Top 15 Countries for Teaching English Abroad in 2026

What are the Best Countries for English Teaching Jobs Abroad in 2026?

Teaching English abroad is a life-changing and rewarding experience. Choosing the right place to teach plays an important role in determining whether you will have a great experience. We always recommend that you be open-minded and flexible when looking at your options because there may be some great opportunities in places that you might not initially consider.

So where should you go? Let's dive right into our latest round-up:

Our Best Choices for Teaching English this Year

Grouped by region in no particular order, these 15 countries stand out as the best places to teach English abroad in 2026:

Asia

Europe

Latin America

The Middle East & North Africa

After a thorough review of more than 80 countries, including feedback from alumni, partners, and experts in international English education, here are International TEFL Academy's current recommendations for the best countries to teach English abroad in 2026. Our criteria for choosing these nations include job availability, openness to international travel, including opportunities for people of different backgrounds and ages, salaries and benefits, and quality of life and experience. We've also intentionally included countries from different regions of the globe. 

Where Can I Teach English Abroad?

English teaching jobs abroad are available in up to 100 countries worldwide, and for teaching English online. Even without a college degree, if you get TEFL certified, there are more than 50 nations where you can realistically get hired to teach English as a foreign language.

Which Countries Need English Teachers?

With English emerging as the world's primary language of international commerce and culture, an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide are currently learning English. This translates into demand for trained English teachers in nearly every nation, from China to Costa Rica.

Top Countries for Teaching English in Asia

Asia is home to 38% of the world's English learners, making it the world’s largest and most vibrant region for English teaching jobs. Countries such as Japan, China, Taiwan, and South Korea hire tens of thousands of teachers each year, while Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia are seeing rapid growth in their TEFL markets.

Why should you consider teaching English abroad in Asia?

Beyond career prospects, Asia enchants with its diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. TEFL-certified teachers, especially those with International TEFL Academy credentials, often enjoy significant savings—many first-time English teachers can save 30–50% of their salary after living costs. With excellent job availability, financial advantages, and transformative cross-cultural experiences, Asia stands out as an exceptional destination for teaching and traveling abroad.

1. South Korea

South Korea is no stranger to our top teaching markets list at ITA and is one of the world's largest and strongest English teaching markets. Each year, the Korean Immigration Service issues up to 20,000 E-2 visas for foreign English teachers, yet the country's public and private schools (known as "hagwons") still face a shortage of qualified teachers. So demand is high!

One of the most dynamic and modern countries in Asia, South Korea is known for its vibrant cities, unique cuisine, and up-and-coming popular culture. It also offers English teachers some of the highest salaries and best benefits in the world. Increasing English fluency has been made a top priority, and government programs, like the popular EPIK program, are now recruiting for the 2026-2027 academic year, as are thousands of private schools (known as "hagwons"). 

Why South Korea is one of the best countries hiring English teachers in 2026:

• Excellent salaries & savings opportunities:
  • Airfare and housing are typically paid for and provided by local English schools.
  • Salary ranges from $1,600-$2,000 USD. You can expect to save up to 50% of your salary after expenses.
• A typical contract for a first-time English teacher in Korea includes a free return flight, paid vacation, and a 1-month salary bonus upon contract completion. 

To qualify for international ESL jobs in South Korea, teachers must have a bachelor’s degree, hold citizenship from a recognized English-speaking nation, and pass a clean FBI background check.

Read More:

• South Korea TEFL Country Profile
• TEFL Certification Courses in Korea
• What are the basic requirements to teach English in Korea?
• What is the EPIK Program for Teaching English in South Korea?
• Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in South Korea

2. Japan

One of the oldest and largest TEFL job markets in the world, Japan offers a wide variety of English teaching opportunities both in private language schools (known as eikawa) as well as in public schools through popular government initiatives like the Jet Program, which recruits up to 3,000 Americans annually to become assistant English teachers in Japanese elementary, middle, and high schools. 

Why Japan is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• Huge demand: According to a 2022 report from market research firm Statista, there are more than 16 million active English learners in Japan, and more than 40% of school children are learning English annually.
• English teachers in Japan typically receive strong salaries & benefits. While pay and benefits will vary, many teachers in Japan receive benefits like a free apartment or a housing allowance, and many can save up to $500 - $800 a month after expenses. 

