Learn A Language Abroad

  Learning a foreign language is high on the to-do list of many teachers working abroad. Being able to practice the language on a day to day basis will not only help you to learn it quickly, but will also help you to feel more at home in your new surroundings.  [Read more]

Yes. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is that it can provide a great environment for learning a foreign language. It is no secret that being fully immersed in a different culture, where you are constantly surrounded by a new language, is the most effective way to quickly develop your understanding. Throughout your time living and working as an English teacher abroad, you will inevitably have endless opportunities to practice your language skills. As well as using the language as you go about your daily life, there is also a good chance that you will have access to local language courses that are far cheaper than those available in your home country. Another possibility is the network of friends that you will likely make among the local citizens. Often people are more...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience for retirees looking to share their knowledge and skills while immersing themselves in a new culture. Many countries welcome older individuals as English teachers due to their life experience, maturity, and dedication. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind before embarking on this journey. First and foremost, it's essential to check the visa requirements in the country where you wish to teach. Some countries may have age restrictions or specific visa regulations for retirees. It's crucial to ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria before making any commitments. Additionally, consider your physical and mental readiness for the demands of teaching. Teaching English as a foreign language can be challenging,...  [Read more]

As a non-native English speaker, you may still have the opportunity to teach English abroad. Many countries are open to hiring non-native English speakers as long as they meet certain qualifications and requirements. It's important to note that being a native English speaker is not always a strict requirement, as long as you have a high level of proficiency in English and relevant teaching qualifications. One of the key factors that will determine your eligibility to teach English abroad as a non-native speaker is your level of English proficiency. Most schools and language institutes will require you to have a high level of fluency in English, typically demonstrated through standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Additionally, having a certification in Teaching English as a Foreign...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, even if you have limited teaching experience. Many countries welcome native English speakers to teach their language, and there are opportunities available for both experienced teachers and newcomers to the field. Here are some key points to consider if you are thinking about teaching English abroad with limited teaching experience: First and foremost, it's essential to have a strong command of the English language. As a non-native English speaker, your fluency and proficiency in English will be crucial in effectively teaching the language to others. Additionally, having a recognized certification in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) can greatly enhance your chances...  [Read more]

If you have a non-teaching background, you can still teach English abroad. Many countries have a high demand for English teachers, and they are often willing to hire individuals who may not have a formal teaching degree but are proficient in English. Here are some steps you can take to pursue a career in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) with a non-teaching background: First, consider getting TEFL certification. While not always required, having a TEFL certification can make you a more competitive candidate and provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively. There are online and in-person TEFL courses available, ranging from 120 to 160 hours. Next, gain some teaching experience. This could involve volunteering to teach English to non-native...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in technology can be a valuable asset when pursuing a career in teaching English abroad. Many countries require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any field, not necessarily in English or education. Your degree in technology can demonstrate your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise, which are all transferable skills that can benefit you in the classroom. In your TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification course, you will learn about language teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques, and lesson planning strategies. Your background in technology can enhance your teaching by incorporating multimedia resources, online tools, and interactive technology to create engaging and dynamic lessons for your...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main challenges is the language barrier. Many of your students may have limited proficiency in English, which can make communication difficult. This can be frustrating for both you and your students, as it may impede the learning process. Another challenge is adapting to a new culture. Teaching English abroad often means immersing yourself in a new and unfamiliar culture. This can be both exciting and overwhelming, as you navigate different customs, traditions, and social norms. It's important to approach this challenge with an open mind and a willingness to learn from your surroundings. Additionally, teaching English abroad may require you to adjust your teaching style to...  [Read more]

Yes, you can absolutely teach English abroad with a TEFL certificate even if you are a non-native speaker. Many countries and schools welcome non-native English speakers as long as they have a high level of proficiency in English and hold a recognized TEFL certification. In fact, being a non-native speaker can sometimes be an advantage as you can better understand the challenges your students may face in learning English as a second language. One important factor to consider is the specific requirements of the country or school where you wish to teach. Some countries may have stricter requirements for non-native speakers, such as higher English proficiency levels or additional teaching qualifications. It's essential to research these requirements before applying for teaching positions....  [Read more]

