TEFL Internships Without a Degree: Can You Still Apply?

If you’ve been dreaming of teaching English abroad but don’t have a university degree, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of options. A lot of aspiring teachers hit this roadblock early on, unsure whether a degree is a hard requirement or just a preference.

The truth is, it depends. In some countries, it’s a legal visa requirement. In others, schools are more flexible, especially when it comes to internships or volunteer-style placements. TEFL internships, in particular, can be a great entry point for those without a degree—giving you experience, support, and a foot in the door in places where full-time paid jobs might be harder to land.

If you’re motivated, open-minded, and willing to put in the work, there are still plenty of ways to teach, travel, and grow—even without a diploma in hand.

Do You Need a Degree to Teach English Abroad?

This is where things get a little more nuanced. There’s a big difference between what employers want, what visa rules allow, and what you actually need to succeed.

In countries like South Korea, Japan, and China, having a degree isn’t just preferred—it’s required by law to obtain a proper work visa for teaching English. That means even if a school likes you, they can’t legally hire you without the paperwork to back it up.

But not all countries are this strict. In places like Cambodia, some schools in Vietnam or Thailand, and parts of Latin America, it’s possible to find legal teaching opportunities without a degree—especially if you're entering through an internship or volunteer-based program. The visa process might be more informal, or your role might be categorized under cultural exchange or education support rather than formal employment.

Even in countries where a degree is technically required for full-time teaching roles, internships can offer a workaround. Many are structured as training placements or cultural immersion programs, making them more accessible to non-degree holders—especially if you’re TEFL certified and show genuine enthusiasm for teaching.

So while a degree can open more doors, it’s not the only key. In the TEFL world, flexibility, experience, and the right destination matter just as much—if not more.

Can You Join a TEFL Internship Without a Degree?

The short answer is yes—you absolutely can join a TEFL internship without a degree. But like most things in the teach-abroad world, it depends on the country, the type of program, and the provider’s policies.

Many TEFL internship providers are open to non-degree holders, especially in countries where visa regulations are more relaxed or where the role is classified as a training placement rather than formal employment. These programs are often designed to be accessible, with built-in support like housing, orientation, and a TEFL course included.

In most cases, non-degree holders are welcome in volunteer-style internships, community-focused programs, or short-term teaching placements that prioritize experience and cultural exchange over strict academic credentials. These placements may not offer a full salary, but they do provide invaluable classroom exposure and often cover basic living costs.

That said, if you don’t have a degree, it’s especially important to have a recognized TEFL certificate. This is your golden ticket—it shows schools and coordinators that you’re serious, trained, and ready to teach. Many programs even bundle a TEFL course into the internship package, which can be ideal if you’re just getting started.

Having a TEFL certificate not only boosts your chances of acceptance—it also boosts your confidence. It gives you the tools to walk into a classroom (or log onto a Zoom lesson) and actually know what you’re doing, which is half the battle when you’re new to teaching.

In short: yes, you can absolutely get into TEFL internships without a degree. You just need to choose the right country, show up with the right mindset, and make sure you’ve got some solid training behind you.

Best Countries for TEFL Internships Without a Degree

Finding the right destination is half the battle when you're teaching without a degree. Some countries have strict visa rules that limit your options—but others are far more flexible, especially when it comes to internships and community-based placements. Here are a few of the most accessible options if you're looking to get started without a university degree.

Cambodia – Most Accessible Option in Southeast Asia

Cambodia is one of the most welcoming countries in the world for non-degree holders who want to teach. There’s no legal requirement for a university degree to work in most schools, and many internship programs are structured specifically for beginners who want real experience, not just a tourist visa.

You’ll find internships in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and smaller rural communities, often organized through NGOs or local education initiatives. Some programs include a TEFL course, housing, and basic living support, while others focus more on cultural immersion and volunteer teaching.

The cost of living is low, making it easy to stretch a small stipend or live comfortably even on a volunteer-style budget. You’ll teach eager students, gain classroom confidence, and make a real impact in communities that genuinely need English teachers.

If you're looking for an affordable, beginner-friendly destination with meaningful opportunities, Cambodia is hard to beat.

Why it works:

• No degree required by law
• Friendly visa policies and low setup costs
• Accessible internships for complete beginners
• Ideal for gaining experience and building your résumé

Thailand – Mixed Landscape

Thailand is a bit more complicated. Officially, a degree is required to legally teach in most full-time roles. However, there are some exceptions—especially within internships based in rural areas, volunteer programs, or cultural exchange placements.

A few TEFL internship providers offer short-term teaching experiences in smaller towns where regulations are more relaxed or where you're placed as a classroom assistant rather than a lead teacher. These programs may not pay much (or at all), but they often include training, housing, and orientation—and they’re a great way to get a taste of teaching without diving into the full job market.

Thailand is ideal if you're looking for a supportive, structured environment with all the cultural richness Southeast Asia has to offer. Just know that without a degree, you’ll need to be flexible—and sometimes creative—with the types of roles you're willing to take on.

Why it works (sometimes):

• Some internships accept non-degree holders in assistant or volunteer roles
• Rural placements and NGOs may be more flexible
• TEFL certification and cultural fit can outweigh formal credentials

Vietnam – Some Internships Accept Non-Degree Holders

Vietnam has become one of the most popular destinations for new English teachers—and while a degree is technically required for most work visas, there’s a bit of gray area when it comes to internships and private placements.

Some language centers and internship providers are open to non-degree holders, especially if you have a solid TEFL certification and a strong attitude. These roles often come with basic stipends, shared housing, and in-country support, making them a great option for people who want experience without navigating the full-time job market right away.

