school setting.

Many states offer ESL as a primary endorsement, such as Oklahoma (English as a Second Language, P-12), Connecticut (TESOL, PK-12), and Washington D.C. (English as a Second Language) for public school teachers. Other states that do not offer ESL as a primary endorsement, offer ESL as an add-on endorsement. Among these states are Arkansas, North Dakota, and Louisiana.

Licensed educators certified in elementary education, and secondary teachers certified in language arts and English (and many times in other subjects), often pursue ESL certification, which typically includes between 15 and 18 semester hours of study, as to best meet the needs of their student population.

Requirements for ESL education and/or certification may differ for private schools and for instruction in private industry or business. TESOL certification is often required.

The Important Work of ESL Teachers

• Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD): Used in the US to describe English language learners.
• English Language Learners (ELL): Refers to learners typically found in K-12 environments.
• English Language Teaching or Training (ELT): Mostly used in the UK; same meaning as ESL.
• (Teaching) English for Academic Purposes (TEAP or EAP): Teaching students how to write formally, give presentations, and perform academically in English.
• (Teaching) English as a Foreign Language (TEFL or EFL): Teaching English in a non-English-speaking country.
• Teaching English as a New Language (TENL or ENL): Used in some states instead of ESL.
• (Teaching) English as a Second Language (TESL or ESL): Teaching English in a country that is primarily English-speaking.
• (Teaching) English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL or ESOL): Acronym created in part to be more inclusive than ESL, which assumes English is the second language, when in fact, English may be the third or fourth language.
• (Teaching) English for Specific Purposes (TESP or ESP): Teaching of English that is related to a certain industry such as technology or business.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): An English language test required of international students who want to study abroad in a country where English is spoken.

ESL students can be found in all age ranges, from children to adults. This guide provides further information on what ESL teachers do, how to become one, and the industry’s salary and job outlook.

ESL Teaching –  Job Description

An ESL teacher is responsible for providing lessons and support to students who are learning English as a second language. Often ESL teachers use a real-life context to help students grasp the complexities of the language. ESL teachers must be adaptable, creative, and sensitive to the cultural differences expected when working with students from different cultures. Sometimes, those who teach English as a second language also act as mentors, advisors, and liaisons to students and families who are just getting established in a new environment. In the public school system, ESL teachers may work with students of all grade levels (K-12), often pulling ESL students out of the regular classroom to a designated area, where they work with them in small groups or one-on-one to improve their English skills. Depending on the size of the school, these small groups may comprise English language learners of different ages and grade levels who all need assistance with their English language skills.

ESL Teaching – Requirements & Common Tasks

Teachers of ESL plan and deliver lessons and assess students on their progress, strengths, and weaknesses. They might teach an entire class or, more commonly in the public school system, teach students in small groups. ESL teachers organize activities and administer and grade tests. They may work with children or adult students of varied ages from diverse backgrounds. Some adult students may have been highly educated in their native country, while others may have little formal education. A flexible teaching style that adapts to varied student needs is a valuable skill for an ESL teacher. Excellent communication skills are also important.

Besides instructing students in the subject of English, ESL teachers must prepare lesson plans, complete related paperwork, and stay informed with changing teaching methods and standards. Because of the increasing use of technology in the classroom, ESL teachers need proficiency in computers and various classroom technologies. As with most teachers, teachers of English as a second language often spend nights and weekends grading papers, planning their lessons, conducting activities, and meeting with parents and other school faculty. Teachers of adult learners specifically may be required to teach classes outside of regular working hours, since adult students often work during the day.

How to Become an ESL Teacher

All states require that public school ESL teachers have at least a bachelor’s degree, which may be in English as a second language or a related subject. Prospective ESL teachers must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program either as part of their bachelor’s program or as a stand-alone program following graduation. A master’s degree is not usually required to be an ESL teacher, but may be pursued by those who already have a bachelor’s degree in something else or for already licensed teachers looking to specialize in ESL. Education and training with a focus on teaching, linguistics, or second-language acquisition is preferred. In public school districts, ESL teachers are required to obtain state teacher certification, commonly with an ESL, ESOL, ENL, or ELL endorsement. If you have not yet received a bachelor’s degree and are not yet a certified teacher, the typical path to this career is as follows:

Earn a bachelor’s degree in ESL or TESOL or a related subject, such as linguistics.

Complete a student teaching internship in an ESL setting as part of your program.

Take your state’s tests for teacher licensure with an endorsement in ESL.

Apply for your teaching license.

Begin applying to open positions for ESL teachers.