Yes, having a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate can open up opportunities for you to teach English abroad. Many countries and language schools require TEFL certification as a minimum qualification for English teaching positions. Here are some key points to consider if you are thinking about teaching English abroad with a TEFL certificate: 1. **TEFL Certification**: A TEFL certificate demonstrates that you have received training in teaching English to non-native speakers. It covers essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language skills, and cultural awareness. Having this qualification can make you a more competitive candidate for English teaching positions overseas. 2. **Job Opportunities**: With a TEFL certificate, you can explore a wide range...  [Read more]

Handling culture shock when teaching abroad can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Here are some tips and strategies to help you navigate and cope with culture shock effectively. Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation and discomfort when you are exposed to a new and unfamiliar culture. It can manifest in various ways, such as feelings of isolation, frustration, homesickness, and confusion. When teaching abroad, you may encounter differences in language, food, customs, values, and social norms that can be overwhelming at first. Before embarking on your teaching abroad journey, it is essential to prepare yourself mentally for the cultural differences you may encounter. Researching about the country's history, language, customs, and traditions can help you gain a better...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, even if you don't know the local language. Many countries, especially in Asia and the Middle East, have a high demand for English teachers and are willing to hire native English speakers regardless of their knowledge of the local language. Here are some factors to consider if you are thinking about teaching English abroad without knowing the local language: 1. **English-Only Policy**: Many schools and language institutes where you might work have an English-only policy in the classroom. This means that you will be expected to teach and communicate solely in English, which can actually be beneficial for the students as it creates an immersive language learning environment. 2. **Training and Support**: Before you begin teaching, you may...  [Read more]

To find TEFL teaching opportunities, there are several effective strategies you can use. One of the best ways is to search online on specialized job boards and websites that cater specifically to TEFL and ESL teachers. Websites such as Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are great resources for finding job listings from around the world. You can filter your search based on location, salary, and other preferences to find the perfect opportunity for you. Networking is also a powerful tool in the TEFL industry. Joining online forums and social media groups for ESL teachers can help you connect with other professionals in the field who may be aware of job openings. Attending TEFL conferences and workshops is another excellent way to network with potential employers and learn about job...  [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]

If you have a gap in your employment history, it is still possible for you to teach English abroad. Many schools and language institutes are more concerned with your qualifications, experience, and ability to teach effectively rather than any employment gap. Here are some points to consider if you have a gap in your employment history: Firstly, it is important to highlight any relevant experience you have during the gap period. This could include volunteering, freelance work, travel experiences, or further education. Any activities that demonstrate skills relevant to teaching, such as communication, organization, or leadership, can be valuable to mention on your resume or during an interview. Secondly, consider taking a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification course....  [Read more]

  In this TESOL review video Ray talks about how the 120-hour online TESOL course he took with ITTT helped him to learn the necessary skills to teach English as a foreign language. Ray recommends the course to anyone considering a career teaching English abroad or online. 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. This unit explains the importance and layout of ESA. It also explains how mistakes and errors are different and the importance of knowing the...  [Read more]

  This video is a sample EFL lesson in a real-life classroom setting abroad. After the students have completed a worksheet about modal verbs in the first part of the study phase of this lesson, the teacher starts the second part of the study phase, which is a feedback session. The teacher clearly writes all the correct answers on the board after asking individual students what answers they have written down. 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]

Obtaining a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification can offer numerous advantages for those looking to teach English abroad. Whether you are a seasoned educator or a recent graduate, a TEFL certification can enhance your teaching skills, boost your resume, and open up a world of opportunities in the field of international education. One of the primary benefits of getting TEFL certified is the improvement of your teaching skills. TEFL courses provide comprehensive training on lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies specific to English language instruction. This training equips you with the necessary tools and techniques to effectively engage students of various language levels and cultural backgrounds. Moreover, many schools...  [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]

Preparing to live in a foreign country as a TEFL teacher can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some essential steps to help you prepare for this new adventure: Research the Country: Before moving to a new country, it is crucial to research and understand its culture, customs, and local laws. This will help you adapt more easily to your new surroundings and avoid cultural misunderstandings. Learn the Language: While you may be teaching English, it is beneficial to learn the local language of the country you will be living in. This will not only help you communicate with locals but also show respect for their culture. Obtain the Necessary Documentation: Make sure you have all the required visas, permits, and...  [Read more]

