How to Teach Overseas During the Summer

Teaching English to foreign students can be rewarding, both monetarily and spiritually.

There are several types of opportunities available for summer work overseas. For the sake of simplicity, this article will focus on what is probably the most popular overseas teaching job, and also the easiest to obtain: teaching English as a Foreign Language. The qualifications for EFL teaching are less stringent than for other fields of study. According to TeachingAbroad.com, most countries simply require a bachelor's degree. In some cases, this alone can get you work. But this is a competitive job market, and your chances of breaking in will improve if you follow the steps below.

Things You'll Need

• Bachelor's Degree
• TEFL or TESOL Certification, optional
• Valid passport
• Work visa

Instructions

1. Obtain experience. Not a professional teacher? Don't worry, experience is still easy to come by. Volunteer for the local library's reading programs or to teach classes at the local community center. If you know a craft or a trade, give lessons at a hobby shop. Better yet, sign up as a substitute teacher at local schools.

2. Get certified. There are two types of certification: TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) which, according to the FAQ page at LanguageCorps.com, are practically interchangeable, as both are widely accepted. Both are also readily available as online courses. Though this step is optional, it will give you a leg up on the competition.

3. Focus your search. Consider factors such as safety conditions, cost of living versus the amount you expect to earn, affordability of health care, and your tolerance to the average weather conditions. Visit government web sites, read blogs of residents, and use the magic of the Internet to connect with Americans who have lived and worked in that country and can tell you about their experience.

4. Begin the job hunt. A good place to start is at ESLJobProject.com, a job search site "made for ESL teachers by ESL teachers," where you can post your resume, search the job database, and find information on living and working overseas from people who have done both. TransitionsAbroad.com is another good resource for general information and job postings.

5. Get your papers in order. In addition to a valid passport, you also need a work visa. Job postings usually tell you the specific type of visa required. Many hiring companies will help you in this area. The U. S. State Department website also has country-specific information on obtaining a work visa.

6. Prepare the home front. Notify your bank and credit card companies, not only so they can continue sending you statements, but also so that foreign purchases won't be flagged as suspicious activity. If you have student loans, either apply for a temporary forbearance, or arrange to make the payments from your new location. Tell the post office to hold your other mail until you return.

7. Pack your bags, and enjoy your new adventure.

Tips & Warnings

• The U. S. State Department's website is a valuable research tool. It can not only tell you which countries are deemed unsafe for American travelers, but also provide information on a country's travel policies, laws, per diem expenses and U.S. Embassy locations. They even include information specific to EFL teachers. As with any job, look beyond salary to the benefits package. In addition to vacation and health benefits, many hiring companies include travel expenses and living accommodations as incentive packages. Such all-inclusive benefits packages might be harder to come by for temporary summer positions, but many employers will still provide temporary living quarters to allow you time to find a place of your own. Consider volunteer programs. Many hiring companies and institutions look to volunteers and locals to fill short-term summer assignments. If you value experience over making money and are willing and able to cover your own travel expenses, volunteering will provide more opportunities. Some programs charge steep fees, but include certification courses and training in local languages and customs.

Resources

• U. S. Department of State's Foreign Travel Site
• ESL Job Project---Job listings and advice from experienced EFL teachers
• Transitions Abroad---EFL Job Listings
• TeachingAbroad.Net---Informational articles on teaching and living overseas
• Teach Abroad---General information and TEFL certification resources