Going into the educational field as a foreigner in many parts of the world can be a very rewarding job, and can make you look really attractive to employers anywhere. It can also be a great opportunity to save. More than often, living expenses will either be covered and/or relatively inexpensive. Keep in mind this will greatly determine where you choose to locate around the world. In places like the Middle East, Asia, and possibly some parts of Europe, you’re able to make a lucrative amount, along with building up your savings. Of course, this highly depends on your ability to manage your money. I’ve come across many individuals who were able to pay off their student loans from teaching abroad and it’s something that has left a large burden off their shoulders.
Living and working abroad also has many perks of gaining a great deal of experience and knowledge. There are certain things you don’t realize or take for granted when you’re in your home country that you become more vigilant about elsewhere. It also comes with a lot of privilege for those who willingly have the choice to do so. And as an outsider coming in, it’s necessary to be mindful of that.
And yes, although you will have the chance to visit many different places, take breathtaking photos, fill your social media feed with all the exciting things you are doing – just remember you are out there for a bigger and better purpose.
If you are anticipating teaching English abroad and don’t know where to begin, here are 6 steps to get you started on your journey.
Have a 4-year college degree
Having an English or Education major can boost your advantage, although if you don’t plan to be in the education sector in the long run, it really doesn’t matter what degree you have. For many countries, as long as you are from a native English-speaking country (USA, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Canada) opportunities are plenty. There are also subject teaching opportunities other than teaching English as well. Although for those looking into subject teaching, the requirements will differ in terms of having to come from a native English-speaking country.
Research countries and requirements
A lot of times doing the actual research is not the problem, it’s finding where and how to start. And most importantly, finding websites that provide factual information that will lead you in the right direction. For starters, Google will be your best friend. That also goes for TEFL websites that give insight on teaching in particular regions, countries, or cities around the world.
*Note: Before seeking a TEFL certification, explore your options and the requirements you’ll need for different countries.
Country Guides: Living, Working, Culture, and more
Country Comparison Chart for Teaching
The 5 Best Places to Save Money Teaching Abroad
8 Easiest Countries to Teach English
You can find many websites, as linked above that offer country charts, blogs, TEFL certification, and more to start your search. Information on living and working conditions, weather, culture, etc. will likely be the most important part, and Expat Arrivals provides a good amount of insight on these.
Be TEFL/TESOL certified or have a teaching license
I list this after researching the possible locations and knowing the requirements because some countries will differ, but most will want at least a TEFL certificate, along with a 4-year degree.
There are many online and in-person courses you can be certified by nowadays, it all just depends on your needs. Courses can be found via Groupon by searching “TEFL certification, Oxford Seminars, International TEFL Academy, and many more. As long as they are credible sources that offer courses, they will be accepted.
Once you’ve been certified, you will likely be offered a job placement advisor that can assist you in finding possible locations and positions. I wouldn’t heavily rely on the job placement advisor, but rather do the needed leg work. Plus you learn more about the process this way. No differently, having teaching experience is also highly desirable.
TEFL/TESOL/TESL/CELTA/DELTA – What’s The Difference?
Where to find TEFL certifications
What is a teaching license or teaching credential?
Choosing the type of school: public or private
Private schools are usually preferably the first choice for teachers who go abroad. For many reasons such as higher pay and the overall benefits package.
Just as any private school in your home country would typically cost more to attend and run, it’s no different elsewhere. There are different types of privately run institutions, such as training schools and international schools.
Training schools function similarly to what you would call an after-school program, while international schools will be somewhat like a public school but with a large cost, typically for the elite, and offer services otherwise not found in public schools. Training schools typically have a higher demand for teachers, along with hiring being year-round for the reason they do not behold an official academic calendar like public schools. International schools will vary in following an academic calendar similar to public schools, and hiring will mainly be at the start and end of an academic year.
Public schools are also good options, with the perk of working on an academic calendar and longer vacations. Many don’t come with the same salary as privately run schools, although vacations will most likely or always be paid. Overall, it all depends on what you are looking for.
Applying for jobs
The moment you’ve been waiting for! Taking your first teaching job abroad will not always be the best, nor will it always be the worst. The process of finding and committing I’d say is the most difficult. There are many options and you really don’t know what to expect until you move and start the job. For the sake of making this process a heck of a lot easier, here are some reputable websites that list teaching vacancies and opportunities.
How to start applying
Here Are the Top 14 Best Websites for English Teaching Jobs Abroad
LinkedIn – search what you are looking for! LinkedIn can be a great tool for connecting with people who are already doing the work!
When I first looked to teach abroad, I applied via Teach Away for positions posted by schools and companies. I was then contacted by a recruiter in China, who interviewed me and recommended different school locations within the country.
Keep in mind, if you are actively applying to positions, it’s likely you’ll be contacted by recruiters who either work for a particular school or a recruiting company.
Tips to keep in mind
- Is their job posting on a reputable website?
- If you are asked for personal information prior to being given a work contract, dodge it.
- Check if the company has their own website
- Check for company reviews via Glassdoors
- Join social media groups and ask questions
- Keep your options open
What to look for in a benefit package
- Housing or stipend
- Flight allowance or reimbursement
- Contract completion bonus
- Health insurance
- Paid vacation/sick leave
As a first-timer, finding and actually landing a job with these benefits will increasingly make your life easier. And going forward, once you’ve established an understanding of how the process goes, you’ll be more comfortable with what to look for and what not to. That also goes for what you’re willing to compromise for the sake of experience.
A word of advice is, create an excel sheet of the jobs you’re interested in and compare the benefits.
Continue researching, stay connected, and don’t limit your options
Once you’ve applied to various positions, don’t stop there. You’re not done until you’ve officially booked your ticket, but even then you aren’t.
Follow ex-pat pages through Facebook and other social media sites. Ask as many questions as possible. Make sure to find people who share similar narratives and identities as you. Seeing others who look like you or are experiencing what you are looking to experience abroad, makes a big difference. All the information you’ve acquired will be valuable in the decision-making process. The last thing you want to do is commit to something you aren’t sure of.
For any interviews and offers you come across, remember to never be too shy to ask questions. I’d say always negotiate as well. Many companies allow negotiation and expect you to do so. This shows you are asserting your needs and acknowledging the values and skills you bring forth.
Last but not least, choose the job you feel is right for you.
Would I recommend teaching abroad? Absolutely! Do I think it’s for everyone? Absolutely not. I will say that if you are open to experiencing different cultures and a lot more accepting of the ways people communicate around the world; it possibly could be for you. And of course, if you come with a passion for teaching and education, it will make a great difference.
If you come with a love for travel like myself, teaching abroad can be one of the many ways to experience the world. And for many, this can also be a step closer to where you’d like to see yourself even if it’s not specifically teaching. Although I will say, no matter the reason you choose to go abroad, it is your mindset that will affect your experience and how you choose to move through the world.
It takes a lot of effort and consciousness to remember that every action should be done with reason and the intention of learning. No experience will be perfect, and difficult times are bound to happen despite what you choose to do in life, and it is vital to be alright with that. We take the good and the not-so-good experiences and continue the journey.
For more guidance and assistance, add me on LinkedIn!
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