A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired in Japan, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. Prior teaching experience is also not required to find ESL jobs abroad in Japan.

Read More:

• Japan TEFL Country Profile
• TEFL Certification Courses in Japan
• What are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Japan?
• TEFL Japan blog articles, videos & alumni stories 
• Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in Japan

3. Thailand

From the palm-lined beaches of tropical islands to the pulsating street life of Bangkok, the charms of Thailand are legendary, and it has long been a favorite destination for language teachers. With a young and growing population, combined with an economy increasingly dependent on international trade and tourism, Thailand has a rapidly growing need for English teachers. 

Why Thailand is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• Good salaries and a low cost of living mean that many English teachers can earn enough to save up to $250-$500 a month or more.
• Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities in Thailand itself and throughout Asia.
• Strong demand for English language education translates into thousands of job opportunities opening every year for TEFL-certified English teachers.

A TEFL certification is required to get hired to teach English in Thailand, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. 

Read More:

• Thailand TEFL Country Profile
• TEFL Course in Hua Hin, Thailand
• Thailand blog articles & alumni videos
• What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Thailand?
• Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in Thailand

4. Cambodia

While not as large or as economically developed as some other Asian nations, Cambodia offers a fast-growing TEFL job market, where growth in sectors such as tourism and increased Internet use is spurring demand for English-language instruction. Many teachers are attracted by Cambodia's tropical beauty, rich history, and ancient culture. The nation's south coast is fringed with beautiful islands worth exploring, and the ancient temple city of Angkor Wat is considered one of the world's genuinely spectacular monuments.

Why Cambodia is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• You will not need to have a four-year degree or be a native English speaker to get hired to teach English.
• It is also a job market that welcomes TEFL-certified teachers over the age of 40.
• Cambodia's low cost of living makes expenses like rent and travel less expensive than in most other countries in the region. 
• Opportunities of a lifetime to experience some of the top historical and cultural attractions in Asia, like Angkor Wat.

A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired to teach English in Cambodia, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. 

Read More:

• Cambodia TEFL Country Profile
• Phnom Penh, Cambodia 4-Week TEFL Course
• Cambodia-related blog articles & alumni videos

5. Vietnam

Since opening to international trade, investment, and tourism in the early 1990s, Vietnam has undergone significant economic and social changes. Upon arrival, you'll immediately notice the vibrant dynamism, creativity, and energy of the Vietnamese people. With its extensive coastline, majestic highlands, and vibrant cities, Vietnam caters to a wide range of interests. Additionally, with a population exceeding 100 million and an economy heavily reliant on global commerce and tourism, demand for English-language instruction is exceptionally high, making it one of the leading job markets for teaching English worldwide.

Highlights of teaching English in Vietnam:

• The low cost of living and good salaries enable English teachers in Vietnam to save up to $600 a month after expenses.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a bustling, dynamic Asian city that combines modern conveniences and cosmopolitanism with traditional street markets and local color.
• Demand for English teachers is sky-high, and the government has launched numerous initiatives to promote English language education.
• An ancient center of Vietnamese culture with a touch of French colonial charm, Hanoi offers an alluring combination of historical monuments, serene lakes, and bustling streets lined with colorful shops and food stalls.

• Vietnam is a great destination for working as a Digital Nomad, as you can teach English online there for up to 3 months on a tourist visa.

Read More:

• Vietnam TEFL Country Profile
• Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Accredited TEFL Course
• Vietnam Teaching English Guaranteed Job Placement Program

6. Taiwan

If you seek to teach English in a modern Asian society with a subtropical climate, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty, Taiwan needs to be on your list of options. In addition, with the number of English language students in Taiwan at an all-time high, demand for TEFL-certified English teachers is strong, especially as the island nation has announced plans to make English a second official language by 2030. 

Why Taiwan is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• With a low cost of living and strong salaries, most first-time English teachers make enough to save up to $500 a month or even more after expenses. 
• As an island nation with a subtropical climate and loads of coastline, Taiwan offers excellent outdoor recreational opportunities in addition to a rich history and great cuisine.

