How to Get TEFL Certified Abroad – BEST ESL PROGRAMS

Alexa with kids as an ESL teacher

ESL (English as a second language) Teacher

ESL stands for “English as a Second Language,” and an ESL teacher is someone who specializes in teaching English to non-native speakers. I was an ESL teacher (sometimes known as a TEFL teacher) for over 5 years in Bulgaria, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand!

ESL teachers often work with students of various ages, from children to adults, and in a variety of settings, including schools, language institutes, community centers, and even online platforms. ESL teachers typically focus on teaching essential language skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, to help students communicate effectively in English.

ESL or TEFl Programs Abroad Include…

  • Flying to somewhere like Thailand or Italy to learn the fundamentals of teaching.
  • Spending half the day in the classroom and half the day exploring the culture.
  • Often, TEFL programs will help you get a job after you complete your certificate.

Extra Perks of Getting Your Certification Abroad:

1. Classroom Experience

alexa with kids in South Korea as an ESL teacher

I took my TEFL course online while I was teaching in South Korea – so I had the chance to learn and apply my lessons. This firsthand classroom experience with real crazy kids makes the process so much more fun and so much more valuable to you as a future teacher.

2. Networking & Friend-Making

Alexa with friends teachers

When you participate in a TEFL or ESL program, you are learning alongside other travelers looking for the same adventure and experience as you. This allows you to exchange ideas, resources, and teaching strategies with like-minded individuals from around the world…and then go get drunk together on the weekends.

3. Resume Boosting

Woman working on laptop

An ESL teaching certification earned abroad can make your resume stand out to potential employers. It demonstrates your adaptability, intercultural competence, and practical teaching experience, all of which are highly valued in the field.

4. Personal Growth

Alexa on beach

Living and working abroad can be a transformative experience that fosters personal growth and independence. It challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to new environments, and become more resilient and self-reliant.

5. Travel Opportunities

Alexa hugging luggage

While studying for your ESL certification abroad, you have the chance to explore and travel to neighboring regions, enriching your cultural experiences and creating lasting memories.

Here are Three TEFL Companies I recommend you check out…

ITTTEFL
African Impact (First get your TEFL online then come here to get in-class hours.)
I-to-O
Maximo Nivel

buy on Indie Bound
buy on Barnes and Noble
buy on amazon

The
One-Way
Ticket Plan

this book has magic powers

Find and Fund Your Purpose while Traveling the World

listen on audible
got to application

Want to contribute to the blog? I love to feature the perspective of other solo female travelers.

Application

Blog Contribution

meet your travel guide

I'm a bestselling author, hotel reviewer and pickleball player. I teach women how to travel the world solo without going broke or getting kidnapped.
 
In 2011, I left Seattle with just $200 in my pocket to travel the world solo. Today, I'm the founder and creator of The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide, the #1 travel guide book series for women - and the author of The One-Way Ticket Plan. 

author of The One-Way Ticket Plan and CEO of The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide

Meet Alexa

subscribe to my channel

YouTube Video

Check out my Latest