American English Differences

  There are many differences between teaching English in Asia and teaching English in Latin America, including the typical method of recruitment, how much you can earn and save during your stay, and the type of atmosphere to expect in the classroom.  [Read more]

Asia and Latin America are two of the most popular regions for teaching English abroad. Both have a strong demand for English language instruction, and there are always plenty of employers ready to take on experienced and newly qualified teachers in a wide variety of countries. If you are undecided on which destination would suit you best, take a look at the following points as they might help you to make an informed choice. In general, most people who head to Latin America will find that they can live comfortably on their earnings, but are unlikely to save much (if anything at all) of their monthly salary. Paying rent and other bills, socializing, and exploring the region should be affordable for most, but if you have debts to pay off or need to save to fund further travel, it may not...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification opens up a world of opportunities for educators looking to teach English abroad, including in Latin America. Latin America is a region rich in culture and diversity, making it a popular destination for English language teachers. Here are some of the best countries in Latin America where you can teach English with a TEFL certificate: 1. **Mexico:** Mexico is a popular destination for TEFL teachers due to its size and diverse landscapes. Cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey have a high demand for English teachers, both in language schools and private institutions. With a TEFL certificate, you can find rewarding opportunities to teach English to students of all ages in Mexico. 2. **Costa Rica:** Known for its stunning...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding career choice that offers opportunities all over the world, including in the Americas. With a TEFL certificate, you can explore various countries in North, Central, and South America where English language teachers are in demand. Here are some popular destinations where you can teach English with a TEFL certificate in the Americas: In the United States, there is a growing demand for English language teachers in urban areas, especially in states with large immigrant populations such as California, Texas, New York, and Florida. You can find opportunities to teach in public schools, language academies, community colleges, and private language institutes. Canada also offers opportunities for TEFL teachers, particularly in cities like...  [Read more]

To get a job teaching English in South America, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success. First, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is highly recommended. Many schools and language institutes in South America require this certification as a minimum qualification. There are various TEFL courses available, both online and in-person, ranging in duration and cost. Taking a course that includes practical teaching experience can be particularly beneficial. Next, consider the specific requirements for teaching English in the country or countries you are interested in. Each country in South America may have its own visa regulations, language school preferences, and job market dynamics. Researching these factors in advance can...  [Read more]

When it comes to accents we all have one no matter where in the world we were brought up. Most of us are familiar with the basic differences between British and American accents, but what about accents from Australia and New Zealand, Canada and South Africa? And within each of these countries there are dozens of regional accents, just to complicate things further. So, we all have an accent, but is it a problem when teaching English as a foreign language? The first thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong accent when it comes to teaching and learning English. When teaching it is fine to speak naturally, just be sure that you always speak clearly and that all your instructions are fully understood by the whole class. Whether there is one accent that is better to teach than others...  [Read more]

For anyone planning an adventure teaching English overseas, the amount of cash needed to cover the initial start-up costs is an important question to consider. As with any move there are certain expenses that cannot be avoided, although these will vary depending on where you plan to teach. In most cases the basic start-up costs will include: The cost of obtaining TEFL certification can vary considerably depending on the style of course you choose. At ITTT our least expensive online option can be completed for under $200, while an in-class course will typically cost between $1500 and $2000, not including flights, accommodation, meals etc. However, you should not base your choice of course solely on the cost, as there are fundamental differences to consider. Online courses offer an...  [Read more]

Acronyms are widely used within the English language teaching world and EFL is one of the most common. English as a Foreign Language is typically used to describe any scenario where English is being taught or learned in a country where English is not the main language. In this situation most students are learning English as part of their school studies, in order to travel overseas, or as a hobby, and they rarely get to use it outside of their lessons. An example of EFL would be an American teaching English to Italians in Rome. While EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, ESL stands for English as a Second Language. In practice these two acronyms are regularly used interchangeably when talking about English teaching, however, there is a genuine difference between the two that you...  [Read more]

Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin America. However, before you book your plane tickets you need to be aware that the requirements for foreign teachers vary greatly from one country to the next and these may limit your options. You should do plenty of research on whether any of the following issues apply to your chosen destination. In some cases, language schools are restricted to only hiring teachers who hold citizenship of a native English speaking country. These are generally considered to be the USA,...  [Read more]

Spain is one of the most popular TEFL destinations in Europe and it attracts thousands of teachers from all over the world every year. However, before you jump on the plane to sunny Spain, you might want to consider what Latin America has to offer. When armed with all the facts, many teachers decide that a country in this region is actually better suited to them. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is it provides a perfect opportunity to learn another language during your stay. Many people choose Spain as their teaching destination as they assume it is the best environment for learning the Spanish language. However, the reality is that the Spanish spoken in Spain uses an accent and slang that is very different to anywhere else, to the point that Spanish speakers from other...  [Read more]

