Employment
Teach, Travel & Get Inspired
The Journey
Creating lasting memories
Obtaining a TEFL TESOL certificate is an essential first step towards becoming an English teacher abroad, but it is not a guaranteed ticket to success. There are various factors and considerations that can impact your access to English teaching jobs and TEFL employment.
The Adventure
Explore the unknown
Embark on your TEFL journey with us! Our globally recognised online English teaching course is your passport to a world of opportunities. Get ready to hit the ground running as we fast-track your training, and before you know it, you´ll be off to explore exotic destinations.
Types of Jobs
TEFL teachers are regularly employed in a variety of settings.
-
Language Schools
Children and adults around the world attend English classes (usually conversational) in private language schools. Classes are usually about an hour long and held once or twice a week for each group of students, but this varies. The benefits of working for private language schools often include: small classes (6-12 students in a class), highly motivated students (and usually paying a lot of money for their courses!), high-quality curriculum and resources provided, Language schools are usually the most comfortable and supportive environments for new TESOL teachers.
-
Primary Schools, High Schools, Colleges & Universities
The need for “native English” teachers in regular school systems around the world varies dramatically. For those who already have a teaching certification, adding a TESOL certificate to that will open many doors for you. However, in most of Asia, for example, the need is so great, that anyone with a TESOL certificate has access to many opportunities as well. Many of the positions in the local school systems can be found on the internet, but others will also be found once you arrive in the country and you have some teaching experience. Because the classes are larger, the students are less motivated and the curriculum is often not “Communicative”. Teaching in this environment can be much more challenging, but there are many benefits and rewards as well!
-
In-company or “Business” Classes
The demand for English in the business environment is enormous! Many English teachers land great opportunities to teach one or two-hour lessons once or twice a week in businesses. While you don’t need to have a background in business to teach business students, our section on ESP in the English to the World Series will both prepare you and make you more marketable as you look for opportunities to supplement your income and get involved in your community.
-
Private Tutoring
If you have spent some time in a non-English speaking country, you may have noticed that many of the locals are very eager to practise their English with native English speakers. Their motivations will vary! Some want to attend English-speaking universities. Some want to understand and be understood when they travel. Others want their children to have more academic advantages. Still, others desire to gain more satisfaction from watching English news, documentaries and movies. And of course, many locals enjoy being seen with “a foreigner”.
-
Teaching Online
In truth, the profession of teaching online has taken the English teaching industry by storm. So, who wouldn´t want to be their own boss? In addition, teaching online has the real potential to offer you stable employment – either full-time or part-time. Not only this, but you get to teach and interact with people from all over the world. Furthermore, if you are already an English teacher at a language school, why not teach English online as well? Moreover, a great way to boost your income! So, what are you waiting for?
Considerations
Important factors to think about!
-
Passport Restrictions
Unfortunately, your passport can have a direct impact on where you can legally teach and find TEFL employment. Many job advertisements online specify passport holders from certain English-speaking countries such as the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. This is due to different immigration rules implemented in these countries, which may only issue work visas or permits to teachers from these specific countries. While there are countries where English is widely spoken and natives are fluent, some immigration authorities still hold outdated perceptions. It is hopeful that these practices will change over time for a more equitable and fair TEFL job market.
-
Native Speaker
Some employers may advertise English teaching jobs for “Native English Speakers,” which refers to fluent English speakers with passports from English-speaking countries. While this requirement is considered discriminatory by many in the West, it is still prevalent in many parts of the world. Non-native English speakers may find some exceptions and opportunities through online job boards, groups, and forums.
-
Bachelor's Degree
In the past, anyone who could speak English could teach English abroad, but nowadays most employers require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. However, there are some exceptions, and it is still possible to teach English in certain countries without a degree. For more information, visit our dedicated page on teaching without a degree.
-
TEFL Certificate
In almost all cases, employers will require applicants to hold a TEFL TESOL certificate. Some employers may waive this requirement for applicants with an education degree, but many still prefer applicants with TEFL TESOL training to learn the necessary methodologies and techniques for teaching English to second/foreign language learners.
-
Criminal Record
To obtain a work visa/permit, you may need to submit a police clearance certificate, and any record or blemish on your record may disqualify you from obtaining a work visa/permit in certain countries.
-
Health Check
Some countries may require you to undergo health/medical checks, and certain health or medical issues may affect your eligibility for a work visa/permit. It is important to inquire with your employer about any required health checks.
-
Employer
In addition to the aforementioned considerations, employers may have their own specific job requirements, such as previous teaching experience, gender preference (e.g. female teachers for young learners), or age range. It is important to be aware of these requirements when applying for English teaching jobs.
-
Country
Based on the considerations and factors mentioned above, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the criteria you meet and those you do not. It is recommended to check the country requirements of your desired teaching destination to determine if you qualify.
FAQs
Some common questions.
-
How do I find a teaching job?
You can find numerous online TEFL job sites to explore for employment opportunities. Our comprehensive course module, ‘The World of TEFL,’ covers various aspects of finding a job, including tips and advice.
-
Where can I teach?
Many people mistakenly believe that obtaining a TEFL/TESOL certificate automatically qualifies them to teach English anywhere in the world. However, this is not entirely true. For instance, even if you possess a Bachelor’s degree and a TEFL/TESOL qualification, you may face significant challenges in securing an English teaching position in Europe if you lack an EU passport or the right to work in that country. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly research and understand the specific requirements of the country where you aspire to teach.
-
What are the age limits?
There may be instances of ageism when it comes to teaching English abroad, primarily due to visa requirements. Each country has its own unique rules, and some countries may not issue work visas or permits to teachers who are over the age of approximately 60 or 65. For example, in many Asian countries, the official age cutoff is either 55 or 60. Similarly, in the Middle East, most countries specify that teachers should be below the age of 60. It’s important to be aware of these age-related requirements when considering opportunities to teach English abroad.
-
Who pays for the flight tickets?
The policy regarding flight expenses varies among employers and schools. Some may cover the cost of your flight upfront, while others may reimburse you for the expenses. In some cases, flight costs may not be included and you may be expected to cover them on your own. It’s crucial to clarify the flight payment policy during the interview phase of any job to avoid any misunderstandings.
-
Will accommodation be provided?
The policy regarding flight expenses varies among employers and schools. Some may cover the cost of your flight upfront, while others may reimburse you for the expenses. In some cases, flight costs may not be included and you may be expected to cover them on your own. It’s crucial to clarify the flight payment policy during the interview phase of any job to avoid any misunderstandings.
-
How long are contracts?
Contract durations typically range from 6 months to 12 months, with the option for renewal in many cases. However, there may be instances where shorter contract periods are available.
-
What about Health Insurance costs?
It’s important to ensure that your school or employer provides you with health insurance. It’s recommended to check with your employer to understand the coverage and benefits of the health insurance provided.
-
Who pays for the work visa?
Your employer, school or agent should assist you with acquiring the necessary paperwork and help you with securing the correct type of visa. You will have to discuss or negotiate with your agent or employer to see whether you have to pay for the visa or whether they will pay.
-
Will I need start-up costs?
It’s advisable to have some cash on hand when you arrive in a new country to start working. The amount needed may vary significantly depending on the country. You can refer to our country chart for guidance on the recommended amount to set aside for initial expenses.
TEFL Job Group
Facebook Employment Group
The TEFL Training College has its own Facebook group "Teach English Abroad & Online" with more than 178k members. Here you will find hundreds of English teaching jobs advertised by employers, schools and agents from around the globe. It is a fantastic place to ask questions, share information and learn from the experiences of others.
