If you’re looking where you can teach English without a degree abroad, the options can be so confusing that you want to simply close your eyes, stick a pin in a map and go! But don’t worry, I’m here to clear things up a bit. This article is written primarily for those of you who don’t have a University degree, although it should also provide some useful info for those of you who do!
All of the countries in this article employ teachers without a Bachelor’s degree, but be prepared for a competitive job search as many schools will still prefer to hire graduates. I strongly recommend that you get TEFL-certified as this will only help you in your job search. If you are busy with work or other responsibilities, you can hire professional writers from a reliablepaper writing service to help you with studying for your TEFL certificate.Any classroom experience you can get will also stand you in good stead.
Use codeTEA35 for 35% off!
17 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree Abroad
In this article, I’ll tell you about 17 of the best countries where you canteach abroad without a degreeand give you all the info you need to decide on the next place you’ll call home. Asia, Latin America and parts of Europe will be your best options, and there are also some options in the Middle East and North Africa.
4 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree in Asia
Asia is possibly the largest market in the world forEnglish language teaching. I personally taught in Asia for 5 years and loved it. Jobseekers will be glad to know that there is a booming demand for English teachers in this part of the world. Many of the countries in East andSoutheastAsia have seen rapid growth and development over recent years, and are increasingly looking to strengthen international ties, using English as a lingua franca. Asian culture also places a lot of importance on education, and there are many opportunities to teach children as well as business professionals.
If you’re looking to save money while teaching abroad, Asia is probably the best place to look. In many Asian countries you can expect your monthly salary to comfortably exceed your expenditure, so you can enjoy a great quality of life while also being able to put some money away. As well as the salary, many schools in Asia include a whole host of perks in your package, such as accommodation, health insurance, reimbursed airfare, paid vacation time and assistance with your visa and work permits. Without further ado, here’s my pick of the top 5 countries to teach English in Asia without a degree.
Cambodia
This South East Asian country is best-known for the spectacular Angkor Wat temple complex. Most of the teaching jobs are found in the capital, Phnom Penh, and in Siem Reap.
What’s great about teaching in Cambodia?
Cambodiais popular with tourists and expats alike for its easy-going pace of life and affordable cost of living. On a typical teacher’s salary, you can easily afford to rent a decent apartment, eat out often and take trips during the school holidays. You can expect to save about $100-$300 USD/month without too much trouble. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have established expat communities, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities for meeting people and socializing.
What’s not so great about teaching in Cambodia?
Cambodia is a developing country and one of the poorest countries in the world, so it can be challenging at times. The infrastructure is poor and the visible social inequality can be distressing. However, there are lots of opportunities to get involved with charity work and volunteering if you choose to do so.
Essential Info on Teaching in Cambodia
Visa: Buy a 30-day Business (E) visa on arrival and your employer will help you to extend it. Your employer will also help you to obtain a work permit.
Hiring season: Schools in Cambodia hire all year round.
Contract length: Initial contracts are typically 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Cambodia you can teach adults or children.
Salary: $700 – $1,000 USD.
Kazakhstan
When you think of Asia, you might not immediately think of Kazakhstan, but if you don’t like hot weather and want to get off the beaten track then it could be just the ticket. Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world and boasts the second-coldest capital city in the world, Astana, where temperatures drop to -30°C in the depths of winter.
What’s great about teaching in Kazakhstan?
Although you might be daunted by the climate, you will find that Kazakhstan’s cities are well equipped to deal with extreme temperatures. Expats report that as long as you dress for the weather, it isn’t too much of an issue. Utilities are cheap, so you needn’t worry about a sky-high heating bill. There are active communities of expats in Almaty and Astana, but you will also find Kazakhstanis friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of opportunities for socializing and meeting people. In Kazakhstan, you could earn up to $1,500 USD/month and may get free housing and/or reimbursed airfare.
What’s not so great about teaching in Kazakhstan?
While basic food and utilities are pretty cheap, other products such as foreign food and imported clothing can be expensive, meaning that the cost of living overall is quite high. Another disadvantage is that the capital, Astana, is quite isolated and it takes quite a long flight to get anywhere.
Essential Info on Teaching in Kazakhstan
Visa: You should obtain a work visa in advance – consult your nearest Embassy of Kazakhstan for more information.
Hiring season: Schools in Kazakhstan recruit all year round.
Contract length: Contracts are typically 12 months.
Age groups: In Kazakhstan there are opportunities for teaching adults or children.
Salary: $400 – $1,500 USD, some free housing and/or reimbursed flights.
Kyrgyzstan
Another option for those wanting to step off the beaten track is Kyrgyzstan, a tiny, mountainous country in Central Asia and formerly part of the Soviet Union.
What’s great about teaching in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is considered one of the safest countries in Central Asia. There is a small community of expats in the capital, Bishkek. The cost of living is low – you could live on as little as $400/month – so your salary should allow you to live comfortably. Some employers also offer accommodation as part of your package. In your free time, you can enjoy skiing and hiking in Kyrgyzstan’s beautiful mountains.
