10 Amazing Places to Teach English Abroad
Ready to launch your TEFL career? Make the world your classroom!
Where can I teach English abroad?
For some of us, working the regular 9 - 5 isn’t always enough. If the opportunity presents itself to work in a country you’ve always wanted to live in, then most likely you are going to take it! TEFL courses provide the gateway to an opportunity to try something different. They can open the door to new cultures and experiences, where you can achieve personal growth and create lifelong friendships and memories.
This is one of the reasons why TEFL training is so popular, it can be the launchpad to a distant country you’ve always wanted to visit and live in, not as a tourist but as a local. When you aren’t working, you’re given the chance to explore new horizons and meet new people. Depending on where you teach, you may be spending your Saturdays skiing in Korea or beachcombing in Colombia - the choices are endless.
And this brings us nicely onto another aspect that is so popular with graduates of our TEFL courses online, the ability to empower your students through English language training! As a speaker of English already, you have a skill that many around the world do not have, but want to gain. Schools in all four corners of the globe have high demand for teachers that specialise in the English language, and often provide excellent perks in order to tempt you into moving there!
Let’s take a closer look at which countries are most popular with those looking to start a new life in a new location as a TEFL teacher.
What opportunities are there for teaching English abroad?
Here at TEFL UK, we provide stable and reliable job opportunities in a variety of countries all over the world. We work with Ministries of Education, private language schools and NGOs, offering a range of routes into employment for graduates with a TEFL qualification.
Be sure to take a look at our TEFL jobs page for an extensive list of the opportunities we currently have available. The TEFL jobs available are not just limited to the countries mentioned in this blog, but here are some of our best picks!
Teach TEFL in Colombia
While Colombia has had its share of image problems stemming from drug cartels and corrupt government officials, the safety problems of the past have rapidly improved since the turn of the century. Tourism is on the rise and Colombia and its stellar hospitality has plenty to offer.
Quickly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for TEFL teachers, Colombia is high on the list of go to destinations for those that acquire a TEFL certification. Teaching English in Colombia is a truly life-changing experience! As one of the largest economies in South America, Colombia is both modern and traditional, perfect for those who want to experience the authentic South American lifestyle in well-developed cities and towns.
Such is the demand for English language proficiency in Latin America, TEFL jobs in Colombia come up often. Therefore, ensuring that you have the very best TEFL online credential will allow you to pick and choose from the most attractive opportunities. With beautiful coastline, pristine rainforests, unique ecosystems, vibrant cities and the sprawling Andes mountains, we can’t think of many better places than to teach TEFL in Colombia! Are you ready for one of South America’s most spectacular destinations?
Teach TEFL in China
TEFL UK is proud to have an award winning education relationship with mainland China thanks to the strong links we have built with Chinese education providers over the years. When looking for teachers to teach English in China, many schools use TEFL UK as a resource to advertise their jobs so it’s easy to apply with us to teach TEFL in China.
We’ve seen many graduates travel to the beautiful Sichuan province of the country to teach, and for good reason! An attractive location for TEFL graduates, this region of China offers well paid English teaching jobs and a relatively low cost of living, ensuring you can save money and enjoy a fantastic local lifestyle during your stay.
As part of your employment package, you may also be provided with free, furnished housing, medical insurance and a round-trip air-ticket. It is worth stressing that TEFL jobs in China don’t all offer these benefits, however with the right research, you can usually find some excellent perks to be had.
Home to a colourful, welcoming culture, brooding mountain ranges – ideal for hiking on days off – seriously spicy cuisine, ancient tea culture not to mention its most famous fluffy black and white residents, you guessed it, the pandas!, Sichuan gives you the perfect chance to discover China for yourself.
This province is a hotspot for teaching jobs and internships for graduates with a TEFL certification online, so if you feel like you are ready for a new life in China, let us help you achieve it!
Teach TEFL in Argentina
Argentina is a heady cocktail of culture, natural wonders, city life and cuisine. It’s the land of fútbol, music, arts and the sensual tango. Cafés in Buenos Aires are filled with stylish porteños, surrounded by stunning early 20th century stone facades. Some fun can be had exploring the beautiful countryside that contributes to the appeal of teaching in Argentina. From wine country to climbing glaciers, the geographical diversity of Argentina offers great enjoyment for an English teacher abroad.
