Teach Abroad Programs

How to teach English abroad

Wondering how to be an English teacher abroad? Don’t worry—it’s actually fairly straightforward! Here’s a brief overview of how to teach English abroad:

1. Get TEFL certified. Although not always required for every teaching job, this is the most basic step to prepare yourself for teaching English abroad. Having a TEFL certificate is quite frequently a prerequisite for teaching opportunities abroad anyway, so having one will open you up to jobs in almost every country in the world. You can get certified online or in-person, in as little as 60 hours or as much as 8 weeks! The right certification for you depends on your level of teaching experience, as well as your career goals, so make sure you evaluate the TEFL program before investing your time and money.
2. Have a degree. Yes, a Bachelor’s degree isn't always required for teaching jobs, but it is actually required to teach English abroad in many destinations that offer decent compensation packages. Your degree definitely doesn't have to be in education, though, so if you have a bachelor's degree in any field, then you could be eligible for hundreds of English teaching jobs. However, a relevant degree won't hurt your on-the-job skillset either!
3. Apply for teach abroad programs. You can find ESL jobs abroad without a teach abroad program, but it’ll require a lot of research on your part. Not to mention, it can be easy to get scammed or accidentally work illegally if you go it alone, so be sure to consider every detail in your application process. Formally arranged teach English abroad programs will find you a reputable placement, and may even secure a salary on your behalf, so it's worth considering having expert support along the way. Check out our most recently posted teaching jobs now!
4. Prepare for interviews. Submitting your application with all the right degrees and certifications they are looking for is only the first part of getting your dream teaching job. You also have to nail the interview! Make sure you prepare for all the right interview questions and you'll be on your way to getting hired.
5. Get your visa and passport. Once you've got a teaching job secured, the legal paperwork begins. Most teaching abroad programs will make your life easier by organizing all the logistics involved in getting a valid work visa for teaching English abroad, and they can even assist you in applying for a passport if you don’t have one. But if you're going it alone, make sure you qualify for a visa that will allow you to legally teach English in your destination—especially if you intend to earn a wage.

Why teach English abroad?

Teaching English abroad offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. By providing learners—from young children to adults—with essential language skills, you will empower them to compete in the global job market and engage more effectively in today's interconnected world.

Becoming an English teacher abroad requires patience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, as navigating different educational systems and cultural norms can be challenging. But these experiences will foster a great deal of personal growth and resilience wherever your career takes you. Teaching English abroad will enhance your professional development in unparalleled ways, equipping you with valuable skills that are transferable to other career paths. Your experience in teaching abroad will serve you well as a resume builder and networking opportunity, potentially leading to a range of future jobs abroad or at home.

If you are hardworking, flexible, and eager to engage deeply with new cultures, teaching English abroad can be a truly transformative experience. It offers the chance to make a tangible difference in students' lives while enriching your own through cultural exchange and professional development. If you're ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of this path, teaching English abroad can be a fulfilling, life-changing endeavor. 

Where to teach English abroad

You can teach English abroad pretty much anywhere. But if you're looking for the best countries to teach English and save money, then we suggest heading to countries like South Korea or China, where you can earn a great wage and manage your living expenses more effectively. However, there are also plenty of opportunities to teach English in countries all around Africa, South America, and Europe. Choosing off-the-beaten-path locations like Colombia or Myanmar can mean you are in higher demand and have less competition for job opportunities, not to mention you can have an even more authentic experience living abroad.

When deciding where to teach English abroad, it’s essential to think about the type of teaching environment that best suits your skills and goals, too. Different regions offer unique opportunities that can shape your experience. For example, in Asia, many English teaching jobs cater to professionals in corporate settings, focusing on business English and communication skills. In contrast, teaching roles in Africa are often centered around schools, where you can contribute to grassroots educational development. Meanwhile, in countries like Spain or Argentina, one-on-one tutoring is common, offering flexibility and a personalized teaching approach compared to traditional classroom roles.

Beyond the teaching setting, consider the lifestyle and cultural experience that each destination offers. Urban areas, such as Tokyo or Berlin, may appeal to those who thrive in fast-paced, resource-rich environments, while rural areas in Thailand or Costa Rica offer a more tranquil, community-focused experience. Factors like the cost of living, climate, and work benefits also vary greatly by location.

Ultimately, finding the right destination to teach abroad is about balancing your professional ambitions with your personal preferences. Whether you prefer the structure of a formal school environment or the flexibility of private tutoring, and whether you’re drawn to big cities or quiet countryside, carefully considering these factors will help ensure your teaching abroad experience is both rewarding and enjoyable.