What’s not so great about teaching in Kyrgyzstan?
The low cost of living goes hand-in-hand with low average salaries, so you may not be able to save much money. Expats say that the biggest challenge with living in Kyrgyzstan is the culture of corruption and bribery. In daily life you may be randomly stopped by police who check your documents and then ask for a bribe, although this is generally quite a small amount of money and more of an inconvenience than a real issue.
Essential Info on Teaching in Kyrgyzstan
Visa: If you plan to work in Kyrgyzstan you should get the appropriate visa from a Kyrgyzstan Embassy before you travel. Your employer will be able to assist you with any necessary paperwork.
Hiring season: Schools in Kyrgyzstan hire all year round.
Contract length: Initial contracts are typically 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Kyrgyzstan, work is available teaching adults or children.
Salary: $400 – $800 USD, some free housing.
Laos
Laos is sometimes overlooked on theSoutheastAsia circuit but has much to offer teachers who choose to make their home there.
What’s great about teaching in Laos?
Laos is a beautiful and peaceful country with year-round warm weather. The main allure is the gorgeous unspoilt landscape, with its lush rice paddies and thick jungles. Also, the cost of living is low – you could live on as little as $500 USD/month. Laos has a famously sleepy vibe and relaxed pace of life. The main cities, Vientiane and Pakse, have small communities of expats so you’ll have some options for meeting people and socializing. During your school holidays, you can easily take a short flight to visit neighboring Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia or Myanmar.
What’s not so great about teaching in Laos?
You may not be able to save muchona typical teacher’s salary in Laos, although you should at least break even. The main challenge about living in Laos is that it is a poor and undeveloped country, so you may find that you don’t have all of the home comforts that you are used to.
Essential Info on Teaching in Laos
Visa: You may enter Laos on a tourist visa and your employer can help you to apply for the work visa once you have started employment.Find your nearest embassy here.
Hiring season: You can find work in Laos all year round.
Contract length: Typical teaching contracts are for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: Teach adults or children.
Salary: $500 – $1,000 USD.
5 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree in Latin America
If you don’t fancy teaching in Asia, another place you could look is Latin America. The quality of life is steadily rising in many countries in South America, Central America and some parts of the Caribbean. These countries are also seeking to integrate with the global marketplace and therefore the demand for English language teaching is growing, although the market isn’t quite as big as Asia. The main advantage of teaching in Latin America is that most countries don’t require you to have a bachelor’s degree (although they may state that this is preferred).
In Latin America, you can expect your salary to cover your living expenses so that you can live a comfortable lifestyle, but you may not be able to save much. Housing and airfare are not typically subsidised by your employer and salaries can be roughly equal to the cost of living.
In Latin America, there are more opportunities to teach adult students than children, but that’s not to say that you won’t be able to find work teaching children if you have your heart set on it. Here’s my rundown of the top five countries to teach English in Latin America without a degree.
Argentina
Argentina is one of the largest job markets for English language teaching in South America, so there’s sure to be an opportunity for you.
What’s great about teaching in Argentina?
Argentina is a large and varied country with plenty to see and do in your free time. It’s great for people who love the outdoors – you can easily hop on an inexpensive train and head for the beautiful countryside. Much of Argentina has a pleasant temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Expats enjoy the relatively low cost of living in Argentina, and many teachers save even more money by sharing accommodation with coworkers or other expats. The teaching workload is typically light, and you can expect to teach around 20-25 hours per week.
What’s not so great about teaching in Argentina?
Although your salary will cover your expenses, wages are not very high, so you may not be able to save any money while working in Argentina. However, you can bump up your earnings byteaching English onlineor doing private tuition, which will give you some extra spending money.
Essential Info on Teaching in Argentina
Visa: Citizens from many countries do not need a visa to enter Argentina. Once you arrive, your employer will help you to obtain the necessary work permit and working visa.
Hiring season: Schools in Argentina typically hire in Feb/Mar and July/Aug.
Contract length: Contracts are typically for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Argentina you will mostly teach adult business professionals.
Salary: $600 – $1,100 USD
Brazil
Brazil is another large market for English language teaching in South America. Most expats in Brazil live in larger cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife and Salvador.
What’s great about teaching in Brazil?
Brazil is a fantastic country that has everything from beautiful beaches to jungles and mountains. Fans of a tropical climate will love the year-round warm weather. You will typically have a light workload of about 20-25 teaching hours per week, leaving you lots of time to explore in your free time.
What’s not so great about teaching in Brazil?
The average monthly cost of living is roughly equal to the average monthly salary in Brazil, so you can expect to break even but may not save much money. Most English language schools in Brazil do not interview teachers by phone and will prefer you to attend a face-to-face interview, so your job search may involve some legwork.
Essential Info on Teaching in Brazil
Visa: Citizens from many countries can arrive in Brazil without a visa, and others will need toapply for a visa in advance. Your employer will be able to advise you on the visa process.