TEFL certification is preferred for teaching TEFL in Argentina and will improve job prospects. TEFL UK offer a range of TEFL courses to help you get started in your journey. Most TEFL teachers in Argentina average about four to five classes daily. The best time to start a job hunt in Argentina is shortly before the school year begins in March.
The growth of Argentina’s economy translates into burgeoning cities with businesses in need of English speaking employees. Such needs mean Argentina is ready for your English teaching skills right now.
Teach TEFL in India
TEFL UK has been connecting our graduates with incredible TEFL experiences in India for over 10 years. Where to start with living and teaching English in India?
The sights, sounds and smells assault the senses and effectively scramble the brain at first glance. Learn yoga where it originated, visit hundreds of temples, take in the stunning beauty and lavishness of the Taj Mahal, sun yourself on golden southern Indian beaches and witness the lure of the Ganges.
The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra offer plenty to see on this well-worn tourist track but there is plenty of opportunity to head off the beaten path with visits to sultry Kerala, camp under the stars on a desert safari, take a plantation tour and see where India’s tea is grown or find serenity in one of the many Tibetan Buddhist communities.
Some schools may require a bachelor's degree but an English teacher should still be able to find a job with a TESOL or TEFL qualification. You may also complete an internship in India to obtain practical experience with your TEFL certificate. During the internship you may be given free Hindi classes, free accommodation and a living allowance.
Of course, this is subject to your specific employer, so it is worth looking out for any additional perks when applying or browsing our TEFL jobs page.
Teach TEFL in Korea
TEFL UK is an official partner and application office of the EPIK government school teaching program in South Korea. Teaching TEFL in South Korea within a public school setting (EPIK) is an extremely popular option with our graduates. Each year, there are over 1,500 positions throughout Korea at public schools with arrival dates in February and August.
South Korea is a land where modern life meets history. Skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, the frenzied pace of the city is balanced by the serenity of nature. Unique customs and tricky etiquette may trip some visitors up but Korea is home to some of the friendliest people on earth.
TEFL jobs in South Korea are plentiful and it is easy to see why it’s a popular destination for those that acquire a certification from one of our many courses, including our 120 hour TEFL courses online. Full support is usually given to assist teachers in getting their E-2 working visa. Free furnished housing is also provided, adding to the benefits of teaching in Korea. It is also common for employers to contribute to a teacher’s medical insurance. Work hours are typically about 30 hours, five days weekly, leaving plenty of time to enjoy yourself as a tourist.
A bachelor’s degree is a requirement for the E-2 visa, as well as being a citizen of one of these seven English-speaking countries - South Africa, United Kingdom, Ireland, United States of America, New Zealand, Canada and Australia. With an overall low cost of living and a good salary, it’s hard not to consider Korea as a teacher’s country of choice.
Teach TEFL in Nepal
TEFL UK is proud to support local NGO organizations in Nepal through English education.
Nepal is known as “the roof of the world”, where snow-capped, Himalayan peaks disappear into the clouds, like Mt. Everest standing at a lofty 8,848 meters. It is the birthplace of Gautama Buddha and millions of pilgrims visit the temple complex at Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Buddha once lived. Kathmandu is a bustling city with Western-style bars and Chinese and Indian influences in its food and architecture.
Teaching in Nepal is almost like being transported to a magical kingdom. Extreme geographical diversity and some of the tallest mountains in the world form the backdrop no matter where you teach in Nepal. This makes TEFL jobs in Nepal extra special! Yes! - you can find your own personal Shangri-la teaching English in Nepal!
Although a college degree is not required to teach TEFL in Nepal, it is highly recommended to be properly prepared with a TESOL or TEFL qualification, which of course you will be if you complete one of our accredited TEFL courses online. Teaching schedule expectations in Nepal can range from 15 hours weekly to 40 hours.
Teach TEFL in Thailand
Each year, TEFL UK has over 500 exciting teaching opportunities throughout beautiful Thailand.
Thailand attracts a myriad of visitors as diverse as the nation itself. From backpacking hostellers to billionaire business gurus living it up in five-star palaces, there is something for every budget and type of traveler. Thailand is known for its hospitality, ancient temple ruins, floating markets, tropical islands and glorious beaches. It’s a haven for scuba divers, rock climbers, hikers, trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts. Thai cuisine is world-renowned and is offered abundantly from night markets, street stalls and fine-dining restaurants.
