Frequently Asked Questions about TEFL Certification and Teaching English Abroad

Those interested in teaching English in Korea will need to decide whether they want to teach in a public school or in a private school (private language schools in Korea are often referred to as hogwans).  Many positions are similar in that they involve teaching English to school children and teachers in both private and public schools can expect excellent benefits, including free furnished housing, reimbursed airfare, paid vacation and salaries that enable the teacher to save $800 - $1,000 a month after expenses (sometimes even more).

What is there to do for fun while teaching English in Korea?

From stunning natural beauty, dynamic cities and thousands of years history and culture, to fantastic cuisine and world class nightlife, Korea offers foreign English teachers a wealth of new and fun experiences.  Whether you enjoy hiking, going to baseball games, or playing jazz in a funk bank, Korea offers something for everybody.  Here are just some of the attractions you can look forward to when you embark on your adventure of teaching English in Korea.

What are the basic requirements to teach English in Korea?

All English teachers in Korea must apply and interview for positions – this can be done through a variety of recruiters and government programs, as well as directly through language schools and institutes. To legally teach English in Korea you  must meet certain standards and be able to provide certain documentation.  In many cases, documents must receive an international notarization known as an Apostille.


To teach English in Korea you must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship from a recognized English-speaking nation: U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa.
• Bachelor’s degree/diploma from an accredited college or university (4 years in US/3 years in UK).
• Original national level criminal record check (FBI in the U.S.) that is free of any charges or convictions – DUIs, DWIs and any other misdemeanors or felonies will disqualify any prospective teachers from receiving an E-2 visa required to teach English in Korea (minor traffic violations will not disqualify you).
• Clean health check and drug test.
  
  

During the process of applying and interviewing for English teaching positions, and getting a visa processed at the consulate after signing a contract, prospective teachers should expect to be able to produce the following documents:

Note:  The information below is for American Citizens, other nationalities have different processes.

How much money do English teachers in South Korea make?
(And how much can I save?!)

South Korea offers some of the best salaries and benefits to foreign English teachers in the world. Here is a brief outline of what foreign English teachers can expect to earn teaching in Korea.  Keep in mind that English teachers in Korea typically receive airfare and housing, the cost of living is modest and exchange rates are such that most teachers will be able to save up to 50 % of their salary after expenses, which can range from the equivalent of $800 - $1,200 a month. Salaries are typically paid in Korea won (KRW).

Will my school provide free housing when I teach English in Korea?

YES.  It is standard for schools to provide free housing (and airfare) to foreign English teachers for the duration of their contract. Here is some basic information relating to the provision of housing to English teachers in Korea:

Will my school pay for my airfare when I teach English in Korea?

YES.  It is standard for schools to provide airfare (and housing) to foreigners hired to teach English in Korea. However, there will be conditions and stipulations attached to the provision of your airfare that will be outlined in the contract that you sign, and remember that contracts do vary.  Here are some points to remember regarding airfare for English teachers in Korea.