Hiring season: Schools in Brazil typically hire from Mar-Aug.
Contract lengths: Teaching contracts are usually for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Brazil you can expect to teach mostly business professionals.
Salary: $800 – $1,300 USD
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a beautiful Central American country bordered by Nicaragua to the North and Panama to the South. It has beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts and is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike.
What’s great about teaching in Costa Rica?
The cost of living in Costa Rica is relatively affordable, and you can live comfortably on a teacher’s salary. You would typically work 20-25teachinghours per week,leaving you plenty of time for exploring your surroundings. The capital, San Jose, has great nightlife, colourful markets and a lively expat community so you won’t be short of people to meet.
What’s not so great about teaching in Costa Rica?
You may not manage to save much money while teaching in Costa Rica as the salary is not very high compared to the cost of living. Another challenge is that earthquakes are not uncommon in Costa Rica and you would have to carefully consider how this would affect you before deciding to work there.
Essential Info on Teaching in Costa Rica
Visa: Citizens of many countries do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. Citizens of some countries will need to obtain a tourist visa in advance.
Hiring season: Schools in Costa Rica hire all year round.
Contract length: Contracts are typically for 12 months.
Age groups: In Costa Rica you will mostly teach adult business professionals.
Salary: $700 – $900 USD
Mexico
Mexico is one of the largest job markets for English language teaching in Latin America, and is a widely varied country that offers something for everyone.
What’s great about teaching in Mexico?
Whether you love trekking through mountains, lounging on the beach or exploring ancient Aztec ruins, there’s bound to be a part of Mexico that suits you down to the ground. Mexico has a fairly low cost of living, meaning that on a teacher’s salary you’ll be able to afford to live comfortably and enjoy your free time. Mexico is also a great place to brush up on your Spanish, which is ideal if you want to go on and explore the rest of Latin America!
What’s not so great about teaching in Mexico?
Salary-wise, you can expect to break even, but may not be able to save much money while teaching in Mexico. Understandably, pick an area wisely due to the prevalence of drug cartels. Some states are pretty much no go zones.
Essential Info on Teaching in Mexico
Visa: Citizens of the UK and US do not need a visa to enter Mexico. Citizens of other countries need to apply for the appropriate visa – consult your nearest Mexican consulate or embassy for more information. Your employer will also be able to advise you.
Hiring season: Schools in Mexico hire all year round.
Contract length: Typical contract lengths are 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Mexico, opportunities are available for teaching adults or children.
Salary: $500 – $800 USD
Peru
Thismountainous South American countryhas a growing English language teaching industry, particularly in the capital, Lima.
What’s great about teaching in Peru?
Peru has many spectacular sights to see, including the ruined ancient city of Machu Picchu perched high in the Andes mountains. The cost of living in Peru is low, and you can live very comfortably on a typical teacher’s salary. Your teaching workload will typically be 20-25 hours per week, giving you the chance to enjoy your free time.
What’s not so great about teaching in Peru?
You may not manage to save much money while teaching in Peru, although you can expect to at least break even. The main challenge about teaching in Peru is that it is a developing country – it does not have modern public transport, for example.
Essential Info on Teaching in Peru
Visa: You can enter Peru on a tourist visa. Visa requirements vary according to your nationality – check with your nearest consulate or embassy for more information. Your employer will also be able to advise you.
Hiring seasons: There are two main hiring seasons in Peru – Feb-Mar and July-Aug.
Contracts: You may be offered a contract for 3, 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: You will mostly teach adult business professionals in Peru.
Salary: $500 – $1,000 USD.
5 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree in Europe
Europe is an enormous market for English teaching. English is commonly used as the international business language in Europe, and so it is highly valued in the workplace. The jobs market is rather competitive, and you will find that many schools in Europe prefer to employ EU citizens, and those with degrees. However there are still a few countries you can try.
Europe is great for you if you want to teach adult business professionals, and can attend face-to-face interviews. You can expect to financially break even while teaching in Europe, but may not be able to save much money. Here are my top five countries where you can teach English in Europe without a degree.
Georgia
Georgia is a small country at the junction of Europe and Asia, and was formerly part of the Soviet Union. Most of the teaching work is based in the capital, Tbilisi.
What’s great about teaching in Georgia?
Georgia is great for teachers looking for something a little off the beaten track. In your free time you can choose from outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing. You can teach in Georgia without a degree, although a TEFL certificate is required.
Find out more about getting a TEFL certificate here(and use codeTEA35 for 35% off)!
Georgia has a low cost of living and you could live on as little as $220 USD/month.
What’s not so great about teaching in Georgia?
A typical teaching salary in Georgia is not spectacular. You can expect it to cover your expenses as the cost of living is so low, but you may not be able to save much money.
Essential Info on Teaching in Georgia
Visa: You can enter Georgia on a tourist visa. The requirements will vary according to your nationality. Your employer will be able to advise you on the visa process.
Hiring season: Schools in Georgia hire all year round.
Contract length: A teaching contract is typically for 6 or 12 months.
