How to Teach English Overseas: A 6 Step Guide
Want to teach English abroad but not sure where to start? This step-by-step guide covers everything you need – from getting TEFL certified to landing your first job overseas.
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The global demand for English teachers is huge. As the main language of international business, pop culture, and over half the content on the internet, English plays a major role in daily life – and it’s no surprise many people are eager to learn it. Nearly 2 billion people around the world use or are learning English at some level.
Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) opens up exciting opportunities. Once you’re certified, you can join a global community, travel the world, and take on meaningful, rewarding jobs.
So how do you go from aspiring teacher to experienced global educator? This guide will walk you through everything you need to start teaching English abroad, from getting qualified, to choosing the right destination, and applying for jobs.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Check your eligibility
With so many countries, schools, and job options available, it can be tough to know what’s required to teach English abroad. Here's a simple breakdown of the most important points to consider.
Do I need to be a native English speaker?
No, you don’t have to be a native English speaker to teach abroad – but you do need to be fluent. If English isn’t your first language, you can prove your fluency with tests like the IELTS or TOEFL. A degree from an English-speaking university also helps. You can check this article about teach English abroad as a non-native English speaker if you want to dig deeper.
Tip: IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are widely recognized exams that measure your ability to use and understand English. Either one can help show you're ready to teach English abroad.
Some employers still prefer native speakers, but that’s becoming less common. In fact, non-native speakers bring unique advantages. If you’ve learned English yourself, you might better understand the challenges your students face. You’ve walked in their shoes, which can make your teaching more effective – especially when explaining grammar or pronunciation.
Education requirements
The main requirement to teach English abroad is a TEFL certificate. Most people start with a 120-hour TEFL course, which is considered the standard. Level 5 courses (about 140 hours) are more advanced and also growing in popularity. You can take these courses online, in person, or through a mix of both. (The CELTA is also a popular certification. But while it used to be the go-to option, it’s now one of many recognized TEFL qualifications).
Read more about: Requirements to teach English abroad
Do I need a degree?
Not always. While a bachelor’s degree gives you more job options – especially in competitive regions – you can still teach English abroad without a degree in many countries, with Asia and Latin America proving popular for non-degree TEFL teachers. A bachelor's degree is generally required for obtaining necessary work permits and enhancing applications, particularly in major regions such as Asia and Europe. While high-level institutions like private schools and universities may require a master’s degree, most other jobs don’t.
Necessary skills and experience
Having previous teaching experience can be really useful, both for finding jobs, and applying your experience to new situations. But even if you don’t have prior teaching experience, it can help you build experience by teaching English online in your home country before you head overseas, giving you valuable time with learners worldwide.
Learn more how to find teaching jobs abroad without experience.
Tip: Teaching isn’t the only way to gain relevant experience. If you’ve held a management position, been in a training role, or have experience in childcare, these can be valuable experiences that transfer well to English teaching jobs.
What about soft skills? Some of the most important skills for ESL teachers aren’t listed on a resume. Being organised, staying calm under pressure, showing empathy, being creative, and bringing energy to your lessons all make a big difference in the classroom. These “soft skills” are essential to your success as a teacher.
Step 2: Get TEFL certified
To teach English abroad, you’ll need a TEFL certificate. Simply put, TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification proves you’re trained to teach English to non-native speakers. A good TEFL course covers key skills like lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching methods.
In the past, TEFL courses were only available in person and often expensive and inconvenient. Many required travel, time off work, and extra costs for accommodation. That’s no longer the case.
Today, you can take a TEFL course online, in a classroom, or through hybrid learning. Modern TEFL programs are far more flexible. The best providers let you learn at your own pace, with support from experienced instructors who know the industry inside and out (like ours!)
Tip: Accreditation matters. Quality TEFL providers have their courses approved by respected educational bodies to ensure high standards. If you’re unsure about a course’s accreditation, do your research. Check who accredits it, and look into the company’s reputation. If something seems off, trust your instincts – it probably is.
Learn more about how to spot TEFL scams.
TEFL and Advanced TEFL
A standard TEFL course – whether it’s a 120-hour certification, a Level 5 course, or a CELTA – will give you the core skills and knowledge needed to teach English abroad. But if you want to take your training further, there are advanced qualifications to consider.Advanced TEFL certificates focus on specific areas like Business English or English for Academic Purposes. These add-on courses help you specialise and stand out, especially when applying for jobs in competitive fields.
For even more advanced study, there’s the DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), also developed by the University of Cambridge. It offers in-depth training and is often viewed as a higher-level, master’s-style qualification for experienced teachers.