Those who have a bachelor’s degree in another subject but would like to teach K-12 ESL classes may be able to qualify for a license by earning a master’s degree in ESL preparing graduates to take the state board exams and leading to teacher certification. ESL degree programs include classes in subjects dealing with the history of the English language, the way that the language has changed and is still changing, and strategies on how to teach the language to people whose first language is not English. Other ESL degree coursework includes teaching reading and comprehension skills and successfully teaching students from diverse cultural backgrounds. ESL programs also instruct students on how to integrate teaching English with other subjects, such as science, mathematics, and history.

ESL Teaching – Salary and Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for elementary school and high school teachers is $58,600 and $60,320 respectively.^1,2 It also reports that adult literacy teachers, a category that includes adult ESL teachers, earn an average median salary of $53,630.³ The related BLS category of Adult Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors reports a median salary of $52,100 per year.⁴ Wages are directly affected by job location, training, education, and experience, as well as available funding for ESL programs. Job openings for ESL teachers may be more abundant in states with larger non-native English populations, such as New York, Florida, California, and Texas. While the BLS doesn’t provide projections specifically for ESL teachers, it does estimate a 3% increase in elementary school jobs and a 4% increase in high school teacher jobs by 2028.^1,2 Adult literacy teacher jobs, including those in ESL, are expected to drop by 10% through 2028, citing changes in government funding for these types of programs.

Top ESL Teaching Jobs

Featured Job

English Teacher

 New Concept School Beijing, China

Start in January, 2021

Featured Job

English Teacher

 EF English First, Shijiazhuang Shijiazhuang, China

Ongoing

Featured Job

 First Leap Zhengzhou Zhengzhou, China

Ongoing

Featured Job

English Language Assistant

 RVF International Various Locations, Spain, Europe

Start in October, 2021

Featured Job

Online English Teacher

 Magic Ears Online, Online Teaching jobs

Ongoing

Featured Job

English Teacher

ESL teaching jobs are some of the most in-demand positions for new university graduates who lack formal teaching experience, as well as for experienced TESL or TEFL qualified educators.

Types of ESL Teaching Jobs Abroad

ESL stands for English as a Second Language. There are many different types of ESL jobs available. ESL teachers use their expertise as native English speakers to teach English to students of all ability levels and ages.

There’s no better time to explore a career as an ESL teacher overseas than right now. With a projected two billion ESL students worldwide by 2020, demand for English teachers is soaring.

Every year, more than 100,000 new ESL teaching jobs open up at over 40,000 ESL schools worldwide. The booming global English language learning market offers thousands of job opportunities for native English speakers of all backgrounds and experience levels, including:

• New graduates of all majors
• Qualified ESL instructors
• Fresh teachers college graduates
• Experienced, licensed educators

ESL teachers can find ESL jobs at the following institutions worldwide:

• Public schools
• Private language schools
• International schools
• Universities and colleges

There are also plenty of online English teaching jobs for native English-speaking graduates based in North America. ESL jobs can be either full-time or part-time. The types of ESL teaching jobs available range from preschool, elementary, middle-school and high-school, up to college and adult level English teaching positions.

Types Of ESL Teaching Jobs In The US/Canada

If you’re from the US or Canada, there are a wide variety of ESL teaching jobs at public middle and high schools, teaching students of varying ages and abilities who are not currently proficient in English.

The number of ESL job vacancies in the US has grown rapidly, due in large part to the fact that ELLs (English Language Learners) have become the fastest-growing population of students in the country, growing by around 60% over the past 10 years.

According to the US Census Bureau, over 61 million people in the US currently speak a different language to English in their homes, making ESL an increasingly high-need subject in schools across the country. The US National Center for Education Statistics recently stated that “27% of all schools with bilingual/ESL teaching vacancies found them very difficult or impossible to fill, more than for many other teaching fields.”

Along with English language classes for adults, ESL teaching positions currently on offer in the US and Canada include the following:

• ESL elementary teaching jobs
• ESL middle school teaching jobs
• ESL high school teaching jobs

ESL Teacher Requirements

Education Level	ESL teachers usually need to have, at minimum, a Bachelor’s Degree, across any major.
Certification	ESL jobs usually require an internationally-recognized TEFL or TESL certificate. A TEFL certificate can help aspiring ESL teachers qualify for English teaching jobs abroad.
Work Experience	Previous teaching or volunteer experience is considered an asset when applying for ESL jobs.

How To Be An Effective ESL Teacher

ESL teachers need to be organized, patient and positive, with strong listening and communication skills. Other key skills and strengths you need to possess as an ESL teacher include the following:

• • Foreign language skills. ESL teaching requires a solid understanding of the rules of grammar and spelling and the second-language acquisition process.

• • General teaching abilities. Whether you choose to teach ESL at home or abroad, it’s key to have good classroom-management and lesson-planning capabilities.

• • Digital literacy skills. Due in large part to the increasing use of technology in today’s classrooms, ESL teachers at home and overseas will need to attain a certain level of digital literacy.

• • An adaptable mindset. ESL teaching requires you to be flexible to different learning styles of your ELLs.

