The Best Programs For Teaching English Abroad

Teaching English abroad is an incredible way to see the world, connect with new cultures, and make a real impact in local communities. If you’re ready to combine travel with meaningful work, finding the right program can help kickstart your journey. Here’s a rundown of some of the best programs for teaching English abroad, from structured government placements to flexible online teaching platforms, all perfect for those wanting a true global experience.

1. JET Program (Japan Exchange and Teaching) 🇯🇵

The JET Program is one of the most well-known and established programs for teaching English in Japan. Managed by the Japanese government, JET places teachers in schools across Japan, from bustling cities like Tokyo to small, scenic villages.

• What’s Included: Competitive salary, flight reimbursement, and health insurance.
• Highlights: An immersive cultural experience, supportive community of teachers, and organized program structure.
• Best For: Teachers interested in Japanese culture who want to make a difference in rural and urban communities alike.

2. EPIK (English Program in Korea) 🇰🇷

EPIK is a government-sponsored program in South Korea that places English teachers in public schools across the country. Known for its excellent support system and perks, EPIK is an attractive choice for teachers looking for stability, good pay, and an opportunity to live in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries.

• What’s Included: Monthly salary, housing, flight reimbursement, and a settling-in allowance.
• Highlights: Structured program, thriving expat community, and the chance to experience Korea’s unique blend of modernity and tradition.
• Best For: Teachers who want a mix of city and countryside experiences with a strong support network.

3. Teach Thailand Corps 🇹🇭

For those looking to work in Southeast Asia, the Teach Thailand Corps program offers positions in rural and urban schools across Thailand. This program focuses on social impact, aiming to improve English proficiency in areas where it’s most needed. While the pay might be modest, the cost of living in Thailand makes it possible to live comfortably.

• What’s Included: Monthly stipend, housing assistance, and visa support.
• Highlights: Opportunity to make a meaningful impact, exposure to Thailand’s vibrant culture, and the chance to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes.
• Best For: Teachers passionate about social impact who are interested in a culturally immersive experience.

4. Teach and Learn in Georgia 🇬🇪

The Teach and Learn in Georgia (TLG) program places teachers in public schools throughout the country of Georgia. TLG is known for its emphasis on cultural exchange, giving teachers the chance to truly engage with local communities and live in one of the most scenic and history-rich countries in Europe.

• What’s Included: Monthly stipend, free accommodation with a host family, and health insurance.
• Highlights: Direct cultural immersion, low cost of living, and a supportive community of international teachers.
• Best For: Adventurous teachers who want a unique cultural experience in a lesser-known European destination.

5. VIPKid (Online Teaching) 🌐

If you want the flexibility to work from anywhere, VIPKid is a great option. This online teaching platform connects teachers with students in China, allowing you to teach English without leaving your home country or while traveling. VIPKid offers the flexibility to set your schedule and work remotely, making it ideal for digital nomads.

• What’s Included: Flexible schedule, competitive pay per lesson, and teaching materials provided.
• Highlights: Work-from-anywhere freedom, a strong support network, and flexibility to balance work and travel.
• Best For: Teachers who want to combine teaching with travel or work remotely from their favorite destinations.

6. CIEE Teach Abroad 🌎

CIEE offers multiple programs in locations worldwide, including Spain, Thailand, and China. They provide placement assistance, orientation, and visa support, making it easier for first-time teachers to get started. The CIEE program often includes orientation sessions that cover cultural adaptation and classroom management, making it a great choice for new teachers.

• What’s Included: Placement in public or private schools, orientation, and visa support.
• Highlights: Range of countries to choose from, strong support during transition, and opportunities to teach at various educational levels.
• Best For: First-time teachers looking for a supportive and structured program in popular teaching destinations.

7. English Opens Doors Program (Chile) 🇨🇱

Run by Chile’s Ministry of Education, the English Opens Doors Program (EODP) is a volunteer-based initiative to improve English skills in Chilean public schools. Teachers work as language assistants, helping local teachers and providing cultural exchange opportunities to students. While it’s a volunteer program, EODP offers a stipend and housing.

• What’s Included: Monthly stipend, accommodation with a host family, and in-country support.
• Highlights: Beautiful location, warm and friendly locals, and a chance to volunteer in an impactful way.
• Best For: Adventurous teachers interested in South America and willing to take on a volunteer role for cultural exchange.

8. Teach Away 🌍

Teach Away is a teaching placement company offering opportunities in countries worldwide, including the UAE, China, and Japan. It provides support in securing teaching roles and offers positions ranging from public school teaching to private international schools. With a strong network of employers, Teach Away is known for connecting teachers with reputable schools.

• What’s Included: Salary varies by placement, assistance with finding housing, and visa support.
• Highlights: Global reach, diverse program options, and a mix of short and long-term contracts.
• Best For: Teachers looking for a straightforward application process and support in finding reputable positions.

9. InterExchange Teach English Abroad 🌏

InterExchange offers short-term teaching programs in several countries, including Spain, Italy, and Thailand. This program is ideal for teachers looking for a temporary placement and wanting to experience multiple countries within a year. While the pay isn’t as high, it’s a good choice for those looking to sample different cultures and gain teaching experience.

• What’s Included: Placement support, visa guidance, and cultural immersion programs.
• Highlights: Great for travelers, flexible placements, and an ideal introduction to teaching abroad.
• Best For: Those wanting short-term teaching experiences or hoping to teach in multiple countries.

Choosing the Best Program for You

With so many options, choosing the right program comes down to what you want most out of your teaching experience. If structure and support are essential, government-backed programs like JET and EPIK provide stability and great benefits. For more flexibility, online platforms like VIPKid and Teach Away’s network give you the freedom to work from anywhere.

Whichever path you choose, teaching English abroad offers a unique blend of adventure and purpose. So start exploring, pick the program that resonates with you, and get ready for an experience that goes beyond just a job — it’s a life-changing journey.