How to Teach English Abroad

Learning English is mandatory for students in 138 nations, according to a 2022 survey and data analysis from Preply, an online language-tutor platform. Another 40 countries offer English as an optional part of their education.

The data portal Statista reports that around 1.5 billion people around the world spoke English in 2023, making it the most widely spoken language. Additionally, the global business world widely considers its primary language to be English.

Pursuing a Master in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) degree can be a great way to build the skills and expertise needed to help people from other countries learn English. In fact, for those interested in how to teach English abroad, pursuing an education focused on teaching English to those who speak other languages is a critical step.

Benefits of Teaching English Abroad

From travel opportunities to career development, there are many benefits of teaching English abroad. Here are some of the key advantages that this type of work can provide:

Traveling the Globe

Those who teach English abroad can take advantage of travel and cultural adventures—but their career allows them to enjoy deeper experiences than the typical tourist. As teachers, these travelers have the opportunity to become a contributing part of the communities where they work.

Meeting the Demand

In 2024, the market research and management consulting firm Global Market Insights projected that the language learning market would be valued at $300 billion by 2032, up from $61.5 billion in 2023. In addition, more global businesses required English than any other language in 2023, according to translation app provider Talkao, so those who help people learn English are in particularly high demand.

Building a Career

Teaching English abroad is valuable not only to those who learn the language, but also to those who provide the instruction. The experience can help educators develop a resume that shows a strong background in teaching English to speakers of other languages. And for those interested in future opportunities outside the classroom, international experience also can help individuals stand out among other job applicants.

Making an Impact

Pursuing an education provides students with a host of benefits, from improving their confidence to bolstering their career development. For those who are learning English as a second language, their education also can lead to a number of global job opportunities. Teaching English abroad allows education professionals to make an impact on their student’s career options—and their lives.

5 Steps to Teach English Abroad

While many teaching roles have educational and certification requirements, pursuing a career teaching English abroad often includes some additional steps that are unique to employment in another country. Following are five key steps to take to prepare for this work:

1. Pursue an Education

While educational requirements vary for individuals who teach English in other countries based on factors like their location and employer, training that focuses on teaching English to speakers of other languages can be an invaluable way to learn how to provide this type of instruction.

Those interested in teaching English abroad can begin by earning a bachelor’s degree focused on education, TESOL, English as a second language (ESL), or a related field. Pursuing a master’s degree can help in further strengthening the skills needed for this career. And, while not always required, a degree program also can provide a foundation for the next step in the process: earning a certification.

2. Earn a Certification

Regardless of what credentials an employer requires, a certification shows that an individual has the ability to teach English to others. It also helps job applicants stand out from others competing for roles in this field.

There are several certifications that those who want to teach English as a second language may pursue. ESL certification, for example, often emphasizes work with English learners in locations where it’s the primary language. Teaching English as a second or foreign language (TEFL) and TESOL are two other certification examples that can be beneficial for those interested in teaching abroad. Certification generally requires earning a degree or taking certain courses and passing an exam, and applicants often must pay a fee to apply.

3. Apply for Jobs

The next step for those who want to teach English abroad is to apply for positions. Several options are available for seeking these roles, including the following:

• Searching for positions independently, through online sources such as social media and job boards or through personal contacts

• Working with a professional recruiter, who works with schools in other countries to fill positions for English teachers

• Participating in teach-abroad programs, which typically work on behalf of the nation’s education department or a private organization to help connect job seekers with open positions

4. Obtain a Visa

A typical requirement for those who want to move to a foreign country to work is obtaining a visa. While the type of visa required varies according to factors such as the job’s location and the teacher’s citizenship status, the process for qualifying for this type of permit generally includes providing required documentation and paying a fee.

5. Establish a Home

After being accepted for a job teaching English abroad and securing a visa, the last step is moving to the area where the job is located. The process of setting up a home abroad includes considerations such as:

• Finding housing

• Establishing a bank account

• Securing insurance

Key Skills for Teaching English to Non-English Speakers

The education and training that best helps those who aspire to teach English abroad covers education concepts, teaching practices, and resources for teachers . This preparation should help aspiring teachers sharpen the skills that are important for success in this type of work, including the following:

• Ability to effectively teach English to those for whom it is not their primary language

• Adaptability to local customs, teaching practices, and interpersonal dynamics

• Sensitivity to different cultures and traditions, to foster inclusivity

• Mastery of classroom management, to establish routines and encourage learning

• Continuous learning about teaching strategies and their use in teaching abroad

Make a Difference in the World Teaching English Abroad

If you’re interested in not only expanding your mastery of teaching English to non-English speakers but also working to make a difference in the world, explore the Wilson College Online Master in TESOL degree program.

The program emphasizes teaching English for success in the classroom and beyond, helping educators master the knowledge and skills they need to teach students abroad how to read, listen, speak, and write in English. It provides this valuable instruction in a flexible online format that allows aspiring teachers to manage their other commitments while pursuing their degree.

Discover how the Wilson College Online Master in TESOL can help you achieve your career goals.

Recommended Readings

ESL Teaching Requirements: Do You Have to Be Bilingual?

How ESL Technology Can Benefit Students and Teachers

What Is a Master in TESOL?

Sources:

Forbes, “Education Is Still Important for Your Career: 5 Compelling Benefits”

Global Market Insights, Language Learning Market Size, 2024-2032

Indeed, “How to Earn an ESL Certification in 5 Steps (Plus Tips)”

Preply, “English Language Statistics: How Many People Speak English Worldwide?”

Reach & Teach, “10 Essential Qualifications and Skills for Teaching Abroad”

Rosetta Stone, “9 Top Languages to Learn for International Business”

Statista, The Most-Spoken Languages Worldwide in 2023

Talkao, “The Most-Required Languages to Work in 2023”