You’ll usually teach young learners or teens in urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, though some internships include rural placements as well. The demand for English is high, and if you perform well, many internships can lead to longer-term roles—sometimes with help transitioning into a full-time position once you meet visa or experience requirements.

Vietnam is an exciting, fast-moving option that works well for non-degree holders willing to stay flexible and build their résumé from the ground up.

Why it works:

• Language centers and some internships accept non-degree teachers
• Strong demand for English = more flexibility
• Internships offer training, housing, and support
• A great place to grow into full-time work later

Spain – Limited Spots via Volunteer or NGO-Like Programs

Spain is known for its Auxiliares de Conversación program—a popular government initiative that unfortunately requires a university degree. But there are still ways in for non-degree holders willing to think outside the box.

Some NGOs, volunteer programs, or private cultural exchange providers run short-term placements where a degree isn’t strictly necessary. These internships often focus more on conversation practice, classroom assistance, or after-school programs, rather than formal teaching roles.

While these positions are usually unpaid or low-paid, they can still provide valuable experience, a foot in the door in Europe, and a taste of Spanish life. You might not end up in Madrid or Barcelona—but smaller towns often offer more immersive experiences, fewer tourists, and greater opportunities to connect with local communities.

For non-degree holders set on Europe, Spain is still worth exploring—it just takes a bit more digging to find the right program.

Why it works (sometimes):

• Alternative placements exist through NGOs and private programs
• Short-term, cultural exchange roles may be open to non-degree teachers
• Experience in Spain can boost future job opportunities in Europe

Latin America – Good Potential with the Right Setup

Latin America tends to fly under the radar for TEFL internships, but it’s actually one of the more accessible regions for non-degree holders. In countries like Peru, Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Ecuador, the teaching industry is often more informal and relationship-based, meaning requirements can be flexible—especially for internships or volunteer roles.

Many TEFL internships here focus on community-based education, working with children, teens, or adults in underfunded schools, language institutes, or rural villages. These placements may not come with a big paycheck (or any paycheck), but they offer real-world classroom experience, and they often include perks like housing, Spanish immersion, and local support.

If you're looking for a Latin American country that blends cultural depth, warm hospitality, and manageable costs, this region is a smart starting point—especially for travelers who value connection and impact over income.

Why it works:

• Flexible entry requirements in many countries
• Internships focused on experience, not credentials
• Great for building confidence and cross-cultural communication skills
• Spanish-speaking environment adds extra learning opportunity

What to Expect From a No-Degree TEFL Internship

If you're entering the TEFL world without a degree, it’s important to set the right expectations. These internships aren’t designed to make you rich—but they are built to help you grow.

You can expect lower pay, or in many cases, a volunteer-style stipend that covers the basics like housing and meals. Some programs may offer a small monthly allowance to help with transportation or personal expenses, but financial rewards won’t be the main draw.

Placements are often in rural or under-resourced areas, or in schools and communities that don’t attract as many experienced teachers. This can actually be a benefit—you’ll often have more meaningful interactions, smaller class sizes, and a stronger sense of purpose in your teaching.

Despite the modest conditions, most internships still offer structured training, ongoing support, and a clear teaching role, even if it's more assistant-focused. You’ll walk away with real classroom exposure, feedback from mentors, and the kind of references that can help you land paid roles later on—especially in countries or platforms where experience matters more than formal credentials.

It’s not always easy—but it’s almost always worth it.

How to Strengthen Your Application Without a Degree

Even without a university degree, you can still stand out—if you put in the effort to build a strong foundation.

Start with a reputable TEFL course. Look for one that includes practicum hours or live teaching practice with real students. This is especially important if you're new to the classroom. A TEFL certificate not only shows that you've been trained—it tells program coordinators and employers that you’re serious about teaching.

Next, lean into your transferable skills. Have you ever worked with kids? Tutored a friend? Volunteered abroad? Managed customer service or training at a previous job? All of this counts. Teaching is as much about communication and patience as it is about credentials, so highlight any experience that proves you're comfortable working with people and helping them learn.

It also helps to get a criminal background check, create a clean, professional résumé, and write a short cover letter that explains your motivation for teaching and what you hope to gain from the internship.

Finally, consider getting some online teaching experience. Even a few hours on platforms like Preply or Cambly (if accepted) can boost your confidence and show initiative. It also gives you something practical to talk about in applications and interviews.

Long-Term Outlook: What Happens After the Internship?

A TEFL internship—even unpaid—can be the first step to something bigger.

Once you’ve completed your placement, you’ll have classroom experience, references, and a stronger résumé, which opens up more opportunities in countries where a degree isn’t required. Places like Cambodia, parts of Latin America, and some smaller schools in Southeast Asia are all potential next steps.

You might also choose to teach English online, where the degree requirement is more flexible and experience matters most. Many teachers use this route to build income while continuing to travel—or while planning their next move abroad.

Some non-degree holders decide to return for another internship, work toward a longer placement, or even pursue a degree later on to unlock new destinations. There's no single path, but there are plenty of options if you're willing to keep learning and stay flexible.

The key is to use the internship as a launchpad—not a final destination.

Final Thoughts

Breaking into the TEFL world without a degree isn’t always straightforward—but it’s absolutely possible. With the right combination of training, attitude, and destination, you can build a meaningful teaching experience that leads to more.

TEFL internships offer structure, mentorship, and the chance to grow your skills in a real classroom—even if your background doesn’t fit the traditional mold.

If you’re a motivated traveler, a career changer, or someone who just wants to try something new and meaningful, this could be your way in. Focus on quality experience, go where you're wanted, and let your journey unfold from there.

Explore More:

• TEFL Internships Abroad
• TEFL Internships for Non-Native Speakers
• Teach English Abroad Without a Degree