Although many people choose to teach English abroad for the adventure, to experience a new culture, or to simply leave behind the daily 9 to 5 grind, the financial side of making the move is hard to ignore. While most teachers will have no trouble earning enough to afford a comfortable day to day lifestyle, many teachers actually need to find a job that allows them to save some of their income to pay off student loans or to fund future travel etc. Although Europe is often the number one choice for many TEFL qualified teachers, it is not an easy place to save money. In teaching hotspots such as France, Italy and Spain, you can certainly earn enough to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle that includes nights out and some amount of travel. However, you should not expect to be able to save much of...  [Read more]

  In this video, we explain the difference between the usage of "capital" and "capitol". These two terms are often confused due to their similar spelling and pronunciation. The word ?capital? is used to refer to a capital letter, a city that serves as a center of government and also wealth in the form of money or property. A good example sentence would be: In American schools, the capital letter "A" means your work was at least 90% correct. This sentence uses 'capital' to refer to a capitalized letter, 'A' in this case. Tokyo is the capital of Japan. In this example, capital refers to the capital city of Japan. The business did not have enough capital to buy the new building. Here, capital means money or wealth. "Capitol" spelled with an ?o? on the other hand refers to the actual...  [Read more]

It is certainly possible to travel overseas and work as an English language teacher if you have children. However, there are several things to consider before deciding whether it is the right option for you and your family. Wherever you are in the world raising children can be an expensive proposition, so before you head off to teach English abroad you need to be sure that it is financially viable. As pay levels vary greatly from one region to the next, where you plan to teach is one of the most important decisions you will have to make. Europe and Latin America are both very popular destinations for ESL teachers, but it is not easy to earn enough to support more than one person in these regions. In contrast, across Asia there are several countries such as China, South Korea, Taiwan...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers who enjoy tropical climates have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing a destination to teach English. Countries in Southeast Asia, Central and South America, as well as some parts of Africa, offer abundant opportunities for TEFL teachers seeking warm weather and tropical landscapes. In Southeast Asia, Thailand stands out as a popular choice for TEFL teachers looking to immerse themselves in a tropical climate. With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture, Thailand provides a rich and diverse environment for teaching English. The demand for English teachers is high, especially in tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Another top destination in Southeast Asia is Vietnam, known for its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and beautiful...  [Read more]

As there is a strong demand for TEFL qualified teachers in many countries worldwide, most course graduates should have little trouble finding a suitable position. However, to maximise your chances of securing the best jobs there are a few things you should be aware of. Where you should look for work, how to apply for jobs, and how to prepare for that all important interview are all covered below. Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin America. However, before you book your plane tickets you need to be aware...  [Read more]

When you enroll in a TEFL or TESOL certification course with ITTT, you have the privilege of selecting which acronym you would like to appear on your certificate. Either TEFL or TESOL is perfectly acceptable since they are often used interchangeably within the English language teaching community. However, if you have a specific employment destination in mind, it would be beneficial to conduct some research to determine which of the two acronyms is more commonly preferred in your chosen location. If the majority of employers in your target region are seeking TEFL-qualified teachers in their job listings, it makes sense to opt for that designation, and conversely, if TESOL certificates are more prevalent. After successfully completing your course and obtaining your TEFL or TESOL certificate,...  [Read more]

If you want to teach English in Europe you will find that most jobs are secured following a face to face interview. If you would like to have a teaching job organised before you leave home, a government placement program might be a good option for you. The following are the most popular programs of their kind in Europe. The TAPIF Program, short for Teaching Assistant Program in France, is a government initiative that places applicants into French state schools to work as teaching assistants. The program provides a great opportunity to live and work in a country where long-stay visas can be difficult to secure for non-EU citizens. For those who meet the necessary criteria, the TAPIF Program could be the perfect way to fulfil your dream of living and working in France. The program is...  [Read more]

  Louisa is from New York, USA, and has a passion for teaching. Since she had traveled to South America before, she decided to take the four-week in-class TEFL/TESOL course in Buenos Aires. In her TEFL review video she shares her experience at the center. She enjoyed her time in Argentina and learned a lot regarding lesson planning, teaching methods and classroom management. She enjoyed working with her trainer Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. ...  [Read more]

If you are a TEFL teacher who enjoys rural living, there are several countries that could be a perfect fit for you. One of the top countries for TEFL teachers who prefer a rural setting is Thailand. With its beautiful countryside, friendly locals, and low cost of living, Thailand offers a unique experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Teaching opportunities are abundant in rural areas, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. Another great option for TEFL teachers who enjoy rural living is Vietnam. With its stunning landscapes, peaceful villages, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam provides a tranquil setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. Teaching English in rural schools in Vietnam can be a rewarding experience, allowing...  [Read more]

Almost anyone who has the desire to teach English abroad can make their dream come true. Although you will find some restrictions regarding teaching experience and academic qualifications in some countries, there are plenty of great destinations around the world where a TEFL certificate is all that is required. Whatever your background, work history, or age, there is the perfect teaching job waiting for you somewhere in the world. Yes, you can start a new career teaching English abroad without any form of teaching experience. Due to a huge demand for English language teachers in countries all over the world, tens of thousands of English speakers head overseas every year to work in a variety of different classrooms. Of this number, approximately 90% will have never worked in any kind of...  [Read more]

