Teach English Abroad: Requirements, Salary, Best Places (2024)

Teach English Abroad

There are many reasons why people choose to teach English abroad:

Travel and experience new cultures: Teaching English abroad is a great way to see the world and experience new cultures firsthand.
Gain international work experience: Teaching English abroad can be a valuable addition to your resume and can help you stand out in the job market.
Save money: Many countries have a lower cost of living, which can allow you to save money while teaching abroad.
Learn a new language: Teaching English abroad is a great opportunity to learn a new language and immerse yourself in a new culture.
Make a positive impact: Teaching English can be a rewarding and meaningful way to make a positive impact in a community. Learning English can often be a stepping stone to greater opportunities and success for individuals and communities.
Personal growth: Teaching English abroad can be a challenging and rewarding experience that helps you grow personally and professionally.

What are the requirements to teach English abroad?

The requirements to teach English abroad vary by country and employer, but there are some general requirements that are commonly needed. Here are some of the common requirements for teaching English abroad:

Bachelor's degree: Most employers require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any subject. Some employers may also accept a degree in education or linguistics.
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification: Most employers require English teachers to have a TEFL certification, which demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge needed to teach English as a foreign language. There are various types of TEFL certifications available, ranging from short online courses to intensive in-person programs.
Language proficiency: Most employers require English teachers to be fluent in English, with a neutral accent and good pronunciation. Some employers may also require you to have a high level of proficiency in the local language.
Teaching experience: Some employers may require English teachers to have previous teaching experience, although this is not always necessary.
Criminal background check: Most employers require English teachers to undergo a criminal background check to ensure that they are suitable for working with children or young adults.
Medical check: Some employers may require English teachers to undergo a medical check to ensure that they are in good health and able to work abroad.

It is important to note that these are general requirements and may vary depending on the country and employer you are interested in. It is important to research and compare the specific requirements for the country or employer you are interested in before applying.

How much money can you earn from teaching English abroad?

The amount of money you can earn from teaching English abroad depends on a variety of factors, including your location, qualifications, and experience. Here are some general estimates of what you can expect to earn from teaching English abroad:

South Korea: English teachers in South Korea typically earn between 1.8 million and 2.7 million KRW (Korean won) per month, which is equivalent to $1,500 to $2,300 USD.
Japan: English teachers in Japan typically earn between 250,000 and 400,000JPY (Japanese yen) per month, which is equivalent to $2,300 to $3,600 USD.
China: English teachers in China typically earn between 8,000 and 20,000CNY (Chinese yuan) per month, which is equivalent to $1,200 to $3,000 USD.
Thailand: English teachers in Thailand typically earn between 30,000 and 50,000THB (Thai baht) per month, which is equivalent to $960 to $1,600 USD.
Vietnam: English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between 8,000,000 and 15,000,000VND (Vietnamese dong) per month, which is equivalent to $350 to $650 USD.
Taiwan: English teachers in Spain typically earn between 1,800 and 2,500USD (USD) per month.

It is important to note that these estimates are based on averages and may vary depending on your location, qualifications, and experience. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the country you are teaching in, as this can significantly impact your overall earnings.

The best places to teach English abroad

There are many places around the world where you can teach English abroad, and the best place for you will depend on your personal goals, preferences, and circumstances. Some popular and well-respected destinations for teaching English abroad include:

South Korea: South Korea is a popular destination for English teachers due to its strong economy, high demand for English language instruction, and cultural attractions.
Japan: Japan is another popular destination for English teachers due to its strong economy, high demand for English language instruction, and cultural attractions.
China: China is a vast and diverse country with a high demand for English language instruction. Teaching English in China can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it may also involve some cultural and language barriers to overcome.
Thailand: Thailand is a popular destination for English teachers due to its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and friendly people.
Vietnam: Vietnam is a rapidly growing economy with a high demand for English language instruction. Teaching English in Vietnam can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it may also involve some cultural and language barriers to overcome.
Taiwan: Taiwan is a popular destination for English teachers due to its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and strong economy.

It is important to do your research and carefully evaluate the reputation and policies of any language school or employer before accepting a position teaching English abroad. Consider factors such as the location, pay and benefits, and support for teachers.

Teach English abroad vs online?

Teaching English abroad and teaching English online are two different experiences that each have their own benefits and challenges.

Teaching English abroad involves traveling to a foreign country and teaching English in a traditional classroom or language center setting. This can be a rewarding and enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn more about the local language and customs. However, teaching English abroad can also be challenging, as you may need to adapt to a new environment, culture, and way of life.

Teaching English online involves using video conferencing software to connect with students and teach English remotely. This can be a convenient and flexible option for those who are unable or unwilling to travel abroad. Teaching English online can also be a good option for those who are looking to supplement their income or work part-time. However, teaching English online can also be challenging, as you may need to adapt to the virtual classroom environment and manage any technological issues that may arise.

Ultimately, the decision to teach English abroad or online depends on your personal goals, preferences, and circumstances. Both options can be rewarding and enriching, and it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each before making a decision.

Tips for finding an English teaching job abroad

Here are some steps you can follow to find an English teaching job abroad:

Determine your qualifications: Consider your education, experience, and qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, to determine which teaching opportunities are a good fit for you.
Research destination countries: Research and compare different destination countries to find one that fits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the demand for English teachers, the cost of living, and the cultural attractions.
Create a resume and cover letter: Create a resume and cover letter that highlight your education, experience, and qualifications. Emphasize any experience you have in teaching or working with students, as well as any relevant skills or certifications you have.
Search for job openings: Search for job openings on job boards, language schools' websites, and through online resources such as the TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) website.
Submit your application: Follow the application instructions for the language school or employer you are interested in. This may involve submitting a resume, cover letter, and any other required materials.
Prepare for an interview: If you are selected for an interview, prepare by reviewing the company's policies and procedures, as well as common interview questions. Practice your interview skills and be prepared to discuss your education, experience, and qualifications in detail.
Follow up: After submitting your application or completing an interview, follow up with the company to express your interest in the position and inquire about the status of your application.

It is also a good idea to network and reach out to other English teachers or educators to ask for recommendations or advice on finding teaching jobs abroad.