TEFL jobs in Thailand offer competitive teaching salaries paired with a relatively low cost of living. To qualify for a teaching job in Thailand, you must have a bachelor's degree or a TEFL certification. A typical work-week is 40 hours and five days. Other benefits for teachers in Thailand are usually a housing allowance and health insurance.
TEFL internships in Thailand do not always require a degree or nationality of a native English speaking country.
Teach TEFL in Taiwan
Taiwan is an incredible mix of high-tech, big city and ancient cultural and religious practices cohabitating in perfect harmony together. Futuristic skyscrapers share the city of Taipei with temples and indigenous peoples. The cuisine is a blend of Chinese, Japanese and aboriginal influences. The valleys, lakes and gorges of the countryside are a draw for hikers, cyclists, surfers and divers alike.
With a first-world economy, there is high demand for English teachers to teach TEFL in Taiwan. This translates into good pay as well as a good standard of living. Legal alien residents also enjoy the benefit of universal health coverage. There are very few tourists which leaves areas open to discovery without the crowds.
One of our many TEFL courses can be very helpful in landing some of the better opportunities. Higher paid positions are often found in private tutoring, universities, or teaching at kindergarten level.
Teach TEFL in Vietnam
TEFL UK is your gateway to Vietnam and we’re proud of our long standing relationships with many of the very best Vietnamese TEFL employers throughout the country.
Travel to Vietnam has increased exponentially over the past decade. Bustling cities filled with street vendors and buzzing mopeds give way to beautiful islands and beaches. Life in the two main cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, is frenetic and full of pulsing energy with modern skyscrapers, ancient temples, narrow streets and market stalls. The beautiful countryside offers postcard perfect scenery and cultural diversity. Cruise the islands of Halong Bay, visit the palaces in beautiful Hue or bask in the sun on golden beaches in Nha Trang.
Employers usually offer visa sponsorship as well as helping a teacher obtain the necessary work permit to teach TEFL in Vietnam. Along with four weeks of vacation, teachers often enjoy other benefits such as housing assistance, four weeks for sick leave, and a supportive work environment. Preferred qualifications are: native English speaker, bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification with at least 100 hours of course material, and some teaching experience.
Teach TEFL in Japan
As a trusted hiring partner for two of Japan’s largest English schools, we can help you to land the role of your dreams with our portfolio of exciting TEFL jobs in Japan.
Japan is a mix of the traditional and the modern. It is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world yet it still retains ancient customs and traditions. It is most certainly unique. There are palaces, Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, Kabuki, gardens, historical landmarks and more. Visit beautiful Kyoto, one of Japan’s best-preserved cities, having escaped much of the destruction in World War II. Ski in Hokkaido, swim in the turquoise waters of Okinawa or climb Mt. Fuji. Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, enjoy fresh sushi or take in one of the many festivals, from the sublime to the inherently bizarre. Enjoy tea and sweets in one of many tea houses, steal a glimpse of a geisha or simply enjoy the country’s natural beauty.
Japan has long been a popular destination for those looking to teach English abroad. The country offers a sophisticated way of life based on elegant manners and a culture of formality. The Japanese take immense pride in introducing foreigners to their country.
Thousands of teachers are employed throughout Japan and can be found in almost every city, large and small. Employers usually offer visa sponsorship as well as helping a teacher obtain the necessary work permit and document renewals.
Previous graduates of our 120 hour TEFL courses have gone on to teach in enthralling Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto and each year, we have over 200 TEFL vacancies in Japan.
Would you like to teach English abroad?
So there you have it. These are some of our picks for the most amazing places to teach English as a foreign language. We hope we’ve piqued your interest! TEFL is certainly a highly rewarding career path and can open the door to some amazing life experiences. It’s important to state that our teaching opportunities are not just limited to the countries mentioned above, as we offer TEFL jobs all over the world.
Ready to get started in your TEFL journey? Learn more about our TEFL courses online and see where TEFL can take you. Browse our website for more information on our qualifications which are written by teachers to prepare you for teaching English as a Foreign Language.
If you are looking for English teacher vacancies, you might also want to check this resource.
To get in touch with a member of our team, give us a call on 0800 368 9848 or email us at [email protected] and we will be delighted to connect with you!