• • Cultural sensitivity. ESL teachers need to be culturally responsive educators who are able to meet the diverse learning needs of students from vastly different cultural backgrounds than their own.

A TEFL is one of the best ways to grow your ESL teaching skills and launch a successful English teaching career abroad. Earn your TEFL certificate online from the University of Toronto OISE.

What Does An ESL Teacher Do?

An ESL teacher teaches English to students who are not native speakers, commonly referred to as ESL students or English language learners. An ESL teacher is expected to perform similar duties to any other teacher, from creating lesson plans to performing student assessments.

How To Become An ESL Teacher

Takeaway: To qualify for ESL teaching jobs abroad, you’ll need native-level English proficiency, a bachelor’s degree in any major and an ESL teaching qualification, such as a TEFL (English as a Foreign Language) certification.

Interested in becoming an ESL teacher? Wondering what qualifications you need to land a job teaching English abroad? Read on to find out all about the education requirements and credentials you’ll need to cover.

Note: If you’re wondering whether you need teaching experience to qualify for ESL teaching jobs abroad: you don’t! Depending on where you want to teach ESL abroad, teaching experience is typically not required.

For example, Teach Away’s Explore program are now accepting applications for hundreds of ESL teaching opportunities in China for the upcoming school year from new graduates without any formal teaching experience. However, any prior experience working with children (including tutoring or coaching) is still considered a bonus and well worth including on your ESL teaching resume.

Step 1: Get your bachelor’s degree

While the demand for ESL teachers is booming worldwide, some sort of bachelor’s degree (any major) is usually considered a base requirement by ESL schools and foreign language institutions overseas. Becoming an ESL teacher without a college degree, while not impossible in less sought-after ESL destinations abroad, is becoming more and more difficult as global requirements become increasingly more stringent.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career teaching ESL in the US or Canada, then a master’s degree, while not strictly required, is also considered a strong asset for many domestic ESL teaching jobs.

Step 2: Get your ESL certification

Requirements for teaching ESL abroad

TEFL certification

If you’re a college graduate interested in teaching English as a second language overseas, you’ll need to obtain an ESL qualification that’s recognized by international employers, such as a TEFL certificate, that’s at least 100 hours in length.

A TEFL certification is the globally accepted qualification to teach English abroad to students (both children and adults) whose first language isn’t English.

There are many options available to suit different budgets and schedules, from online to in-person TEFL courses.

CELTA certification

If you’re strongly considering pursuing ESL teaching overseas as a long-term career, it may be worth considering investing in a CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) course. However, a CELTA tends to be more expensive and time-intensive than most TEFL certification programs and is not required for most ESL teaching jobs abroad.

Requirements for teaching ESL at home

TESOL/TESL certification

If your primary goal is to teach ESL students in your home country, you can choose to opt for a master’s degree program in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or a 120-hour TESOL or TESL certification.

A note on getting your teaching license: If you reside in the US, you may also be required to hold a teaching license. However, due to a national shortage of ESL teachers in many states, there are alternative certification programs available for aspiring ESL teachers.

ESL Teacher Benefits

ESL jobs benefits may include:

• Round-trip airfare
• Accommodations or accommodations allowance
• Opportunity for overtime
• Teacher training and professional development
• Health insurance
• End-of-contract bonus

For a list of available ESL jobs, along with information on salary, benefits, and contract details, please visit the Jobs page.

Want to teach ESL online from home? You’re in luck! We’ve got the best online English teaching jobs from the biggest online schools like VIPKID and ITutorGroup for native-English speaking teachers and graduates of all backgrounds and experience levels!

Best of all, you’ll get the flexibility to set your own schedule and work as little or as many hours as you’d like.

Top Destinations for ESL Teachers

ESL teachers are in high demand worldwide, and almost every region requires ESL instructors. ESL teachers looking for teaching jobs abroad can find English teaching positions in some of the following countries:

Teach English in Taiwan

ESL teaching jobs in public and private schools in large cities and towns throughout Taiwan offer ESL teachers a chance to advance their teaching careers in one of Asia’s most desirable teach abroad destinations.

TEACH ENGLISH IN TAIWAN

Teach English in China

China offers amazing ESL job opportunities as demand for English language teachers continues to rise across private language schools, public schools, International Baccalaureate schools and private international schools in China.

TEACH ENGLISH IN CHINA

Teach English in Saudi Arabia

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia at private international schools, ESL language institutes, universities and colleges is a great option for new and experienced ESL teachers alike.

TEACH ENGLISH IN SAUDI ARABIA

Teach English in Mexico

One of the strongest job markets for teaching English in Latin America, Mexico is a popular for ESL teachers looking to teach abroad.

TEACH ENGLISH IN MEXICO

771 ESL vacancies live right now for TEFL graduates.