Let’s get to it.

1. Dave’s ESL Cafe – The original jobs board

Did you know that since 1995, Dave’s ESL Cafe has been a top platform for those seeking ESL jobs? It’s part jobs board, part free resource for those teaching English abroad in various countries.

1. Explore the job board section to find available ESL job postings.
2. Filter the job listings according to your preferences, including location, job type, and requirements.
3. Thoroughly read the job descriptions and follow the provided application instructions from the employers.

Then once you reach out to a potential employer you can begin discussing income, expectations of the job and details on what is required of you as an English teacher.

2. TEFL.com – Since 1997

TEFL.com is a well-known platform for discovering ESL jobs around the world. Featuring a user-friendly interface, it presents a diverse range of teaching opportunities, including online, abroad, and volunteer positions. The website also offers the convenience of filtering job listings by location, job type, and salary range, making the job search process more efficient.

TEFL.com’s jobs board stands as a premier online platform for individuals seeking enriching opportunities in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) around the globe. This dedicated portal serves as a dynamic hub, connecting qualified educators with a myriad of teaching positions in non-English speaking countries.

Aspiring and experienced teachers alike can explore an extensive array of job listings, ranging from entry-level positions to advanced teaching roles. With a commitment to fostering international education, TEFL.com not only facilitates job searches but also provides valuable resources, fostering a supportive community for those passionate about sharing the gift of language education worldwide.

What is a TEFL Certification?- This is our complete guide to TEFL certification. We cover the history, background and differences between different governing bodies as well as the difference between TEFL and TESOL.

Free Online Tefl Certificates – In this content we show you how to get a TEFL for free or cheap. You can’t really get a TEFL for free, but the Full Circle course is about as close as you will come.

3. Teach Away – ESL Jobs

Teach Away jobs board serves as a gateway for educators seeking diverse and rewarding experiences in international education. This dynamic platform features an extensive array of teaching positions across various subjects and grade levels, catering to both experienced teachers and those new to the profession. By leveraging innovative technology, Teach Away empowers educators to discover and apply for positions that align with their expertise and aspirations.

The platform’s commitment to facilitating global education is evident in its user-friendly interface, comprehensive job listings, and the wealth of resources provided to support teachers in navigating the intricacies of teaching abroad.

• Visit the official website of Teach Away and navigate to their jobs page.
• Create an account by registering with your credentials.
• Browse through the job listings and filter according to your preferences and qualifications.
• Apply to the desired ESL job by following the application guidelines provided on the website.

Teach Away is also the best jobs board if you’re looking to go abroad and teach in China or Taiwan.

4. Ajarn.com – Thailand’s top ESL Jobs board

Ajarn.com website stands as a valuable resource for those aspiring to teach English in Thailand, offering a comprehensive jobs board specifically tailored to ESL positions. Navigating through a plethora of listings, prospective teachers can explore diverse opportunities in various locations and educational settings.

Ajarn.com goes beyond merely providing job postings; it serves as a supportive community, offering insights into the unique aspects of teaching in Thailand, guidance on cultural integration, and practical advice for those embarking on their ESL teaching journey.

“Ajarn” in Thai means teacher and this website has been going strong for decades and is to the best resource if you’re looking for employment as a teacher in Thailand.

5. GoAbroad – Jobs and work programs

The platform is known for connecting individuals with a wide range of programs, including study abroad programs, volunteer opportunities, internships, and language immersion experiences around the world. GoAbroad.com provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to search for and compare various international programs, read reviews from participants, and access valuable information about travel and cultural experiences.

• Create a GoAbroad account to gain access to the job board.
• Enhance your profile with qualifications and experience.
• Explore ESL job listings and utilize filters for location and job type.
• Submit applications through the platform.
• Communicate with employers and schedule interviews.
• Utilize the resources and guides on GoAbroad for helpful job search tips.
• Stay informed with email alerts for new job postings.

6. Vietnam Teaching Jobs – Best job board in Vietnam

VTJ (because typing the full name gets old fast) has been around since 2012. It’s basically the go-to marketplace for foreigners who want to teach English abroad in Vietnam

The platform connects you with public schools, private language centers, and fancy international schools. You can filter by city, salary range, and the type of school.

They’ve built out this whole support ecosystem as well. Need to get your degree legalized? They’ll help. Visa application making your head spin? They’ve got you. Work permits, Temporary Residence Cards, all that bureaucratic fun? VTJ offers assistance.

7. Indeed.com – Basic job search for ESL

When looking for ESL jobs, Indeed.com, which is ranked 8th among the top websites, provides a diverse range of job listings from different employers, including international schools and language centers. Job seekers can easily use filters to narrow down their job search by location, salary, job type, and other criteria.

Moreover, the website offers convenient features such as job alerts and resume posting to improve the overall job search process. While not a dedicated ESL jobs board, you can still find opportunities related to ESL.

8. LinkedIn – Finding ESL related jobs

To leverage LinkedIn effectively for finding ESL jobs, users can join education-related groups, follow organizations specializing in language education, and engage with content related to ESL teaching. Additionally, LinkedIn’s job search feature allows users to filter and discover relevant ESL job postings globally.

Building a robust network by connecting with professionals in the education sector, attending virtual events, and participating in discussions can enhance visibility and increase the chances of discovering ESL job opportunities.

• Create a complete and professional LinkedIn profile.
• Use relevant keywords in your profile to attract potential employers.
• Connect with other professionals and join ESL-related groups to expand your network.
• Engage with industry-specific content by commenting and sharing posts.
• Regularly update your profile and share your teaching experience and achievements.

In a similar tone, LinkedIn boasts over 20 million job listings and has become a valuable resource for job seekers worldwide. This is a good platform to find related jobs to ESL, beyond just basic teaching jobs and is ideal if you have the credentials required.

9. GaijinPot – Find a job in Japan

GaijinPot is a comprehensive resource for foreigners living in and interested in Japan. The job board on GaijinPot includes a variety of positions, including English teaching jobs.

The platform features a diverse range of job listings, including ESL teaching positions across different levels and institutions. Job seekers can explore opportunities in various cities throughout Japan, catering to those with different preferences and interests.

To find a job on GaijinPot, individuals typically start by creating a user account. They can then set up a profile, upload their resume, and browse through the available job listings. The platform may also offer a job alert feature, notifying users of new opportunities that match their preferences.

How to Find the Right ESL Job for You?

Looking for the perfect ESL job? Follow these steps to find the right fit for you.

1. Self-assessment: Determine your preferred location, teaching environment, and student age group.
2. Research: Explore reputable ESL job websites like Dave’s ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment to browse job postings.
3. Qualifications: Ensure you meet the job requirements and possess necessary certifications, degrees, or language proficiency.
4. Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting relevant experience and skills.
5. Interview: Prepare for interviews by researching the employer, practicing common interview questions, and showcasing your teaching approach.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Teach English Abroad?

What Qualifications Do You Need to Teach English Abroad?

To become an English teacher abroad, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate. Some countries may also require teaching experience and fluency in the local language.

If you are interested in obtaining a TEFL certification, consider reputable organizations such as TESOL.org or courses offered on platforms like Dave’s ESL Cafe and TEFL.com.

What Are the Different Types of ESL Jobs?

The various types of ESL jobs offer a wide range of opportunities, including teaching in public schools, private language institutes, online platforms, and corporate settings.

Additionally, these roles may involve teaching young learners, adults, professionals, or specialized subjects such as business English or exam preparation. When exploring ESL job options, it is important to consider your preferences, qualifications, and desired work environment.

What Countries Have the Most ESL Jobs?

Which Countries Offer the Most ESL Job Opportunities?

Countries with the highest number of ESL jobs include China, South Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. These countries have a strong demand for English teachers due to their rapidly growing economies and the significant role of English in global business.

In addition, Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam also provide a plethora of ESL job opportunities. When searching for ESL teaching positions abroad, keep these countries in mind.

What Are the Benefits of Teaching English Abroad?

Teaching English abroad offers numerous benefits, such as the opportunity to immerse oneself in diverse cultures, develop language skills, and gain global work experience. It also provides chances for personal growth, building international networks, and exploring new destinations.

Teaching abroad can lead to a deeper understanding of various educational systems and teaching methods, making it an enriching and fulfilling experience that can open doors to new perspectives and create lifelong memories.

What Are the Challenges of Teaching English Abroad?

Teaching English abroad presents numerous challenges, such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, and homesickness. Additionally, navigating unfamiliar education systems and adjusting to diverse classroom dynamics can be demanding.

Despite these difficulties, many educators find teaching internationally to be a rewarding and enriching experience, broadening their perspectives and fostering personal growth.

What Are the Average Salaries for ESL Teachers?

The average salaries for ESL teachers vary greatly depending on the country. In the Middle East, teachers can earn anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 per month, while in Asia, the average monthly salary falls between $1,500 and $3,000.

European countries typically offer salaries ranging from $1,500 to $3,500, and in South America, the average is around $700 to $1,500 per month.

It’s worth noting that some countries also provide additional benefits, such as housing and airfare allowances, for ESL teachers.

What Are the Best Countries for ESL Teachers to Save Money?

Countries such as South Korea, China, and Saudi Arabia are renowned for providing high salaries and benefits to ESL teachers, allowing them to save money.

These countries also offer free or subsidized accommodation, reimbursements for airfare, and health insurance, making them an ideal choice for ESL teachers looking to build their savings.

For a complete beginner however, we suggest looking at Thailand or Vietnam as an entry point for ESL teaching. The affordable cost of living in these countries further enhances the potential for teachers to save a substantial portion of their earnings.

What Resources Can Help You Prepare for an ESL Job Interview?

You do need to be well-prepared for an ESL job interview, utilize resources such as Dave’s ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESL Employment for job listings and advice.

You can also explore diverse opportunities on platforms like ESL Job Feed and GoAbroad.

For insights into interview experiences and company culture, check out Glassdoor and LinkedIn. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and expectations for ESL teaching positions. Ultimately, thorough preparation and research are crucial for a successful ESL job interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these websites the best for finding ESL jobs?

These websites are considered the best for finding ESL jobs because they offer a wide range of job opportunities, have a user-friendly interface, and provide helpful resources for job seekers.

Are there any fees for using these websites?

Some of these websites may require a membership or subscription fee for access to their job listings. However, many of them also offer free job postings and resources for job seekers.

Can I apply for jobs directly through these websites?

Yes, most of these websites allow users to apply for jobs directly through their platform. However, some job postings may redirect you to the employer’s website for application.

Do these websites offer job opportunities for non-native English speakers?

Yes, many of these websites offer job opportunities for non-native English speakers. They often have a diverse range of job postings from different countries and companies.

Can I find both online and in-person ESL jobs on these websites?

Yes, you can find both online and in-person ESL jobs on these websites. They have a variety of job postings for different teaching settings, including online, in-person, and even volunteer opportunities.

Wrap-UP

That’s it for our breakdown of various ESL websites to find a job. These job boards are perfect if you’re already abroad and teaching.

If you’re not abroad, consider joining Passport to Thailand. This course provides the exact roadmap to land a school contract and set up online teaching.

Passport to Thailand

Secure your lifestyle in Thailand with a local teaching position. This course provides the exact roadmap to land a school contract.

Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s your all-access pass to Asia.

LEARN MORE

The post The Best Websites for Finding ESL Jobs appeared first on Teach and GO.

Trust us, we’re speaking from experience—with numerous stamps on our passports and chalk dust on our hands, we understand how much your chosen destination can sway the health of your bank account.

Through diligent research—and perhaps a touch too much coffee—we’ve pinpointed those ideal locales where teaching English isn’t just about enriching minds but also bolstering your savings.

These are places where adventures abound, personal growth is inevitable, and your financial future looks bright. So come along as we reveal these gems! Let’s make your aspiration to teach-and-travel morph into an economic triumph!

Key Takeaways

• ESL teachers can save a significant amount of money by teaching in countries like South Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Turkey, Czech Republic, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia due to competitive salaries and low cost of living.
• Consideration should be given to factors such as ESL salary and benefits, cost of living, start – up costs, and lifestyle when choosing where to teach English abroad in order to maximize savings potential.
• Each country offers its own unique blend of financial security alongside enriching cultural experiences through robust English education markets and opportunities for personal growth.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Teach English

When choosing where to teach English, consider factors such as ESL salary and benefits, cost of living, start-up costs, and lifestyle.

ESL salary and benefits

We know that salary is a big part of why we all consider teaching English abroad. ESL salaries can be quite attractive, especially in places like South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, where you not only earn a competitive wage but often benefit from additional perks such as free housing or airfare reimbursement.

In these countries, it’s common to stash away significant savings each month; some of us have managed to save upward of $1,000-$1,500 monthly.

Perks vary by country and job position but frequently include health insurance, paid vacation days, and end-of-contract bonuses. For instance, taking on an ESL role in China positions you in one of the best job markets for English teachers globally with strong saving potentials due to high salaries coupled with modest living costs.

Meanwhile in Vietnam, the laid-back lifestyle and affordable living expenses mean more money stays in your pocket at the end of each month. These benefits make these locations top picks for us who want to teach English overseas without sacrificing financial well-being.

Cost of living

Understanding the salary and benefits that come with ESL teaching positions is critical, but assessing the cost of living in your potential new home is just as vital. Our savings hinge on more than just our income; they depend on how much it costs us to live day-to-day.

Take Thailand for instance, where a lower cost of living allows English teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, but the pay at government schools has not increased that much to keep up with current prices.

Exploring countries like Vietnam further highlights this concept. Here, you can embrace a relaxed way of life without worrying about breaking the bank thanks to affordable food, housing, and entertainment options.

Similarly, China’s vast job market pairs well with reasonable living expenses—giving you ample room to save from your salary as an ESL teacher. It’s all about balancing earnings with expenses so we can reach our financial goals while teaching abroad.

