Getting Your Tesol/Tefl to Teach Abroad

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The thought of teaching abroad may have crossed your mind. Whether it’s to see the world, experience new cultures, or simply for the love of teaching, there are many reasons to consider teaching abroad. However, before you start packing your bags and booking a flight, it’s important to make sure you have the right qualifications.

One of the most common qualifications for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad is a Tesol (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or Tefl (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. These certifications are internationally recognized and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills to teach English effectively to non-native speakers.

But how do you go about getting your Tesol/Tefl certification?

Here are some steps to follow:

1. Research different Tesol/Tefl programs: There are many different programs and courses available, so it’s important to do your research and find one that is accredited and meets your needs. Consider factors such as cost, duration, and location. Some programs may be online or in-person, so consider which option would be most convenient for you. I used Oxford Seminars and did an in-person class it was amazing to ask someone who actually taught abroad a ton of specific questions.
2. Prepare for the course: Depending on the program you choose, you may need to complete coursework, attend lectures, or complete online assignments. Make sure you’re prepared to put in the time and effort to complete the course successfully. I gave up 6 full weekends to study and take my classes. I had no life for 6 weeks, but it was so worth it.
3. Take the course: Once you’ve enrolled in a Tesol/Tefl program, it’s time to get started. This may involve completing coursework, attending lectures, or participating in online discussions. Make sure you stay on top of your assignments and engage with the material to get the most out of the course. Ask all the questions you can, don’t be shy! I had a million questions for my teacher and she helped give us all a great picture into a teach-abroad life that helped us transition easily.
4. Complete any additional requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as teaching practice or a language proficiency test. Make sure you understand what’s expected of you and complete any additional requirements in a timely manner. I had to teach a mock lesson in front of the class. I was so nervous!
5. Obtain your certificate: Once you’ve successfully completed the Tesol/Tefl course and any additional requirements, you’ll receive your certificate. This is an important document that will be required by many employers when applying for teaching positions abroad. Make a digital copy because your future employer will ask for it.

While getting your Tesol/Tefl certification can be a lot of work, it’s a crucial step in achieving your goal of teaching abroad. With the right qualifications, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an exciting and rewarding journey as an English language teacher.

After you have your certificate check out job boards and join teaching abroad facebook groups. I found Dave’s ESL Cafe to be great for job hunting. Good Luck!

Keep Travel Funky.