Guest Post by Matt Kepnes
Teaching English abroad is an excellent way to earn money while traveling. The entry requirements are minimal, job opportunities are plentiful, and the pay is adequate to support your adventures for as long as you desire.
I started my journey by teaching English in Thailand and Taiwan. These positions allowed me to immerse myself in life as an expat, fully explore two remarkable countries, and save money for future travels.
Before moving to Thailand, I had never lived outside my home state. While there, I decided to prolong my travels, but I needed to earn some money, and teaching English seemed to be the easiest option.
What I initially planned as a few months turned into nearly a year, with more opportunities in Taiwan followed by another stint in Thailand.
One of the best aspects of teaching was that it allowed me to settle in one place and truly learn how to thrive in a new environment.
I made friendships, learned the local language, navigated cultural differences, and discovered how adaptable I could be.
While teaching may not have been my lifelong career, it was undoubtedly a transformative experience. I look back on those times fondly, realizing that the growth I experienced gave me the confidence to believe that if I could succeed there, I could conquer anything.
Now, I no longer fear relocating to a new city.
Whenever someone mentions, “I’m thinking about teaching abroad,” I enthusiastically respond: “Absolutely! Go for it!”
Essential Information for Teaching English Abroad
The internet is filled with information about teaching overseas, but much of it can be misleading, often originating from dubious recruitment companies.
Over the years, I’ve monitored the teaching sector to keep up with the latest trends and assist aspiring teachers in avoiding scams.
To help clarify the process, here’s what you need to know to teach English abroad:
1. Understand Your Qualifications
Let’s address the most common question: What are the requirements for teaching? In short, there are not many.
The detailed answer is that the requirements vary significantly based on the country and region. What you need in terms of skills and credentials depends heavily on your location and the type of job you seek.
Generally, to teach English abroad, you should meet the following minimum requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (your field of study does not matter).
- Be a native English speaker from an English-speaking country.
- Possess a TEFL, CELTA, or TESOL certificate.
Most schools, unless you aim to work at an international school or in corporate training, will hire you if you are a native speaker with a college degree.
Typically, countries require that you be a native English speaker from one of the following countries: the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa.
While some nations may consider candidates from other English-speaking regions, schools and educational organizations generally prefer teachers from the aforementioned seven countries.
Note: If you are not a native speaker, your job search may prove more challenging. Nonetheless, it’s still feasible; you’ll just need to expend more effort than native speakers to find opportunities.
Experience in teaching can help, but for most positions, it is not a strict requirement. Although I had pursued a teaching career in the US, you don’t need prior teaching experience to begin your job search.
Only the top-tier jobs will consider your experience.
2. Complete a TEFL Course
TEFL stands for “Teaching English as a Foreign Language.” This certificate can be obtained through various organizations that equip you with the necessary skills for teaching English overseas.
Having a TEFL certificate significantly boosts your chances of getting hired. It compensates for any lack of teaching experience, as employers often view this qualification as essential training.
There are many options available for TEFL courses today. Some are in-person, others are completely online, and some combine both formats.
When comparing TEFL courses, look for:
- A minimum of 120 hours of coursework (160–180 hours is even better).
- In-person training or live online components to simulate a classroom environment.
- Post-course support for queries and additional assistance.
- Tutor support (often available as an add-on).
- Job placement resources.
Expect to pay around $150–300 USD for a TEFL program (more for in-person training). It’s crucial to recognize this course as an investment.
Not only will it open doors to teaching opportunities, but it will also provide you with essential skills for success in the job. Furthermore, the knowledge gained can be beneficial in future careers, making it a wise investment.
Here are some of the top TEFL programs to consider:
- International TEFL Academy: Offers both online and in-person global courses, known for comprehensive training and job placement assistance abroad.
- The TEFL Org: Provides accredited online and in-class TEFL courses with flexible study options.
- i-to-i TEFL: Offers affordable and flexible online TEFL courses, often including practical classroom components.
