How Soon Can You Teach Abroad After a TEFL Certificate? The Journey Begins Now!

Now that you have decided to teach abroad, it's time to start a new adventure. But the question is when and how soon? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become a popular career choice for individuals seeking to explore new cultures, make a positive impact, and broaden their horizons. But before squeezing your entire life into a tiny suitcase and booking the cheapest flight, obtaining a TEFL certificate is a crucial step towards entering this exciting field. Read all to learn answers to all your queries regarding, "How soon can I teach abroad after obtaining a TEFL certificate?"

Do You Have The Right Qualifications?

Before discussing the timeline, it is essential to understand the qualifications required to teach abroad. To get the position you covet, you need to set yourself apart from the other hundreds of applicants applying for the same role. The best way to do so is to get your TEFL certificate from a globally recognized and internationally accredited organization.

 

TEFL courses equip aspiring teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. The duration of these courses varies, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the program's intensity and structure. TEFL certification is often a prerequisite for many teaching positions abroad, as it demonstrates your commitment and competence in the field.

Types Of Teaching Jobs Available Abroad

The teaching jobs available abroad can be broadly classified into two categories and both of them require different qualifications. Take a look:
 

1. ESL Jobs
   
   These jobs do not always have a massive list of requirements but all of them require you to have some sort of TEFL certification, this is considered the standard for being able to teach English anywhere in the world. Acquiring a TEFL certificate can take around a few weeks to months to complete depending on the number of hours you are willing to go for.
    
2. Certified Teacher Jobs
   
   These positions are for aspirants looking to be subject teachers for various streams including English. Normally these jobs require a Bachelor's degree in education or a specialist degree in the subject you are willing to teach. The qualifications require several years of study and practical experience. Along with proper credentials you need at least 2 years of teaching experience.

Visa Requirements

The availability of teaching positions can vary based on the country and region. Popular destinations may have a higher demand for English teachers, leading to more opportunities and quicker placement. Researching the job market and exploring regions with a high demand for English teachers can expedite the process.

Teaching abroad typically requires obtaining the appropriate visa, which can involve paperwork, background checks, and other administrative processes. Each country has its own visa regulations, and the time needed to secure a visa can vary significantly. Some countries may have streamlined processes for English teachers, while others may require a more extensive application process. The time invested in attaining a visa should also be included in your timeline.

What Are Your Preferred Locations For Teaching?

In some countries, the academic year follows a specific schedule, and teaching positions may be more readily available at certain times. Understanding the academic calendar of your desired destination can help you time your job search effectively. Moreover, some countries might have stricter requirements than others hence it is worthwhile to do your research so that you don't waste time.

While a TEFL certificate equips you with the necessary teaching skills, some countries may require a certain level of language proficiency in addition to English. If the local language is different from your native language, you may need to invest time in learning the basics or taking language proficiency tests before you can start teaching.

Building connections and networking within the TEFL community can be invaluable in finding teaching opportunities. Utilize online platforms, attend job fairs, join professional teaching organizations, and engage with local communities to enhance your chances of securing a teaching position abroad quickly.
 

It All Depends On You!

The timeline for teaching abroad after obtaining a TEFL certificate varies based on several factors. While some individuals may secure a position within a few weeks, others may need more time due to visa requirements, language proficiency, job market conditions, or personal preparations. By researching the job market, and staying proactive in your job search, you can increase your chances of finding a teaching position abroad promptly. However, first things first, you need to get attend residential or TEFL Live Online Courses and get TEFL certified to embark on this rewarding adventure.

Find the right course for you and try out the course. Call us at: +919870134035. You can also mail us at act@asiancollegeofteachers.com