Comments on: Can someone share or chat about their experience as an ESL/TEFL teacher?

By: Alan G

Alan G — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:43:33 +0000

If you want to make a career out of being an EFL/ESL teacher, then you have to get at least an MA in the field. With an MA you will be able to get a decent job, decent salary, health care etc. and you won’t have to work for any cowboy outfits.

Dave’s ESL cafe has good information. Check it out.

Good luck Alan G

By: Joe

Joe — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:32:57 +0000

Most jobs require basic qualifications of a degree and a TEFL certificate. Experience isn’t necessary although obviously an advantage.

The salary varies; you can get good money in the MIddle East but for newcomers to the profession the salary you get will generally be enough to live on reasonably well (often higher than local salaries) but not enough to save big money.

There are a few scams; some TEFL course providers are dodgy so always do a search online for them before you sign up for a course. Also, NEVER pay an agent for finding you work. That’s just a no-no!

What you want to think about first, though, is where you’d like to teach. Being American there’s little chance of getting a visa to teach in Europe, but aside from that you can go almost anywhere!

Feel free to contact me if you want more info through my profile! Joe

By: bgottcha

bgottcha — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:15:34 +0000

I am an ESL teacher and have been teaching around 10 years. If you email me off-list, I’d be happy to answer any specific questions you may have. bgottcha

By: jateef

jateef — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:40:19 +0000

I can’t speak of teaching English abroad, but I have a MA in TESOL and teach ESL in the US. One good resource for you would be eslcafe.com
Of course, you can send me a PM, if you have any questions I can answer, as well! jateef