Landing a TEFL interview is a big deal. It means your application stood out, your qualifications checked the right boxes, and now it’s your chance to move one step closer to living and teaching in a completely new part of the world. But here’s something many new teachers overlook: interviews aren’t just about being chosen — they’re about making a choice.
When you step into an interview room (or hop onto that video call), you’re not just a hopeful candidate. You’re a future teacher deciding whether this school, this role, and this lifestyle are right for you. It’s your opportunity to figure out if what’s on offer really lines up with your goals, values, and the kind of experience you want abroad.
That’s where asking the right questions comes in. A thoughtful question can tell you more about a school than any job post ever will. It shows you’re serious, engaged, and ready to take ownership of your career — not just take orders. It also gives you clarity and confidence: two things that matter a lot when you’re about to pack up and head across the world.
Whether you’re interviewing for a kindergarten in Korea, a business English role in Spain, or an online platform based in China, the questions you ask can make all the difference. Think of them not as interview fluff, but as tools for carving out your ideal teaching adventure.
Questions About Curriculum and Teaching Style
One of the first things you’ll want to understand is how much freedom you’ll have in the classroom. Some schools provide a detailed curriculum with weekly goals, scripts, and activities. Others might hand you a whiteboard and say, “Good luck!” Neither is inherently better — but knowing which one you’re stepping into is crucial.
If you're someone who thrives on structure and prefers clear guidelines, a set curriculum might be reassuring. If you love crafting your own lessons and adapting to student needs on the fly, more autonomy could be ideal. But walking into a job without knowing which approach they take? That’s a recipe for stress.
It’s also worth clarifying what kind of teaching style the school encourages. Are they focused on conversation and fluency? Grammar drills and test prep? Project-based learning? Your TEFL course likely introduced you to different methodologies — this is your chance to see if the school’s approach aligns with what you’ve learned (and what you enjoy).
Don’t be afraid to ask:
- “How much freedom do teachers have to create or adapt lesson plans?”
- “Is there a set syllabus or textbook I’ll follow?”
- “Do teachers typically stick to the curriculum, or is it more flexible?”
- “Would I be able to incorporate activities or strategies from my TEFL training?”
These questions show that you’re thinking ahead, not just about your first week on the job — but about how you’ll actually teach. And that’s exactly the kind of foresight schools appreciate.
Questions About Resources and Support
Even the best teacher can struggle without the right tools. That’s why it’s essential to ask what kind of support system is in place — not just on your first day, but throughout your time at the school.
Start with the basics: What materials will you have access to? Do classrooms come equipped with smartboards, projectors, or even reliable Wi-Fi? Is there a stash of textbooks, flashcards, or games you can pull from? Or are you expected to create everything yourself?
Some schools operate with a shoestring budget — especially in rural or developing areas — while others have top-notch facilities and digital platforms to streamline your lessons. Knowing what’s available helps you plan and prevents nasty surprises down the line.
Next, ask about shared resources and support systems. Does the school provide teacher handbooks or sample lesson plans? Are there shared Google Drives or an internal portal where teachers upload materials? If you're stuck for ideas or need help mid-semester, is there someone you can turn to — an academic coordinator, head teacher, or mentor?
Consider asking:
- “What classroom technology is available to teachers?”
- “Is there a resource library or central database for lesson plans?”
- “Do new teachers get mentorship or any kind of onboarding support?”
- “If I need help with lesson planning or classroom management, who can I speak to?”
A school that invests in its teachers will be proud to tell you about the support they offer. And if they fumble through the answer? That’s your cue to think twice.
Questions About Student Demographics and Class Size
Not all TEFL jobs are created equal — and that’s especially true when it comes to your students. Teaching a group of energetic six-year-olds is wildly different from coaching business executives or tutoring university students.
That’s why it’s important to ask who you’ll be teaching, how many will be in each class, and what their level of English is. The answers to these questions shape everything: your lesson planning, classroom management style, and even the way you speak.
Are the classes large (25–30 students) or small (6–10)? Will you be teaching one-on-one, or running back-to-back group lessons all day? Will your students be complete beginners, or are they already conversational? Are classes grouped by age and level, or are they mixed-ability?