- BridgeTEFL: Provides a variety of TEFL/TESOL certification programs, including specialized courses for teaching different age groups and proficiency levels.
- CELTA (Cambridge English): The Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults is globally respected, with many training centers worldwide.
- Oxford TEFL: Known for intensive CELTA courses and other TEFL certifications, with strong academic support and career services.
- Premier TEFL: Offers accredited TEFL courses, including internships and job placements and flexible learning options.
- American TESOL Institute: Offers diverse TESOL/TEFL courses, covering online, in-class, and hybrid options with a focus on practical teaching skills.
- MyTEFL: Known for affordable online TEFL courses, featuring a strong emphasis on practical teaching approaches and job placement support.
- ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training): Provides a variety of online and classroom-based TEFL courses, including specializations for young learners, business English, and more.
Personally, I would choose a combined online and in-class format if you are considering a long-term teaching position. The industry standard in Asia is 120 hours, with at least 20 hours dedicated to in-person training.
If you’re looking for a short-term role or intend to work in one of the many global language schools, an online certificate will suffice.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Job Options
Before you can teach English abroad, it’s essential to understand the different job types available (assuming you meet the qualifications). Each country offers a unique landscape, but here’s a brief overview of the various teaching positions you can expect:
Tutoring
This is typically the entry-level position on the ESL ladder. While the pay isn’t great, it offers flexible hours for those seeking part-time work without the necessary qualifications for formal employment (tutoring jobs usually don’t provide work visas and are informal). This option is generally available in cities worldwide.
Language Schools
Language schools cater to adults looking to enhance their English skills. While their reputation can be mixed due to their for-profit nature, they are often hiring and generally only require a TEFL certificate.
Corporate Training
Companies around the globe need English-speaking employees, particularly in Asia’s international business hubs. These positions are typically contract-based and require both a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate. (This is the path I took while teaching in Thailand.)
Government Schools
These are standard public schools where ESL teachers are responsible for lesson planning, teaching, and grading homework, often working alongside a local teacher. Compensation includes a monthly salary and vacation days. A bachelor’s degree is usually required, and having a TEFL certificate can be advantageous since these positions are competitive. Some countries also provide enticing perks, such as bonuses for completing contracts, free flights, and assistance with visa applications.
Private Schools
Teaching at private schools resembles teaching at governmental institutions. However, private schools tend to offer better resources and higher salaries. Typically, a TEFL certificate and a bachelor’s degree are mandatory.
International Schools
International schools represent the pinnacle of ESL teaching opportunities. They offer the best salaries and benefits but are more competitive. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree and a teaching qualification, and relevant teaching experience is typically a significant advantage.
4. Look for Job Openings
Nowadays, you can often find job opportunities before leaving your home country or while already in your destination. To simplify your search, here are some websites to help you find teaching positions:
Some countries require you to apply for jobs (and obtain visas) in advance, while others better suit those looking for jobs upon arrival. These job boards can assist you in navigating your options for teaching English abroad.
Here’s a list of some of the most promising countries for teaching English, along with their attractive features:
1. South Korea
Offers high salaries, excellent benefits (including housing and airfare), and a strong demand for English teachers. The vibrant culture and modern cities enhance its appeal.
2. Japan
Noted for competitive salaries, respect for teachers, and opportunities to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Programs like JET provide added support and benefits.
3. China
Offers vast opportunities with high demand for teachers, attractive salaries, and benefits, blending traditional and modern experiences.
4. Thailand
Features a low cost of living, friendly locals, breathtaking landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle. Teaching positions are abundant, particularly in tourist hubs.
5. Vietnam
Growing demand for English teachers, competitive salaries, and a low cost of living. The rich history and natural beauty make it an appealing place to reside.
6. Spain
Offers numerous teaching programs, the charm of Spanish culture, and opportunities to travel throughout Europe. The Mediterranean climate adds significant allure.
