If you are looking for the best places to teach English abroad, I’ve made a list of the countries with the top programs, easiest requirements, and best lifestyles for English teachers to live, teach, and enjoy.
The last two years have brought numerous changes to the way people go about their daily lives. One aspect of that has been a huge transformation in work-life balance. Many people have made the brave decision to move abroad and turn their passions into ways of making money.
Traveling has always ranked pretty high on the scale of life priorities. Not surprisingly, an increasing number of people want to make the most of the regained freedom to travel. Working while traveling is an exciting adventure, no doubt, but it can also be a nerve-wracking one. Dealing with a new culture can be challenging yet rewarding, but looking for a job abroad can be demanding or even stressful.
One way to reduce the stress levels related to job seeking is to be equipped with the right tools that allow you to be successful in your new career. If you are thinking of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad, in this article you will hopefully find some useful tips and ideas to guide you in your search for your teaching job overseas.
See also why moving abroad alone can be the most enriching experience of your life!
Teach English in Vietnam
This country is an excellent destination if you want to teach English as a foreign language in southeast Asia. Not only because it can offer a fascinating life experience, but also because it has many interesting work opportunities.
With its growing economy, Vietnam is focusing on international relations now more than ever. It goes without saying that English language skills are necessary for those seeking employment or career improvement. For this reason, the demand for English teachers is on the rise.
In terms of job opportunities, you could be teaching classes of up to 20 preschoolers, or up to 40 children in primary and secondary state schools. However, private language schools in big cities like Da Nang can offer you a better deal all around. In terms of technology, resources, and professional support for APA format paper writing services and the like, they are often better equipped than public schools and will also offer better salaries and work-life balance.
Tip: Native English speakers are preferred, but previous teaching experience is not required. A bachelor’s degree is necessary for visa purposes.
Teach English in Brazil
Dreaming of an exciting life full of adventures? Look no further, Brazil is waiting for you. As the largest country in South America, Brazil is in constant need of English teachers. You have more chances of getting hired in large urban areas, between March and August.
Brazil is a great destination if you don’t have a whole year to commit to a TEFL job, or if you want to move on to a different country. If you think Brazil is for you, here are a couple of suggestions to get you started. Use a resource like scamfighter.net to build your resume and you should have a teaching job in no time.
Typically, schools offer 20-25 teaching hours a week, leaving you with plenty of time for exploring. As in most countries, a TEFL qualification is necessary to get hired, but you should be able to find work without a bachelor’s degree – the competition might just be a little tougher. As long as your English language level is near-native, finding a teaching job should not be too difficult for non-native speakers.
Tip: The best way to find a job in Brazil is in person upon arrival, as not many language schools carry out online or phone interviews beforehand.
Teach English in Costa Rica
If you are traveling across Central America, why not find a teaching job in Costa Rica? This amazing country is one of the best places to teach English abroad, and will show you how to live the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle to the fullest. In this country, you’ll be able to relax on the beach, explore incredible national parks, visit volcanoes, and dance the night away at mind-blowing festivals like Envision.
Now that you’ve got your free time sorted, let’s think about finding yourself a teaching job! Just like in Brazil, it’s much easier to find a job in person, rather than online or over the phone.
While you could be hired to teach adults at any point during the year, October and November are the ideal months to secure a post teaching children English in Costa Rica. As is often the case, you’ll require a TEFL certificate. Bachelor’s degree holders and native English speakers are preferred.
Tip: You’ll need to apply for a visa, which must be sponsored by your employer. Visa costs are expensive, so you’ll be more likely to be employed if you can commit to a year contract as a minimum. In Costa Rica there’s a very laid-back approach to life – keep that in mind when you submit your visa application, as it might take a while.
Teach English in Spain
Despite its current economic crisis, Spain remains the most popular destination among English language teachers. With its varied climate, slow pace of life, rich culture, mouth-watering food, and friendly people, Spain has something to offer for everyone.
There are plenty of teaching opportunities in this country: from public and private schools to universities. However, private language schools, better known as ‘academies’, offer more chances of getting hired. They provide a wide range of courses to children and adults at any level.
While a TEFL certificate is a must, a degree is not necessary but strongly preferred – so is some basic working knowledge of Spanish. Learn more about teaching English in Barcelona.
Tip: Although academies don’t usually offer a full timetable, you can always work for more than one school to make up the hours.
Teach English in Hungary
In this enchanting yet underappreciated country, you’ll find plenty of teaching opportunities. Having joined the European Union in 2004, the Hungarian economy has been developing ever since. It’s one of the best places to teach English abroad, especially in Europe!
English language learning in this country is in great demand at all levels, and Business English courses are particularly popular. Finding a job here is considerably easier for native English teachers, especially if they hold a TEFL certificate. A bachelor’s degree in any subject is a must.
A teacher’s salary in Hungary is quite modest. If you wish to travel across Europe you might need to find an extra way to fund your trips. Giving private lessons to individual students is a very common way to make extra cash, so is teaching for companies who wish to improve their employees’ English language skills.
Tip: To work in Hungary, you will need to provide your employer with a notarized copy of your college or university diploma, who will then submit it to the relevant labour authorities.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Teach English Abroad
If you are finding yourself reconsidering your priorities in life and are dreaming of a new career abroad, teaching English as a foreign language might just be the job for you. Opportunities are endless. Where will you go?
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