A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired in Taiwan, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. 

Read More:

• Taiwan TEFL Country Profile
• What are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Taiwan?
• TEFL Taiwan blog articles, videos & alumni stories 

Top Countries for Teaching English in Europe

The TEFL job market across Europe remains strong, fueled by English’s continued role as the primary language for international business, technology, and culture. Data from the European Commission shows that over 80% of students in primary and secondary schools within the EU are studying English, while millions of adults are also investing in English language skills to improve their career and economic opportunities. Demand is high in Mediterranean countries such as Spain and Italy, as well as in parts of Eastern Europe where English education is still gaining traction compared to Western and Northern Europe, where it has been taught for generations.

1. Spain

One significant aspect of the TEFL job market in Spain is the wide range of teaching opportunities, from teaching business professionals in private language schools to working as an assistant English teacher in a local high school or grade school.  There is a huge market for private lessons, and English teachers can make extra cash teaching English online as well.

As such, we've started to see more teachers move to Spain to teach through teaching programs and to teach English on a student visa. The Spanish government programs are also now recruiting for the 2026-2027 academic year. 

Why Spain one of the best TEFL countries that need English teachers in 2026:

• ESL Job opportunities are abundant, ranging from government and student visa programs to English summer camps and in-person or online private tutoring.
• You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore Spain and the rest of Europe.
• According to the British Council, there are more than 4,000 private language institutes in Spain providing English language instruction, creating a great demand for teachers.

To become an ESL teacher abroad in Spain, you must have a TEFL certification. Though some schools strongly prefer a bachelor’s degree, Costa Rica is a top market for those without a four-year college degree. 

Read More:

• Spain TEFL Country Profile
• Teach & Study Visa Programs for Teaching English in Spain (Madrid & Barcelona)
• Visas for Teaching English in Spain
• What are the Requirements For Teaching English in Spain?

2. Hungary

Hungary is a fast-growing English teaching market in the heart of Europe for international ESL jobs. Many first-time English teachers get hired in Hungary via the Central European Teaching Program (CETP), which places teachers in teaching positions throughout the country. While not as popular or well-known as some other European countries, Hungary offers an attractive combination of history, culture, architecture, and a location in the heart of Europe that makes it a great base for traveling throughout the continent.  In addition, the cost of living is lower than in most Western European nations. 

Why Hungary is attractive for TEFL jobs abroad:

• Teachers pay a placement fee for this program. Still, there are some fantastic benefits for those who teach in Hungary through CETP, including a solid salary, accommodations, and paid vacation time.
• CETP hires teachers in advance from their home country, so you have job security when you move abroad.

A TEFL certification is required to become a foreign ESL teacher abroad in Hungary, and a bachelor's degree is required.

Read More:

• Hungary TEFL Country Profile
• CETP for Teaching English in Hungary

3. The Czech Republic

Known for its fantastic architecture and world-class beer, the Czech Republic has long been a top TEFL job market in Europe. Benefits include a lower cost of living than some other Western European nations, and its location in the heart of Europe makes it an ideal base for travel throughout the continent.

Why the Czech Republic is an attractive destination for teaching English abroad jobs:

• You can live a comfortable lifestyle as an English teacher in the Czech Republic thanks to a solid hourly wage.
• You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore Europe. 
• You can find summer job opportunities at English language camps.
• Its location in the heart of Europe makes it a great base for European travel.

A TEFL certification is required, and a bachelor’s degree is also typically (though not always) required to get hired as an ESL teacher in the Czech Republic.

Read More:

• Czech Republic TEFL Country Profile
• What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in the Czech Republic?
• Blog articles, videos & alumni stories for teaching English in Czech Republic

Top Countries for Teaching English in Latin America

Latin America is a fast-growing market for those seeking to teach English abroad, offering a vibrant and diverse lifestyle and a constantly expanding ESL job market. The demand for qualified instructors is fueled by profound economic necessity as roughly 80% of professional jobs in the region now require English proficiency, yet only about 20% of the professional workforce currently meets that standard. This substantial skills gap translates directly into a high and sustained demand for certified English teachers across the continent, particularly in major economies like Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and the regional proficiency leader, Argentina.