You might also want to know how motivated the students tend to be. In some private academies, students are there because their parents force them to be. In adult classes, learners may be attending voluntarily to improve career prospects. These dynamics matter.
Useful questions to ask include:
- “What age group will I be teaching?”
- “How many students are typically in each class?”
- “Are classes grouped by English level?”
- “Are there placement tests or level assessments?”
- “What are the students' main goals — exam prep, conversation, academic English?”
By getting a clear picture of who your learners are, you’ll know whether the job fits your strengths — and what kind of teaching experience you’ll actually gain.
Questions About Workload and Non-Teaching Duties
It’s easy to assume a teaching job is just that — teaching. But in reality, many roles come with extra responsibilities that aren’t always spelled out in the job description. That’s why it’s essential to dig deeper into what your actual weekly workload looks like.
Start by clarifying the number of teaching hours. In many TEFL jobs, your contract might say “25 hours per week,” but that doesn’t always mean 25 hours in the classroom. There could be required office hours, prep time, grading, or administrative tasks that push your schedule beyond what you were expecting.
Then ask about other duties. Some schools expect teachers to help with marketing (like demo classes or social media content), attend weekend events, or write progress reports. Others might ask you to join parent-teacher meetings, lead school trips, or help with curriculum development.
None of these are necessarily deal-breakers — in fact, they can add variety to your week. But knowing what’s expected upfront will help you manage your time (and your sanity).
Ask things like:
- “How many teaching hours are expected per week, and are there additional office hours?”
- “Will I be responsible for grading, writing reports, or attending meetings?”
- “Are there any school events or promotional activities I’d be expected to help with?”
- “Is overtime common, and if so, is it compensated?”
You’re not being picky — you’re setting expectations. And that’s key to avoiding burnout abroad.
Questions About Colleagues, Culture, and Team Environment
Moving abroad to teach is exciting — but it can also be isolating, especially if you’re the only foreign teacher in a school where no one speaks your language. That’s why asking about the team you’ll be working with is more important than most people realize.
Find out whether you’ll be part of a larger teaching staff or working solo. Will there be other English teachers, or are you the pioneer? Is there a mix of local and international teachers, and do they collaborate or work independently?
A supportive team culture can make or break your experience. You’ll want to know if there’s a shared space for teachers to interact, if there are weekly meetings or collaboration opportunities, and whether there’s a culture of sharing ideas and materials.
This is especially important if it’s your first teaching job abroad — having colleagues you can ask for help or simply chat with can make all the difference.
Some questions to consider:
- “How many teachers are on staff, and how many are in the English department?”
- “Are there other foreign teachers working at the school?”
- “Is there a shared teacher’s room or time set aside for team collaboration?”
- “Do teachers plan lessons individually, or is there a shared curriculum team?”
A positive, welcoming school culture goes a long way — not just in your first few weeks, but throughout your entire contract.
Questions About Professional Development
A great TEFL job doesn’t just keep you busy — it helps you grow. Whether you're in it for a year or building a long-term career in education, the opportunities a school offers for development can have a huge impact on your future prospects.
Start by asking about training. Some schools provide workshops, peer observations, or even ongoing TEFL training at no cost. Others might reimburse you for outside courses or support additional certifications in areas like IELTS prep, business English, or young learners. These extras can seriously boost your résumé.
You’ll also want to know if there’s room to move up. Can teachers transition into senior roles — like academic coordinator or head teacher? Do experienced staff help design curriculum or mentor new hires? Even if you’re not planning to stick around forever, it’s good to know if the school values growth and internal promotion.
And don’t forget about conferences or networking events. Being able to attend professional development events — either locally or online — can expose you to new ideas and connect you with a wider teaching community.
Smart questions to ask:
- “Are there opportunities for professional development or paid training?”
- “Does the school fund or support additional TEFL certifications?”
- “Can teachers move into more senior or curriculum-related roles over time?”
- “Are there any events, conferences, or workshops teachers are encouraged to attend?”
