Teaching English Abroad: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying

Has the thought of traveling the world and working abroad at the same time ever crossed your mind? It may seem like a stretch, but teaching English abroad can provide you that wonderful opportunity. Not only do you help struggling learners improve their English skills, but you can also benefit from the cultural exchange that comes with living in a foreign country.
Here’s what you need to know before you begin your journey as an English teacher:

Check If You Are Qualified

The first step in this journey is to ask yourself: Am I qualified to teach English abroad? If you have a college or university degree and can speak English fluently, then you are a good candidate for this job. Take note that it is not a requirement for you to hold a degree in English, education, or language studies to qualify as an English teacher abroad. Moreover, while having some teaching experience is certainly beneficial, it is not a requirement.

Stand out through your credentials

If you are qualified, then you would want to work on your teaching license or credentials. Investing in your continuing education is definitely an asset if you want to get a long-term career in teaching English abroad. Getting your TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) Certification or equivalent from a reputable language school such as The Study will allow you to pursue a fruitful career as a traditional classroom or online ESL (English as a second language) instructor.

Apart from your college or university degree, many English language schools around the world also require a TESOL Certification in their job posting. To get the best chance at scoring the job, consider taking TESOL classes of at least 100 hours either through online or in-person methods. However, the good thing about the TESOL Certification is that it lasts a lifetime so your initial investment will be worth it in the end.

Research Your Available Options

Depending on the institution you plan to apply for, check for three things: the overall demand for English teachers in that country or region, the need for teaching experience in your chosen institution, and what type of TESOL Certification or equivalent you would be needing (whether online or in-person).

Arrange Your Travel Plans And Visa Requirements

Now that you’ve done your research, it is time to plan the logistics of your international adventure in teaching English abroad. Whether you have your final interview for the job by going abroad or by having a video call, this is a crucial step in the overall process. There are times when your employer may pay for your travel and visa arrangements but be prepared to handle the costs if needed.

Once your documentation and travel arrangements have been arranged, you are now ready to travel to your destination country and begin teaching English abroad.

Although teaching English abroad may seem like a daunting decision, it is well-worth the journey. The experience itself can be life-changing for both yourself and your future students. Consider taking that step with continuing education programs available at The Study where you can maximize your teaching potential and build on your credentials.