Starting a journey teaching English abroad comes with specific initial costs. Predominantly, these start-up expenses involve:
- TEFL certification: Also referred to as TESOL, these courses usually range between $200 and $2,000 US.
- Travel documentation: This includes passport processing, background checks, and obtaining relevant university transcripts.
- Relocation expenses: This encompasses travel costs to the intended country and initial living expenses until the first paycheck is received.
These costs can vary based on the chosen destination, but they provide a general framework for those venturing into teaching English overseas.
Table of Contents
How much does TEFL certification cost?
What are the pros and cons of online TEFL courses?
What are the pros and cons of in-class TEFL courses?
Will I have to pay for my own airfare when teaching English abroad?
What will I have to pay for on arrival when teaching English abroad?
How much does TEFL certification cost?
The price of a TEFL certification can range widely based on the course format and provider. At ITTT, online TEFL courses are available for under $250. In contrast, in-class courses usually fall between $1,500 and $2,000, excluding additional expenses like flights, accommodation, and meals. It is essential to note that while cost is a factor, potential students should also evaluate the course's quality and comprehensiveness before making a decision.
What are the pros and cons of online TEFL courses?
Pros of Online TEFL Courses:
- Affordability: Often less expensive than in-person courses.
- Convenience & Flexibility: Can be completed at your own pace without loss of income.
- Accessibility: Available from any location with an internet connection.
Cons of Online TEFL Courses:
- Duration: Most employers prefer a TEFL certification of at least 120 hours, making the cheapest options potentially insufficient.
- Lack of Practical Experience: Online courses typically exclude hands-on teacher training or practice with real students, which can be a disadvantage in a competitive job market.
What are the pros and cons of in-class TEFL courses?
Pros of In-Class TEFL Courses:
- Direct Instruction: Trainees receive guidance from qualified and experienced teacher trainers.
- Real Classroom Experience: Offers the chance to practice teaching skills with actual English students, providing hands-on experience.
Cons of In-Class TEFL Courses:
- Cost: Typically higher than online alternatives, which may be a barrier for some aspiring teachers.
- Duration & Commitment: Requires a 4-week continuous attendance, which might not be feasible for everyone.
Will I have to pay for my own airfare when teaching English abroad?
In many countries, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, it is common for employers to provide free airfares for teachers they hire from abroad. This means that teachers often don't bear the cost of the flight to their teaching destination. However, in regions like Europe and Latin America, this practice is less prevalent, and teachers might need to cover their own travel expenses.
What will I have to pay for on arrival when teaching English abroad?
Once on the ground you will need sufficient funds to see you through until you receive your first pay packet. If you are heading to Europe or South America, it is likely that you will travel there before starting the job hunting process. In this case you should budget for around two weeks to find work, plus a further month until your first pay day. During this period you will need to cover your initial accommodation, a deposit and one month's rent for an apartment once you have found a job, as well as groceries, transport costs, and phone credit. The sum required will vary depending on country and lifestyle, but you should budget around $2000 to $3000 in Western Europe, while Eastern Europe should be roughly half that amount. Those heading to Latin America could get by on as little as $750 to $1000. If you are heading to Asia or the Middle East there is a good chance that you will already have secured employment before departure. In this case you will need the funds to see you through the first month of work only. Many employers in these regions also provide free or subsidized housing which can further reduce your expenses.