Start-up costs

Transitioning from the cost of living, it’s also crucial to weigh the initial expenses of moving abroad. Start-up costs can take a significant chunk out of your budget before you even begin saving.

These include airfare, housing deposits, and setting up your new home. In countries like China and South Korea, though, some schools reimburse flights or provide free housing which slashes these upfront costs massively. Other countries like Thailand and Vietnam provide no such support (unless you’re teaching at an international school).

We must consider all necessary purchases upon arrival—furnishings for an apartment, classroom supplies not provided by the school, and local transportation fees. However, in places like Vietnam and Thailand where the cost of living is remarkably low, these one-time expenditures won’t break the bank.

Careful planning and a clear understanding of what’s provided by employers can smooth this transition without derailing our savings goals right from the start.

Lifestyle

Teaching English abroad provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in diverse cultures, experience new traditions, and explore fascinating destinations. Living a lifestyle as an ESL teacher often involves embracing a mix of adventure, personal growth, and meaningful connections with locals.

The laid-back lifestyle in countries like Vietnam and Thailand allows for a healthy work-life balance while offering opportunities to save money due to their low cost of living. With vibrant landscapes, bustling cities, and rich historical sites awaiting exploration during days off, teaching in these countries caters to both an enriching career path and an exciting lifestyle.

As we delve into the top 10 countries for ESL teachers to save money, it’s essential to understand how each location can enhance both professional development and overall quality of life.

Top 10 Countries for ESL Teachers to Save Money

South Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Turkey, Czech Republic, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia offer great opportunities to save money while teaching English abroad.

Interested in learning more about these top countries for ESL teachers? Keep reading to find out how you can start saving while teaching overseas.

South Korea – Save $500-$1000 a month

South Korea offers ESL teachers an excellent opportunity to save money, with the potential to save $1,000-$1,500+ per month. The country’s robust English education market and high demand for English teachers make it a top choice for those looking to teach abroad and build savings.

South Korea also boasts a captivating blend of modernity and tradition, providing a unique cultural experience alongside financial benefits. Its rolling mountains and rich history add intrigue to the teaching experience while still allowing teachers to maximize their earnings.

With its competitive salary packages and relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries, South Korea emerges as an enticing destination for ESL professionals seeking both financial security and cultural immersion.

Pros:

• If you get selected for the EPIK program you’ll have a good salary and living expenses covered for you.

Cons:

• Outside of the EPIK program, Hogwans (Korean English tutoring centers) pay enough to live but not enough to save.

China – Save $500-$1000 a month

China offers one of the best job markets for teaching English abroad, making it a great place for ESL teachers to save money. With the world’s highest population, there is a high demand for English teachers across various regions in China.

This provides ample opportunities for ESL teachers to earn a good salary and save money while experiencing an enriching cultural immersion.

Teachers in China can benefit from competitive salaries and benefits, as well as low living costs in many areas. By taking advantage of these favorable conditions, ESL instructors can maximize their savings potential while enjoying the adventure of working and living in one of the most dynamic countries in the world.

Pros:

• China pays well and you can save a lot of money depending on your lifestyle.

Cons:

• China is a monolithic culture and very difficult to transition into compared to other, neighboring countries.

Japan

Transitioning from China, another top destination for ESL teachers to consider is Japan. Known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, Japan offers ESL teachers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience while also saving money.

With competitive salaries and a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries, Japan presents itself as an attractive option for those seeking to teach English abroad and build their savings.

In addition to financial benefits, teaching English in Japan allows educators to explore stunning landscapes, indulge in delicious cuisine, and engage with the country’s fascinating history.

Pros:

• If you get selected for the JET program, you’ll have a good income and low cost of living.

Cons:

• The JET program places teachers in rural Japan. Tutoring centers in Japan pay decent enough for you to save around $200 a month.

Taiwan – Save $500

Transitioning from the potential for ESL teachers to save money in Japan, Taiwan also offers attractive opportunities for educators looking to build savings. With a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries and competitive salaries, ESL teachers in Taiwan can expect to put away a substantial amount each month.

Surrounded by beautiful scenery, including stunning mountains and diverse coastlines, teaching English in Taiwan is not only financially rewarding but also provides an enriching cultural experience for educators seeking international opportunities.

Pros:

• Taiwan is similar to Korea but nowhere near as expensive. It’s also a surprisingly beautiful island.

Cons:

• Jobs are competitive to obtain.

Vietnam

Teaching English in Vietnam presents a fantastic opportunity for ESL teachers to save money, thanks to its low cost of living and laid-back lifestyle. With monthly savings potential ranging between $400-800, Vietnam offers affordability without compromising on the richness of cultural experiences.

The high demand for English teachers in Vietnam provides ample opportunities for career advancement while enjoying the country’s beautiful landscapes and historical sites.

Vietnam welcomes ESL teachers with its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, making it an attractive destination not only for saving money but also for embracing new perspectives and immersing oneself in a unique way of life.

Pros:

• Low cost of living allows your hourly wage to go very far in Vietnam.

Cons:

• Getting a job in Vietnam requires you to have experience first which is not ideal for new teachers.
• Jobs are usually at after school language centers so expect to work nights and weekends.

Turkey

Turkey is another country where ESL teachers can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving money. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Turkey offers a unique experience for ESL teachers looking to work abroad.

The demand for English teachers is growing, particularly in cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Moreover, with competitive salaries and relatively lower living costs compared to Western Europe or North America, teaching English in Turkey provides substantial opportunities for saving money.

Expats are drawn to Turkey’s vibrant cities and picturesque coastal towns, finding it an ideal location to immerse themselves in a different culture while having the potential to put away significant savings each month.

Pros:

• An under-rated teaching experience. Most jobs are at the university level however.

Cons:

• Unstable currency that is difficult to transact in.

Czech Republic – Save $100

Czech Republic is an attractive destination for ESL teachers looking to save money. The cost of living in the Czech Republic is relatively low, allowing ESL instructors to stretch their earnings further.

Additionally, the country’s central location in Europe provides easy access to travel and explore neighboring countries during vacations. Moreover, teaching opportunities in private language schools and international schools are abundant, offering ESL teachers a chance to advance their careers while saving money.

The Czech Republic also captivates with its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, providing a unique experience for ESL teachers seeking cultural immersion. With all these factors combined, teaching English in the Czech Republic presents an excellent opportunity for educators looking to teach abroad while maximizing their savings.

Pros:

• A great gateway to living and working in Europe. The Czeh Republic offers an affordable cost of living for ESL teachers.

Cons:

• The salary is roughly $1200 USD per month. You’ll need to do private tutoring to save money.

United Arab Emirates – Save $1000+

The United Arab Emirates offers ESL teachers the opportunity to save a significant amount of money while earning a good salary. The UAE, along with Saudi Arabia, China, South Korea, and Japan, is considered one of the countries where TEFL teachers can maximize their savings potential.

With its high standard of living and tax-free income for expatriates, the UAE provides ESL instructors with an attractive financial package. Additionally, English teachers in the UAE often receive benefits such as free accommodation or housing allowance, health insurance coverage, and even flights home each year.

These perks contribute to substantial savings for ESL teachers working in this dynamic Gulf nation.

Furthermore, teaching English in the United Arab Emirates allows educators to experience a unique blend of traditional Arabic culture and modern cosmopolitan lifestyle. The country’s strategic location also enables easy travel opportunities within the region and beyond.

Pros:

• UAE jobs are for professional with years of experience only, as such the salary is high.

Cons:

• Not for new teachers.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers ESL teachers the opportunity to save a substantial amount of money while earning a competitive salary. With its low cost of living and tax-free income, ESL teachers can expect to build significant savings during their time in this Middle Eastern country.

Furthermore, many schools in Saudi Arabia provide additional benefits such as paid vacation, accommodation allowances, and flight reimbursements, further enhancing the financial advantages for ESL teachers.

Additionally, with its rich culture and fascinating history, teaching English in Saudi Arabia provides an enriching experience that goes beyond just monetary gains.

Pros:

• Same as the UAE, high salary with jobs for professional teachers.

Cons:

• Saudi Arabia is boring for expats without families.

Thailand – Breakeven

Coming from the laid-back lifestyle of Vietnam, Thailand also offers ESL teachers a chance to save money due to its low cost of living. With its beautiful beaches, tranquil temples, and bustling cities, Thailand is an attractive location for those looking to work and save money.

English teachers in Thailand can benefit from the inexpensive cost of living in the country, allowing them to allocate more of their salary towards savings. The demand for English teachers continues to grow in Thailand, providing ample opportunities for ESL instructors seeking a balance between work and saving money.

Thailand presents an opportunity for ESL teachers to live comfortably while still being able to set aside a substantial amount each month. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins or enjoying delicious street food at affordable prices, teaching in Thailand allows you not only to experience a new culture but also save significantly compared to many other countries.

Pros:

• Thailand is arguably the most fun country to live in on the list.
• Fun, welcoming country with plentiful teaching positions.
• Teaching jobs are your standard Monday to Friday with weekends and holidays off.

Cons:

• Outside of international schools, the pay in Thailand is quite low and has not kept up with inflation.

Benefits of Teaching in These Countries

Teaching English in these countries offers high savings potential, cultural immersion, and career advancement opportunities.

High savings potential

When teaching English abroad, there is a high savings potential in several countries. South Korea offers the potential to save $800+ per month. China has one of the best job markets for ESL teachers with a great opportunity to save money.

Thailand provides a fun lifestyle and Vietnam boasts a laid-back lifestyle and low cost of living, making it an excellent choice for saving money while teaching English.

These countries offer various benefits such as career advancement opportunities and cultural immersion in addition to high savings potential. With ample opportunities and attractive salaries, overseas ESL teaching can be financially rewarding”.

Cultural immersion

Teaching English abroad provides a unique opportunity for cultural immersion. By living and working in a foreign country, ESL teachers can experience the local customs, traditions, and way of life firsthand.

This allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the culture, language, and values of the host country. Engaging with locals on a daily basis not only enhances our teaching experience but also broadens our perspective, leading to personal growth and development.

Moreover, cultural immersion enables us to build meaningful connections with students and colleagues while gaining insights into different educational systems. Embracing new cuisines, festivals, and social practices enriches our lives beyond the classroom, creating memories that last a lifetime.

As ESL teachers immersed in diverse cultures around the world we develop intercultural competence that fosters empathy, respect for diversity contributing positively to global citizenship.

Career advancement opportunities

While teaching English abroad offers the opportunity to save money, it also provides avenues for career advancement. Many countries value and prioritize education, leading to various professional development opportunities for ESL teachers.

In addition to the potential savings, these countries offer paths for growth within educational institutions or through language learning centers. This can include opportunities such as leadership roles, curriculum development positions, teacher training programs, and even administrative positions within schools or language institutes.

Furthermore, teaching English overseas allows ESL instructors to gain valuable international experience that can enhance their resumes and open doors to new career opportunities in other countries or back home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ESL teachers have numerous countries to choose from where they can save money while teaching abroad. The decision should be based on the potential savings, cost of living, lifestyle, and career advancement opportunities in each country.

Ultimately, by making an informed choice about where to teach English overseas, ESL teachers can maximize their savings and enjoy a rewarding experience in a new cultural environment.

Making such a decision entails considering factors like salary and benefits along with start-up costs before deciding on the country that will offer them the best opportunity to save money while advancing professionally.

The post What Are the Best Countries for ESL Teachers to Save Money? appeared first on Teach and GO.

In this comprehensive guide to the best programs to teach English abroad, specifically in Asia and Europe. We will look in-depth at Japan’s JET Program, South Korea’s EPIK Program, Spain’s NALCAP Program, France’s TAPIF Program, and Hungary’s CETP Program. We will give you an understanding of what makes these programs stand out, their requirements and benefits, and how you can increase your chances of getting selected.

Understanding the Basics of Teaching English Abroad

Teaching English abroad requires meeting specific requirements, including a bachelor’s degree and TESOL/TEFL certification. Asia and Europe are popular destinations for teaching English, offering unique cultural experiences.

The benefits of teaching English abroad extend beyond the classroom, allowing one to immerse oneself in a new culture and gain valuable teaching experience. Several programs are best for teaching English abroad, such as the JET Program in Japan and the EPIK Program in South Korea.

Programs to Teach English in Asia

Looking to teach English in Asia? There are several top programs you should consider. The JET Program in Japan is a government-sponsored initiative that offers a competitive salary and benefits package. South Korea has the EPIK program, which provides housing, airfare, and health insurance. Teach Taiwan is another excellent option, offering a competitive salary and accommodation.

If you’re interested in teaching in China, Indonesia, or Russia, English First is a global program with locations in these countries. And if you’re looking for TEFL certification and job placement assistance in Vietnam, Cambodia, or Thailand, check out various private TEFL programs that offer job placement. These programs provide excellent opportunities to teach English abroad in Asia.

Japan’s JET Program – Teach in a rural area

Japan’s JET Program, designed for native English speakers, offers a unique opportunity to teach English and immerse oneself in Japanese culture. With competitive salaries, health insurance, and flight expenses covered, the program ensures a comfortable experience.

Participants are placed in schools across Japan, allowing them to share their language and culture while gaining teaching experience. Cultural exchange opportunities further enrich participants’ understanding of Japan.

The application process includes rigorous screening, including a written test and interview. Teaching in Japan through the JET Program provides an invaluable chance to explore the vibrant Japanese culture and positively impact students’ lives.

Requirements for the Japan JET program

To participate in Japan’s JET program, applicants must meet specific requirements. This highly competitive program requires candidates to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Additionally, having a strong interest and background in Japanese culture and language is essential.

While teaching experience or certification is not mandatory, it can be advantageous. The program offers participants a living allowance, subsidized housing, and annual flights to and from Japan. In addition to teaching English, JET participants are expected to assist with extracurricular activities and cultural events, fostering a well-rounded experience.