A school that invests in your growth is one that sees you as more than just a short-term hire — and that can make a big difference in how you're treated.
Questions About Pay, Perks, and Legal Clarity
Let’s be real — passion is great, but you still need to pay rent and eat dinner. That’s why it’s not just okay to ask about salary and benefits — it’s essential. The more detailed and transparent the answers, the better prepared you’ll be for life in your new country.
Start with pay. What’s the monthly salary, and is it paid via bank transfer, in cash, or another method? How often are teachers paid? Are there bonuses for signing on, renewing contracts, or completing your term?
Then move on to benefits. Is accommodation included or subsidized? Will they cover flights, visa fees, or health insurance? These perks can seriously impact your financial well-being, especially in countries where visa costs and setup fees can add up quickly.
You’ll also want to clarify any restrictions. Are you allowed to teach private students on the side? Is online tutoring permitted? Some schools — and some visa types — ban outside work entirely, so be sure to get this clear.
Finally, ask how taxes work. Are they deducted automatically, or are you expected to file them yourself (which can be tricky abroad)? You don’t want to find yourself on the wrong side of the tax office in a foreign country.
Key questions to consider:
- “What is the monthly salary, and how is it paid?”
- “Does the job include housing or a housing allowance?”
- “Are any of the following covered: flights, visa fees, relocation assistance, health insurance?”
- “Is outside work — like tutoring or teaching online — permitted under the contract or visa?”
- “Are taxes withheld by the school, or will I need to handle that independently?”
These aren’t awkward or greedy questions — they’re responsible ones. Understanding your financial and legal footing is what lets you focus on teaching, exploring, and enjoying your time abroad.
Questions About the Work Visa and Legal Conditions
Securing the right visa is one of the most critical — and often stressful — parts of teaching abroad. The last thing you want is to arrive in a new country only to discover you’re on the wrong visa, or that your employer expects you to “sort it out” yourself. That’s why it’s important to ask specific, practical questions about the legal process during the interview.
First, ask what kind of visa you'll be working under. Is it a proper work visa tied to the school, or are teachers commonly hired on tourist or student visas with the expectation of flying under the radar? If it's the latter, that’s a major red flag.
Then ask who manages the process. Some schools handle everything for you — from paperwork to embassy appointments — while others might simply offer “guidance,” leaving you to navigate it alone. Also, clarify how long the process usually takes and whether you'll be able to start working right away.
Visa conditions also matter. Some visas restrict outside work, limit the hours you can teach, or require specific documentation (like a notarized degree or police clearance). Others might limit your ability to travel while employed.
Important questions to ask:
- “What type of visa will I be working under, and is it legal for full-time teaching?”
- “Who handles the visa process — the school, an agent, or me?”
- “How long does it typically take to secure the visa before I can begin work?”
- “Are there any restrictions with the visa regarding second jobs, online teaching, or travel?”
These aren’t minor details. Getting clear, honest answers about the visa process ensures you’re protected — legally and financially — before you ever step on the plane.
Questions About Time Off, Holidays, and Sick Leave
You might be ready to throw yourself into teaching full-time, but breaks matter — and knowing when and how you can take time off will affect your energy, mental health, and ability to explore your new country.
Start by asking about paid vacation. How many days are you entitled to, and when can you take them? Some schools offer set holidays during school breaks, while others give you more flexible time off that you can request throughout the year.
Public holidays are also worth clarifying. Are they observed and paid? Do you get days off for national holidays in the country you're living in, or are you expected to work through them — especially at private academies or language centers?
And don’t forget sick leave. Life happens. Whether it's food poisoning in Thailand or the flu in Spain, you'll want to know what the policy is. Will you need a doctor's note? Is sick leave paid or unpaid? What about emergency leave for family situations?
Ask questions like:
- “How many paid vacation days are included in the contract?”
- “Are national holidays observed, and are those paid days off?”
- “What is your policy on sick leave or emergency absences?”
- “Can vacation days be taken at any time, or only during scheduled breaks?”
Time off is more than just a perk — it’s what helps you stay refreshed, avoid burnout, and actually enjoy the experience of living abroad. Don’t gloss over it.