Age group: In Georgia, you would most likely teach children.
Salary: $220 USD
Romania
Romania has a fairly small job market for teaching English as a foreign language. Most teaching jobs are in the capital, Bucharest, and also the cities of Constanta, Cluj-Napoca, and Lasi.
What’s great about teaching in Romania?
Romania is an unusual teaching destination and perfect for teachers looking for something a little less ordinary. Romania has plenty of adventures to offer, including interesting food, snowy mountains and medieval castles. Romania is a relatively safe country and has excellent transport links to the surrounding countries and the rest of Europe. Romania has a low cost of living compared to Western Europe and you could live on as little as $500 USD/month.
Check out my 30 Things to do in Romania here
What’s not so great about teaching in Romania?
A typical teacher’s salary in Romania is not very high, but the cost of living is so low that you will definitely be able to break even financially.
Essential Info on Teaching in Romania
Visa: If you are an EU national, you do not need a visa to enter Romania. Citizens from other countries will need a visa – consult your nearest consulate or embassy for more information. Your employer will also be able to assist.
Hiring seasons: The two main hiring seasons in Romania are September and January.
Contract length: A teaching contract is typically for 9 or 12 months.
Age group: In Romania you would most likely teach adult business professionals.
Salary: $300 – $1,000 USD
Russia
Russia is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets for English language teaching. Most teaching jobs are located in the capital, Moscow, or the major cities St. Petersburg, Vladimir, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Nizhniy-Novgorod, Omsk, and Novosibirsk.
What’s great about teaching in Russia?
Russia has a rich history and fascinating culture, as well as plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing. The cost of living in much of Russia is reasonable, and you should be able to afford to live comfortably on a typical teacher’s salary. A degree is not required to teach in Russia although you must have TEFL certification.
Find out more about getting a TEFL certificate here(and use codeTEA35 for 35% off)!
What’s not so great about teaching in Russia?
You may not be able to save much money while teaching in Russia. The cost of living can be a bit expensive in Moscow and St Petersburg, but there are opportunities for lucrative private tuition to help you pad out your salary. Expats sometimes report finding the locals cold and unapproachable, but if you make an effort to learn to speak some Russian, it will certainly help.
Essential Info on Teaching in Russia
Visa: Your school will typically sponsor your work visa and will be able to guide you through the process.
Hiring season: Schools in Russia hire all year round but especially in September and January.
Contract length: A teaching contract in Russia is typically 12 months.
Age group: In Russia you can teach adults or children.
Salary: $500 – $1,400 USD. Flights and accommodation are sometimes included in the package.
Slovenia
Sloveniais a mountainous country in Central Europe is famous for its ski resorts and beautiful lakes. Most teaching positions are to be found in the capital, Ljubljana.
What’s great about teaching in Slovenia?
Slovenia is one of Europe’s hidden gems and often overshadowed by its neighbours. You can spend your free time investigating quaint medieval towns or taking in the scenic beauty of the lakes. The cost of living in Slovenia is reasonable, and your teacher’s salary should afford you a decent quality of life. You can teach without a degree in Slovenia although you need at least a TEFL qualification.
Find out more about getting a TEFL certificate here(and use codeTEA35 for 35% off)!
Read my 22 Top Things to do in Ljublijana article
What’s not so great about teaching in Slovenia?
Wages are modest, so while you can expect to break even, you may not be able to save. Most schools in Slovenia prefer to hire EU nationals, so citizens of other countries may have a hard time finding work there.
Essential Info on Teaching in Slovenia
Visa: EU citizens do not need a work visa for Slovenia but will need to apply for a residence and work permit after arriving. Requirements vary for citizens of other countries. Your school will be able to assist you with the visa process.
Hiring season: Peak hiring months in Slovenia are September and January.
Contract length: Teaching contracts are typically for 10 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Slovenia, most TEFL work is with adult business professionals.
Salary: $850 – $1,250 USD
Spain
Spainis popular with expats and tourists alike and is the only country in Western Europe where you can get a teaching job without a degree. Most of the teaching work is in the capital, Madrid, and the major cities of Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia.
What’s great about teaching in Spain?
Spain is a developed country with legendary food, amazing cultural heritage and great transport links to the rest of Europe. A typical schedule includes 20-25 teaching hours per week, giving you the chance to enjoy your free time. You do not need a bachelor’s degree to teach in Spain, although it is preferred by many employers. You will be able to live comfortably on a typical teacher’s salary in Spain.
What’s not so great about teaching in Spain?
You may not be able to save much money while teaching in Spain, but you can expect to at least break even. You may be able to boost your salary byteaching online, offering private tuition, or working at a summer camp.
Essential Info on Teaching in Spain
Visa: EU citizens do not need a work visa forSpainbut will need to apply for a residence and work permit after arriving. Requirements vary for citizens of other countries. Your school will be able to assist you with the visa process.
Hiring season: Schools in Spain typically hire in September and January.