Application Process:

The application process typically includes submitting an application form, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and possibly participating in an interview. The interview may be conducted in person or online.

It’s crucial to thoroughly review the specific requirements and application procedures outlined by the JET Program for your country of application. The application timeline and procedures may vary, so be sure to stay informed and submit all required documents by the specified deadlines.

Pros:

• Cultural Immersion: JET provides an excellent opportunity for cultural immersion. Participants have the chance to live and work in Japan, experiencing the daily life, traditions, and customs of the country.
• Language Learning: Living in Japan allows participants to learn or improve their Japanese language skills, as they are surrounded by native speakers. This can be a valuable asset for personal and professional development.
• Networking and Connections: JET participants often build a strong network of friends and colleagues, both within the program and in the local community. These connections can be beneficial both during and after the JET experience.
• Professional Development: JET can offer valuable teaching experience, especially for those interested in education or international relations. It can enhance interpersonal skills, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.
• Financial Support: The program provides financial support, including a monthly salary, which allows participants to live comfortably in Japan. Accommodations are often provided or subsidized.

Cons:

• Job Placement: Some JET participants may be placed in rural areas where there are fewer resources and less social activity. This can be isolating for those who are used to a more urban environment.
• Limited Control over Placement: Participants have limited control over their placement location and the type of work they will be doing. This lack of control can be challenging for individuals with specific preferences.
• Contract Limitations: The JET Program has a finite duration, typically one to five years. After the contract ends, participants may need to find new employment or return to their home country.
• Language Barrier: While the program promotes language learning, the initial language barrier can be challenging. In some situations, participants might find it difficult to communicate effectively, especially in more rural areas with fewer English speakers.
• Cultural Adjustment: Living in a foreign culture can be challenging, and some participants may experience culture shock or difficulty adapting to Japanese work culture, which can be different from what they are accustomed to.

South Korea’s EPIK Program – Competitive and well paid

Looking to teach English in South Korea? Consider exploring the EPIK program, an opportunity that offers placement in public schools with benefits like free housing and airfare reimbursement. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and meet specific qualifications to qualify.

The EPIK program provides orientation and ongoing support for teachers, making it an enriching cultural and professional experience. With its unique perks and comprehensive support, teaching in South Korea through the EPIK program can be a rewarding journey. Take the chance to embark on this exciting teaching adventure in South Korea.

An Overview of South Korea’s GEPIK Program

The GEPIK program in South Korea offers a range of benefits to English teachers, such as free housing and reimbursement for airfare. This program is specifically designed to teach English in South Korean public schools. It allows teachers to explore the country’s rich culture and history while meaningfully impacting students’ lives.

Before starting their teaching positions, teachers in the GEPIK program receive a comprehensive orientation. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and a clean criminal record to be eligible for this program. GEPIK offers a unique and rewarding experience for those interested in teaching English abroad.

Requirements for South Korea’s EPIK Program

To be eligible for South Korea’s EPIK Program, applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in an English-speaking country. Additionally, they must be citizens of a country where English is the primary language. While a TEFL/TESOL certification is preferred, it is not mandatory.

The EPIK Program offers numerous benefits, including furnished housing, airfare reimbursement, and paid vacation time. This program provides a valuable opportunity to teach in South Korean public schools and gain cultural experiences. By fulfilling these requirements, aspiring English teachers can embark on a fulfilling journey teaching abroad in South Korea.

Application process for EPIK

Complete and submit the online application form provided on the EPIK website during the designated application period.

Prepare and submit necessary documents, which may include:

1. Copy of your passport
2. Sealed university transcripts
3. Letters of recommendation
4. A criminal background check
5. Health statement
6. A self-introduction or personal statement

Successful applicants are usually contacted for an interview. The interview may be conducted in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing. If selected, applicants receive a Letter of Appointment and are placed in a specific location in South Korea. EPIK tries to consider preferences, but placement is ultimately determined by the needs of the program.

Visa Application

After placement, applicants receive information on the visa application process. This typically involves obtaining an E-2 visa, which is the visa category for English teachers in South Korea.

Pre-Departure Orientation:

You’ll have to attend a pre-departure orientation, either in your home country or in South Korea, to receive information about living and teaching in South Korea and to meet other EPIK participants.

Arrive in South Korea:

Travel to South Korea and participate in the in-country orientation provided by EPIK. This orientation covers various aspects of life in Korea and provides support for settling into your new community.

It’s crucial to refer to the official EPIK website or contact the EPIK office directly for the most accurate and current information.

Pros:

• Cultural Experience: EPIK provides a unique opportunity to experience Korean culture firsthand. Living and working in South Korea allows participants to immerse themselves in the local customs, traditions, and daily life.
• Competitive Salary and Benefits: EPIK offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including housing allowance, health insurance, and settlement allowances. This can contribute to a comfortable lifestyle in South Korea.
• Structured Program: EPIK is a well-established program with a structured curriculum and support system. Participants receive training, and there is often ongoing support from coordinators and fellow teachers.
• Travel Opportunities: South Korea’s central location in East Asia makes it convenient for participants to travel and explore neighboring countries during holidays and breaks.
• Professional Development: Teaching in a foreign country can enhance personal and professional development. EPIK provides an opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience and develop cross-cultural communication skills.
• Community and Networking: EPIK teachers often form a close-knit community, providing support and opportunities to build a network of friends and professional contacts.

Cons:

• Cultural Adjustment: Living in a new culture can be challenging, and participants may experience culture shock. Adjusting to Korean work culture and social norms can take time.
• Language Barrier: While English is widely taught in South Korea, there may still be language barriers outside the classroom, especially in more rural areas where English proficiency may be lower.
• Limited Control Over Placement: Participants may not have much control over their placement location. Some may prefer urban settings but end up in more rural areas, which can be isolating for those used to city life.
• Contractual Obligations: EPIK contracts typically last for one year, and breaking the contract early can have consequences. Participants should be prepared for a year-long commitment.
• Workload and Expectations: Workloads and expectations can vary. Some participants may find the workload manageable, while others may feel it is demanding. Classroom sizes and teaching conditions can also differ.
• Limited Advancement Opportunities: EPIK positions are often entry-level, and advancement opportunities within the program may be limited. Some participants may use EPIK as a stepping stone for broader career opportunities.

Understanding South Korea’s SMOE Program

The SMOE program, short for the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, is a renowned teaching program that hires English teachers for public schools in Seoul. As an English teacher with SMOE, you can enjoy competitive salaries, paid vacation time, and incredible benefits like free housing and airfare.

To be eligible for SMOE, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and be native English speakers from countries where English is the official language. SMOE is dedicated to providing comprehensive training and support to help teachers adjust to living and working in Korea. This program offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and professional development.

SMOE vs EPIK

SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) and EPIK (English Program in Korea) both offer opportunities for teaching English in South Korea, but they differ in key aspects.

SMOE focuses specifically on the Seoul Metropolitan Area, providing a more urban experience. Teachers are directly hired by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, which can lead to a closer connection with the local government and education system.

EPIK, on the other hand, is a nationwide program run by the Korean Ministry of Education. It places teachers throughout South Korea, offering a range of placement options in urban, suburban, and rural areas. EPIK provides a standardized program and support structure, placing teachers in public schools.

The choice between SMOE and EPIK often depends on personal preferences regarding location, school environment, and the desire for a more direct relationship with local government. The application processes and experiences can vary, so prospective teachers should carefully research each program to make an informed decision based on their preferences and goals.

Teaching English in Europe: A Comprehensive Guide

Teaching English in Europe offers a wide range of opportunities for aspiring educators. The English teaching market in Europe is diverse and thriving, with numerous programs and organizations that cater to teachers interested in this field. Requirements and qualifications for English teachers vary across different countries, but generally, a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certification are preferred.

Finding and securing a teaching position in Europe can be competitive, so it’s essential to do thorough research and prepare accordingly. Teaching English abroad in Europe comes with its own benefits and challenges, including cultural immersion, professional development, and the opportunity to explore the continent’s rich history and diverse landscapes.

Discovering Spain’s NALCAP Program

The NALCAP program in Spain is a government-run initiative to recruit native English speakers for teaching positions in local public schools. It offers a competitive salary, health insurance coverage, and assistance in finding suitable housing. Teachers are usually placed for 10 months, with the option to extend an additional year. NALCAP also prioritizes the professional development of its teachers, providing ongoing support and opportunities for growth.

Moreover, the program facilitates cultural exchanges, allowing participants to learn Spanish and immerse themselves in the local culture. With its comprehensive benefits and educational commitment, NALCAP is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to teach English abroad in Spain.

Introducing France’s TAPIF Program

France’s TAPIF program offers native English speakers the opportunity to teach English in France. Open to individuals aged 20-35 years old, participants receive a monthly stipend and health insurance coverage during their stay. Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree and basic French language skills to qualify. The program not only provides valuable teaching experience but also allows for cultural immersion.

By participating in TAPIF, English speakers can immerse themselves in the vibrant French culture and gain a deeper understanding of the language. With its combination of teaching opportunities and cultural experiences, the TAPIF program is an excellent choice for teaching English abroad.

An Insight into Hungary’s CETP Program

Hungary’s CETP program offers a unique opportunity to teach English in the heart of Europe. Participants in the program are provided with a monthly stipend, furnished housing, and health insurance. The program focuses on teaching English to Hungarian students in public schools and community centers. CETP program participants can also explore Hungary’s rich culture through organized cultural activities.

This program is open to native English speakers with Bachelor’s degrees and a TEFL certification. With its attractive benefits and cultural experiences, Hungary’s CETP program is an excellent choice for those seeking to teach English abroad in Europe.

Peace Corps (Americans Only)

The Peace Corps, a prestigious and globally recognized organization, offers a unique avenue for ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers seeking meaningful and impactful experiences in international education.

Rooted in a legacy of service and cultural exchange, the Peace Corps provides individuals with the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse communities around the world, facilitating language learning and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

For ESL teachers aspiring to make a difference, the Peace Corps stands as a pathway to not only share the gift of language but also to contribute to community development, foster mutual respect, and forge lasting connections in the spirit of global cooperation.

This introduction outlines the transformative journey that awaits ESL educators within the Peace Corps, embodying the ethos of service, cultural exchange, and positive change.

Requirements for ESL teachers in the Peace Corps

It’s important to note that the Peace Corps application process is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Successful candidates are those who demonstrate a genuine commitment to service, a passion for cross-cultural exchange, and the ability to thrive in diverse and sometimes challenging environments.

Peace Corps typically requires candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree. The degree can be in any field, but having a degree in education, English, linguistics, or a related field can be beneficial, especially for ESL teaching assignments.

While not always required, having prior teaching experience, especially in ESL contexts, can strengthen your application. This experience could be in a formal classroom setting or through volunteer work.

The Peace Corps places a strong emphasis on candidates who can adapt to different cultural contexts. Demonstrating cross-cultural experience, open-mindedness, and flexibility in diverse environments is essential.

What Makes These Programs the Best?

The best English teaching programs stand out for their comprehensive training and support, offering teaching opportunities in diverse settings and locations. With a strong reputation and positive participant reviews, these programs prioritize cultural immersion and personal growth.

Evaluating Program Benefits and Opportunities

Several essential factors exist to evaluate when considering the best programs to teach English abroad. These factors will help you determine the benefits and opportunities offered by each program. First and foremost, look for programs that provide extensive training and support to their participants.

This will ensure that you are well-prepared and equipped for your teaching responsibilities. Additionally, programs offering cultural immersion opportunities can significantly enhance your experience by allowing you to better understand the local culture and language. Professional development and career advancement opportunities are also crucial aspects to consider.

They will help you grow as an educator and open doors for future career prospects. Another critical consideration is the level of logistical support provided by the program. Housing, transportation, and other practical assistance can make the experience more comfortable and convenient. Lastly, it’s essential to consider program reviews and alums feedback.

These insights will give you valuable information about the overall quality and reputation of the program. You can choose the best program to teach English abroad by carefully evaluating these program benefits and opportunities.

How Can One Increase Their Chances of Getting Selected for These Programs?

To increase your chances of getting selected for these programs:

1. Consider obtaining a TEFL or TESOL certification to showcase your language teaching skills.
2. Gain teaching experience, even through volunteering or tutoring.
3. Tailor your application to meet the specific requirements of each program and highlight relevant skills and experiences on your resume.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you have a passion for teaching and a desire to explore new cultures, teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience. With programs available in Asia and Europe, you have plenty of options. Whether Japan’s JET Program, South Korea’s EPIK Program, or Spain’s NALCAP Program, each program offers unique opportunities and requirements.

It’s essential to research and understand the specific criteria for each program to increase your chances of being selected. Additionally, gaining relevant experience and obtaining TEFL certification can strengthen your application. If you want more, checkout our guide on the best countries to teach English abroad:

The post The Best Programs to Teach English Abroad appeared first on Teach and GO.

After one to three years of being an ESL teacher, they transitioned that experience into being a highly effective online teacher. See our online teaching companies guide for more.

Teaching English as an ESL teacher is rewarding and fun; it allows you to experience a new culture, place, and lifestyle. It’s a decision that will change your life. What countries should you consider teaching English abroad in?

Best countries to teach English abroad in

Teaching English can be very profitable in some countries but sometimes needs more fun aspects. You’ll have a great time living and working in other countries. Still, your salary will be comparatively low, making it difficult to save money.

We will share the pros and cons of various countries from an ESL perspective. We will be looking at things like pay, overall lifestyle as an ex-pat, career development, and opportunities for travel, fun, and exploration.

South Korea – The best mix of benefits and pay – avoid Hagwon’s, however

South Korea takes the top spot for numerous reasons. It is a beautiful country that is underrated and overlooked because of neighboring Japan. If you’re looking for a beautiful, clean, modern country with great food, rich culture, and excellent nightlife, look no further than South Korea.

