So, you’ve worked hard and got your online TEFL certification. Congratulations! You should be
proud of all the time, effort, and money put into obtaining such a great achievement.
But now, you might be in need of a little help when it comes to deciding where to take your
newfound powers, and truly start teaching English as a foreign language (unless you decide to
teach English online).
Will you be jetting off to South East Asia? South America? Africa? The Middle East, perhaps?
Well, we’re here today to give you some inspiration about our top picks for some of the best
countries to take your TEFL course certification and launch a new life. So let’s dive in!
1. TEFL Certification for Teaching in Spain 🇪🇸
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe (and, in reality, the entire world), Spain
boasts a combination of great wages AND a relaxed, enjoyable lifestyle for those teaching
English as a foreign language. While the rules here to get started might be a little more complex
(with many institutions and schools requiring a bachelor’s degree as well as a TEFL certificate,
for example), this destination is truly one like no other.
It’s a charming country famous for its food, wine, cultural scene, and generally pleasant
standard of living. Plus, you’ll be in a superb location to explore the rest of Europe in the
holidays – and trust us when we say there’s so, so much more to see!
The average TEFL teacher in Spain can expect to earn between $1,000 – $1,500 USD per
month – which can provide a very decent quality of life, and still leave them with money left over
for saving.
2. Teach English as a Foreign Language in China 🇨🇳
If you’ve spent some time researching the most common job locations for TEFL teachers, it’s
more than likely that you will have come across opportunities to teach English in China during
your time. China arguably offers some of the highest wages for those teaching English as a
foreign language (especially in private schools), whereby you can earn somewhere between
$1,200 – $3,000 per month. As a country with such a high population, it’s no wonder why
experienced, dedicated teachers are in such high demand – so take advantage of it!
In comparison to most Western cities, China is also very affordable. If you’re someone looking
to teach English, but also have a desire to save up, then this is the country for you.
3. TEFL Qualifications for Costa Rica 🇨🇷
In terms of a ‘dream destination’ for many, we think Costa Rica comes pretty close. Gorgeous
beaches, incredible weather, rich, diverse culture, great food, and most importantly: loads of
opportunities for TEFL teachers to make a life for themselves.
As a Spanish-speaking country, but one where English is also widely spoken, this
Centralamerican coastal haven is nestled between Nicaragua and Panama – and for many
resembles the tropical destination that they crave. In Costa Rica, you’ll be able to earn around
$800 – $1,000 USD per month teaching English as a foreign language, with the opportunity to
earn much more in private educational institutions.
Plus, you’ll be spoilt for choice on how to spend your free time and weekends – as there’s just so
much to see!
4. Teach English Abroad in Vietnam 🇻🇳
There’s a reason that so many people (us included!) seem to always bring up Vietnam when
TEFL is involved – and that reason can be put into just a few words: The country is incredible.
Vietnam is known for its picturesque, luscious landscapes, with stunning works of nature
everywhere you look. As a green paradise, or a true ‘Garden of Eden’ as some might put it, the
country is known as one of the most popular places to teach English in the world. And while
your cost of living here will be lower than the rest of the countries on the list, you’ve ample
opportunity to earn a VERY decent wage – the average being between $1,200 and $1,600 USD.
And now that we’ve got that sorted…
If you’re yet to get your TEFL certification, now’s the time! At Upskill Academy, we’ve the perfect
120-Hour Advanced TEFL Certificate that you can complete entirely online at your own pace.
So if you’re looking to teach English online, or want to move abroad and teach English as a
foreign language, you know where to start.
Work from home on a remote basis, or jet off to somewhere exotic like the places we listed
above – the possibilities are endless!