Contract lengths: You may be offered a contract of 10 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Spain you can teach business professionals as well as children.
Salary: $1,250 – $1,850 USD
3 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree in the Middle East and North Africa
The oil-rich countries of the Persian Gulf offer some of the most lucrative teaching salaries in the world, but you would need top-notch teaching qualifications in order to land those positions. For TEFL-qualified teachers, there are still a few interesting places where you can find work in the Middle East and North Africa.
Some schools in this region will interview candidates via Skype and others will require you to interview in person. You can also find a job at pretty much any time of the year in this part of the world. Opportunities are available for teaching children and adults. Here’s my pick of the top three countries to teach English in the Middle East and North Africa if you don’t have a degree.
Egypt
Egypt has a high demand for English language teaching despite the recent political upheaval. Most teaching jobs are to be found in the capital, Cairo, and other major cities such as Alexandria.
What’s great about teaching in Egypt?
Egypt has a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history, and you will not be short of interesting things to see and do during your downtime. The cost of living is very affordable in Egypt, and you will be able to afford decent accommodation and a comfortable standard of living on a typical teacher’s salary. A degree is not required but you should have a TEFL qualification.
Find out more about getting a TEFL certificate here(and use codeTEA35 for 35% off)!
What’s not so great about teaching in Egypt?
Salaries are modest, so while you will be able to break even you may not be able to save much money. Egypt has obviously experienced some political problems in recent years, and while it is generally still a safe country, expats should be cautious and stay up to date with security advice.
Essential Info on Teaching in Egypt
Visa: Your school may sponsor your work visa and will be able to advise you about the process.
Hiring season: Schools in Egypt hire all year round but peak season is from May to August.
Contract lengths: Typical teaching contracts are for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Egypt you can teach adults or children.
Salary: $250 – $500 USD
Jordan
This Middle Eastern nation is famous for its ancient historical sites such as the pink city of Petra. Most teaching jobs are based in the capital, Amman.
What’s great about teaching in Jordan?
Jordan is a safe and well-developed country that offers expats a great quality of life. For this reason there is a well-established expat community in Amman so you won’t be short of people to meet. Jordanians are friendly towards foreigners and the culture is one of the most liberal in the Middle East, although expats still need to observe local customs and etiquette. The cost of living in Jordan is reasonable, and on a teacher’s salary you will be able to live comfortably and enjoy your free time. You can teach without a degree in Jordan, although a degree is preferred by many schools and you will definitely need a TEFL qualification.
Find out more about getting a TEFL certificate here(and use codeTEA35 for 35% off)!
What’s not so great about teaching in Jordan?
You probably won’t be able to save much money, although you may be able to boost your salary by picking up some private tuition.
Essential Info on Teaching in Jordan
Visa: Some schools will sponsor your work visa. Your employer will be able to advise you about the visa requirements.
Hiring season: Schools in Jordan hire all year round but the peak season is May to August.
Contract length: Contracts are typically for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Jordan you can find work teaching adults or young learners.
Salary: $650 – $1,200 USD
Lebanon
This Mediterranean gem boasts both beautiful beaches and fantastic ski resorts! Most English teaching jobs are in the capital, Beirut, but also the major cities Tripoli, Sidon, and Byblos.
What’s great about teaching in Lebanon?
Beirut is a well-developed and cosmopolitan capital, where you won’t be short of places to spend your free time. Elsewhere in Lebanon you can enjoy outdoor pursuits such as trekking or skiing. English is widely spoken in Lebanon, so it shouldn’t be too hard for expats to communicate in everyday life. Your teacher’s salary will afford you a great quality of life and allow you to enjoy your free time. You can teach English in Lebanon without a degree, although many schools prefer to hire graduates.
What’s not so great about teaching in Lebanon?
The cost of living can be high in Lebanon, especially in Beirut. Your salary should cover this, but you may not be able to save much. Another disadvantage of Beirut is that there is no public transport, so you may find yourself spending a lot of money on taxis.
Essential Info on Teaching in Lebanon
Visa: Some schools will sponsor your work visa. Your employer will be able to advise you about the visa requirements.
Hiring: Schools in Lebanon hire all year round.
Contract length: Typical teaching contracts are for 6 or 12 months.
Age groups: In Lebanon, work is available teaching adults and children.
Salary: $900 – $1,500 USD
4 essentials to teach English abroad without a degree!
Hopefully you’re brimming now with ideas. There’s a great selection here to get you started and popping pins in your worldwide map!
I recommend getting these 4 essential things before you go to live your dream job in your new country! They will give you the best possible chance for success when you teach English without a degree abroad.
A TEFL certificate:Find out more about becoming qualified here
Travel insurance:Click here to check prices
Flights:Download the Skyscanner app to get the best deals
The right visa:Get your visa for your dream country here
Related Reading
Teaching English Abroad Without a Degree: The 100% Success Guide
How to teach English abroad to fund your travels
Make $$$ teaching online with VIPKID
Where will you teach English abroad?