As an ESL teacher in South Korea, expect a fair wage of about $2,000 or more monthly with benefits. It is standard that your school will pay your rent and also be paying for your flight to South Korea and back to your country of origin, making South Korea a country where you can save money every month and pay down debt with ease.

It is also a beautiful county with a rich culture and fantastic food. With proximity to China and Japan and numerous local attractions in the modern city of Seoul, you will love living and working in Korea.

The drawbacks of Korea are that it is pretty expensive, and you could easily overspend. In addition, Korea shares the same work ethic as Japan, and they expect their teachers to put in the hours week after week. Last, most jobs are at after-school centers called hagwons. So while a public school is a great job, a hagwon is not worth it. If that’s all you can get, don’t teach English in South Korea.

Pros:

• Good salary and benefits.
• Rent is covered as a government school teacher.
• Your flight to and from South Korea are also paid for as a government school teacher.

Cons:

• Most positions are at “hagwon’s” which are private tutoring centers.
• A hagwon does not provide the same benefits a government position does.
• South Korea has an excessive work ethic and no balance.

2) Thailand – Best starter country for ESL

Thailand is the best country to teach ESL for a year or two before deciding your next move. Thailand is a modern, first-world country with all the comforts of home. With a fun-loving, easy-going population, great bars and clubs, and a wonderfully developed tourism sector, Thailand is an ideal choice to begin your ESL journey.

It’s relatively straightforward to get a job in the Kingdom of Thailand. Jobs at government schools are numerous and easy to obtain. You can choose where in Thailand you want to live and work (except for Chaing Mai – it’s so popular with tourists it’s the only place you’ll have difficulty finding a job with no experience).

The country also has a wide range of teaching opportunities, from international schools with a high salary ideal for experienced teachers to low-paid government school jobs for first-time teachers to low demanding jobs at universities for anyone with an advanced degree. There is a level of ESL for everyone.

The biggest issue with Thailand is, of course, pay. Unless you work at an international school, your monthly pay will break even at best. You may even have to work additional part-time hours to make enough money to live comfortably. But overall, if you’re a new prospective teacher, take a look at Thailand.

Pros:

• Easy to get a job at a government school.
• Can work in Bangkok or in any of the surrounding provinces.
• A welcoming, interesting culture.
• Various levels of teaching based on your experience.
• International schools pay well, but are difficult to secure a position.

Cons:

• Low pay at government schools. It’s break even overall.
• Avoid working with any agency, only get hired directly from a school.

3) Dubai – Highest salary

Teaching in Dubai is lucrative. You’re paid a high salary and have numerous expenses taken care of. You entice teachers to work in Dubai. The catch? Dubai requires teachers to have a few years of experience as an ESL teacher and a formal education background.

Dubai is where you go for two or more years (contracts are for two years) if you have a family or want to save thousands of dollars each month for investment. Of all the countries on the list, the middle east consistently pays the most. Depending on your background, you’ll be working at a private school either as a teacher or in an administrative role.

Dubai is also the city of the future, a fantastic place to visit but not live long term. It’s a country filled with malls and modernity. You may get quickly bored with the area and this weird dichotomy between the locals and foreign expats. If you like to drink, you may also have an issue in Dubai. Alcohol is not illegal in Dubai; it is just strictly regulated. As an expat, you may only purchase such drinks from licensed vendors.

Pros:

• High salary and benefits.
• Dubai is an incredible city that’s safe and modern.
• Ideal for a professional with a family.

Cons:

• Alcoholic drinks are strictly regulated.
• Dubai is located in a desert (hot and unbearable during the day, cold at night).
• You may get bored quickly as it’s small. Similar to Singapore.

3) Japan – The famous Jet program

To some degree, Japan was and still is one of the most famous destinations to teach English abroad. This is due in large part to the renowned Jet Program. The Jet program is very competitive and will give you a high salary and place you in a rural part of Japan as an English teacher, not a major city.

If you’ve never been to Japan, you have to go. Words do not do that country justice in explaining how weird, colorful, modern, and unique it is. Way ahead of the United States in numerous ways. The biggest positive of Japan is simply the country is impressive and unique. You’re also in luck if you can land the jet program. With the Jet Program, you’re paid a high salary and located somewhere affordable.

You may want to be based in Tokyo, but remember, cities are costly in Japan, and you’ll have a better time being located in a local town or city. If you want to work in a city, you must source your job outside the Jet program. Most expats work in local language centers, but proper positions at universities and more do exist.

Pros:

• Live and work in Japan.
• A culturally interesting place to live.
• The Jet program allows you to have a good salary and benefits

Cons:

• The Jet program places you in rural Japan so if you’re wanting to live in Tokyo you’ll have to find a job on your own.
• Private tutoring centers don’t pay well and the hours are nights and weekends.
• Japan is expensive which is why the Jet program is so popular and expensive.

4) Taiwan – Under rated, beautiful country

Teaching in Taiwan is often overlooked by its more famous neighbors, Japan and China. However, Taiwan is still an excellent choice if you want to live and work abroad. However, most teachers here work in private “cram” schools and not public ones.

Working in Taiwan, you’ll be paid an excellent monthly salary that will allow you to save money monthly or have sufficient funds to travel and explore Taiwan and the surrounding countries. You’ll also be able to begin learning Chinese, which will pay dividends in the coming years.

As with most Asian cultures, you’re always an outsider, and integrating yourself into Taiwan is next to impossible. Teachers also need help with Taiwanese teaching standards focusing on memorization instead of functional knowledge. But if you’re looking for a country with a low cost of living, like Thailand but a higher salary, consider Taiwan.

Pros:

• You’ll be surprised by how beautiful Taiwan is.
• Learn Chinese and aspects of Chinese culture.
• Decent salary and low cost of living.

Cons:

• Taiwan does not have nightlife like Thailand. Expect bars and low key clubs.
• The teaching style and standards can be restrictive to those who like having flexibility.
• Cram schools are private business and some try to take advantage of inexperienced foreigners.

5) Vietnam – Qualified teachers only

Vietnam is one of the most underrated countries on the list. If you want a country where the cost of living is low, like Thailand, but where you’ll be paid a reasonable hourly rate, look no further than Vietnam. In Vietnam, teaching positions are located in the country’s two major cities – Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam is one of the least expensive countries in the world. Depending on your spending habits, you can live comfortably in Vietnam for roughly $800-1200 USD a month. The food is good, the people are friendly, and you’ll have an opportunity to travel and socialize with locals and expats. Also, most teaching jobs are located in the two major cities instead of the countryside, like many teaching jobs in Japan or Korea are.

Teachers in Vietnam are paid by the hour instead of a salary. Getting enough hours per week at first teaching English can be challenging. Typically, it takes a teacher around a month to find 20+ hours of teaching working at two or more schools. Finally, Vietnam updated its laws, so you’ll need a background in education, a degree, or previous verifiable classroom experience.

Pros:

• Work in Saigon or Hanoi.
• Low cost of living and the ability to earn a decent salary.
• Beautiful, interesting country and culture.

Cons:

• Like most countries, dealing with private business for pay and visas can be a headache.
• Private tutoring centers are easy to find work, jobs outside of this are possible but harder.
• You must now have a background in education. No exceptions.

6) Singapore – Modern but expensive

Singapore is a less popular option than other South East Asian countries, primarily due to the popularity of countries like Thailand and Japan for teaching English abroad. But Singapore can provide excellent long-term opportunities if you can land a job here. Contracts in Singapore are for two years, and you can expect to be paid $2800-$3500 a month. However, living costs match the salary, so it’s break-even in the best country for a new teacher.

Singapore is radically different from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. It’s clean, modern, and like entering an American city (except it’s humid). Singapore is a first-world country with excellent food and a mix of Chinese and Indian locals. The requirements for ESL teachers in Singapore are standard for the industry: a 4-year degree, a TEFL certificate, and a native speaker.

This country is an island city-state and is relatively small, and has a limited amount of things to do. Traveling anywhere requires you to fly out of the country, which could be annoying long-term. Some teachers complain about being bored living in Singapore after the first year.

Also, Singapore is very strict with cleanliness, and the law imposes severe fines for even benign things like not flushing the toilet.

Lastly, if you break your contract, fines will be imposed on you, and the competition for jobs is competitive as you’ve paid an excellent salary and live in a first-world country.

Pros:

• All the qualities and standards of an American city.
• Excellent jobs at international schools are possible.

Cons:

• Singapore is expensive and the current salaries barely keep up if you’re a new teacher.
• You’ll need to have save at least $4000 in startup costs when moving here.
• It is a city state that is quite small.

7) Spain – Low cost country with relaxed work environment

Want to live in an affordable European country where you can get paid a decent salary and not work crazy hours like in other countries? Teaching English in Spain through the auxiliaries de conversation may be for you.

The Auxiliaries de Conversacion program in Spain is a great way to live an enjoyable life and make money while also gaining experience teaching English. It pays better than most other countries, and the requirements are relatively straightforward. To become an auxiliary, you must be a native speaker of English with either a university degree or TEFL certification. You’ll also need to pass an interview and complete essential paperwork like medical check-ups.

Once accepted into the program, you will work 12-20 hours a week in Spanish public schools. This gives you plenty of time to explore your new country and its culture! Teaching hours vary depending on the school schedule but can include classes in both primary and secondary levels.

Pros:

If you teach through the auxiliaries de conversacion program, your salary will be anywhere from 700 Euros to 1000 Euros, depending on where you prepare for 12 hours a week. It’s not a lot of money, but you have time to pick up extra hours each week teaching English part-time as a tutor, or you could supplement your income with online teaching.

You also get a work visa allowing you to travel Europe freely, which is tricky if you’re North American.

Cons:

Visas for Spain are difficult to obtain. Spain is also notorious for it’s bureaucracy, needing various forms and just things moving slowly. Because of this, teachers often work on visas other than a work visa.

#9 China – Difficult now, but still possible

The rapid growth of China is slowing down, and it’s a different country than it was even five years ago, but there are still numerous options to teach English in China. 

To obtain a work permit, you must have a bachelor’s degree in any field, two years of teaching experience (or a TEFL certification), and be a native English speaker from a country that China approves of.

Additionally, you must be in good health and have a clean criminal background check. While the process may seem daunting, following these guidelines is essential to ensure a successful and legal teaching experience in China.

By meeting these requirements, you’ll be able to provide valuable education to students while also exploring the rich cultural history of this incredible country.

Pros:

Chinese jobs pay well. This combined with a low cost of living (if you’re not based in a tier 1 city) make China a country where you can work and save money. You’ll also not be overwhelmed with classes like you are in Thailand. In China, you can expect to teach 3 class a day and you have the support and resources to focus on your job.

Cons:

China is difficult for a foreigner to acclimate to. Outside of tier 1 cities, English is not spoken, signs are not in English and the internet is blocked. Making it extremely difficult for you as a non Chinese speaker to navigate China on your own. China is a country where teachers either love it or hate it.

10) Costa Rica – Close to America

Those interested in teaching English in Costa Rica must be aware of the legal requirements that must be met. Costa Rica has strict regulations regarding hiring foreigners, intending to protect local workers. To teach English legally, one must obtain a work visa and have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree.

In addition, certification to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) is typically required by hiring schools. Although navigating the legal requirements may seem daunting, ensuring that you are teaching English legitimately and ethically is worth it.

By meeting these requirements, you will foster mutual respect for the country and obtain valuable teaching experience in a vibrant and diverse cultural environment.

With the proper preparation and dedication, teaching English in Costa Rica can be both a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Once all legal requirements have been met, it’s time to search for open opportunities. Fortunately, numerous options are available: from language schools to private tutoring positions.

Depending on your qualifications and preferences, you will need to research different places of employment.

Pros:

English is in high demand with the majority of the jobs located in the major metropolitan areas, including the capitol city of San José and the central valley. You’ll be able to live and work where all the action is instead of in some far flung country town.

Cons:

Low pay and the work visa is time consuming and difficult to obtain. The average salary depends on how many hours you teach with most ESL teachers reporting a monthly salary of $500-1000 USD equivalent.

11) Italy – Perfect for EU citizens

Italy is an often dreamed about, but over looked country to find work as an English teacher in. It is possible to live and work in Italy as an English teacher. Amazing food, people and culture, it’s no surprise that Italy is the #1 country most Americans want to visit.

Pros:

High demand for qualified teachers. Italy is a country that needs English teachers as Italians are not known for their English language abilities. Expect a monthly salary of around 2000 euros.

Cons:

It’s an expensive and difficult process for non-EU citizens to obtain a work visa. So much so it’s usually just easier for most employers to hire a teacher from England or a qualified teacher from an EU country. Italy is also quite expensive if you end up living and working in a city.

12) Columbia – Exciting, developing country

Columbia has shed its infamous history and is now emerging as a South American tourist hotspot. In Columbia, you’ll be able to learn Spanish and live and work in a dynamic, beautiful country.

To teach English in Colombia, specific legal requirements must be met. Prospective English teachers must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Additionally, they must obtain a work visa and register with the Colombian Ministry of Education. These legal requirements ensure that English teachers are qualified and competent and protect Colombia’s education system. With its rich history and culture, teaching English in Colombia can be an unforgettable experience for those who meet legal standards.

In addition to its natural beauty, Colombia offers a range of educational and professional opportunities for English teachers. You’ll find that the cost of living is low compared to many other countries, making it an attractive option for those looking to teach abroad. Teaching English in Colombia can be rewarding and profitable with good wages and flexible hours.

Pros:

Columbia is developing rapidly and overcoming it’s past. It’s a country that has a high demand for English teachers, provides an excellent social life and is easy for a native English speaker who has a TEFL certificate to find work.

