Is Teaching A Good Job

This is one of the most common questions asked by our TESOL course trainees and the answer is quite simple. Yes, you can teach ESL without a bachelor’s degree. Anyone who is TESOL qualified will have a wide array of destinations to choose from all over the world, regardless of their previous educational record. If you have a degree in any subject you will certainly have a few more options, but non-degree holders are in no way excluded from ESL teaching in many parts of the world. In recent years some countries have made it compulsory for foreign teachers to have a degree if they want to obtain a work visa that allows them to work legally as an ESL teacher. This is most noticeable in Asia where some of the biggest markets for teachers such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan...  [Read more]

Around the world there are a large number of countries and individual cities where the market for TESOL qualified teachers is particularly strong. In these areas it is common to find that the best jobs are oversubscribed with applicants, seriously reducing your chances of getting the jobs you really want. One of the best ways to combat this competition for jobs is to complete a higher level of training than the majority of the other contenders. Firstly, it is important to point out that there is no universal course level framework that covers the whole of the ESL teaching community. Many countries such as the USA, the UK, and Australia have designed their own unique systems, as have many other teaching related organizations and TESOL course providers. However, all of these...  [Read more]

Although Romania might not currently be top of the list of destinations for many teachers, it is well worth considering as it has one of the fastest growing populations of English language learners in the region. The majority of jobs are found in the main cities, but you should make time to explore the idyllic countryside that makes up much of the country. Romania?s most famous region is undoubtedly historic Transylvania, where ancient castles inspired Bram Stoker to write his masterpiece, Dracula. Salaries for ESL teachers in Romania are relatively low when compared to many Western European countries at around $500 to $1000 per month, although teachers with experience might be able to earn more. While these figures do not sound a lot, a low cost of living means that your salary will...  [Read more]

TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and is to almost all purposes the same as TEFL, Teaching English as a Foreign Language. As they are basically the same we will refer to just one from here on: TESOL Most TESOL teaching positions require a minimum qualification of a 120-hour certification. Throughout the industry there are three generally accepted routes to obtaining this qualification. These are through in-class courses, online courses or a combination of both, known as combined (or hybrid) courses. Here the trainee will travel to a location where the course is offered. There are training centers in most countries throughout the world where English is being taught to speakers of other languages. The main advantage of an onsite course is the possibility...  [Read more]

The USA has long been a destination of choice for immigrants, migrant workers, business professionals, and international students from every imaginable corner of the world. While all these different groups have their own reasons for choosing the U.S., one thing is generally the same among them all, i.e, the need to improve their English. Whether it is just a short-term visit or something more permanent, the countless numbers of new arrivals means there are always plenty of opportunities for TESOL qualified teachers in cities and towns across the country. One thing it is important to know is that a university degree is typically required if you want to teach English in the USA. If you want to teach within the public school system, you will most likely also require a state teaching...  [Read more]

Jordan is known to have one of the most progressive school systems in the Middle East. The country has stated its aim is to become a fully bilingual country as soon as possible and that is probably not very far away. There is a particular demand for teachers who are experienced in working with young learners as nearly a third of the country?s population is under the age of 15. Although you will not be offered the same level of pay that you would get in countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, teachers in Jordan will benefit from a lower cost of living that means your income will go much further. Standard tutoring jobs typically pay between $800 and $1,500 a month, although teachers with the relevant qualifications can apply to international schools that pay up to $3,000 a month...  [Read more]

With its unique position overlapping Europe and Asia, Turkey has been popular with international travelers for many years. The country is also rapidly becoming popular with ESL teachers as demand for the English language continues to grow at a fast rate in many areas. Big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are home to the majority of teaching jobs, but smaller numbers can be found elsewhere. In theory, a degree is required for all teaching jobs in Turkey, however, a shortage of teachers means that a TESOL certificate is often enough to secure many jobs. As Turkey is a big country with different levels of economy in different regions, the average monthly salary ranges from $800 to $1,800, depending on the individual employer, your qualifications, and level of experience. Most...  [Read more]

Located in the heart of the tropics, Malaysia is a rapidly developing country that has a diverse culture, great food, and plenty of ESL jobs for those with experience. However, as there is no shortage of local English language teachers, the competition for many available positions can be strong. Malaysia cannot compete with other Asian countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea when it comes to salaries as the monthly average income is only around $1,000. However, the cost of living is relatively low in comparison to some other parts of the region, which means this figure can spread quite far if you live within your means. The big bonus is that many jobs include free accommodation or a housing subsidy which removes the biggest monthly expense from your budget. It is common...  [Read more]

Spain has many attractions that draw a large number of teachers every year. The warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, world class beaches, and world famous cuisine are just a few. Many people also take the opportunity to learn Spanish while living and working in a modern, international city such as Madrid or Barcelona. If Spain is on your list of potential destinations, take a look at the following tips that should help you on your way. The main requirement for teaching English in Spain is a TESOL qualification. The vast majority of employers that offer a decent salary will expect their job applicants to have completed an internationally recognised teacher training course. A relatively small number of teaching jobs can be secured from within your home country via a government recruitment...  [Read more]

TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is also commonly used to refer to the qualification that teachers need in order to be eligible for most good quality teaching jobs in countries all over the world. If you want to take advantage of the huge worldwide boom in English language learning, you will certainly want to have this certification on your CV/resume. Equally, if you are learning the English language you will also want your teacher to have a TESOL qualification to ensure they have the knowledge needed to provide a good standard of tuition. As mentioned, a TESOL certificate is the standard qualification required by employers for anyone who intends to work as an English language teacher at home, overseas, or online. The main benefit is that as a...  [Read more]