Where is your dream job? Are there other countries where you can teach without a degree, that you want to add to this list? Are you teaching English in one of these countries already? How is it going? Comment below in the comment box!
Pin Me
FAQs
17 Countries Where You Can Teach English Without a Degree Abroad? ›
Countries that do not require a degree to teach English abroad: The best countries for where to teach English abroad without a college degree are Cambodia, Costa Rica, Spain, Argentina, Mexico and Myanmar. These countries do not require a college degree to teach in, and are popular among TEFL teachers.
What country can you teach English without a degree? ›Countries that do not require a degree to teach English abroad: The best countries for where to teach English abroad without a college degree are Cambodia, Costa Rica, Spain, Argentina, Mexico and Myanmar. These countries do not require a college degree to teach in, and are popular among TEFL teachers.
Can I teach English abroad without an English degree? ›Can I teach English abroad without a degree? Yes, you can. With TEFL Certification you can open up a whole world of job opportunities, from classroom assistance to bona fide English teaching.
What countries in Europe can I teach English without a degree? ›Spain is an excellent place to start. It's one of the few countries in Europe that accepts TEFL teachers without degrees. Madrid has the best prospects for ESL teachers. However, you can also get decent alternatives across major cities like Seville, Barcelona and Valencia.
What countries can I teach English in without TEFL? ›While most teach abroad destinations require it, there are a few places where you can teach English abroad without a TEFL certificate, like Spain, Thailand, and Japan.
Can I teach English in Mexico without a degree? ›Can You Teach English in Mexico Without a Degree? A bachelor's degree is not required to teach English in Mexico and your TEFL certification should be enough to successfully gain employment as an ESL teacher. Please note, while a bachelor's degree is not a requirement, some employers may still prefer that you have one.
Can I teach English in Japan without a degree? ›A Bachelor's degree/diploma from an accredited college or university (4 years in the U.S./3 years in the U.K.) is required to teach English in Japan.
Can I teach English in France without a degree? ›To teach English in France, you will need a TEFL certificate. A 4-year college degree is typically required as well. Native English proficiency is expected to find a TEFL job. The average salary for an English teacher in France is about $800 - $1,800 USD per month.
Can I teach English in Thailand without a degree? ›Desiring to facilitate English in Thailand and have no degree? Worry not for it is possible. There is plenty of opportunity and money to be made from teaching English in Thailand without a degree. Lack of a degree may not hinder you from teaching and having an onsite TEFL certification is a definite plus.
Can I teach English in Portugal without a degree? ›It is not possible to teach English in Portugal officially without a University degree or TEFL certification. But, in informal settings or through volunteering, you may be able to teach English without qualifications.
Can I teach English in Korea without a degree? ›
The simple answer is no. You need a special kind of visa, known as the E-2 Teaching Visa, to work as an English teacher in South Korea. Unfortunately, the only way to get one of these is with a bachelor's degree.
How can I become an English teacher in another country? ›To teach English abroad, you will need an ESL teaching qualification like a TEFL certificate and a valid passport. Though some programs require a bachelor's degree, many countries hire English teachers without a degree or teaching experience as long as they speak English fluently and have a TEFL certification.
Can I teach English in the Netherlands without a degree? ›To teach English in The Netherlands, you won't need a degree unless you want to teach in a public school, but you will need a minimum of i-to-i's 120 Hour Online TEFL Course; although our 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course is preferred if you have no experience of teaching.
Can I teach English in the US without a degree? ›Most English language schools generally require their teachers to have a minimum qualification of a TEFL certification, if not a bachelor's degree. However, few companies don't require this, so we strongly urge you to find a program that works best for you and start by getting TESOL/TEFL certified!
Can I teach English in China without a bachelor's degree? ›Popular TEFL countries in Asia like South Korea, Japan, and China require a minimum of a bachelor's degree for those who want to teach English abroad. This is because to get a visa to work legally, you need to present paperwork verifying you've earned a degree.
Can I teach English in Europe as a non-native speaker? ›Yes. Non-native speakers can teach English abroad and online. While some countries require citizenship from a native English-speaking nation, there are still dozens of nations where schools will hire non-native speakers. The key is to be fluent and to get an accredited TEFL certification.
Can you teach in Argentina without a degree? ›You don't need a college degree to teach English in Argentina. Fluency in the English language and an accredited TEFL certification are what employers want first and foremost.
Can you teach English in Costa Rica without a degree? ›Costa Rica is one of those rare teach abroad destinations that does not have strict requirements for its English teachers. However, while it's possible to find work without a degree, many schools require teachers to have a reputable TEFL certificate. Choosing a certificate with at least 120-hours is essential.
Can I teach English in Kuwait without a degree? ›Degree Requirements for Teaching in Kuwait
At a minimum, English teachers will need to possess a bachelor's degree in addition to their TEFL certification. With that said, many schools in Kuwait will require teachers to possess a degree specifically in education or a Master's degree (often in any field).
