Work Abroad – Teach Abroad

Teaching English can be a great way to work abroad. You’ll be able to travel abroad, and live somewhere for an extended period of time and really soak up the local culture. The qualifications can vary, but for the most part, you don’t need much training to teach English abroad - if you can read this blog, you’re half way there.

For English Teachers working abroad, most employers require a Bachelors degree, but almost any field is acceptable. Often times you can just show up, and find a job, although the market is changing all the time, and I’d recommend a bit of planning before you hit the road looking for work abroad.

A Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification is usually a good idea, but not always required. A TEFL certificate will certainly help you find work, and if you are considering teaching as a career, it's a necessity. If you’re just looking to dabble, you might be able to get by with just your bachelors degree.


Jobs can be found just about anywhere that there is a need to learn English. Just about every non-English speaking country is looking for native English speaking teachers, so you have a lot of options. It can be difficult for Americans to secure a position teaching in Europe because British and Irish teachers don't need work permits or Visas to teach in other European Union countries. If you have your heart set on working abroad in Europe, teaching English, there may still be some opportunities available, you’ll just have to sell your skills a little harder.

In some cases, you can make pretty good money, but don't plan on getting rich by teaching abroad. You should be able to afford a comfortable lifestyle while you are there, but you probably won't take much home. You might consider spending your extra cash on traveling to neighboring cities and countries. Not only will you get a fun break from your teaching schedule, but you will gain a better understanding of the culture and the language of your host country.