Cons:

The main con is the low salary. Like Thailand, you’ll want to also have online teaching or do private classes to make enough money to where you won’t worry about money.

13) Chile – A clear, streamlined process

Chile is the Vietnam of South America. Overlooked and under rated, Chile actually is one of the safest most diverse countries to teach English in. Chile has a government program (English Opens Doors) where most ESL teachers work at private schools with 1 paid month off.

Pros:

The government program makes finding work in Chile an easy, streamlined process. You get a full month vacation every year and can apply for residency status after just 2 years of living and working in Chile.

Cons:

The cost of living is higher in Chile than other south American countries, but so is the quality of life.

14) Jordan – Work as a private tutor

Most work in Jordan consist of finding work as a private tutor for a well off family or working at one of the numerous international schools in the capital city. For international schools you’ll need a background in education.

Pros:

You will live and work in Jordan as a private tutor where you’ll live with a family. Being totally immersed in Jordanian culture. No degree or TEFL certificate required!

Cons:

Jordan is not in the best of neighborhoods. Also as a Muslim county don’t expect beer and wine to be easy to get.

15) Lebanon – Work in schools and as a private tutor

Lebanon is multi-cultural and multi lingual, though not a money maker and like Jordan, not in the best neighborhood either. Teachers work as live in tutors or at private schools.

Pros:

Want to learn French along with teaching English? Want to live in a diverse and different country than you’re used to? Want to find a country where you’ll get decent pay and teach just 15 hours a week? Lebanon may be for you.

Cons:

It’s dangerous. Not too dangerous, but again it’s location is what scares off prospective teachers.

15) Brazil – Difficult to find full time work and low pay

Brazil is very welcoming to foreigners but life in Rio can be quite dangerous if you find yourself in the wrong part of the city. It’s also difficult to enough hours to make a full time go at it, it’s equally difficult to obtain the proper working visa due to corruption. Lastly, work is found only at private schools. Public schools currently do not employ ESL teachers.

Pros:

Brazil is a large country that is as diverse as it’s people. Living in Brazil is a unique experience. One most foreigners never experience.

Cons:

If you’re relying solely on your income from your ESL job, you’re going to find Brazil a tough country to make ends meet. It would best to work here as a teacher while also doing some side gig if possible. Getting the proper visa is also challenging. What a lot of teachers do is that they end up working illegally on tourist visas.

16) Russia – A unique experience

Russia is in need of ESL teachers and there are quite a few opportunities to be had in Russia’s major cities.

Pros:

If you’ve been wanting to experience Russian culture or perhaps even learn Russian, becoming a teacher for a year or two is a great way to do this. Jobs are plentiful and they pay is high enough to where you can have a good standard of living.

Cons:

Some ESL teachers simply did not enjoy the lifestyle in Russia as well as how expensive some items are and some cities are.

17) Turkey – Decent pay and a welcoming culture

Turkey is a unique choice for teaching English abroad. Most jobs are near the capital, where you get a mix of cultures. Turkey has excellent food, and Turkish people are welcoming.

To start teaching in Turkey, there are a few legal requirements to remember:

1. A work permit is required. This can be obtained by getting a job offer and reviewing the paperwork with the employer.
2. A teaching certificate or degree in English language teaching is necessary. This ensures teachers have the skills and knowledge to teach English to Turkish students effectively.
3. A criminal record check from the teacher’s home country is also required.

Reviewing these legal requirements thoroughly before embarking on a career teaching English in Turkey is essential. With all the paperwork taken care of, teachers can focus on the exciting and rewarding experience that training in Turkey offers.

Turkey offers an incredible variety of unique places and experiences to explore. There is something for everyone, from the beautiful beaches in Izmir to the historical ruins at Ephesus. Istanbul is also an excellent destination for teachers looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture. Plenty of cafes, restaurants, and cultural activities make teaching English in Turkey an exciting journey.

Pros:

Turkey is an interesting country to live and work in. The pay is also quite good compared to the cost of living and it’s a country where you can save money with ease.

Cons:

It’s a Muslim country. As such, you’re going to have to adapt your behavior as appropriate. They are also on the front lines with ISIS and are dealing with political turmoil.

18) Indonesia – A great alternative to other SE Asian countries

Teach in Bali? Unfortunetly no. Most Jobs are in Java, located near Jakarta, far from Bali.

Indonesia is a mesmerizing country filled with diverse cultures and fascinating traditions. It is also a great place to teach English, but before you can start packing your bags, there are some legal requirements you need to fulfill.

The Indonesian government is stringent when issuing work permits, especially for foreigners looking to teach or work there. As a result, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher, a valid teaching certificate, and a minimum of two years of teaching experience.

You’ll also need sponsorship from an Indonesian company or school to obtain a working visa. While the process may seem daunting, don’t let it discourage you! Once you’ve crossed these boxes, you can begin your journey to becoming a successful English teacher in one of the most mesmerizing countries in the world.

The best part about teaching English in Indonesia is that wages are typically quite good. You can earn between $22-24 per hour, depending on the school. Additionally, many schools will provide accommodations such as housing and transportation for their teachers. While salaries may be lower than what you would make teaching in other countries, living costs in Indonesia tend to be affordable (imported goods, however, are expensive).

Pros:

Jakarta is an international city. Great clubs, food and activities. You can experience a new, interesting, less traveled place while making a good income. The cost of living is also quite low.

Cons:

It’s an island nation. Like Singapore, if you want to travel it will cost a bit more due to the price of boats and planes.

19) Saudi Arabia – A less traveled country

Living and working in Saudi Arabia as an ESL teacher is a true adventure. This country has begun to open up to tourism, so now it’s easier than ever to visit. Go check it out to see if it is right for you.

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia can be a unique and challenging experience, but it’s essential to understand the legal requirements before embarking on this adventure. Saudi Arabia has recently become more strict in issuing work visas, and teachers must meet specific needs to obtain the necessary permits. First and foremost, a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, preferably in English or Education.

Additionally, teaching certification and experience are preferred but only sometimes necessary. Depending on the age group of students being taught, a criminal background check may also be required. Finally, teachers must be aware of and respectful of the customs and laws of Saudi Arabia, particularly around dress codes and gender segregation. By following these legal requirements, teachers can have a successful and fulfilling experience teaching English in Saudi Arabia.

When it comes to finding a job, there are several options available. The most common type of employment involves teaching at an international school or language institute. The school or institute will provide the necessary documentation and visa application assistance, so it is essential to research their requirements in advance. Additionally, companies and universities hire English language teachers contractually, allowing for more flexibility regarding hours and location. Finally, private tutoring is also an option for experienced teachers.

Pros:

You get to live in Saudi Arabia and experience a culture completely foreign to your own. Most people will never even get to visit Saudi Arabia due to their strict immigration policy. Your earnings are also 100% tax free. You keep everything you make.

Cons:

Foreigners have to live together, women will be shocked by how oppressive it is for their personal freedoms, curfews and no bars or clubs (obviously). It’s not a country where you’re going to be partying and living it up.

20 – Teach English in Malaysia

Just south of Thailand and north of Indonesia lies Malaysia. Malaysia is a Muslim country that has a few exclusive and unique job opportunities.

Pros:

Malaysia pays very well, particularly when compared to Thailand. This, combined with a similar cost of living enables a teacher to save a lot of money while working in Malaysia. It’s also not uncommon to receive a bonus upon completion of a contract.

Cons:

Malaysia is boring and has numerous religious laws that make a social life difficult. Most teachers who work in Malaysia grew bored with living there. The high pay however made it easy to justify spending a year as a teacher there.

21) – Teach English in India

India is last on the list due to it’s low pay, but India is still a country where you could work as an ESL teacher if you’re feeling adventurous enough.

Pros:

You get to live and work in India. Allowing you to experience Indian culture on a long term basis.

Cons:

The cons of working in India are the low salary, a Queens English British accent being preferred and most work being found at various call centers as your average Indian can speak some English.

22) Cambodia – No degree required

Cambodia located between Thailand and Vietnam. It’s a poorer country compared to it’s neighbors, but the requirements for teachers are a bit more lax. Legally, no bachelors degree is required to it is possible to secure a teaching position at a language center.

The international schools located in Phnom Pen and Siam Rep however will require professional qualifications from abroad in order to be even considered.

Pros:

One of the few countries left where it is possible to teach without having a bachelors degree. Cambodia is also offers a low cost of living.

Cons:

Cambodia is a beautiful, rural country and is well worth visiting for a few weeks. However it is a difficult country to get adjusted to on a long term basis.

Conclusion

So those are the top 21 countries to consider teaching English. If you’ve not already done so, checkout our section on the best countries to teach abroad. Each country has it’s own dedicated guide explaining visas, salaries and how to go about finding work.

More?

When you’re ready, here is how we can help you (totally free).

TEFL Courses – A standard course you need to complete in order to teach abroad. No too expensive and only takes 1-3 months depending on intensity.

Must know ESL interview questions – In addition to doing a mock lesson, you’ll be asked questions on your professional development. Come prepared.

The impact of teaching abroad on your resume – If you don’t have a degree in teaching and decide to go abroad for a few years, learn what positive and negative impacts that could have on your resume.

FUTURE PROOF EDUCATION

Future-proof your education career with in-demand ESL skills that let you teach abroad and online, anywhere in the world.

LEARN MORE

The post 21+ Best Countries To Teach Abroad appeared first on Teach and GO.

If you’re going abroad to teach at a government school in Thailand or a language center in Vietnam, then the interview process is not too difficult. It’s more a matter of do you meet the legal requirements for them to hire you.

Which is being a native speaker from an English speaking country. If you’re not from an English speaking country then you’ll need to take a TOEFL and obtain a specific minimum score the employer is looking for. International schools and employers will look for an IELTS test if you’re a non native speaker.

Interview questions for ESL jobs

With that out of the way, we’re going to assume you’re a native speaker applying to a mid to top tier international school that will have a developed hiring process that is competitive. Here are the most common questions you’ll be asked:

Background and experience

The most important questions will be about your background and experience. This is just to get to know why type of teaching style you implement and if you would be a good fit with the current curriculum.

• How did you end up in a career in teaching ESL?
• How would you describe your teaching process?
• What teaching methods or strategies do you find most effective in ESL classrooms?
• How do you differentiate instruction for students at different English proficiency levels?
• Classroom management is important, what strategies have you found effective?
• Could you explain how you evaluate student advancement and modify your teaching approach accordingly?
• In your opinion, what are the essential qualities that an educator should possess in order to teach ESL effectively?
• For how many years have you been working as an ESL teacher?

Demo lesson questions

With any teaching position it’s completely standard to request you to prepare a demo lesson. Along with the demo lesson you’ll be asked more technical questions either before or after the demo class to better assess your teaching style and methodology.

• Can you explain how you use technology in your ESL lessons?
• In an ESL setting, how do you manage and maintain discipline in the classroom?
• Could you describe a difficult situation with a student and explain how you resolved it?
• Could you share an example of a situation where you had to adapt your teaching method to cater to a student’s specific needs?
• What strategies can be implemented to assist English as a Second Language (ESL) students with a limited understanding of English in comprehending content-area subjects such as math or science?
• Could you share some strategies for enhancing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities who are learning English as a second language?
• What methods do you use to assist ESL students in improving their academic English abilities for pursuing higher education or professional careers?
• Can you provide tips for managing time efficiently while teaching ESL content to cover all topics within a specific time frame?
• Have you taken any courses or training programs to improve your skills in teaching English as a second language?

Personal, “get to know you” questions

Finally, as you’ll be working with a team of other teachers and staff, you’ll be asked questions about your habits and hobbies to make sure you’re the right fit for the team.

• What are the most critical factors for you in a work environment?
• Could you share a scenario in which you had to make a tough choice and walk me through how you went about making it?
• Can you explain how you manage your time and prioritize your work?
• How do your strengths help you succeed at work?
• What are your hobbies or favorite activities when you’re not working?
• Can you describe your career aspirations for the future?
• Could you describe how a mentor or influential person has affected your career?
• What is the main challenge that professionals currently face in this field?

ESL Interview Questions Conclusion

This should be enough to help you prepare for your ESL job interview. Don’t stress and over think it. Remember present yourself professionally and put a lot of thought and effort into the demo class as that is critical part of the interview process apart from the questions we laid out here.

The post 23+ Must Know Interview Questions for ESL Jobs appeared first on Teach and GO.

Ho Chi Minh City (referred to as Saigon by anyone who lives there) to the south is the economic capital. Bigger buildings, more robust shopping, and nightlife options. More foreigners and work options. The people are also friendlier too and more akin to Thai people.

Vietnam is filled with gorgeous landscapes, great food, and a low cost of living. Mix all this with a deep culture, a history of invasion, and fascinating landmarks. Vietnam is a profitable, fun, and fascinating ESL destination.

Why Teach English in Vietnam?

Vietnam is an underrated, often overlooked destination for teaching English. With its good pay and low living costs, Vietnam has much to offer prospective teachers. The beautiful country, excellent food, good coffee, and friendly locals provide a fantastic teaching experience.

​The ESL job market is relatively strong here too. With teaching jobs readily available both in the northern capital of Hanoi and in the south in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll have no problem being placed in a good location of your choice.

There’s also an ever-increasing demand for teachers in smaller cities and towns. Perfect for those looking for a lifestyle outside of the city where you can take advantage of the low cost of living.

Where will You work as a new English teacher in Vietnam?

Most jobs in Vietnam are at private language centers for new teachers. Still, there are opportunities to work at any of the various international schools nationwide. Also, while being placed in a public school in Vietnam is possible, it’s different from the norm, like in most other ESL countries.

Instead, Vietnam follows a model similar to a Korean Hagwon in that you’ll primarily work at private language centers where students attend after school. So expect to be working nights and weekends at these private language centers.

