Can I teach EFL?

There are some countries where you can teach English without a recognised qualification, though in some you must, by law, have a degree to teach. Schools will generally offer qualified teachers better salaries and terms and conditions.

Is it better to look for a job once I reach my destination?

It is often easier to get a job if you are already in the country where you want to work. Indeed, in some countries, budget constraints and availability of teachers locally mean that schools will not pay the advertising rates charged by international newspapers. Check back here regularly for vacancies posted by overseas language schools. Please note, however, that some countries only supply work permits to teachers who have been offered employment before they enter the country.

I am already a teacher. Can I teach EFL?

If your qualification is not in the field of English language teaching (ELT), you will need a further qualification. Please refer to our post on initial ELT qualifications.

What is the basic TEFL qualification?

There are no standard international TEFL qualifications at present. In recognized schools in the UK, for example, only teachers with externally validated certificates are considered “qualified”.  Such courses, which last about a month, are widely recognized throughout the world.  There are alternatives, though, and details can be found in our qualifications article.

Is it possible to do shorter courses in TEFL?

There are various introductory courses which give you a grounding in TEFL.  These are well worth considering if you are unsure about committing yourself to a career in TEFL or if you cannot afford to do a full certificate course. However, employers may not consider you qualified.

Where can I train?

You can take TEFL courses throughout the world. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the cost of the course is usually a reflection of the popularity of the course. Sometimes, doing a course in the country in which you would like to work can help you make contacts and give you an advantage over others when applying for a job afterwards.

Is teaching experience necessary to do a TEFL course?

No, although many people do teach first before taking a course.

Do I need to be a graduate to be accepted on a course?

Most courses require candidates to have some sort of further education qualification but this may not have to be a degree. Non-graduates may be required to do an introductory course first. Some countries only issue work permits to those with a degree.