Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a great way to live and work abroad. There are many jobs teaching English as a second language around the world. Whether you’re interested in living in another country for a few years or just want to meet interesting people from different cultures, this article will help you learn about different teaching opportunities and how to get the necessary certification.
Teaching English abroad can be an amazing experience for anyone. It can also be challenging at times and require special training. Depending on where you plan to teach English, different certifications and licenses might be required. Before applying for any teaching position or moving abroad to teach English, it’s important to first consider whether that job requires you to have certain qualifications or certifications.
What is a TEFL Certificate?
A TEFL certificate is a document that indicates that the holder has completed a specified course of instruction related to the teaching of English as a foreign language. A TEFL certificate is the most common form of credentialing for teaching English as a foreign language abroad.
Most programs offer TEFL certificates online and are offered online and take 6–12 weeks to complete, depending on the program. The cost of a TEFL certificate ranges from $100–$1,000, though many online TEFL courses can be completed for $100 or less. In general, TEFL certificates cover the following topics:
- Classroom management
- English pronunciation and phonology (the study of how sounds are formed).
- Lesson planning
- Encouraging speaking
- Writing and reading skills
Why Should You Get Your TEFL Certification Before Teaching Abroad?
There are many reasons why getting your TEFL certification before teaching abroad is a good idea. First, it will help you to be more prepared for the challenges of teaching in a foreign country. With a TEFL certification, you will have a better understanding of the English language and how to teach it effectively to non-native speakers.
In addition to the practical reasons for getting your TEFL certification, the experience itself can be incredibly valuable. You will have the opportunity to learn about different cultures and meet people from all over the world. Teaching abroad is an amazing way to see the world and make a difference in the lives of your students. With a TEFL certification, you will be well-prepared to make the most of your experience teaching abroad.
Additionally, many countries require that you have a TEFL certification in order to obtain a work visa. Therefore, getting your certification beforehand will make the visa process much easier.
How to Find the Right Program for You
When you start researching TEFL certification programs, you may notice a few different terms:
Online vs. In-Person – Online TEFL certification programs may be less expensive, but in-person programs often offer more flexibility. Online courses are great for people who have busy schedules and don’t have time to travel to a classroom. However, they also come with their own challenges, like limited interaction with other students and instructors. In-person programs might be a better choice for people who want or need more one-on-one instruction.
Duration – Some TEFL certification programs last a few weeks, while others last several months or even a year or more. You can find a program that fits your schedule and lifestyle. However, you may want to keep in mind that longer programs may be more thorough and useful than shorter ones.
Location – Most TEFL certification programs can be completed online, so you can study from anywhere in the world. But there are also programs like the TEFL Academy here you can study on different campuses around the world.
Where can you find TEFL jobs?
There are a number of ways to find TEFL jobs. One option is to search online job boards or classifieds websites. Even websites like Indeed and Dave’s ESL Cafe have TEFL job openings all the time. These can be a great way to find openings in different parts of the world.
Another option is to contact TEFL schools or organizations directly. This can be especially helpful if you have specific qualifications or experience that make you a good fit for a particular position.
There are also a number of private companies that place TEFL teachers in positions around the world. These companies typically have access to a large number of openings and can often help with things like visas and housing.
Final Words
If you’re interested in teaching abroad but you don’t have the necessary certification, think about getting your TEFL certificate before applying for a job. Many employers will only accept candidates with a TEFL certification, so you’ll want to make sure you’re qualified before applying.
You can find many online TEFL certification courses that are relatively inexpensive and easy to complete. Choosing the right course will help you prepare for teaching abroad and being a better TEFL teacher.