What most teachers end up doing is getting their work permit and temporary residence card through a language school where they work 8-12 hours and then work at other language centers. This is technically illegal as your work permit is only for one school or language center.

But because most centers won’t give you 18-22 hours a week, you must work at a few different places.

Get your visa For Vietnam

Vietnam currently only offers a 30-day e-visa for tourism purposes, which can not be extended. This is your only option if you want to visit as a tourist and explore some options in the country. When your e-visa runs out, you need to leave the country. You can re-enter on a new 30-day e-visa, however.

In general, it is best to have an offer from a school lined up beforehand to get a 90-day business visa which can then be converted into a temporary residence card good for one year.

To get your e-visa, please use the official site found here.

Legal and Educational Requirements to Work as a Teacher in Vietnam:

Here are the legal requirements to live and work in Vietnam. They have changed and have gotten more strict with the newest requirement that all foreign nationals have a degree related to their field of work (not just from English teachers, but anyone working in Vietnam).

• A notarized, 4-year degree in education.
• Three years experience teaching, notarized if it was outside Vietnam.
• Health Check.
• Police Check from the last 180 days.
• Resume/CV.
• Valid Passport.

These are the documents you need to obtain a work permit which you can then turn into a temporary residence card (TRC). Once you have a TRC, it replaces your business visa. Currently, most enter on a 30-day tourist visa; they get the required documents in Vietnam to get a business visa. You then visit a neighboring country and apply for a business visa to re-enter Vietnam.

So in Vietnam, you first get a business visa, which is required to look for work or investment opportunities (but you need to be legally allowed to work on a business visa). Once you find an employer, you get a work permit, enabling you to get a TRC.

Temporary residence card in Vietnam?

A TRC, as it’s known, is used in place of your visa. A TRC provides you with all the freedoms and flexibility you’re a temporary resident. No visa runs; you can fly or check into hotels without your passport, etc. You are required to pay taxes however to the Vietnamese government, however.

Notarized 4 Year degree in education

Yes, Vietnam now requires any foreign worker to have a degree in the field in which they are designated an “expert.” That means if you want to be a teacher, you need to have a degree in education now. This is a legal requirement to obtain a work permit. In addition, your degree must be notarized.

This can be done at your embassy in Vietnam, but it’s best to take care of this before you come to Vietnam, as it can be a bit time-consuming to do in the country.

Three years of teaching experience notarized if outside of Vietnam

A massive, recent change is that Vietnam now requires expats to have years of experience teaching before being able to work in the country.

If you have experience teaching outside of Vietnam (like Thailand or Korea), you must get that experience notarized. If you’ve taught in Vietnam previously or currently, then you’re not affected by this new requirement.

This requirement is the legal standard to obtain a work permit

Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent (or higher) and a certificate of at least three years of experience working in a related field to the job position. If outside of Vietnam, it must be notarized.

Alternatively, you can have a certificate of at least five years of experience working in the trained field relevant to the job position the foreign worker is expected to work for in Vietnam.

Health Check

You must pass a health check to obtain a work permit. The health check is done at a local hospital and consists of a physical. The health check must be done six months before applying for a work permit.

Police Check

You will need a police check from your state or province. This is best done in your home country as this takes a few weeks to get sorted. You do not need a national police check as you do for South Korea (which involves contacting the FBI and takes months to complete).

If you have lived in Vietnam for over six months, you’ll also need a Vietnamese police check.

Resume/CV

You will need a completed resume or CV to submit as part of your application for a work permit. Part of the regulations dictates that you prove work experience. This is done via a resume.

Valid Passport

Like immigration in most countries, you’ll need a passport with at least six months of validity and numerous passport photos.

Optional Requirements

Native English Speaker

Being a native English speaker is preferable but not a legal requirement like in South Korea. Vietnam, like Thailand, is a country that is open to non-native teachers. As long as you meet all the other legal requirements, you can obtain a work permit and a position as an English teacher.

Is finding a job hard as a non-native English speaker?

No, the issue as a non-native will be the pay. Since you’re not a native speaker, your going rate will be considerably less than a native English speaker.

TEFL/TESOL

A TEFL or TESOL  helps you negotiate a higher hourly rate and secure a position in a public school. Still, as far as being a legal requirement, it is not. It’s a good idea to obtain a certificate because it helps you be a better teacher in the classroom and sets you apart from less qualified candidates.

How much are teachers paid in Vietnam?

Working as an English teacher in Vietnam is different from other countries in that you’re paid per hour instead of a salary. No exceptions.

The hourly rate varies depending on how qualified an English teacher you are. The pay rate ranges anywhere from $15 to $25 an hour. The upper range is for native English speakers with teaching experience, a bachelor’s degree, and a TEFL certificate who can also pass a background check. You should not accept anything less than $20 an hour if that is you.

Most teachers can easily find work at one of the country’s numerous language centers. The language centers operate after school and on weekends. These centers will want you to sign a contract and give you a set minimum amount of teaching hours per week and a set schedule. The hours can be anywhere from 10 to 25 hours a week, depending on whether you’re full-time or part-time.

You’ll want about 20 hours a week to earn a livable salary. The cost of living in Vietnam is around $800-$1000 USD.

Lastly, everything is up for negotiation, and don’t be afraid to walk away from an offer you don’t like. We had worked with an American teacher who had a great schedule of two days at a language center in the evening and two days at a high school during the day for 20 hours a week, three days off, and a monthly income of roughly $2000 USD. He was paid $22 an hour.

When I sought employment, I was initially offered a position at a high school, only to have a bait-and-switch pulled on me. She was changing the job to a language center in the evenings five days a week with Tuesday and Thursday off and the bulk of the hours on the weekend. I said no.

What does the average English Teacher make?

The average teacher in Vietnam makes about $1,600 USD per month equivalent. You will be paid in Vietnamese Dong and have to set up a foreign bank account in Vietnam, so your school or language center can direct deposit your payment.

The amount you make depends entirely on your hourly rate and the number of teaching hours you can secure.  Your hourly rate will be anywhere from $15-25 USD, and your working hours will be 15-25. It depends.

The more qualified you are, the better hourly rate you will be paid, though schools will try to pay you as little as they can. If you’re an experienced teacher, try to secure a position at an international school.

Where do teachers work in Vietnam?

There are three places you will work in Vietnam:

• Language Centers
• Public Schools
• International Schools

In Vietnam, you must decide whether to work at a language center, public school, or “international” school. You can also work full-time or part-time. Again, Vietnam is not like other countries.

International is in quotes because most private schools call themselves international. In other countries, international schools mean a high quality, competitive, good place to work – In Vietnam, you should think of kindergarten or preschool when you hear “international” school.

It’s also impossible to work directly with a public school. You’ll always have to go through an agency (that sometimes also operates a language center) to be placed in such a position.

Language Centers: $15-25 USD per Hour

Language centers are the most common place to work in Vietnam. Popular centers are Language Link, Apollo, and ILA. You can expect a language center to pay for your work permit and give you paid holidays. Some centers will even provide you a bonus upon contract completion or will pay for a flight.

Please consider joining Facebook groups and asking questions about any job offer you get. Some terrible employers (all language centers) in Vietnam don’t pay on time or don’t pay teachers altogether.

Working Hours

It depends on your contract. Most centers will give you between 20-25 hours per week. The bulk of your hours will be on the weekend. Expect to teach 6-7 hours of class on Saturday and Sunday and 3-4 hours in the evening during the work week. On the weekend, centers open at 7 am and stay open until about 8 pm, so you can be expected to work as early as 7 to as late as 8.

You will NOT be given consecutive days off. Expect an odd schedule, like Monday and Thursday off. The benefits of language centers are that they are developed, professional, well funded, and take care of all the legal aspects of working in Vietnam. They also provide small classes of 15 or so students with a teaching assistant. The disadvantages are the long weekend hours and the need for consecutive days off.

Public Schools: $15-25 USD per hour

For public schools, you have the option to work either full-time or part-time. To work at a public school, you must go through an agency. The agency will place you in different schools during the week, so don’t expect to attend the same school daily. You are also only paid by the hour, and class time is for a full hour.

Full-Time Public School Teacher

If you choose to be full-time, expect to teach 25 hours per week, paid holidays, and some short vacation time. If you teach over 25 hours, you will be paid overtime. Twenty-five hours is a lot of in-class teaching time, and most teachers get burned out at this amount of work as it equates to giving a 5-hour high-energy speech five days a week.

The overall advantage of a public school is regular working hours and guaranteed payment. So if your contract is for 80 hours per month (20 hours a week), you’ll be paid for that 80 hours even if you don’t teach 80 hours.

Part-Time Public School Teacher

As a part-time teacher, you’ll be paid a flat rate depending on your experience and negotiating ability. With this route, you will be required to get and pay for your work permit and all the costs that come with it. The part-time way gives a lot of flexibility for teachers and is an ideal option for those who teach online and are looking to pick up 10-15 hours during the week. Online teachers work evenings, so having a gig during the morning is ideal and can be done by working as a part-time teacher.

International schools: Western Salary at a legitimate school

International schools in Vietnam come in two forms. Legitimate international schools like the British International School and the Australian International School, or schools that simply throw in the word “international” to their name to seem more professional.

Proper international schools pay well (a Western salary of $2,900-4,000 a month is reasonable), have regular working hours, give paid vacation and holidays, and take care of the work permit. To land a job here, you’ll need teacher certification and experience.

Set Your Own Schedule: $2,000-3,000 USD

In Vietnam, setting your schedule by working as a part-time teacher at a few different places or combining a part-time position at a public school with online teaching is possible.

Vietnam is a refreshing choice because you’re much more responsible for your income, time, and work week. But this option is for those already established in the country. Just know that it’s possible and a common setup is to work 10-12 hours a week at a public school during the day and then teach online for 16-20 hours.

English Teacher Benefits

Housing Allowance

Only proper international schools provide some housing allowance. For all other positions, you’ll be required to find your apartment or rent a room in a house with other teachers. In Hanoi, prices are affordable, so that you can get your place. Ho Chi Minh City apartments are more expensive. It’s a good idea to find a roommate.

Paid Vacation

Paid vacation and paid holidays are standard practice if you’re a full-time teacher at a language center or public school in Vietnam.

Bonus / Return Ticket

Some language centers give you a bonus after a 1-year contract, or they will help pay for a flight to return to your country. This is case by case and not standard practice as it is in South Korea.

Cost of Living in Vietnam

Vietnam is very cheap, cheaper than Thailand in all aspects except for rent and a gym membership. You can live a comfortable life as a debt-free, single person on $1200 a month. This amount is all you will need to pay for your living costs.

If you want to travel and explore Vietnam, you’ll get your income up to around $1,700 USD. With an average salary of $2,000 USD, if you’re working 22-25 hours per week, you can save $1,000 USD per month.

The Vietnam Business Visa For English Teachers

To legally work in Vietnam, you must obtain a business visa and a work permit. You obtain the work permit FIRST and then convert your tourist visa into a business visa. You’ll need a work permit to legally work at a school or language center in Vietnam.

To work without a work permit means you’re working illegally and are putting yourself at risk of fines and deportation, so don’t work without a work permit. If you’re working less than 3 months in Vietnam, you do not need a work permit. This rule is in place to allow foreign nationals time to get situated first.

Step 1: Get The Work Permit

The work permit costs a few hundred dollars, so please plan accordingly. It’s valid for three years. You will need the following to get a work permit in Vietnam:

• A 4-year degree
• Health Check 
• Police Check from the last 180 days.
• Passport Photos
• Resume/CV
• Committee approval document + Business certification

A 4-year degree

You must be able to demonstrate you have some professional skills. This is accomplished by having a 4-year degree. You have two options. You can either bring a notarized copy of your degree that your Secretary of State has also apostilled, or you can get your original document to Vietnam and have it certified by your embassy in Vietnam. I suggest the latter as it’s faster, easier and less costly. Check, however, with your school as rules change.

Health Check

You’ll have to undergo a physical at an official hospital in Vietnam. This document can take up to six months to apply for a work permit. Otherwise, you’ll have to undergo another physical. The physical involves standard work like blood work, blood pressure, and a consultation with a physician.

Recent Police Check

You will need a police check from your home country for 180 days. This police check can be from your state or province. It does not need to be a national police check. If you have lived in Vietnam for more than six months, you’ll also need a Vietnamese police check. It’s best to obtain this document before arriving in Vietnam.

Passport Photos and Passport

Nothing surprising here. You’ll need numerous passport-sized photos of yourself and a passport with six months or more validity still on it. You will need copies of your passport too.

Resume/CV

Yes, you will need to submit your resume. They want to confirm your work experience from former employers to help show you have professional skills.

Committee approval document + Business certification

You will obtain these documents from your language school or agency (if you’re working at a public school).

Step 2: Get The Business Visa

You have a work permit; you can now legally work in Vietnam. The next step is to get a business visa so you can live in Vietnam for the next year without having to do visa runs. To get a business visa, you simply need:

• Passport
• Application form
• Letter of entry clearance
• Visa Fee

The critical item here is the letter of entry clearance. You’ll get this from whatever business (Language centers and agencies are private businesses) you work with in Vietnam. You’ll need to provide them with your visa and any other details they ask for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Teach English in Vietnam – Conclusion

Vietnam is a rapidly growing and changing country. It’s underrated as a place to teach English, but that’s a good thing. You can find a good-paying position and live in a significant city cheaply. If you’ve been looking for a place with a good work-life balance, a place where you can explore a new culture and be surrounded by interesting expats. Check out Vietnam for teaching English abroad.

The post How to Teach English Abroad in Vietnam appeared first on Teach and GO.

But, as we covered in in “is teaching abroad worth it” we don’t want to make it seem like there are no drawbacks to going abroad and being an ESL teacher. So, let’s get to the impact that teaching English has on your resume.

