By Michiel Van Kets

If you’re thinking about a career in teaching English you are choosing a great profession. Not only do you give your valuable expertise to others but it is also possible to teach English in other countries not just at home. You can do this as a long term option or just take on some short term training for others when you are traveling in various countries for periods of time. Teaching overseas does require a little forward planning but if you have the qualifications you are pretty much able to find positions where ever you want to head.

There are places where the payments are much higher and you can obtain positions before you leave but there are many countries where you can look for work when you arrive. You need to make sure you have the finances to try this option but it is possible. Some teaching positions will include all expenses for you. Like accommodation and visa requirements etc but these are usually longer term positions so if you are interested in a longer term position you should check these options out before you leave home as you can find some jobs where all you have to do is get on the plane, arrive and teach.

Other positions that perhaps do not include the accommodation and visa or immigration expenses can prove to be a good way to make some money if you want to travel around so at least you need have an idea of what your rough plan might be. This way you are not restricted to set periods or contracts that keep you in one place for a year or more depending on what the other contract teaching positions will offer you.

It is not always simple and there are various countries where the rules and regulations make it more difficult but all you need to do is search for other teachers comments online about teaching and you will find there is a lot of information out there about what you can do and the better places to go. In various countries just having a teaching education in your own country is not enough and you may be required to obtain further certifications that are recognized in the other countries. The more common and internationally recognized courses are those such as the TEFL or TESOL courses.

There are some countries where it is a minimum requirement that you hold these specific certificates and you can also train for these specific certifications in those countries. However if you are not already a certified teacher who holds a degree then you may also find that the TEFL or TESOL courses are not enough to obtain the positions you want.

As a teacher you will also find that as some areas are better than others for teaching you need to make sure you do your home work before agreeing to any long term contracts. In many countries the schools are required to offer English as a language but there is not always the emphasis placed on ensuring that the students actually learn and while your education may have been a strict event in a controlled and regimented environment some other countries do not follow this format of teaching. From experience these are some of the Asian countries where English is taught but the whole schooling process is such a jump from what you are used to in your own country that the event can be a daunting one.

To get started on your overseas teaching experience make sure that you do all the homework you can regarding the locations you might consider and try to talk or communicate with other teachers who are teaching or have taught in those countries to get as much information as you can. You can of course always try the private teaching option and work in your own time and at your own rates however these jobs are a little harder to come by and while they may pay well they are again usually with the rich kids who may or may not show any respect for their teachers and then again you have a big change from what you expect and the reality of what it will be when you arrive. Whatever you decide make sure you keep funds in reserve for your ticket home just in case you really can’t deal with the differences that are out there.

About the Author

Michiel Van Kets submits articles for Abso-bloody-Lutely, a general web directory. The publications are about education and teaching.

By Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa of the TEFL Tips website

Choosing a country will depend on what you want to get out of teaching English. If you’re looking for money, you won’t go to the same country as those who are looking to surf or ski. Experience and education will also be a factor in your decision. Since money is often a factor, let’s address that issue first.

Top Countries for Earning Money

If you’re looking to save you should head towards Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, or the Middle East. Korea and Taiwan are also easy for newbies to get a good paying job with great benefits.

Hong Kong may be a more difficult market to get into. The NET (Native English Teacher) Scheme is the best, money-wise, but you will need experience and a background in teaching.

Lastly is the Middle East, where salaries can range from 30 to 60K USD a year. Saudi Arabia is at the top as far as money’s concerned. However, you will need experience and a MA degree just to get your foot in the door. Also, keep in mind that life in the Middle East may not be as foreign friendly as other countries. Some limitations that you might encounter are: needing special permission to leave the country, alcohol limitations, and little interaction with the locals.

Living in Paradise

If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere, try Thailand, Mexico, or Argentina. Although you will probably be paid less, sometimes a more relaxed atmosphere outweighs the pay.

Thailand is located in South East Asia, has great weather year round and lots of beaches. It’s also a top tourist destination, so you’ll find many of the amenities there that you will find at home.

Since Mexico is part of Latin America, you will be treated to two-hour lunch breaks and siestas. Argentina has more of a European feel to it than Mexico, but the Latin American mindset still goes strong.

What about Europe?

Many people want to go to Europe, but the truth to the matter is that visas may be hard to come by. Getting a visa in the new EU, Central and Eastern Europe, is much easier than trying to get one in the old EU, Western Europe. If you’re interested in teaching in Europe, do a little family background research as you may qualify for a passport from a European country. Italy is probably the easiest to get a passport from if you have family from there.

Europe may be perfect for as it’s exotic and has beautiful architecture and a fascinating history. Pay seems to hover around 700 to 1000 USD a month across Europe.

International Schools

If you have a background in teaching, experience and qualifications, money and visas won’t be an issue for you. You pretty much have the world at your feet. The majority of international schools will pay just about the same as schools in your home country, you’ll have benefits, including relocation allowances, and schools will get you a visa. Most places require a one or two year contract.

About the author

Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa is the creator and writer for TEFL Tips, The LA Job List, and The Ultimate Peru List. She enjoys answering people’s questions about TEFLing and Peru.