Teaching English abroad programs (No degree needed)

Think you need a university degree to teach English abroad? Think again.

While many teaching programs and schools around the world do ask for a bachelor's degree, there are still plenty of legitimate ways to teach abroad without one—especially if you’re flexible, open-minded, and ready for an adventure.

Whether you're taking a gap year, exploring life between studies, or just craving a fresh start in a new country, there are teaching programs designed for people just like you. From volunteer placements in Cambodia to paid internships in Thailand or summer language camps in Europe, the world is far more open than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• The best programs and organizations that don’t require a degree
• What to expect in terms of pay, visas, and living arrangements
• How to spot a legit opportunity (and avoid a scam)
• And even how to go it alone if you want to skip the middleman

Let’s jump into the possibilities—because teaching English abroad without a degree isn’t just possible... it might be the most exciting decision you ever make.

What to Know Before You Join a Program

Before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, it’s important to understand what teaching English abroad without a degree actually looks like—especially when you’re going through a program.

While it’s absolutely doable, there are a few key things to keep in mind so you can avoid surprises and make the most of your experience:

1. You’ll Still Need a TEFL Certification (Usually)

Most programs—whether they’re paid, volunteer, or internship-based—will expect you to have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. It’s your best ticket into the classroom, especially if you don’t have a degree.

💡 Pro tip: Some programs include a TEFL course as part of the package. Others offer discounted or partnered courses.

2. Your Options Might Be More Limited

Some countries (like South Korea, Japan, or the UAE) legally require a bachelor’s degree for a teaching visa. But that doesn’t mean you're out of luck. Many programs in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Europe work with private schools, volunteer organizations, or language centers that don’t have those restrictions.

3. Some Programs Are Volunteer-Based

Be sure to check whether a program is paid or unpaid. Volunteer placements can be incredibly rewarding and a great way to get teaching experience—but they might not cover all your expenses.

4. Visa Support Varies

Programs aimed at non-degree holders often rely on tourist visas, business visas, or cultural exchange visas, depending on the country. Make sure to ask exactly how your visa will work and if you’ll be teaching legally.

5. Support and Structure Can Vary

Some programs offer hands-on help with housing, airport pickup, orientation, and even cultural immersion events. Others are more hands-off, acting more like job placement services. Know what level of support you’re comfortable with.

Best Teaching English Abroad Programs (No Degree Required)

If you’re ready to start your teaching adventure but don’t have a degree, don’t worry—there are still great programs out there designed to help you teach, travel, and live abroad. Whether you're looking for a paid placement, a meaningful volunteer experience, or something in between, these programs can get your foot in the door.

Here are some of the most popular (and legit) options:

1. Cambodia TEFL & Teach Programs

• Why it’s great: Cambodia has no degree requirement and a growing need for English teachers, especially in private language schools.
• What to expect: Many programs include a TEFL certification course, job placement assistance, visa support, and a cultural orientation.
• Best for: First-time teachers and digital nomads looking for legal, flexible teaching options without a degree.

2. Thailand TEFL Programs & Teaching Placements

• Why it’s great: While Thailand officially requires a bachelor’s degree for long-term teaching jobs, there are legal and legitimate pathways for non-degree holders—especially in rural areas and private schools that prioritize teaching ability over credentials.
• What to expect: These programs are typically geared toward full-time roles and include TEFL certification, job placement, visa support, and sometimes accommodation assistance.
• Look for: Reputable programs that have partnerships with schools familiar with hiring non-degree holders and that assist with the correct visa routes (such as education or volunteer visas).
• Pro Tip: Gaining experience in Thailand—especially in rural placements—can lead to more opportunities and even BA-waived renewals in some situations.

3. Short-Term TEFL Internships (Thailand & Vietnam)

• Why it’s great: These programs offer a lower-commitment way to dip your toes into teaching abroad—even if you don’t have a degree. Thailand and Vietnam both host TEFL internships that last from a few weeks to a few months, often with a stipend or housing support.
• What to expect: Programs include TEFL certification, cultural orientation, classroom observation, and short teaching placements (usually 1–5 months). While not always salaried, some roles include a living stipend.
• Look for: Internship providers that offer job assistance or post-program placement if you want to continue teaching after your internship.
• Pro Tip: Use these internships as stepping stones to build your resume and transition into longer-term roles—either in the same country or elsewhere in Asia.