7. United Arab Emirates
Provides high salaries, outstanding benefits, and tax-free income. The modern infrastructure and luxurious lifestyle are major attractions.
8. Czech Republic
Strategically located in Central Europe, providing easy access to neighboring countries, with high demand for teachers and relatively low living costs compared to Western Europe.
9. Chile
Indicates strong demand for English teachers amidst stunning landscapes ranging from deserts to glaciers and a booming economy. It serves as a gateway for exploring South America.
10. Mexico
Features a warm climate, rich culture, and significant demand for English teachers, alongside a low cost of living, making it a viable option.
These locations present unique benefits and experiences, making them standout choices for teaching English abroad.
When evaluating job offers, pay heed to:
Minimum Hours
Does the job guarantee a minimum of paid hours each week? This helps you gauge your monthly earnings and aids in budgeting. Note that this is just a minimum, implying you should anticipate more hours, which means more income.
Maximum Hours
Understand how many hours you might be contracted to work weekly. Only you can decide your preferred load, but over 25–30 teaching hours a week can be demanding for newcomers.
Penalty Clauses
Many contracts include clauses to prevent teachers from breaking their agreements. For example, some contracts in Taiwan have such clauses, even though punishing teachers for worked hours is illegal. While you may not avoid these clauses, understanding local laws can protect you.
Vacation Time
Know how many vacation days you receive, typically laid out in the contract. National holidays are often included, although hourly contracts often don’t provide any paid time off. Each school has different policies regarding vacation time.
Benefits
Variability in benefits exists, so review them closely. Contracts might include flight reimbursements, accommodation, language classes, bonuses, airport pickups, paid training, health insurance, and more. Ensure any mentioned benefits are explicitly stated in your contract.
5. Refine Your Resume & Prepare for Interviews
What do recruiters and employers seek? A CV or a resume? The truth is, they want a combination of both.
You may have heard that submitting a one-page application is crucial, but when applying for teaching roles abroad, it’s actually advisable to provide a document that is one to two pages long. Employers are interested in your teaching experiences, employment history, volunteer work, and any gaps in your resume.
Once your CV or resume is ready, the next step is to prepare for your interview. Unless you are already in the country, most ESL job interviews take place via Zoom or Skype. While virtual interviews are convenient, thorough preparation is still necessary.
- Ensure the space for your interview is tidy and presentable. A cluttered background can create a poor first impression!
- Test your headphones and camera ahead of time to confirm they are functional.
- Update your Skype/Zoom application before the call. Employers conduct numerous interviews; don’t keep them waiting for a software update.
- Prepare to discuss your teaching philosophy and classroom management strategies, even if you lack direct experience.
- Dress appropriately for the interview. First impressions matter, so attire suitable for the position is essential.
Making a strong online impression can be challenging. Without body language to communicate, you must navigate your engagement through the screen, which could be a benefit or a challenge for some.
Be aware that the interview is often brief—typically around 15 minutes—so preparation is key to standing out and securing a second interview.
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Teaching English abroad is an exhilarating way to expand your travel opportunities. You’ll gain deeper insights into your destination, meet locals, and earn a living to support your travels.
Whether you’re looking to start a new career or simply desire a job to fund your adventures, learning how to teach English abroad is a fantastic option worth pursuing.
I cherished my time teaching overseas. It taught me invaluable lessons about life in different countries and provided the freedom to explore the world. While it can be challenging at times, the benefits greatly outweigh the downsides. I wholeheartedly recommend the experience!
About Matt
Matt Kepnes operates the award-winning travel site nomadicmatt.com, which assists people in traveling the world on a budget. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and the travel memoir Ten Years a Nomad. His insights and advice have been featured on CNN, BBC, and in publications such as the New York Times, The Guardian, Lifehacker, Budget Travel, and Time. You can follow him on Instagram at @nomadicmatt. When he’s not traveling, he resides in Austin, Texas.