Step 3: Research top TEFL destinations with strong demand
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a TEFL teacher is where you’ll go to teach abroad. The good news? You don’t have to choose just one place! A TEFL career can take you all over the world, giving you the chance to explore different cultures, meet students from all backgrounds, and experience life in a variety of environments.
When deciding where to teach, it really depends on what you want – but here are the key things to consider:
- Job opportunities. Is there a strong demand for English teachers in the country? What types of schools or language institutes are hiring? Consider the level of English proficiency in the country, job availability, and the ease of getting hired.
- Salary and Start-Up Costs. What’s the average salary for English teachers like in your chosen country or countries? Will it cover your living expenses? Also think about how much money you’ll need to settle in during your first few months. This can include up-front costs like flights, hotels, and accommodation. Some employers provide flights and accommodation as an added perk, but not all!
- Requirements. Different countries have different rules for foreign workers. Some may require a degree, TEFL certification, or prior experience. Others are more flexible. Check the visa requirements and what schools expect from applicants.
- Cost of living. Use tools like Numbeo to research living costs. Although some countries have better salaries than others, the real question is: how far will your pay go once you’re there?
- Culture and pace of life. Is the country somewhere that excites you? Are there places you want to explore, foods you want to try, or traditions you want to experience? Make sure it’s a place you’re genuinely curious about!
- Safety. Research safety information before you commit to a new job and culture. Look into current events, crime rates, political stability, and how welcoming the country is to foreign teachers – particularly attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals.
Once you’ve got the basics down, you can start to dig deeper. Read about past TEFL graduate stories, government advice pages, and education reviews. Join online forums or social media groups to ask real teachers about their experiences. When it comes to moving abroad, there’s no such thing as too much research!
Tip: Use resources like the TEFL Org Guide to the World to learn more about job markets, school systems, salaries, and living conditions around the world.
Download our TEFL guide to the World!
Step 4: Sort your visa (and any other travel requirements)
One of the most important steps in teaching English abroad is making sure you’re doing it legally. It may seem obvious, but having the right visa or work permit is essential. The wrong paperwork can lead to serious problems, including fines, deportation, or being banned from working in that country again.
That’s why it’s crucial to do your research before you accept a job offer. Each country has its own visa requirements for foreign teachers, so make sure you understand the process ahead of time. Reliable websites like Visa Guide and Globalization-Partners offer helpful, up-to-date information on what you’ll need.
Tip: Applicants may need to provide proof of funds or proof of employment as part of the visa application process.
Also, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to move to. They can give you official guidance and resources to help you prepare. Getting a visa can sometimes feel overwhelming or frustrating – but you’re not alone. Many teachers have navigated the same process. While it might involve some paperwork and patience, it’s worth it to avoid the stress of legal trouble down the road.Step 5: Job search: find teaching opportunities
You’ve picked your dream destination, sorted your budget, and figured out what you need to do to get a visa. What next? It’s time for one of the most exciting and important bits. The job search!
Use job boards
A great place to start is The TEFL Org’s Job Centre, which features a wide range of international teaching opportunities. But it’s not the only resource out there. You’ll find plenty of job boards online – some general, others focused on specific countries or regions. Popular ones include:For English teachers abroad, there are numerous opportunities and requirements to consider, such as certification, language proficiency, and personal savings potential. Factors like visa requirements, work hours, and the significance of cultural immersion also play a crucial role in the experience of teaching overseas.
If you’d rather have someone help with your search, consider using a TEFL recruiter. Good recruiters can match you with schools and take care of the application process. While some charge fees and vary in quality, a trusted recruiter can save you a lot of time and effort.
Tap into your network
Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Many teaching jobs are found through word of mouth, especially in areas with a high demand for English teachers. Attend TEFL events, connect with other teachers online or in person, and make it known that you’re looking for work – opportunities often come through personal connections rather than job boards.
Go old school!
In some regions – particularly parts of Latin America – you can still find work by simply handing out your CV in person. It might seem old-fashioned, but this direct approach is still effective in certain areas. (Just make sure you have the correct visa and documents before you start your search on the ground!)
You may also read: Teach English in Latin America
Tip: Speaking the local language can make a big difference. It helps you connect with schools, understand local job markets, and stand out as a serious candidate. If you're already in-country, talk to local teachers and let them know you're TEFL certified and looking to teach. You never know where a simple conversation might lead.
Step 6: Improve your chances of getting hired
To stand out in a competitive job market, it’s important to do more than just meet the minimum requirements. From polishing your resume to preparing for interviews, here are key steps you can take to improve your chances of getting hired as a TEFL teacher.
