Get Started Teaching English Abroad: A Step-By-Step Guide
Teaching English abroad is an exciting and rewarding experience.
It gives you the chance to live in a new country, meet people from different cultures, and share your language with others.
Whether you want to travel, learn a new language, or make a positive impact, teaching English can be a great way to do all of that.
If you are thinking about teaching English abroad but don’t know where to start, this guide will help you.
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know, from what qualifications are needed, how to find a job, and what to expect once you arrive in a foreign country.
Why Teach English Abroad?
Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why teaching English abroad can be a great opportunity.
Travel the World: Many countries need English teachers, and each offers a unique culture and lifestyle. By teaching abroad, you can live in a new place and travel around during your free time.
Make a Difference: English is one of the most spoken languages in the world. By teaching it, you help students improve their job opportunities and connect with people globally.
Learn New Skills: Living in a foreign country challenges you to adapt and learn new things. You’ll learn new languages, customs, and ways of thinking.
Earn Money: Teaching English abroad allows you to support yourself while living in a new place. In some countries, you may even be able to save money.
Personal Growth: The experience of living and working in a foreign country will help you grow as a person. You will learn how to solve problems, become more independent, and gain confidence.
Do You Need a Degree to Teach English Abroad?
The requirements for teaching English abroad vary from country to country.
In many cases, you will need a degree, but it does not always have to be in education or English.
Most schools and language centers prefer candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in any field.
However, a degree alone is often not enough. Most schools will also require a TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certification.
These are certificates that show you have the skills and knowledge to teach English as a second language.
You can earn a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate through online courses or in-person classes.
The course will teach you how to plan lessons, manage classrooms, and teach grammar and vocabulary effectively.
In some countries, like China or South Korea, you may be able to find a job without a TEFL certification, especially if you are a native English speaker.
However, having a certification will help you stand out and increase your chances of getting hired.
What Are the Best Countries to Teach English Abroad?
There are many countries where you can teach English, but some are more popular than others.
Here are a few countries where English teachers are in high demand:
China: China has one of the largest markets for English teachers. There is a huge demand for teachers, and many schools offer good salaries and benefits like free housing and flight reimbursements.
South Korea: South Korea is another popular destination for English teachers. The country offers competitive salaries, benefits, and a structured work environment. English teachers are highly respected in South Korea.
Japan: Japan is known for its beautiful culture, advanced technology, and high quality of life. Many English teachers live in Japan and teach in public schools or language institutes.
Vietnam: Vietnam is becoming a popular destination for English teachers because of its growing economy and low cost of living. The demand for English teachers is high, and you can earn a good salary while enjoying life in a beautiful country.
Spain: Spain offers a great mix of culture, history, and beaches. Many teachers go to Spain to teach English, especially through language schools or private tutoring.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. Teaching English in Thailand allows you to experience a rich culture and live in a tropical paradise.
Mexico: Mexico is a great option for those looking to teach English in a Spanish-speaking country. With a lower cost of living and a growing demand for English teachers, it’s an affordable place to live and work.
Czech Republic: The Czech Republic offers a mix of old-world charm and modern living. English teachers are in demand, and salaries are enough to cover living expenses in this beautiful country.
How to Find a Job Teaching English Abroad
Finding a job teaching English abroad is not as difficult as it may sound.
There are many resources available to help you get started.
Online Job Boards: Websites like Dave’s ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and GoAbroad list teaching jobs in different countries. These websites allow you to search for jobs based on location, salary, and other factors.
Recruitment Agencies: Some companies specialize in helping teachers find jobs abroad. These agencies can help you with everything from job placement to visa assistance. Some well-known agencies include Reach To Teach, Footprints Recruiting, and Teach Away.
School Websites: Many schools and language centers post job openings on their websites. If you already have a country in mind, you can search for English language schools in that area and apply directly to them.
Social Media and Forums: Online forums like Reddit and Facebook groups can also be a great way to connect with other teachers and find job opportunities.
Teaching Programs: Some countries offer government-sponsored programs to help teachers find jobs. For example, the JET Program in Japan, or EPIK (English Program in Korea), helps teachers find work in public schools in those countries.
How to Prepare for Teaching English Abroad
Once you have found a job and received an offer, it’s time to prepare for your adventure.
Here are a few things to consider:
Visa and Work Permit: Many countries require a visa or work permit to teach English. Make sure you know what type of visa you need and how to apply for it. Some schools will help you with this process, while others will leave it up to you.
Flight and Accommodation: Some schools provide free or subsidized housing, while others may give you a housing allowance. You may also receive help with flights. Make sure you know what benefits your employer offers before you leave.
Cultural Differences: Every country has its own culture and traditions. It’s important to be aware of these differences and show respect for local customs. Learning the basic phrases in the local language can also help you feel more at home.
Health Insurance: Some countries provide health insurance as part of your contract, but in others, you may need to arrange for your own insurance. Make sure you understand what health coverage you’ll have before you leave.
Packing: When packing for your trip, make sure you have everything you need for your teaching job, including any materials or textbooks that may be required. Also, pack light since you may need to buy certain things when you arrive, depending on where you’re teaching.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Once you arrive at your destination, it’s time to start your new job.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Orientation: Many schools provide an orientation to help you adjust to your new life. This may include a tour of the area, information about local customs, and tips for teaching.
Teaching: As an English teacher, your daily responsibilities will include planning lessons, teaching classes, and grading assignments. Depending on the country, you may teach children, teenagers, or adults. Make sure to ask your school for any lesson plans or resources they provide.
Living in a New Country: Living in a foreign country may take some getting used to. You may face language barriers, different foods, or unfamiliar customs. Be patient and try to learn as much as you can. Take time to explore your new city and meet new people.
Social Life: Teaching abroad is a great way to meet other people. You will find other teachers from around the world who are in the same situation as you. Many cities also have local expat communities that can help you adjust to life in a new country.
Traveling: One of the best parts of teaching abroad is the ability to travel. On weekends and holidays, you can explore nearby countries or tourist attractions.
Conclusion
Teaching English abroad is a great way to see the world, make a difference, and grow as a person.
With the right qualifications and preparation, you can have an exciting and fulfilling career teaching English in another country.
Whether you want to live in Asia, Europe, or Latin America, there are plenty of opportunities for you to teach and experience new cultures.
Start by researching your options, getting the right certification, and applying for jobs.
Once you arrive, stay open-minded, be patient, and enjoy the adventure of living and teaching abroad.
Good luck on your teaching journey!
