Landing an English teaching job abroad is one of the most exciting ways to travel the world, immerse yourself in new cultures and fund your adventures, even if you’re starting with zero experience. With the right certification, a great attitude and a little research, you can secure your first position and begin a life changing journey.
Let’s break down exactly how to do it.
1. Step 1: Get a TEFL Certificate
A TEFL certificate (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is the golden ticket for most teaching jobs abroad. Even a basic 120 hour online course can boost your credibility enormously.
Why TEFL matters:
- Shows schools you’re serious.
- Prepares you with classroom skills and lesson planning techniques.
- Provides better job prospects and potential salary.
You don’t need to spend thousands, many accredited online providers offer affordable courses you can complete at your own pace.
Recommended TEFL providers:
- Premier TEFL
- i-to-i TEFL
- MyTEFL
Tip: Some TEFL providers also offer job placement help after you graduate, it’s worth checking when you sign up!
2. Step 2: Choose Beginner Friendly Countries
When you’re starting out with no teaching experience, choosing the right country can make a huge difference. Some regions are much more receptive to first time teachers. Look for places where the need for English teachers is high and entry requirements are less strict. Great entry level options include:
- Cambodia: Often no degree required, low cost of living.
- Vietnam: Great need for teachers here and good salaries, amazing travel options.
- Mexico: For culture, booming English learning market.
- Spain: Assistantship programs like Auxiliares de Conversación.
- Costa Rica: Nature lovers’ paradise.
- Poland: Affordable, easy travel across Europe.
- South Korea: EPIK program welcomes new teachers, great benefits.
- Japan: JET Programme offers good support.
- Morocco: Rising need for English teachers, great travel scene.
- South Africa: Private schools and rural programs welcome new teachers.
Choosing the right country can turn your first teaching job into a true travel adventure, with weekends and holidays to discover nearby cities, beaches, mountains, deserts and historic sites.
3. Step 3: Create a Standout CV (Even Without Teaching Jobs)
Even if you’ve never taught a class before, you can still craft a CV that shows you’re a strong candidate. Focus on the transferable skills you already have, such as:
- Public speaking, communication, customer service.
- Leadership roles (sports teams, university clubs, volunteering).
- Mentoring, tutoring, babysitting, coaching.
Tip: Highlight your zeal, adaptability and passion for cultural exchange. A short paragraph explaining why you want to teach abroad can make your CV even stronger.
4. Step 4: Start Applying Smartly
Once your CV is ready, start applying, the earlier the better. Great platforms to find entry level include:
- Dave’s ESL Cafe
- TEFL.com
- Facebook groups (e.g., “Teaching English Abroad Jobs”)
- Recruitment agencies specialising in first time teachers
Research employers carefully to avoid scams, see point 8 below for more details. The sooner you start applying, the sooner you’ll be packing your bags!
5. Step 5: Prepare for Interviews (Even Without Teaching Experience)
Interviews are often via Zoom or Skype. Schools know you’re new, so they’re looking for attitude, passion and professionalism.
To impress:
- Be enthusiastic about teaching and cultural exchange.
- Show you’ve thought about challenges (classroom management, culture shock).
- Have clear answers prepared for common questions (“Why do you want to teach abroad?” “How would you keep students engaged?”).
- Mention your existing skills that you can transfer over to teaching English.
- Smile and be confident.
Bonus: Start Teaching English Online Before You Go
Teaching online is a fantastic way to gain experience (and earn extra money!) before heading abroad.
Online platforms for the less experienced:
- Cambly: No experience needed; casual conversation practice.
- Preply: Set your own rates and schedule.
- Italki: Teach as a “community tutor” with flexible hours.
- AmazingTalker: Good for both kids and adults.
- Palfish: Mobile based, popular for teaching kids.
Tip: Record a short, intro video when applying to online platforms, it massively increase your chances.
6. Be Cautious: Spotting Scams When Job Hunting
While teaching abroad offers incredible opportunities, it’s important to stay alert for scams. Watch for red flags such as requests for upfront payments, vague or unprofessional communication and unclear or suspicious contract terms. Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay for a job and will be open and transparent about the role, benefits and working conditions.
7. Bonus Tips: How to Stand Out as a Beginner
Even without experience, you can make yourself a dream candidate:
- Get a letter of recommendation from a professor or past employer.
- Be open to different locations, age groups and start dates.
- Mention any travel or cross cultural experience.
- Volunteer to teach English (even for a few weeks) to boost your CV.
Schools aren’t just hiring a “teacher”; they’re hiring someone who will the ‘face’ of their organisation to students and parents. Confidence, kindness and zeal go a long way.
8. Conclusion: Your Ticket to Travel and Adventure
Teaching English abroad can change your life. It’s not just about working overseas it’s about new friendships, unforgettable adventures and seeing the world through a new lens.
Start today: Get certified, pick your country, polish your CV and start applying. Your adventure is waiting!
Ready to take the next steps? Check out our full guide on How to Teach English Abroad and start preparing your journey and If you’re thinking beyond just getting a job and want to build a longer-term lifestyle overseas, take a look at how teaching English abroad can support slow travel and a more meaningful way of living.