💰 Affordability and Accessibility for ESL Teachers

Unlike the high-salary, high-requirement markets in Asia and the Middle East, Latin America offers unmatched accessibility. For aspiring teachers without a four-year bachelor's degree, countries like Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico often provide viable employment pathways with only a TEFL certification. While the average salary in Latin America ($500–$1,200 USD/month) is often less than in Asia, the extremely low cost of living in most cities ensures a comfortable, break-even lifestyle, allowing you to fully enjoy the spectacular natural beauty and rich cultural diversity of the region.

1. Colombia

Boasting one of the fastest-growing economies and the second-largest population in South America, Colombia has a growing demand for English-language instruction. Since the turn of the 21st century, the Colombian government has strongly encouraged English learning and has promoted bilingual education in public schools. This push for English-language education has created a dynamic job market for those seeking to teach English in Latin America.

In addition to a healthy TEFL job market, Colombia offers a fantastic combination of dynamic cities, beautiful coastlines, lush highlands, and even rainforests. Top job markets include major cities like Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, and Cali.

Why Colombia is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• It is typical for most English teachers to gain legal employment status with a work visa. 
• Many teachers can make extra money teaching English online or giving private lessons.
• Learn Spanish! According to the Translation Company, "Colombian Spanish represents a superior form which is more refined [and] more classical."

A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired to teach English in Cambodia, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. 

Read More:

• Colombia TEFL Country Profile
• Colombia-related blog articles & alumni videos

2. Mexico

With 24 million Mexicans learning English, Mexico represents one of the largest TEFL job markets in the Western Hemisphere. Throw in amazing natural beauty, thousands of years of history, dynamic cities, gorgeous coastlines, and internationally renowned cuisine, and it's easy to see why Mexico is a top job market for teaching English abroad. 

Why Mexico is attractive for TEFL jobs abroad:

• English teachers in Mexico can get a work visa that not only provides a legal right to work but also access to the national healthcare system.

• Hiring requirements in Mexico are less stringent than in some other countries, making Mexico a viable option for those who do not possess a college degree, non-native English speakers, and those above the age of 40 (including retirees!).

A TEFL certification is required to become a foreign ESL teacher abroad in Mexico.

Read More:

• Mexico TEFL Country Profile
• Guadalajara, Mexico TEFL Course Overview
• Blog articles, videos & alumni stories about teaching English in Mexico

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica has always been an attractive destination for teaching English overseas. Boasting a tropical climate with a low cost of living and proximity to the U.S., it's easy to understand why Costa Rica is a popular destination for teaching English, especially for those looking to work on their Spanish. With a growing economy dependent largely on tourism and international commerce, demand for English language proficiency is driving an increased need for TEFL-certified teachers, especially in language institutes and private high schools, and grade schools.    

Why Costa Rica is one of the best countries to teach in 2026:

• You can live a comfortable lifestyle as an English teacher in Costa Rica thanks to a solid hourly wage, a low cost of living, and affordable start-up costs when transitioning into the country.
• You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore the region.
• There are fewer hiring restrictions when it comes to age, citizenship, and whether or not you have a degree. 

To become an ESL teacher abroad in Costa Rica, a TEFL certification is required, but a bachelor's degree is not required by all employers.

Read More:

• Costa Rica TEFL Country Profile
• What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Costa Rica?
• 8 Reasons Why Costa Rica is the Best Country for Teaching English Abroad Over 40

The Middle East & North Africa

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in the Middle East offers highly competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman recruit experienced educators who often hold a bachelor's or master's degree in education, as well as a TEFL certification. Due to high demand for qualified professionals in private schools and universities, salaries in these wealthy Gulf nations can range from $2,500 to $6,000 per month and often include fully covered housing and round-trip airfare. The hiring process for these premium positions typically involves interviews conducted in advance, often requiring teachers to secure employment before arriving in the country.