Writing a strong TEFL resume
No matter the field, one common mistake job seekers make is treating a resume like a basic list of jobs and qualifications. Your CV should be more than that – it’s your chance to make a personal pitch and show why you are the right fit for the role.
When applying for TEFL jobs, tailor your resume to highlight your skills and experiences that relate to teaching English abroad. Emphasise transferable skills like:
- Communication
- Organisation
- Emotional intelligence
- Leadership or training experience
Even if you haven’t taught English before, many past roles – especially in customer service, childcare, coaching, or management – translate well to the classroom.
Most importantly, make sure your TEFL certification stands out. Clearly list:
- The name of the course provider
- The type of course (e.g. 120-hour TEFL, Level 5, CELTA)
- The number of hours complete
Think of your TEFL certificate as a key qualification – it deserves to be front and center on your resume.
Acing your TEFL interview
Whether online or in person, interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they’re also a great opportunity to show why you’re the right person for the job. With the right preparation, you can go in feeling confident and ready.
Online interviews
- Most TEFL interviews happen online, especially if you're applying from abroad.
- Test your hardware and WiFi ahead of time to avoid issues.
- Choose a clean, distraction-free background.
- Dress professionally, just like you would for an in-person interview.
In-person interviews
- If you're already in the country, you might attend interviews face to face.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early.
- Speak clearly, make eye contact, and present yourself professionally.
Common interview questions
Expect to be asked the following interview questions:
- “Tell me about your teaching experience.”
- “How would you handle a disobedient student?”
- “Why do you want to teach English abroad?”
- “What do you know about [this country]?”
See more interview questions here.
Even if you're new to teaching, you can draw from past jobs, training, or your TEFL course experience.
Do your research
Before your interview, research the school or company. Find out:
- Who their students are
- What teaching methods they use
- Any unique features of their program
Showing you’ve done your homework makes a strong impression. It signals genuine interest and helps you stand out from other applicants.
Key things to consider before you start teaching abroad
By now, you’ve learned how to get TEFL certified, apply for jobs, handle interviews, and manage visa requirements. You’re nearly ready to begin your TEFL journey and teach English around the world! But before you jump in, here are a few final factors to keep in mind.
Specialised certifications
Meeting the basic requirements is often enough to land a teaching job abroad, but if you want to earn more, stand out, and unlock more opportunities, consider taking specialised TEFL courses.
These advanced certifications help you focus on areas like:
- Teaching Young Learners
- Business English
- Academic English
- Online English Teaching
They not only make you more attractive to employers but also show you’re serious about your teaching career.
You can also look into the DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), which is similar to a master’s-level qualification. It offers in-depth training and can open doors to higher-paying roles and leadership positions.
Final thoughts: Your TEFL journey starts here
Teaching English abroad is more than just a job, it’s a chance to explore the world, grow as a person, and make a real impact on others’ lives. Whether you’re aiming to teach in a bustling city, a rural village, a university classroom, or an online space, the path you take is entirely your own.
Key takeaways to remember:
- Get certified with a reputable TEFL course.
- Explore your options, research countries, salaries, and requirements.
- Stay within the law – make sure youunderstand visa rules and work permits.
- Build a strong resume that highlights your skills and certification.
- Prepare for interviews with in-depth research.
- Grow your skills with advanced TEFL courses and stay curious about culture.
- Join the TEFL community to connect with other teachers and keep learning.
No two TEFL journeys are the same, and that’s the beauty of it! Whether you're just getting started or planning your next move, teaching English abroad opens up a world of opportunity – and it all begins with taking that first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is teaching English abroad difficult?
Teaching abroad comes with challenges, like any job, but with the right mindset and a TEFL certificate, it can be incredibly rewarding. Being open, adaptable, and respectful of your new environment makes a big difference. The more effort you put in, the more you’ll grow – both professionally and personally.
Q. Which countries offer the highest salaries for teaching English abroad?
The Middle East and parts of Asia tend to offer the best salaries. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Singapore are known for high pay and generous benefits. That said, your experience, qualifications, and the cost of living all affect how far your salary will go – great opportunities can be found worldwide.
Q. Do I need to speak the local language to teach English abroad?
In most cases, no, English teachers are hired specifically to teach in English. However, learning basic phrases in the local language is a sign of respect and will make daily life much easier. In some countries, like Portugal, some level of local language proficiency may be required, so it’s always good to check ahead.
Q. Can I teach English abroad without a bachelor's degree?
Yes, in many countries you can teach English without a university degree. It depends on local visa rules and employer requirements. While a degree can open more doors, a TEFL certificate is the key qualification in most cases.
We looked at the most frequently asked questions about teaching English abroad – here are the answers you need.