Pro: Stand out in a competitive job market

Teaching English abroad can be an excellent way to stand out in a competitive job market. Not only will you gain valuable international experience, but you’ll also gain insights into different cultures and teaching styles, all while developing your teaching and leadership skills.

In addition, this type of experience looks great on resumes and can help employers perceive you as someone who is able to handle complex situations. Even if it’s not related directly to the job you’re interested in, having global exposure and an understanding of other languages and cultures can help open doors for career advancement opportunities that wouldn’t have been available before.

Con: Financial implications of teaching English abroad

Most ESL teachers are paid a low salary unless you’re working at an international school. International schools are an option available to trained western teachers who obtain both a bachelors and masters in education or in some specific area of education like mathematics and so forth.

English abroad is a rewarding experience, but we do have to recognize that the pay is not competitive enough for most looking for a long term option. As such, we strongly suggest anyone who does decide to go abroad to do so for 1-3 years max and then have a specific plan after that.

Otherwise, you’ll find yourself abroad in a low paying teaching job which will start to hamper your financial situation like investments and saving for retirement.

Paid in the local currency

You’re also paid in the local currency. In a country like Thailand where 38,000 Baht is a decent salary for an English teacher, the reality is that is currently only a $1100 a month roughly. When you do interview for a position in your home country you may have an issue with salary negotiations.

Pro: Develop helpful soft skills fast

Teaching English abroad can shows that you possess various valuable skills such as adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving. These skills are highly sought after by employers in today’s globalized job market.

Additionally, teaching English abroad demonstrates your ability to work independently, manage a classroom, and communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. These soft skills can only be developed through the adventure that is going abroad to teach English.

Cons: You hurt your employment chances if you stay abroad too long

If you don’t have a background in education and instead have a degree in say, finance. You hurt your chances of getting rehired in a relevant industry the longer you stay abroad.

Don’t expect to teach English for 5 years in Vietnam, then expect to come back to the United States and work at a credit union simply because you have a degree in finance. 1-2 years is fine, you can spin it that you wanted travel and experience new things, but pushed out longer than that it will start to raise red flags.

In short, taking time off to teach English abroad may impact your career trajectory. Depending on the length of time you spend abroad, you may fall behind your peers in terms of career advancement or miss out on opportunities for professional development. This is something to consider if you have long-term career goals that require consistent work experience and advancement.

Taking time off to teach English abroad may be viewed as a gap in your resume by some employers. This could make it more difficult to find a job or advance in your career when you return home. Additionally, the skills and experience you gain while teaching English abroad may not be directly applicable to your desired career path.

Pro: Build an excellent network that can benefit you a lifetime

As an ESL teacher teaching abroad, you are uniquely positioned to build a strong network of professionals from a wide range of countries. After all, you’re living in a new country and creating relationships with people from different backgrounds.

You have a unique opportunity to make connections that can help further your career and enhance your experiences while working as a teacher abroad that would never be available to you if you decided to not go abroad and teach.

A professional network is something you’ll benefit from years down the road as the people you connect with grow and evolve themselves. Sure, some contacts will not materialize into anything, but it’s those handful of connects that become life changing are what make all the difference.

Con: Potentially limited networking opportunities

Depending on the country and region where you are teaching, there may be limited opportunities to network with professionals in your field or industry. If you decide to take a position where you’re in a smaller city or the country side you may find it difficult to find mentors, build relationships with potential employers, and develop your skills as a professional.

We suggest that if you do decide to teach abroad outside a major city do it for 1-2 years max. Otherwise you may find yourself settled in too much with limited options to make a profound change. Again, use an abroad ESL experience to grow as a person and figure out what you want. Not as a way to get a dead end job where you’re stuck abroad.

The impact of teaching ESL on your resume – Conclusion

If you’re a properly trained teacher, going abroad to teach ESL can be quite a rewarding, fun and interesting experience. Pay at international schools is quite good and you could make a career out of working in different countries for a few years at a wide variety of international schools.

There are also great, top tier ESL programs like the JET program in Japan or the EPIK program in South Korea. Both these programs pay well, set you up with housing, give you vacation time and are an overall great start to going abroad.

For everyone else, do ESL as a way to see the proverbial world, have a new experience and meet new people. But make sure you have a plan after 1 or 2 years as you don’t want an ESL experience to be viewed as a long term job gap.

The post The Impact of Teaching English Abroad on Your Resume (Pros and Cons) appeared first on Teach and GO.

We will cover everything you need to know about teaching English in Cambodia, from what qualifications are required to where you will work to the average salary. We’ll also give you some tips on how to find a job teaching English in Cambodia.

About teaching in Cambodia

Cambodia is located between Vietnam and Thailand. It’s less developed than both countries, much more rural, has worse infrastructure, and is humid. Cambodia is less strict regarding what is required to stay in the country as a teacher, and it is a unique ESL experience.

Please be aware that Cambodia is significantly poorer than its neighbors. For most, it is a stricter adjustment for most ex-pat English teachers who expect Cambodia to be similar to Thailand. With that said, it’s a beautiful country with a low cost of living that provides a more laid-back, rural experience for teachers.

Where will you work in Cambodia?

Cambodia offers a few different options for those looking to teach abroad in Cambodia. Depending on your qualifications affect where you’re able to work as well. Cambodia is unique because you don’t need a bachelors legally, but a TEFL.

• Accredited international schools
•  Nonaccredited international schools
•  ACE schools

Accredited international schools

Located primarily in Phnom Penh (the capital city) and Siam Reap, accredited international schools are where students study all their English subjects, from math and science to computer classes or history. These schools follow some accredited international standards (UK, US, Australian system).

To teach here, you must have proper qualifications from your home country. While legally, all you need is a TEFL in Cambodia, no international school will even consider your application if you lack the educational credentials from your home country.

Nonaccredited international schools

These are schools that may say “international” in the name but are, in fact, not adequately accredited. These schools pay teachers less, are more affordable for students to attend, and tend to be less resourced than proper international schools.

However, they are a good option for a new teacher as these positions are more readily available, and they are ideal if you want to teach somewhere other than Phnom Penh. Generally, these schools typically want you to have a bachelor’s degree in anything and a TEFL certificate.

ACE schools ( English tutorial centers)

Cambodia also offers private, English-only tutorial centers where you can find work. The most popular are ACE schools. This is a good option for any teacher looking to make extra money by teaching after class and is also a good option for teachers who don’t have a bachelor’s degree but have the required TEFL.

These centers are typically found near high schools, and the way it works is that students go to their respective government schools and, for English classes, visit the language center. The hours at these centers are all over the place, with courses in the morning, afternoon, evenings, and weekends.

What about teaching online in Cambodia?

Currently, there are no companies based in Cambodia that provide online teaching. You can technically teach online through iTalki, Fiverr, or Cambly. But these platforms are not Cambodian-specific and must provide you with the required documents to stay in the country. As such, you must do visa runs to maintain your tourist visa.

How to get a teaching job in Cambodia

For international schools, you can find numerous postings online that you can apply to simply by searching “international schools Cambodia.” You can also find the school’s website and contact the hiring manager directly. For everything else, however, the best way to find a job in Cambodia is to visit Cambodia on a tourist visa and then look for work.

Not the most practical, but it’s how things work. You should visit Cambodia with money saved as your startup money, develop a list of schools, and apply in person. You should prepare a packet of documents to hand off to the hiring person and dress nicely.

The packet should contain the following:

• Your resume or CV.
• A cover letter.
• A copy of your TEFL certificate.
• A copy of your TEFL certificate transcripts.
• A passport-sized photo of yourself.

If the school is interested, they will call or email you to schedule an interview.

Teacher recruiting agencies

Private agencies exist that can help place you in a school. Overall these agencies are more of a money grab and, in general, a waste of time. When an agency puts you, they get a commission and tend not to have relationships with decent workplaces. In short, avoid agencies.

Best time to apply

Quality international schools are looking for new teachers for the upcoming semester, from October through December. During this time, they collect resumes and start contacting teachers in February and March based on staffing needs. Expect a job offer in April or May.

Have a demo lesson ready.

Lastly, for quality schools, they may ask you to teach a demo lesson. Your students will be teachers and staff who work at the school, and you will be expected to lead about 20 minutes altogether.

Legal Requirements to Teach in Cambodia

Cambodia is pretty simple with the legal requirements to become an English teacher. You only need a few things to live and work in the country legally:

• Business visa (type-E)
•  TEFL certificate
•  Native speaker
•  Diploma
•  Criminal background check

Business visa

A business visa is what you need to obtain a work permit. You can get a business visa after you have secured a teaching position at a school, and your school will provide the required documents to process your visa.

Please note that if you enter Cambodia on an e-visa (obtained online), you can’t change that visa and must do a border run. We suggest entering Cambodia by paying for a standard tourist visa obtained at the airport. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days which can be extended once for another 30 days.

TEFL certificate (120 hours)

A TEFL is a legal requirement in Cambodia, and you can be obtained by taking an intensive course on how to teach English. There are quite a few programs that offer a TEFL or a TESOL. Both are accepted in Cambodia.

The main difference is that a TEFL is for “teaching English as a foreign language” and is designed to teach English in countries where English is not the native language. In contrast, TESOL (teaching speakers of other languages) is aimed more at immigrants to a native-speaking country.

One thing you need to make sure is that you enroll in a 120-hour course at a minimum. Also, as previously stated, you’ll want copies of your TEFL/TESOL transcript.

Native speaker

Not a legal requirement, but Cambodian schools will typically only hire native English speakers. You may have luck and find a school willing to hire you if you’re non-native and have a great TOEIC score, but it is unlikely.

Diploma (notarized)

A degree is not a legal requirement in Cambodia, but if you’re looking to work for an international school or even a nonaccredited international school, you’ll need a degree. Ensure you get your degree notarized in your home country, as it takes a lot of work in Cambodia.

Criminal background check

Along with having a diploma, a school may ask to see a criminal background check. This criminal background check should be from where you have lived for the past six months and should be notarized as well. Schools sometimes don’t ask for this, but it is sometimes asked for during the interview process, and being well prepared gives you more leverage when it comes to paying.

How much do teachers in Cambodia make?

Teachers in Cambodia can expect to make between $600-2500 a month. The pay depends on your experience, qualifications, where you work, and willingness to work. Some schools, like a tutorial center, will pay you by the hour; other proper schools will give you a salary with paid time off.

The $600 range is for inexperienced, backpacker-style teachers with perhaps only a TEFL certificate. $800-$1100 is what you can expect at an unaccredited international school if you have a bachelors in anything and a TEFL certificate. The upper range of $2500 is only for international school teachers.

Cost of living

Cambodia is cheap. You can live comfortably on $600 monthly as a single person with no debt. Locals, by contrast, live on $300 a month. If you can secure a teaching position that pays $1200 USD a month and is open to teaching evenings occasionally, you can earn more than enough to cover your living expenses.

English Teacher benefits

Are there any additional benefits teachers can expect when working in Cambodia? The higher tier school, the better the benefits. But at a minimum, if you work full-time at a school, you can expect to get a salary with paid holidays and time off.

Housing allowance

Accredited international schools usually offer some housing allowance to entice qualified teachers to move to Cambodia for a year or two.

Paid flight home

Top-tier schools also pay for your flight to Cambodia and sometimes back to your home country. Again, it is not a standard benefit, but it is something to note if you’re a qualified teacher.

Paid vacation and holidays

For teachers across the country employed at a school with a salary, it’s normal and expected to get paid time off for vacation and holidays.

Teach English in Cambodia – Conclusion

Cambodia is a great place to teach English and gain experience in the field. If you are looking for an adventure and want to make a difference in someone’s life, teaching English in Cambodia is the perfect opportunity.

Although it can be challenging, the rewards of working with students and seeing them progress make all the hard work worth it. Plus, you get to experience Cambodia in a way most who visit do not as a local who is a part of the community.

FUTURE PROOF EDUCATION

Future-proof your education career with in-demand ESL skills that let you teach abroad and online, anywhere in the world.

LEARN MORE

The post How to Teach English in Cambodia – Step by Step appeared first on Teach and GO.

We will break down the differences between the two countries based on pay, students, where you will be teaching, the legal requirements, and our overall recommendation. So if you still need to teach abroad, we suggest you read our dedicated guides on these two countries to understand what you’re getting into and this guide on the differences.

What we will compare in this content

For any ESL teacher, there are a few things to consider when moving abroad to teach English. Pay is significant, but it’s only one aspect. In this content, we will compare our Thailand vs Vietnam for English teachers across a few different metrics:

• Pay
• Where you will teach
• Life in Vietnam and Thailand as an expat
• Cost of living
• Legal requirements

The pay in Thailand vs Vietnam

Let’s start with pay, as this is the central question people contact us with most. Generally, if you’re a UK national or American, you can expect to be paid $19 to around $22 an hour in Vietnam. In Thailand, you’ll be paid about 35,000 to 40,000 Baht (35,000 Baht is a little over 1k a month).

In Vietnam, you get paid a higher hourly rate and teach less. Most teachers work at one or two language centers and can typically get around 20 hours a week for about $1600 monthly income. In Thailand, you work at one school and one school only.

Now this is considering that you’re a new teacher with no experience. If you’re a fully licensed teacher, you can work at an international school in both countries and be paid a Western salary.

Winner: Vietnam

In Vietnam, you’re paid a higher hourly rate, and you work less as you don’t have to be present at a school all day like you do in Thailand.

You also don’t have to do any unpaid work like in Thailand with things like English camps, school events, etc. The downside of Vietnam is that you’ll work at language centers. That means your hours will be evenings and weekends.

Where you will teach in Vietnam vs Thailand

Teachers in Thailand work full time, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 4 pm, at a government school. You’ll get weekends and holidays off. There typically is no simple form of paid vacation, and each school has policies. Last, you can work at any government school anywhere in the country; no need to limit yourself to Bangkok.

