< For the Teacher

For the Teacher: FAQ for Teaching Abroad

Dave

FAQ for English Teachers Abroad

Q1: What qualifications do I need to teach English abroad?

A: Most schools require a Bachelor's degree in any field and a TEFL/TESOL certification. Some countries also require teachers to be native English speakers.

Q2: What is TEFL/TESOL certification?

A: TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. These certifications are typically required to teach English abroad.

Q3: Where can I obtain a TEFL/TESOL certification?

A: There are numerous online and in-person courses available globally. Make sure to choose an accredited program for recognized certification.

Q4: Can I teach English abroad without knowing the local language?

A: Yes, in most cases, English teachers are not required to know the local language. Some schools even prefer it to encourage students to speak more English.

Q5: How long does a teaching contract typically last?

A: Most teaching contracts are for one year, but they can range from six months to two years. The length of the contract may also depend on the visa regulations of the country you're teaching in.

Q6: Will I be able to save money while teaching English abroad?

A: This largely depends on the cost of living in your host country and your lifestyle. In many cases, teachers are able to save money.

Q7: Do schools provide housing for teachers?

A: Some schools provide housing or a housing allowance as part of their benefits package, while others may assist you in finding accommodation. Be sure to ask about this when negotiating your contract.

Q8: Can I bring my family with me?

A: This depends on the specific visa regulations of the country you are moving to. Some countries allow for dependent visas, while others do not.

Q9: Are there age limits for teaching English abroad?

A: Age restrictions depend on the country and the specific job. Some countries have visa age restrictions, while others don't. Some schools may also have their own age preferences.

Q10: Do I need to have teaching experience before teaching abroad?

A: While some schools do require previous teaching experience, many schools are willing to hire first-time teachers. A TEFL/TESOL certification can often help to make up for a lack of teaching experience.

Q11: Can I teach without a degree?

A: It depends on the country and the school. Some countries require a degree for visa purposes, but there are also countries where you can teach without a degree, especially if you have a TEFL/TESOL certification.

Q12: How much can I expect to earn teaching English abroad?

A: Salaries vary greatly by country, city, and type of school. It's best to research the standard salary in the specific location you're interested in.

Q13: Will the school pay for my flight?

A: Some schools will cover the cost of your flight to the country, either upfront or as a reimbursement. This is not a standard benefit and varies from school to school.

Q14: Can I choose which age group I want to teach?

A: Many schools offer the opportunity to teach various age groups. However, it's not always guaranteed you can choose. It often depends on the needs of the school.

Q15: Will I need to create my own curriculum?

A: This depends on the school. Some schools provide a set curriculum, while others require teachers to create their own. Be sure to ask this during your interview.

Q16: Is it safe to teach English abroad?

A: Safety can vary depending on the country and city. It's important to research and consider the safety of the location you're planning to teach in.

Q17: Can I teach English online?

A: Yes, many companies hire teachers to provide English lessons online. This can be a flexible option, especially amidst travel restrictions.

Q18: How can I apply for teaching jobs abroad?

A: You can apply for jobs directly on school websites, on job boards, or through a recruitment agency. Some certification programs also offer job placement assistance.

Q19: What is a typical day like for an English teacher abroad?

A: A typical day can vary greatly depending on the school and country. Generally, you can expect to spend time preparing lessons, teaching, grading, and potentially participating in extracurricular activities.

Q20: Are there opportunities for professional development as an English teacher abroad?

A: Yes, many schools and programs offer opportunities for professional development, such as workshops, conferences, and further education. Some even require ongoing professional development.

Q21: Can I travel while teaching English abroad?

A: Yes, many teachers take advantage of school holidays and weekends to travel locally or to nearby countries.

Q22: Do I need a work visa to teach English abroad?

A: Yes, in most cases you will need a work visa. The school you're working for will often assist with the visa process.

Q23: What if I don't like my job or the country I choose?

A: Contracts usually have termination clauses. However, it's best to research the country and the school thoroughly beforehand to avoid such a situation.

Q24: What is the average class size I can expect?

A: Class sizes vary greatly from country to country and school to school. They can range from one-on-one lessons to groups of 50 or more students.

Q25: Can I teach English abroad if English is not my first language?

A: Yes, non-native English speakers can teach English abroad, although some schools and countries do require teachers to be native English speakers.

Q26: How soon can I start teaching after I receive my TEFL/TESOL certification?

A: The timeline can vary depending on job availability, visa processing times, and other factors. Some teachers start teaching shortly after certification, while for others it might take a few months.

Q27: What kind of support can I expect from my employer when I move abroad?

A: This varies by employer. Some provide comprehensive support including relocation assistance, while others might offer less support. It's important to ask about this during the hiring process.

Q28: Can I return to teaching in my home country after teaching abroad?

A: Yes, many teachers return to their home country after teaching abroad. The international experience can be a valuable addition to your resume.

Q29: What's the difference between EFL and ESL?

A: EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language and is generally taught to non-native speakers in a non-English speaking country. ESL stands for English as a Second Language and is usually taught to non-native speakers living in an English-speaking country.

Q30: What are some of the challenges I might face while teaching English abroad?

A: Challenges can include culture shock, language barriers, homesickness, and adapting to the local education system. However, many teachers find these challenges to be a rewarding part of the experience.