Questions About Daily Life and Expectations
Once you’ve covered the logistics — pay, hours, students, and visas — it’s time to zoom out and get a feel for what your day-to-day life will actually look like. This is where you get to understand the rhythm of the job and how it might shape your new routine abroad.
Start with a simple but revealing question: “What’s a typical day or week like for teachers here?” The answer can give you a full picture — when the day starts, how classes are spaced out, whether there are long breaks or back-to-back lessons, and what happens between teaching hours.
Also clarify where you’ll be teaching. Some jobs involve staying at one campus or school, while others require traveling between locations — something that can be exciting or exhausting depending on your setup.
And don’t forget about the cultural expectations. Ask about the dress code, punctuality norms, classroom conduct, and how teachers are expected to interact with students or parents. These seemingly small things can lead to major misunderstandings if you’re not prepared.
Good questions to ask include:
- “Can you walk me through a typical teaching day or weekly schedule?”
- “Will I be teaching at one location or multiple sites?”
- “What’s the expected dress code for teachers?”
- “Are there any cultural or behavioral expectations I should be aware of in the classroom?”
Understanding the flow of daily life helps you decide if this is a routine you’ll thrive in — or one that might feel draining over time.
Bonus: Smart Final Questions That Show Initiative
You’ve covered the practical stuff — now end the interview on a strong, thoughtful note with a few questions that show initiative, curiosity, and long-term thinking. These questions don’t just give you useful answers — they leave a lasting impression.
Try asking what successful teachers at this school have in common. This tells you what the school values — whether it’s flexibility, discipline, creativity, or something else — and gives you insight into how you can stand out.
You might also ask what challenges new teachers typically face. A good employer will answer honestly and offer solutions or support systems, while a vague or overly defensive response might be a red flag.
Finally, give them space to tell you anything they think is important — things that may not be listed in the job description, but that can shape your decision.
Consider asking:
- “What do your most successful teachers here have in common?”
- “What challenges do new teachers typically face in their first few months?”
- “Is there anything else you think I should know before accepting the role?”
These kinds of questions show that you’re serious, self-aware, and thinking long-term — exactly the kind of teacher most schools want on their team.
Red Flags to Watch For (And What Their Answers Might Reveal)
While most schools are upfront and professional, not every opportunity is as golden as it sounds on paper. That’s why your questions don’t just give you information — they help you spot potential problems before you sign a contract.
Be wary of vague or evasive answers, especially when it comes to legal issues like visa sponsorship or salary. If the interviewer seems uncomfortable discussing pay, benefits, or what type of visa you’ll need, that’s a serious warning sign. No reputable school should leave you guessing about those basics.
A lack of structure or support is another red flag. If there’s no clear curriculum, no teacher resources, or no onboarding process in place, you could be walking into chaos — especially difficult if this is your first teaching job.
High turnover is also something to watch. If most teachers only stay a few months or there’s little continuity year-to-year, it could point to poor management, lack of support, or unrealistic expectations.
Red flags to look for:
- Vague or non-committal answers about pay, contracts, or visa processes
- “We expect teachers to be flexible” without explaining what that actually means
- No structured curriculum or materials — and no plan to support new teachers
- Little mention of training, mentorship, or a team environment
- Evasive responses when asked about previous teachers or staff turnover
Trust your instincts. If something feels off during the interview, don’t ignore it. It’s better to keep searching than to land in a situation that makes your TEFL journey more stressful than it needs to be.
Final Thoughts
A TEFL interview isn’t just a checkpoint on the way to a job — it’s your chance to shape the kind of experience you want abroad. Every question you ask helps you paint a clearer picture of what your day-to-day life will look like in a completely new setting.
Remember: you’re not just chasing a paycheck. You’re choosing a lifestyle, a culture, a workplace, and a community — often in a place you’ve never been before. That’s a big leap, and the more you know before you land, the better.
Good questions signal to employers that you’re thoughtful, committed, and ready to thrive. But more importantly, they help you make the right call. Because a good TEFL job should inspire you, not drain you — and the right questions can help you find the opportunity that truly fits.
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