Do I need a degree to teach English in Cambodia? No, a four-year college degree is not required to secure an English teaching job in Cambodia. However, it is still strongly preferred by employers.
Can I teach English in India without a degree? ›
You don't need a degree to teach English in India, but you will need a minimum of our 120 Hour Online TEFL Course, although the i-to-i 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course is preferred if you have no experience of teaching.
What is the quickest bachelor's degree to get? ›What is the fastest and easiest degree to get? Often students focus on Business Administration, Psychology, or Education degrees for the fastest degrees; however, General Studies, English, and Communications may be considered some of the easiest, along with Psychology.
Can I teach English in Greece without a degree? ›Greece has very common requirements for teaching English. You must be a native English speaker, have a university degree, and be certified in TEFL. However, they do not require any particular degree and there are rarely any requirements on your level of fluency in Greek.
Can you teach without a degree UK? ›You need a bachelor's degree to train to teach in primary, secondary and special schools in England. This does not have to be in teaching. If you do not already have one, you can train to be a teacher as part of your bachelor's degree and get qualified teacher status (QTS).
Can I teach English in Spain without a visa? ›In order to get a job teaching English in Spain, you will need a work visa unless you hold a passport from the European Union (EU). The type of visa you'll need will depend on your citizenship but options include a work visa, student visa, working holiday visa, or under the cultural ambassadors program.
Can you teach English in Taiwan without a degree? ›Teaching English in Taiwan Without a Degree: Can You Do it? English teachers in Taiwan must have a degree to be eligible to teach English in Taiwan. A Bachelor's degree (or higher) is preferred but teachers with an Associate's degree can also find jobs teaching English in Taiwan.
Can you teach English in Hong Kong without a degree? ›Requirements for teaching English in Hong Kong
As stipulated by the government in Hong Kong, an English teacher must have: A bachelor's degree in any subject. Two years of previous teaching experience and/or. A TEFL certification from an accredited provider.
As we previously mentioned, the first thing you'll need to teach English in Thailand is a bachelor's degree — this is required by law. Without one, you'll be walking the fine line of shady or illegal employment in Thailand. A TEFL certificate, on the other hand, is not necessarily required.
Can I teach English in Finland without a degree? ›Qualifications to teach in Finland
Requirements vary by school, but teaching English in Finland usually requires, at minimum, a Bachelor's degree and a TEFL certificate. As the teaching profession is held in high regard, teachers with advanced and specialized degrees are in particular demand in Finland.
Not Required: A four-year college degree is not required to secure a job in Brazil, however, it is still strongly preferred by employers. If you do not have a degree, you should be prepared for a more competitive job search.
Can I teach English in Albania without a degree? ›
A university degree is required to teach in Albania, and most candidates will need a TEFL certificate in order to qualify for more competitive ESL teaching jobs. Teaching in Montessori or international schools requires a government-issued teaching credential.
Can you teach in Korea without a teaching degree? ›Regardless of where in Korea you'd like to teach, there are a few minimum requirements for teaching in South Korean schools. Hopeful teachers will need the following: Bachelor's degree in any subject. Be a native speaker from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa.
What country pays teachers the most? ›Luxembourg. According to an OECD report, Luxembourg (a European country) has the highest-paid teachers in the world. Another source indicates that a bachelor's degree holder is entitled to an initial salary of €67,000 (US $70,323.20) per annum at the start of their teaching career.
How can I teach English in Costa Rica? ›To teach English in Costa Rica, you will need a TEFL certificate. A 4-year college degree is not required but is strongly preferred. Native English proficiency is also expected to find a TEFL job. The average salary for an English teacher in Costa Rica is about $700- $900 USD per month.
Is there an age limit for teaching English abroad? ›Generally speaking, there are no age limits to teach English abroad as long as you are over 21. Although many teach abroad programs target recent college graduates and people in their twenties, older adults can leverage their maturity and experience to secure jobs teaching abroad well beyond their sixties.
Which country pays foreign English teachers the most? ›- South Korea ($1,850-$2,650 USD a month)
- China ($1,200-$2,600 USD a month)
- Japan ($1,700-$2,600 USD a month)
- Taiwan ($2,000-$3,000 USD a month)
- Gulf Arab States ($2,000-$5,000 USD a month)
- Honorable Mention: Vietnam ($1,500-$2,000 USD a month)
You can have a successful teaching experience virtually anywhere. A lot of what will factor into your decision is the country's demand for teachers, the opportunities they make available and the benefits they offer. Asian countries are usually the most popular among American teachers because they pay the most.
Can I teach without a degree in Canada? ›To be certified, teachers must: have completed a minimum three-year postsecondary degree from an acceptable postsecondary institution. have successfully completed a four semester teacher education program. apply to the College for certification and pay the annual membership and registration fees.
Can you teach English in Austria without a degree? ›To get hired to teach English in Austria, you will need a 4-year college degree and a TEFL certificate. Native English proficiency is also expected to find an ESL teaching job. The average salary for an English teacher in Austria is about $1,800-$2,500 per month.
