Teaching English overseas is a great way for people to experience the world. The job doesnt require many qualifications and positions are abundant in all parts of the world. Many of these jobs pay very well and are a great way to spend a year or two after university saving money and paying back the loans. Moreover, youll be able to learn a new culture and language and have an experience that few people experience.
In order to be an English teacher, you simply need to be a native speaker and a university degree. If you are looking for high level jobs such as teaching at an international schools or teaching business, you will need to have a teaching degree and experience. However, most countries are simply looking for people with some education and that are a native speaker. In countries in Asia and South America, a teaching certificate (called a TEFL), might be required. However, these courses only take a month and are very easy.
The salaries for English teachers is very high too. The pay is highest for those in international schools or for those teaching business. You can earn upwards of 4,000 USD a month. While that might not seem a lot, most companies cover your housing, youll be exempt from taxes, and youll be living in countries with a tiny cost of living. For other people, the best place to make money is in Asia. This area of the world pays the most money and youll be able to walk away with about 20,000 USD after one year. If you have experience, you can earn even more in the Middle East.
Teaching is a well paying job but is not a complete walk in the park. Being an English teacher abroad is easier than many other jobs but it is still a time and energy consuming task, especially if you work with little kids who demand your constant attention. As a teacher you will be expected to put in extra time making lesson plans, grading papers, and having office hours. There might even be events you need to attend.
For information on teaching English, Daves ESL Caf is the best website on the Internet. Built by a lifelong ESL teacher, its forums are full of teachers from all over the world, and they can tell you exactly how things really are where you are thinking about teaching. Recruiters and schools can sometimes paint an unrealistic picture of the teaching situation, so it is good to have an objective view from the ground.
Being an English teacher overseas is a very rewarding experience. Youll get to live in a new culture, learn a new language, and make international friends. Teaching English is a wonderful way to earn a lot of money too as English teachers are very well paid. These jobs are paid and perfect for people with an adventurous spirit looking to do something new and exciting with their life.