The demand for qualified English teachers across the Middle East is driven by the region's growing role as a global hub for commerce and leisure, which has led English to become the common language in many business and academic settings. Beyond the Gulf, teaching opportunities in countries like Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Turkey are more accessible for teachers with less experience or just a four-year degree plus a TEFL certificate. While the salaries are generally lower in these markets, the cost of living is also significantly reduced, allowing for a highly immersive cultural experience. Regional English proficiency challenges underscore this persistent demand: in the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index, most countries in the region rank between "Low Proficiency" and "Very Low Proficiency," underscoring the ongoing need for investment in quality English instruction across the region (Source: EF English Proficiency Index).

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Renowned as a global center for trade, commerce, and world-class amenities, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi—stands out as one of the premier destinations for English teachers seeking exceptional career and lifestyle opportunities. Teachers are attracted not only to the dynamic cultural scene and vibrant expatriate communities, but also to highly competitive salaries that make saving $1,500 or more each month a realistic goal—often with the potential to save significantly more. Comprehensive benefit packages frequently include free airfare, furnished housing, paid vacation, and medical insurance, supporting a high quality of life.

Given the UAE’s relatively small population—just under 10 million—and its popularity among international educators, competition for teaching positions is intense. Experienced teachers with advanced credentials, such as higher degrees and prior classroom experience, secure most English teaching positions in the UAE. If you are less experienced and already have residency privileges in the Emirates, you can make a solid income by teaching English online and tutoring private students.

Aspiring English teachers who are newer to the field or hold fewer qualifications may also find more accessible opportunities in lesser-known emirates like Sharjah, or less competitive job markets in the region like Saudi Arabia, where demand for qualified English teachers also exists.

Why the UAE is one of the best TEFL countries in 2026:

• While hiring requirements are more stringent, English teachers enjoy some of the highest salaries in the field, as pay can range from $2,500 - $6,000 a month, and benefits include free housing and flights to and from the teacher’s home country. To learn more about salaries, please read What Are Salaries for English Teachers in the Middle East?
• Large expatriate communities, where teachers can socialize with other English speakers, make the transition for newcomers to the region much more manageable.
• Access to world-class shopping, international cuisine, and travel opportunities.

Read More:

• UAE TEFL Country Profile
• Teaching English in the Middle East Country Profile Index

2. Turkey

Teaching English in Turkey is attractive due to a high demand for English language teachers, making it one of the largest job markets for ESL instructors in the region. It also offers a unique location in the Mediterranean, bridging Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and Turkey's archaeological and cultural heritage is second to none. 

One of the primary benefits is the ease of entry: teachers can find employment year-round, and it is standard practice for schools to provide a sponsored work visa. While salaries allow teachers to live comfortably, they are generally not high enough for significant savings; teachers can expect to earn between $550 - $1,150 USD per month on average, which is sufficient to cover local expenses. Many teachers can earn extra cash by teaching English online and tutoring private students. Most jobs are located in dynamic metropolitan centers like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, offering teachers a blend of historic culture and a modern lifestyle. 

The lifestyle for English teachers in Turkey is a significant highlight, offering an unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion and travel. Teachers typically work 20-25 hours per week, leaving ample time to explore Turkey’s millennia of history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant local life. The cost of living is generally low, typically ranging from $550-$900 USD per month, allowing most teachers to break even and live a comfortable, enriching life abroad. This balance of reasonable working hours, cultural offerings, and financial viability makes Turkey an appealing destination for new and experienced TEFL instructors seeking international experience in a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. In addition, Turkish cuisine is among the finest in the Mediterranean region.

Why Turkey is one of the best TEFL job markets in 2026:

• Sponsored Work Visas: It is standard practice for schools to provide and sponsor work visas for foreign English teachers.

• High Demand and Year-Round Hiring: Turkey has a strong demand for English teachers and offers teaching opportunities year-round, unlike many European markets with fixed hiring seasons.

• Favorable Workload: Teachers typically work 20-25 hours per week, providing substantial free time for travel and exploration of the country.

• Cultural and Geographic Hub: Teach in a country rich in ancient history, stunning natural beauty (including beaches!), and a unique position at the crossroads of European and Middle Eastern cultures.

• Viable Living Costs: While saving may be difficult, the cost of living ($550- $900 USD per month) is low enough that an average teaching salary supports a comfortable lifestyle.