4. Taiwan Programs for Associate Degree Holders

• Why it’s great: Taiwan is one of the few countries in Asia that officially allows English teachers with an Associate’s degree—as long as it’s paired with a TEFL certification.
• What to expect: Some TEFL providers and recruiters offer support specifically for Associate’s degree holders. Programs may include TEFL training, job placement in private schools or cram schools (buxibans), and visa guidance.
• Look for: Positions that mention work permits for two-year degree holders. A strong TEFL certification (120+ hours) and some teaching or tutoring experience can make you more competitive.
• Bonus: Taiwan also has a Working Holiday Visa for certain nationalities, which can open up short-term, flexible teaching options without a formal teaching visa.

5. Teach English in Latin America Programs (No Degree Needed)

• Why it’s great: Many countries in Latin America are welcoming to non-degree holders, especially if you have a TEFL certificate and a positive attitude.
• What to expect: TEFL + Teach programs often include a certification course, cultural immersion, job placement assistance, and help with housing or homestays. Some may also offer volunteer teaching roles with a stipend or room and board.
• Top countries: Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Peru.
• Look for: Programs that offer in-country job support, not just online certification. Being on the ground helps when applying in person.

6. Volunteer & Working Holiday Teaching Programs in Europe

• Why it’s great: While most official teaching jobs in Europe require a degree, volunteer placements and working holiday programs offer another way in.
• What to expect: Short-term roles (1–6 months) teaching English in schools, summer camps, or community centers. Some include room, board, and a stipend. Others may operate on a volunteer basis with cultural exchange as the main draw.
• Top countries: Poland, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, Hungary, and Portugal.
• Working Holiday Visas: If you're under 30 or 35 and from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the UK, you may be eligible for working holiday visas in countries like Ireland, Germany, or France—allowing part-time English teaching or tutoring.

Tips for Choosing the Right Program

Not all teaching programs are created equal—especially when you’re applying without a degree. Here’s how to find one that’s reputable, supportive, and aligned with your travel and teaching goals.

✅ Look for Transparent Eligibility Requirements

Some programs say “no degree required” but hide details in the fine print. Always double-check:

• Do they accept non-degree holders for paid positions, or only volunteers?
• Is a TEFL certificate included or required beforehand?
• Are there age, nationality, or language restrictions?

🧭 Know Your Goal: Experience, Travel, or a Long-Term Career?

Choose a program that matches your priorities:

• Just want to travel & volunteer? Look into short-term teaching and homestay programs in Latin America or Europe.
• Want to get paid? Focus on programs in Cambodia or Taiwan where legal paid teaching without a BA is possible.
• Planning a long-term career? Consider programs that include TEFL certification and help you build experience to move into more competitive roles later.

📝 Ask About Job Placement & Support

The best programs don’t just drop you into a new country and say “good luck.” Look for:

• Guaranteed job placement (or at least help finding interviews)
• Visa guidance and paperwork support
• Airport pickup, orientation, or in-country support

💸 Understand the Costs (and What You Get)

Some teaching abroad programs have fees, especially if they include housing, TEFL training, and support. That’s not always a bad thing—but know what you’re paying for:

• Are meals and housing included?
• Is there guaranteed job placement afterward?
• Can you recoup your investment with your teaching salary?

🧑‍🏫 Read Reviews and Talk to Alumni

Don’t rely solely on marketing materials. Look for:

• Unfiltered reviews on sites like GoOverseas, GoAbroad, Google, or Reddit
• Alumni you can message or connect with to ask about their experience
• Social media or YouTube videos showing real-life program life

🌍 Your first TEFL job doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to get you started. A good program can offer structure, support, and a safety net as you take the leap into teaching and traveling abroad.

Final Thoughts: Teaching English Abroad Without a Degree—Through Programs

Teaching English abroad without a degree might seem tricky at first—but as you’ve seen, there are plenty of legal and rewarding pathways available if you know where to look. Whether it’s a TEFL internship in Thailand, a full certification and job placement in Cambodia, or a short-term cultural exchange in Europe, programs can provide structure, support, and peace of mind—especially if it’s your first time living overseas.

Final Tips:

• Choose a program that matches your goals—Do you want a long-term job or a short-term experience? Paid placement or volunteering?
• Make sure it's legal—Always double-check visa requirements and how your program handles work authorization.
• Look for TEFL certification with the program—It’s not just helpful—it’s often essential.
• Think beyond the job—These programs are about more than teaching. They’re a gateway to cultural immersion, travel, and growth.

Wherever you start, teaching abroad without a degree is not only possible—it’s transformative. The world is waiting. 🌍