With a great location right in the heart of Central Europe, Slovakia is an up-and-coming destination for TESOL certified teachers. Although it is not yet on the radar of many teachers coming to work in Europe, this rapidly modernising country will not be overlooked for much longer. Despite recent leaps forward, Slovakia has a long history which has left its mark in the form of ancient castles, medieval fortresses, and a rich cultural heritage that is evident throughout the country. The demand for foreign teachers has soared since joining the EU, so if you want plenty of jobs to choose from in a safe and peaceful country, Slovakia might be for you. Although teaching jobs are widespread, the average salary is not large by European standards. However, as long as you have a TESOL...  [Read more]

Some of the biggest markets for foreign ESL teachers are restricted to native English speakers only, including Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. However, if your first language is not English there are still many exciting destinations all over the world where there are no such restrictions. It is worth noting that the term 'native English speaker' typically refers to teachers from the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. As the demand for foreign ESL teachers is very high in most parts of Asia, there are a wide range of options for non-native English speakers. Thailand is a particularly popular choice due to its widely popular culture and cuisine, and the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. In order to get a work permit you need...  [Read more]

As the internet is largely anonymous by nature, it is easy for unscrupulous characters who are looking to make easy money to prey on unsuspecting job hunters. While it is true that the quality of schools and the teaching contracts they offer can vary enormously, the vast majority of advertised jobs whether good or bad will be completely genuine. However, to avoid the small number of jobs that might be dubious, there are a few simple rules you can follow. Research is always the best defense against job scams when looking for ESL jobs online. By spending a bit of time researching the typical salary, expected benefits, working hours, and visa requirements in your chosen destination, potential scams should stand out like a sore thumb. The bottom line here is, if it sounds too good to be...  [Read more]

With a job market that is booming, a widely popular culture, a diverse and stunning landscape, and great food, Mexico is unsurprisingly popular as a teaching destination. The country?s close ties with it northern neighbor the USA ensures that the current demand for the English language is only set to rise in the coming years. The average salary for ESL teachers in Mexico varies considerably depending on the type of job you have and where you choose to live. However, most teachers can expect to earn between $500 and $1,000 per month. While this might not sound like much, the low cost of living ensures it will go much further than the same figure earned in many other countries. When job hunting in Mexico it really pays to shop around as the hourly rate offered by schools can vary...  [Read more]

It is not uncommon to find friends or couples enjoying the shared experience of living and working abroad as ESL teachers. Despite this, there are still a few things that you will both need to consider before you jump on the next plane. The most important thing to consider if you plan to head overseas to teach with a friend or partner, is that you need to choose a destination where you both have a realistic chance of securing a suitable job. Many people dream of relaxing in a hammock under the palm trees between lessons, but the limited number of jobs in these locations might make it difficult for both of you to earn a good income. In contrast, big cities in most parts of the world generally have a high demand for ESL teachers, which means that finding good jobs should be relatively...  [Read more]

  If you’re interested in earning an accredited and internationally recognized TEFL certificate in Nepal, TEFL International provides Kathmandu’s best course available. Demand for certified TEFL teachers in Kathmandu is always good and if you’d like to stay in Nepal after the course, our center will help you locate a job. Alternatively, if you’d like to branch out into the rest of Asia, or anywhere else certified TEFL teachers are needed, we’ll provide you with job support. Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha and the most Hindu nation on Earth. All of these factors add up to a very healthy tourist industry and many of the local workers need to be able to speak and use English in their jobs. The result of this means that with a...  [Read more]

In recent years Kuwait has become a very wealthy nation and a very popular place for teaching English abroad. A wide variety of jobs are on offer, from kindergarten right through to university level and beyond. The center of the job market is Kuwait City which has a booming demand and all the comforts you could want while living and working overseas. As well as modern Kuwait, you will also be able to explore the rich Arab culture, ancient archaeological sites, and white sandy beaches that make up this fascinating country. As a wealthy, oil rich country, Kuwait has no shortage of employers who are able to offer teachers a very healthy salary. On average, you can earn in the region of $2,500 to $4,000 per month and most jobs also include extra benefits. A typical contract should...  [Read more]

As the USA is such a big country with a relatively large and steady flow of immigrants, there are always plenty of opportunities available for TESOL qualified teachers. As well as permanent immigrants from all over the world, you will also find there are a huge number of potential students among the country’s millions of migrant workers and the large number of international students who flock to the US to study at colleges and universities countrywide. Business professionals who move to the United States on assignment is another area that is full of possibilities for ESL teachers. Most official English language teaching jobs in the US will require a university degree. Jobs advertised in state and public school districts typically also require a state teaching license or...  [Read more]

TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is also the name of the course and subsequent qualification that teachers need in order to apply for ESL teaching jobs around the world. With a TESOL certificate in your back pocket you will be eligible for a wide range of different jobs that will allow you to live and work wherever you choose. It will also give you the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this unique teaching environment. There are many reasons why TESOL is important to both the teacher and their students and here we look at just a few. A TESOL certificate is widely regarded as the entry point for ESL teaching jobs all over the world, which is the main reason why it is important for potential teachers. In years gone by it was often possible to...  [Read more]

Although some people grow to love the lifestyle of an ESL teacher so much that they never return to work in their home country, the majority will head home at some stage. In many cases this can be an unsettling experience as you are no longer the same person that left home in the first place. So many things can feel strange, from the everyday language and time zone, to the climate and cuisine. One way to tackle this reverse culture shock is to find a job that allows you to use the new skills and knowledge that teaching English abroad has given you. The obvious answer might be to simply carry on working as an ESL teacher. Most cities will have language schools and community colleges that provide English lessons to a range of clients, whether it is foreign students, immigrants, or...  [Read more]