• Major Job Markets: Concentration of teaching jobs in key cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara.

Read More:

• Turkey TEFL Country Profile
• Istanbul, Turkey TEFL Certification Course (4 weeks)
• What are the Requirements to Teach English in Turkey
• What are the Salaries for Teaching English in Turkey?

3. Morocco

Morocco is an exceptionally attractive destination for English teachers, offering an amazing cultural experience combined with a comfortable lifestyle. The primary draw is the opportunity to live affordably while exploring one of North Africa’s most culturally rich nations. With a monthly salary typically ranging from $500 to $1,000 USD, the low cost of living—which falls within the same range—allows teachers to live comfortably and break even each month, especially when supplementing income with private tutoring. Moreover, a favorable schedule of roughly 20–30 hours of classroom work per week provides teachers with extensive time off to trek the Atlas Mountains, navigate the labyrinthine medinas of Fez and Marrakesh, and explore the country’s sparkling coastlines. In addition, the proximity of Spain and other Mediterranean and African nations offers a wealth of travel opportunities.

The Moroccan job market is one of the largest in North Africa for English-language instruction, driven by increasing demand from young students, business professionals, and adults seeking greater global connectivity. Arabic and French are historically dominant languages in Morocco, but with the emergence of English as the lingua franca of international commerce, culture, and travel, demand for English instruction has soared in recent decades.

Teachers should note that a Bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification are required; the market is centered in major urban hubs like Casablanca, Rabat, and Tangier. The typical hiring process requires teachers to be on the ground in Morocco to interview in person, enter the country on a tourist visa, and have their employer help convert it to a work visa upon commencement of employment. 

Why Morocco is one of the best TEFL job markets in 2026:

• Growing Market: Morocco has one of the largest and most consistently hiring English teaching markets in North Africa, with opportunities available year-round in major cities.

• Affordable Lifestyle: The low cost of living allows teachers to live comfortably and enjoy a high quality of life, balancing the modest salary of $500–$1,000 USD per month.

• Favorable Schedule: Most teachers work approximately 20–30 hours per week in the classroom, leaving ample free time for travel, language learning, and cultural exploration.

• Cultural Immersion: The country provides a profound experience of North African culture, with historic medinas (medieval cities), unique cuisine, and diverse geographic beauty, including the Atlas Mountains and both Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts.

• Job Requirements: To secure a position, you must have a 4-year college degree (in any field), a TEFL certification, and native English proficiency.

• Hiring Process: Teachers should typically plan for in-person interviews upon arrival in Morocco, initially entering the country on a tourist visa.

Read More:

• Morocco TEFL Country Profile
• What are the Requirements to Teach English in Morocco?
• What are Salaries for Teaching English in Morocco?
• How TEFL Took Me Across Morocco - ITA graduate, Matt Nelson, shares his story

BONUS OPTION: Teaching English Online

Online teaching of English was booming even before COVID-19, and demand for TEFL-certified English teachers increased substantially during the pandemic. It’s important to note that all online English schools operate differently and maintain different hiring requirements. It’s possible to teach English online without a bachelor’s degree and without prior teaching experience, though you may have a more competitive job search.

Teaching English online has proven to be a realistic side hustle or even a full-time job that you can safely do from home or while gallivanting your way across Europe, Southeast Asia, or Latin America as a Digital Nomad. Pay for online English teachers varies depending on the school and your credentials, but the average rate is $10-$20 per hour. More experienced teachers, especially those who run their own private lessons, can earn higher hourly rates.

Learn More:

• How to Teach English Abroad as a Digital Nomad
• Teach English Online: 8 FAQs to Get You Started
• How Much Money Can I Make Teaching English Online?
• Teaching English Online TEFL Specialty Course

Where Can I Teach English Abroad with All Expenses Paid?

Compensation packages for English teachers abroad can differ based on the school and country. In countries like South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and occasionally China, schools are more likely to offer perks such as housing, airfare, paid vacation, and other desirable benefits.

Read More:  Top 5 Countries to Make Money Teaching English Abroad

Helpful Tips For Making Your TEFL Experience a Success

Here are some key tips to help you make the most of your experience teaching English abroad.