Anyone who is involved in English language teaching (ELT) is well aware of the industry’s love of acronyms. If you have researched training courses you will undoubtedly have come across several such as TEFL, TESOL, ESOL, EFL, ESL, ELT, and many more. Here we will look at EFL and the first thing to clear up is that EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language. It is often used interchangeably with some of the other acronyms mentioned when referring to the teaching or studying of the English language by non-native English speakers. Although these two acronyms are regularly used interchangeably within the teaching world, there are technical differences between the two. English as a Foreign Language (EFL) refers to situations where a student is learning English in a country (normally their...  [Read more]

Before we look at this question closely, we should first make an important distinction. The number of hours you teach in the classroom (often called contact hours) are not the same as the number of hours you will be expected to be in school, often confusingly called contract hours. Next, it is important to appreciate that different teaching jobs have different typical hours. There are basically three types of jobs available. Most schools abroad work normal office hours so you will probably need to be in school, Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. (in many Asian countries) until 4:00 p.m. This equates to around 40 hours per week. You will not have to teach for all of those hours but a typical teaching load would be around 20-25 hours per week. When you are not teaching you will be expected to...  [Read more]

When considering the best countries for TEFL teachers who enjoy nature and wildlife, several destinations stand out for their natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. One popular choice is Costa Rica, known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and commitment to conservation. Teaching English in Costa Rica offers opportunities to explore national parks, spot colorful birds and monkeys, and immerse oneself in the country's eco-friendly culture. Another top destination is Thailand, with its stunning beaches, tropical jungles, and vibrant marine life. TEFL teachers in Thailand can enjoy weekends snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to waterfalls, or visiting elephant sanctuaries. The country's warm climate and welcoming locals make it a popular choice for nature lovers looking to...  [Read more]

Here at ITTT, we will do all we can to ensure your entire TEFL training experience is as straightforward and rewarding as possible. If you have any questions regarding our courses, please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below. Our FAQ section should clear up most of your queries but if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by submitting them via the form provided at the bottom of this page. What does TEFL mean?    The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is commonly used to refer to training courses that almost anyone can take to learn the skills and knowledge required to teach English to non-native speakers in countries all over the world. What is the difference between TESOL and...  [Read more]

  The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger...  [Read more]

Since joining the European Union, the demand for qualified TEFL teachers has steadily grown in Hungary. Today you will find plenty of jobs available at all age levels and with all types of employers. Native English speakers are particularly sought after, but non-native speakers who are fluent in English will still find opportunities in many parts of the country. The largest markets for foreign teachers in Hungary are in the bigger cities such as Budapest, Debrecen, Miskolc, Szolnok, and Szeged. The average monthly salary for English language teachers in Hungary is between $700 and $900 USD, although this can be higher at college or university level. Most jobs require around 20 to 25 hours of teaching per week which also allows many teachers to supplement their main income by taking on...  [Read more]

Finding a TEFL teaching job in a competitive market can vary in terms of the time it takes, depending on several factors. These factors include your qualifications, experience, location preferences, and the current demand for English teachers in the specific market you are targeting. When looking for a TEFL teaching job in a competitive market, it is essential to have a well-rounded TEFL certification from a reputable institution. Employers in competitive markets often look for candidates with at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate, which includes a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical teaching experience. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree in any field can also make you a more competitive candidate. Experience plays a crucial role in the time it takes to secure a TEFL...  [Read more]

The world of English language teaching is well known for its love of acronyms and unfortunately this can lead to a large amount of confusion amongst potential teachers, as well as those with plenty of experience in the field. Websites for course providers, job boards, recruitment programs, and any other teaching related information you might look at are likely to be littered with acronyms, including TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA. So what is the difference between these terms? Short for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, TEFL is probably the most common acronym you will come across when conducting research for teaching English abroad. TEFL does not refer to a single training program, certification, or program provider but is simply a catch-all term for training courses and certification...  [Read more]

Every year tens of thousands of people from all backgrounds leave behind their existing life and head overseas in search of fun, travel and adventure. They are able to do this by completing a TEFL certification course that gives them all the qualifications they need to apply for English language teaching jobs in countries all over the world. If you want to join this ever growing number of TEFL qualified teachers, there should be very little that can get in your way. Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin...  [Read more]

If you want to have a job in place and all the paperwork sorted out before you leave your home country, a TEFL placement program is certainly worth considering. Several countries across Europe and Asia have government run schemes that recruit foreign teachers to work in their public school system. The following options are long established and respected programs that offer a great opportunity to live and work in some of the most popular teaching destinations. The TAPIF Program, short for Teaching Assistant Program in France, is a government initiative that places applicants into French state schools to work as teaching assistants. The program provides a great opportunity to live and work in a country where long-stay visas can be difficult to secure for non-EU citizens. For those who...  [Read more]