With regards to classes, you can teach kindergarten all the way up to seniors in high school. You can also teach in dedicated, immersive English programs where all the subjects like science and health are in English. So if you don’t want to teach English and would prefer to mix it up a bit, there are opportunities in Thailand.

In Vietnam, you will work at an after-school language center where your studentsare typicallye 10-18 years old. These young learners are typically studying for a specific exam, or they are students whose parents want them to become more proficient in English.

You only have a few variety and teaching options in Vietnam. While it is possible to find a day job in Vietnam, like Thailand, it’s different. Expect to work nights and weekends in Vietnam.

Winner: Thailand

In Thailand, you have many schools to choose from, and you’ll have regular working hours and weekends off. Last, you can teach in a small city if you want to. If a small town or the countryside is more your vibe, you can find it in Thailand.

Life in Thailand vs Vietnam as an expat

In Thailand, you can be an English teacher at any government school nationwide. You could find yourself just outside of Bangkok in a province like Ratchaburi, or you could be down south near Hat Yai or north near Pai. The ESL scene in Thailand is vast and diverse. You’re not only limited to Bangkok.

Most teachers tend to find themselves in Bangkok as it’s a fun, dynamic city with great bars and world-class clubs. Bangkok also has a lot of schools, so it’s easy to find work. Chiang Mai in the north is another popular location, but it is difficult to get a teaching job there as the teaching jobs are fewer and the competition is higher as it’s a beautiful small city.

With Vietnam, your options for teaching are only in the two major cities of the country, Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. So if you want to teach somewhere a bit more rural or laid back, like Da Nang or Dalat, there are other options in Vietnam. However, both major cities are excellent places to live and have distinct cultures.

Most ex-pats prefer Ho Chi Minh City as it’s larger and has more expats and things to do. But Hanoi is quite beautiful and charming in its own right, but Saigon is a bit more cosmopolitan. Compared to Bangkok, Vietnam cities lack the nightlife of Thailand.

Winner: Thailand (ever so slightly)

This is tough as Vietnam is a beautiful country, and both major cities are a lot of fun. However, Thailand has Bangkok, the New York City of South East Asia. You can also teach outside of Bangkok and in a random province f you choose. For that reason, we have to give the edge to Thailand.

Cost of living for Thailand vs Vietnam

The cost of living in both countries is similar. In general, Vietnam is cheaper for everything except rent. What is great about both countries is your flexibility with how much you want to spend. You can live off $1200 per month comfortably in Thailand and Vietnam unless you’re in Bangkok, where you’ll need around 55K Baht (about USD 1,500) as it’s more expensive than a province.

In both countries, you can eat good cheap food from a local restaurant, go grocery shopping and buy food for cheap or do the opposite and spend a lot of money per month. Again, it’s up to your lifestyle and spending habits. But as an English teacher on a salary, we prefer Vietnam because you can save a few hundred dollars a month.

Winner: Vietnam

Bangkok and Thailand are fun, but teachers are paid quite a small salary. You’ll be breaking even each month unless you take on extra classes. As such, it can be stressful and annoying because you’re in this great country and city (Bangkok), yet many things must be put within your reach.

In Vietnam, you work less, get paid more and can save a portion of your monthly income for trips, last-minute problems, or flights home. Also, in Vietnam, nightlife is more low-key and less expensive. Beer is also significantly cheaper and better than what Thailand has to offer.

Legal requirements

As a foreign English teachers, both countries have their unique requirements required to work in the country legally.

For Thailand, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, a police background check, and a health check done in the country. Once you assemble all your required documents, you can apply to work a work permit. If your degree is not in teaching you’re allowed a temporary teacher license for up to 3 years.

If you wish to continue being a teacher after three years, you must obtain a degree or certificate to meet this legal requirement. We suggest you return to your home country and get a master’s degree in education so you can move on from low-paying government schools.

Vietnam recently changed its ESL industry to make it much more strict. Previously the only requirement was to have a bachelor’s degree. Now, you need a bachelors with a focus on teaching or a bachelor’s with a teaching certificate like a TEFL. Next, you need to show three years minimum of teaching experience.

If your experience is outside of Vietnam, it needs to be notarized. You’ll also need a local police background check, a health check, a resume, and a valid passport.

Winner: Thailand

In Thailand is easier to find legal work as they have a transparent, laid-out process. Vietnam, by contrast, has made it quite tricky for any new teacher to work legally. Teachers often get a business visa and then teach English on that visa, which is not allowed. In addition, Vietnam has made it a requirement for any English teacher to have a degree in education which now excludes a lot of potential candidates.

Overall, if you have yet to gain experience in Thailand, the best option is to find work for a year, then get a degree as a teacher. After, you could always move to Vietnam.

Should I teach English in Thailand or Vietnam?

In Thailand is easier to find work but lower paying for entry-level government jobs. Thailand is also a bit more developed, and Bangkok is an affordable international city. In Vietnam, you can only teach in Hanoi or Saigon. However, both cities are fun, charming and have an excellent expat scene. But if it’s nightclubs you’re looking for, you’ll be disappointed by Vietnam.

That’s not to say Vietnam is worse, it’s just not at the same level, and locals and expats do different activities at night. Overall we prefer long-term living in Vietnam and six months to a year stays in Thailand.

Conclusion

That’s it for our guide on teaching abroad in Thailand vs. Vietnam. We hope you found it helpful in your research. We have teachers who taught in both places, and the consensus was to start in Thailand as it’s easier. Get the night club party scene out of you. Then check out Vietnam and enjoy everything that the country has to offer.

The post Thailand vs Vietnam – Which is Better for Teaching English? appeared first on Teach and GO.

In short, there is no “best” age group. It depends on your personality, energy level, and teaching style. We’ve worked with numerous current VIPKID teachers and love their starlight program, which focuses on young learners.

Other teachers don’t enjoy young children and prefer the more advanced material associated with VIPKID’s level 6 and beyond classes. The same applies to teaching abroad.

A broad overview of the different age levels you can teach as an ESL instructor

As we just stated, there are better age groups for teaching English. It depends on the student and their language needs and ability. Some students need a lot of language input, while others can handle more challenging material as they learn at a different pace from other people.

The thing about teaching English abroad, though, is that it’s not just about teaching kids how to speak another language; it’s understanding their culture and trying to bridge the existing gap.

With that said, from our time teaching abroad, we would say that language learners are typically broken up into the following three groups:

• Kindergarten (under 5 years)
•  Young Learners (6 to about 16)
•  Adults (17 and over)

Within these broad groups, there are obviously many sub-groups, but regardless, a 12-year-old and a 6-year-old are still regarded as young learners, while a 19-year-old or a 27-year-old are adults.

Kindergarten in all countries and online is always for five years and under learners. So regardless of where or how you teach, if you want to teach small children, then kindergarten is for you.

Teaching kindergarten as an ESL teacher – pros and cons

Kindergarten is a unique experience as an ESL teacher as you’ll be part babysitter, part default parent, and part educator. Often you’ll be dealing with children who are just experiencing being away from their mommy and daddy for the first time.

Your focus as an ESL teacher is to prepare fun educational material that demonstrates the basics like sharing, being nice to other people, developing motor skills through activities, and learning the fundamentals of how to read and write.

The use of non-linguistic cues in the classroom is essential at this level. It’s vital for any new ESL teacher to be aware of each student’s level of understanding and to be patient.

You should speak to them in English at this level and model the task you wish them to complete. Non-verbal cues with props can help with this process immensely.

Where will you work

For kindergarten, it depends on the country. Some countries operate specific private language centers where children go; other nations operate similarly to America, where kindergarten is a separate section of an elementary school.

Pros:

• Children at this age typically attend class half the day, providing you with a lighter schedule than other ESL teachers.
•  There are no tests or quizzes to prepare at this age level.
•  Your students get nap time and snacks, making your job a bit more relaxed.

Cons:

• You must be patient and engaging for students at this age.
•  Singing songs and being animated in the classroom are expected and required.
•  If you think kindergarten is glorified babysitting, you need to be a better match for teaching this age as it is fundamental for their higher-level success.

Teaching young learners as an ESL Teacher – pros and Cons

The term “young learners” is an actual term in the ESL industry, and it’s used to describe children between the ages of 6 and 18. Here at Teach and GO, we would break it up into young learners aged 6 to about 12 and then 13 to around 17.

The central aspect of teaching students aged 6 to 12 is that they are good at learning concrete topics; the language you choose to teach should reflect that. Language around issues that involve physical objects and actions is appropriate at this level. In comparison, young learners of any language would struggle with more esoteric concepts based on behavior.

Sometimes it’s hard to know how to engage students at this age and to help them and make the learning process more meaningful for them, in part because this is the age where you will have a few super-star students, a few struggling students, and the rest somewhere in the middle.

So here are some Teach and GO tips for ESL teachers for young learners:

Set the lesson context before presenting something new.

Picture books can be fun to demonstrate a new lesson topic before presenting further information. Helping them associate an object or situation (like greeting someone, for example) on their own and remember what they recognized makes it easier to understand a new concept.

Use visuals and model desired behavior

Modeling behavior for young learners is essential at all age groups and levels but is particularly important when educating young learners. Modeling means using applicable TPR in coordination with props or any teaching material you have developed.

Reinforce positive actions with feedback

Reward systems exist because they are effective at motivating young learners. Of course, once a student is over 12, they become a bit silly and irrelevant, but for children under 12, any feedback or use of a reward will make them focus on the lesson and meet the language objectives.

Stick to concrete learning and avoid abstract topics

Young learners of any language struggle with abstract topics. Try teaching a 6-year-old why a specific object is “rare.” The more rare a thing is, the higher its value. Young learners don’t understand these concepts of “value” and “rare” at a young age. Children, in general, have difficulty with these sorts of abstract ideas.

Even more so if they are learning English as a second language, so instead, focus on concrete topics that your students can grasp. You can even use fun projects like having them collect examples in the real world and share examples in your lesson.

Where will you work

These are typically the most common, in-demand jobs. You can work anywhere from a low-paying government school to an after-school private language center to an international school.

Pros:

• Students are beginning to develop their language ability and can share ideas with you as a teacher.
•  You’ll be able to create more engaging, fun lessons for both you and your students.
•  Lessons are simple but do require appropriate lesson planning.
•  Your students will develop a close relationship and bond with you if they like you as a teacher.

Cons:

• Lesson planning for this age group can be time-consuming.
•  Expect your school to require you to create midterms and finals.
•  Children at this age are exhausted from teaching all day.

Teaching adults as an ESL teacher – pros and cons

Seniors in high school, university undergrads, and professionals looking to improve their business English are considered adults, though each group has specific needs.

In general, however, students tend to be more severe and focused on completing the lesson objectives at this level. You don’t need to play games or use a reward system as it’s inappropriate at this age, but a good language warmer is always helpful.

Instead, depending on the student’s ability, you can finally get into more complex and abstract topics. But again, it does depend on your student’s language ability. Just because they are now adults does not mean they have a strong comprehension of English, so consider that on a case-by-case basis.

You may have students who can read and write well but cannot communicate effectively through small talk. Regardless, older students tend to be more technical-oriented with language learning and require an ESL teacher to understand English as a language better.

They are now learning aspects like passive voice, active voice, present perfect vs. continuous tense, etc. You must understand the difference and the why. Yes, it’s your native language, and you know it, but it needs to be explained to speakers of other languages.

Business English

Business English is typically a major at numerous universities abroad, intending to enable their students to work at a company and leverage their ability to speak English.

While this may seem odd as a native speaker, if you’re a Vietnamese or Thai national who can speak and write close to fluently, it’s straightforward for you to land a well-paying job at numerous companies as laws and regulations and expected pay make it advantageous as opposed to hiring a foreigner.

As such, business English in addition to any listening and speaking classes helps a student focus on cultural differences and expectations.

For example, small talk is a uniquely American concept where it’s expected you ask about each other’s day or what they did on the weekend. In other countries like Germany, for example, these sorts of questions are deemed personal and inappropriate for workplace dealings.

Where will you work

For this age level, expect a master’s degree in English or a related field to land a position teaching adults. You can work at a university, international school, or private language center. The most common job, however, is being a university lecturer, where you teach business English or a listening and speaking class.

Pros:

• University positions are the most sought-after. Decent pay and typically 1-3 months off paid per year.
•  Teaching adults requires more planning, but learning children is less exhausting.
•  Difficult positions to land, but if you land a university position, it’s stable and enjoyable employment.

Cons:

• Golden handcuffs. Many ESL teachers who land these positions tend to get “stuck” and not move on.
•  Expect to have long lessons. Typical adult classes can take up to 2 hours or more, so you must be well-prepared.
•  You must know what you’re doing as you’ll be teaching more advanced concepts.
•  The required work for maintaining grades, finals, mid-terms, and so forth, and grading homework, is incredibly dull.

Best age group to teach English to as an ESL teacher – final thoughts

To recap, the most common and easy-to-get positions are where you’re teaching young learners. This age group requires a high-energy person, lots of games, and prep work. This age group is also the most exhausting if you end up teaching a lot of classes.

Kindergarten is a fun, easy position often sought after by teachers because it’s much less demanding in terms of preparation and required energy to teach. However, it takes a specific person to be an effective kindergarten teacher. You should know if you’re cut out for that type of work.

Last is the most sought-after and competitive position where you teach adults, typically at universities. Everyone wants to teach adults because you don’t have to be animated in class or play games. However, the prep required for class, the additional paperwork required, and the education requirements to be a teacher make this option out of reach for most new ESL teachers.

FUTURE PROOF EDUCATION

Future-proof your education career with in-demand ESL skills that let you teach abroad and online, anywhere in the world.

LEARN MORE

The post What age group to is Best for ESL Teachers? appeared first on Teach and GO.