Take an Accredited TEFL Certification

While prior teaching experience and holding a college degree are not mandatory requirements to teach English abroad, enrolling in an accredited TEFL certification course (TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language) can equip you with the necessary skills and qualifications to secure a teaching position and deliver a high-quality educational experience to your students.

Read more:

• What is TEFL & TEFL Certification for Teaching English Abroad?
• Accredited Online & In-Person TEFL Certification Course Index
• Why Accreditation for TEFL Courses is Essential

Teach English to Private Students

Tutoring private students in English as a second language is a multi-billion-dollar global industry with opportunities in virtually every nation. Many English teachers abroad or in their home country will offer private English lessons to supplement their income, while others may make it a full-time career. In addition to earning more income, taking on private students provides a great way to meet folks in your community while you teach abroad.

To boost your earnings, consider specializing in teaching Test Preparation for Standardized English Proficiency Exams. Each year, millions of individuals worldwide enroll in specialized courses to prepare for exams like TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC. Success in these assessments is crucial for those aiming to gain entry into English-speaking universities or secure jobs requiring strong English skills. Many test-takers are willing to invest significantly in tailored instruction from qualified English educators to help them excel. As an English teacher, you can anticipate earning $35-$55 per hour preparing students for these exams, a higher rate compared to the typical $10-$25 per hour for general private tutoring sessions.

Read more:

• Can I Make Money as a Private Tutor when I Teach English Abroad?
• Teaching Test Prep Skills TEFL Specialty Course
• English Tutoring TEFL Specialty Course

Can I Teach English in Countries Not on This List?

Yes!  With more than 2 billion people learning and using English according to the British Council, there are more than 80 countries worldwide with viable job markets for teaching English abroad, and even without a college degree, there are more than 50 nations where you can teach with a TEFL certification. 

Thoroughly Research Your Options for TEFL Certification & Teaching English Abroad

Understanding your options and how the process of teaching English abroad works in different countries is essential if you are going to have a successful experience teaching English overseas.  Every country is different and while there are thousands and thousands of job opportunities that you will likely qualify for, understanding the requirements and the hiring process, including matters like visas, in each one is important.  Here are some top resources to learn more about the process of getting TEFL certified and teaching English abroad.

The International TEFL Academy Ultimate Resource List

• TEFL Country Comparison Chart - compare information about salaries, visas, & hiring requirements for teaching English in more than 60 nations worldwide. 
• TEFL Country Profiles - From salaries to hiring requirements, check out in-depth overviews of English teaching job markets in more than 60 countries
• No Degree? No Problem! Top 6 Countries for Teaching English Abroad without a Degree
• Top Countries for Teaching English Abroad if You're Over 40
• 7-Step Plan for Teaching English Abroad in 2026
• TEFL Ebooks & Country Guides
• Alumni Videos
• ITA Blog - Check out hundreds of articles & alumni stories about teaching abroad & TEFL certification.
• Guaranteed Job Placement Programs in Asia
• TEFL Course Index Dates & Tuition
• You can also access loads of information about teaching abroad, including various programs for TEFL certification, volunteer programs, placement programs, and more at the Teaching Abroad sections of GoAbroad.com and GoOverseas.com. 

Build Your Skill Set & Marketability with Advanced TEFL Training

Developing your expertise and honing your skills in TEFL opens doors to advancement opportunities, such as promotions, salary enhancements, and eligibility for coveted positions at prestigious universities and renowned international schools that offer competitive salaries and perks.

Furthermore, engaging in specialized, advanced training not only enhances your teaching abilities but also propels your career forward. Schools, students, and their families seek teachers with advanced training, making you a sought-after candidate and increasing your chances of securing top-tier positions at leading institutions.

Here are six advanced TEFL training courses to help you build your ESL teaching skills and boost your resume:

• Foundations of English Grammar
• Teaching English to Young Learners
• Teaching Business English 
• Teaching English Online
• Teaching Test Prep Skills
• Tutoring English

Many folks who get TEFL certified are looking to only teach English abroad for a year or two. Should you decide that you want to make teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) your primary career, you may want to invest in a degree in a field like TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), which is often required to teach English in public schools in the U.S.