Things You'll Need:
- You don't need an undergraduate degree, but you do need a strong speaking voice with little or no accent. Native English speakers are preferred. Potential employers overseas will conduct at least one telephone interview to hear your voice and pronunciation.
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Step 1
Decide what type of TESL job you want: paid or volunteer, short term or long term. Long-term jobs tend to offer the best benefits such as round-trip airfare, insurance, housing or a living allowance. Short-term summer jobs offer a way to get to know a particular country or school before making a longer commitment. Volunteers are not paid a salary but are offered insurance, visas, airfare, housing and a living stipend to meet program fees.
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Step 2
Take a certification class in person, online or in a combined class where students learn in a classroom for the first 2 weeks and spend the remainder of their training in teaching practice. Advanced level diplomas and specialization classes such as teaching small children or Business English are offered by many schools. Online classes usually require up to 100 hours of coursework. Many schools have job placement services for their graduates. Fees vary greatly from school to school, so conduct a thorough search to find one that fits your budget.
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Step 3
Talk to others who teach. Dave's ESL Cafe is a website that has free job boards and general discussion forums as well job forums for more than 48 countries. A Newbie board is also available. Ask questions about countries and schools from teachers who have already been or are currently in those positions.
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Step 4
Research the country of your choice before you go. Find out the political climate, food and potable water and the money system. Most people will want to practice their English skills on you, but it is nice to learn a few words and customs of the country and the natives will appreciate your effort.