Can I teach in Europe without a degree? ›Some countries strictly require a four-year college degree for an English teaching position. Many countries in Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America allow schools and language academies to hire teachers without a four-year degree, especially if they have a TEFL certification or prior teaching experience.
Can you teach English in the Middle East without a degree? ›
In fact, the Middle East is one of the best places to teach abroad and save money. However, the region is typically best suited for those with a degree in education and a teaching license. But there are opportunities for those with only a four-year degree and a TEFL certificate, too.
How long does it take to get a TEFL certificate? ›Typically, a fully accredited TEFL certification course will last anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months. Shorter, 4-week long courses will generally run full-time (30-40 hours per week) and are very demanding.
How can I work abroad without a degree? ›Build Your International Network
Enrolling in formal language qualifications or language programs. Working on international projects or initiatives at work or for non-profits. Jumping on forums that focus on finding a job abroad in a specific country that you're interested in.
A TEFL certificate
A TEFL qualification will go a long way in helping you secure a position without a degree. If you don't already have TEFL certification, start studying ASAP. Even if you ultimately fail to land an English teaching job in Japan, a TEFL certificate can help you find work worldwide.
All you need to teach in Malaysia is…
To teach English in Malaysia you will need a degree, a minimum of 120 hours Professional TEFL certificate, and at least two years' teaching experience. Malaysian TEFL employers are sometimes picky and are unlikely to accept applications from anyone who isn't between 20-50.
Schools in China are hiring ESL/EAL teachers and K-12 teachers across the mainland- Guangdong, Qingdao, Yantai, Nanjing, Hefei, Chongqing, and Beijing. Find your perfect teaching job in China in 2023.
Which European country is easiest for English speakers? ›- 1) The Netherlands.
- 2) Austria.
- 3) Denmark.
- 4) Norway.
- 5) Belgium.
- 6) Sweden.
- 7) Finland.
- 8) Germany.
This pick should come as no surprise. Spanish has always been a go-to language for English speakers to learn due to its practicality and wide reach. Well, it's also one of the easiest languages to learn for English speakers.
Which non native English speaking country speaks the best English? ›The Netherlands
They have a reputation for having an excellent level of English. A study by international Educational company EF Education First found that the Dutch are the best non native English speakers in the world with over 90% of the population speaking the language!
Yes. Non-native speakers can teach English abroad and online. While some countries require citizenship from a native English-speaking nation, there are still dozens of nations where schools will hire non-native speakers. The key is to be fluent and to get an accredited TEFL certification.
Can you teach English in Switzerland without a degree? ›
All you need to teach in Switzerland is…
Alongside your minimum of our 120 hour Professional TEFL course (many employers prefer the 140 hour Professional TEFL course instead), you will need to have a degree.
To find English teaching jobs abroad without experience, consider getting a TEFL/TESOL certification, look for volunteer teaching opportunities, check job boards, network, be flexible, and apply for entry-level positions. It's important to do your research and have a strong resume and cover letter.
Can you teach English abroad without a TEFL certification? ›Having your TEFL isn't required to teach anywhere abroad, but if you have your heart set on teaching in a country where TEFL certification is required then yes, you do need your TEFL to teach abroad there.
Can you be an ESL teacher if you only speak English? ›No, ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers do not have to be bilingual. Being bilingual is not a requirement for teaching English abroad either. Fluency in English is sufficient to create an immersive classroom where students can actively learn the language without the need for another language.
Can I study abroad if I only speak English? ›Some people think that to travel abroad, you need to be multilingual and speak the local language of the country you want to travel to. This is far from the truth. Not even when you travel to study abroad do you need to speak the local language. You can actually get around well enough if you only speak English.
Am I too old to teach English abroad? ›Generally speaking, there are no age limits to teach English abroad as long as you are over 21. Although many teach abroad programs target recent college graduates and people in their twenties, older adults can leverage their maturity and experience to secure jobs teaching abroad well beyond their sixties.
Can I teach English in Hong Kong without a degree? ›Requirements for teaching English in Hong Kong
As stipulated by the government in Hong Kong, an English teacher must have: A bachelor's degree in any subject. Two years of previous teaching experience and/or. A TEFL certification from an accredited provider.
Popular TEFL countries in Asia like South Korea, Japan, and China require a minimum of a bachelor's degree for those who want to teach English abroad. This is because to get a visa to work legally, you need to present paperwork verifying you've earned a degree.
Can I teach English in Taiwan without a degree? ›Teaching English in Taiwan Without a Degree: Can You Do it? English teachers in Taiwan must have a degree to be eligible to teach English in Taiwan. A Bachelor's degree (or higher) is preferred but teachers with an Associate's degree can also find jobs teaching English in Taiwan.
Can I take TEFL test without course? ›There is not a single exam that one must pass to get TEFL certified. Rather you will need to pass an accredited TEFL course that incorporates at least 100 hours of coursework, including lessons, exercises, tests/quizzes, and projects. Live practice teaching is also an essential part of an accredited TEFL certification.