  This video provides a comprehensive overview of all the future tenses in the English language: future simple, future continuous, future perfect and the future perfect continuous. This is especially helpful for ESL teachers around the globe teaching speakers of other languages. 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. In this unit, we covered the use of course books in the classroom. I learnt that although course books can be very useful for providing...  [Read more]

  In this video the teacher trainer looks at how the future perfect is formed. This is as follows: Positive: Subject + will + have + past participle I will have qualified to teach English abroad by the end of the month. Negative: Subject + will + not + have + past participle I will not (won't) have started teaching before you arrive. Question: Will + subject + have + past participle? Will you have found somewhere to live by then? The future perfect, along with other tenses, is covered in more detail in ITTT's online TEFL courses. There are many opportunities to teach English abroad at the moment and with the rise of English as a global language these opportunities will increase. However, while it used to be the case that anyone who was a native speaker could find work teaching...  [Read more]

To teach English abroad all you truly need is a strong desire to embark on a new adventure and a teaching qualification that demonstrates to potential employers that you have received some level of teacher training. In this context, the internationally recognized qualification is a TEFL certificate, and these courses typically have minimal entry requirements. Having a strong level of English comprehension is the most fundamental requirement for enrolling in a TEFL certification course. Non-native English speakers are just as welcome as native speakers, provided they possess a solid understanding of written and spoken English. The demand for EFL teachers worldwide is immense, and there is frequently a shortage of qualified teachers in numerous regions. Thanks to this robust...  [Read more]

Yes, having an unrelated degree should not necessarily prevent you from teaching English abroad. Many countries and language schools require a Bachelor's degree to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL), but the subject of the degree is often not specified. What is more important is obtaining a TEFL certification, which demonstrates your ability to teach English to non-native speakers. While some employers may prefer candidates with a degree in English, Linguistics, or Education, having a different academic background can also be advantageous. For example, if you have a degree in a specific field such as Science or Business, you may be able to find opportunities to teach English for specific purposes (ESP) in that field. Additionally, your unrelated degree can bring diversity to the...  [Read more]

  Would you like to live and work abroad? With a TEFL or TESOL certificate you can work and live abroad, Teaching English as a Foreign Language or Teaching English as a Second Language. Check out ITTT's courses and start a new life with a TEFL or TESOL certification! 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. Unit 8 covers all seven types of future tenses wherein types 5 & 7 are most commonly used in English and 3 & 4 are often times mistaken for...  [Read more]

Many potential TEFL trainees come to us and ask whether they need to speak another language in order to teach English overseas or online. The good news is the answer is most definitely NO, you do not need to have any language skills other than a thorough understanding of the English language. Obviously, if you do speak the native language of the country you intend to live and work in it can be a real help in many ways, but it is not normally required by the employer. The specific requirements for teaching English abroad or online will vary depending on the country and the individual employer. In all cases a thorough understanding of the mechanics of English will be required. On top of that, a TEFL certificate from a reputable course provider is usually a must, while some jobs will also...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification offers a multitude of benefits for personal and professional growth. Whether you are considering a career change, seeking new challenges, or simply passionate about teaching, obtaining a TEFL certification can open up a world of opportunities. One of the key benefits of acquiring a TEFL certification is the enhancement of your teaching skills. Through specialized training in lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment, you will develop the necessary expertise to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. This will not only boost your confidence in the classroom but also improve your overall teaching effectiveness. Moreover, obtaining a TEFL certification can significantly increase your employment prospects...  [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 teachers...  [Read more]

  This TEFL review is from Karyna who is currently teaching abroad. She is from the Ukraine and recently took our 120-hour online TEFL/TESOL course as she is a young teacher and wanted to gain a new qualification for your professional development. She enjoyed the course a lot and was able to use the new skills in her classroom abroad while taking the course. This way, she saw quick improvements in her teaching skills and, thus, recommend this course to all new teachers out there. 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...  [Read more]

Networking with other TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teachers is a valuable way to share resources, ideas, and support within the field. There are several effective ways to connect with other TEFL teachers and build a professional network: 1. Attend TEFL conferences and workshops: Conferences and workshops provide opportunities to meet and connect with other teachers, share experiences, and learn about new teaching methodologies and resources. 2. Join TEFL organizations and online communities: Joining professional organizations such as TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) or IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language) can help you connect with other teachers in the field. Online communities like Facebook groups or...  [Read more]