FAQs For Finding Jobs Teaching English Abroad

If you’re a newly-qualified TEFL teacher who is now looking for a TEFL job abroad, welcome. Welcome to the first step on the adventure of a lifetime finding a job teaching English abroad.

You may be feeling a little nervous about your first day in the classroom, but don’t think about that just yet – there are still a few steps you need to take to get there. Because we are the helpful and ever-so-friendly people that we are, here is a crash course in finding jobs teaching English abroad. 

1. When can I look for a job teaching English abroad?

Now! Today! Anytime! You can even look for a job before you’ve even started your TEFL course. We’re not saying you should apply to jobs just yet but it’s a great idea to get a feel for the job market and the kinds of jobs in the different countries.

This will give you time to make sure your CV is up to scratch and you’ve got all your paperwork in order too. If you’re intent on teaching in a specific country, have a look at the popular hiring periods and look for a job a few months before that.

Read more: When is the Best Time to Apply for TEFL Jobs?

2. Where can I teach?

We’d love to say you can find jobs teaching English abroad anywhere but the truth is it depends on the working visa. If you don’t have a Bachelor’s degree there may be a few countries where it is more difficult for you to get a working visa. In other countries, a postgraduate degree is preferred. 

Then there’s the issue of nationality. For example, if you weren’t blessed with an EU passport it’ll be tricky to qualify for a working visa in certain EU countries. The same can be said for other nationalities in other regions. 

[But don’t forget you can sign up for an internship or volunteer programme to find a way around the visa requirements!]

Read more: What are My TEFL Options without a Degree?

3. How do I decide where to teach?

Up to you! You might already have your eye on a specific country but it’s still worth having a look around. Don’t forget to consider these things when trying to choose where you want to find a job teaching English abroad:

• Do I want to teach in a big city/traditional village/near the beach/on a mountain/on my couch?
• Do I want to teach in a language school/school/summer camp/in-house in a company?
• Do I want to teach children/teens/adults/businesspeople?
• Do I want to be close to home/faraway?
• Do I want to make a lot of money/not be worried about money but be able to live well/work for free?
• Do I want to live somewhere I don’t know the language/can speak the language/want to learn the language?
• Am I scared of culture shock?’

Read more: Culture Shock

These questions will help you narrow down the choice of country which would suit you.

4. Where should I look for a job?

This depends on where you want to work. In some countries it’s easier to go to the country and find a job when you’re already there. In others you need to have a job in order to get a working visa so you need to apply before you leave home. It is possible to get a job through a recruiter or an agent. If you decide to go this route, please make sure they are reputable.

For the most part, though, you should look online.

There are numerous jobs boards online, both general sites and those for specific countries. Tefl.com is a reputable international one, as well as ajarn.com for jobs in Thailand. Facebook is a great place for job searching as many schools advertise in TEFL teachers groups. 

And don’t forget about us! You should most definitely keep an eye on our jobs board to see the thousands of jobs we’ve hand-picked for you!

Read more: The Best Websites for TEFL Jobs

5. How do I apply for jobs teaching English abroad?

Each job will have its own instructions for applying. Usually you’ll send in your CV and they’ll contact you if you get shortlisted. Sometimes there is an application form too. Don’t forget to whip your CV into shape and tailor it specifically for TEFL. And of course, you’ll need to write a sparkling cover letter. Then, if you make it through the first round the school will contact you for an interview. Get through the interview and the job is yours!

6. Anything else I should know?

Make sure you do your research on the visa requirements for the country you are visiting. There might be some paperwork that you need that takes some time to organize – police clearance, university transcripts or a medical certificate, for example. Make sure your passport is in order and your important papers are digitized.  Don’t forget to get your finances in order so you’re ready to pack your bags as soon as the job offers come rolling in.  

7. One last thing…

Unfortunately, the TEFL world has its fair share of scammers when it comes to job applications. There are a few red flags to watch out for but the major one is if the “employer” asks for money of any sort. Paying to apply for a job wouldn’t happen in any other field and TEFL is no different.

Read more: 3 Ways to Safeguard Yourself against EFL Scams  

Have any more questions related to finding a TEFL job? Send us a message and you never know, you might be the subject of our next blog post!