In An Introduction to Teaching English Abroad, I gave readers a broad overview into becoming a traveling English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor. It’s a fun and profitable way for young, and not so young, people to see the world! You work where you want and teach who you want. Your work will pay enough to cover basic living expenses, although in some locales lucky ESL teachers are able to sock away a significant sum of money.
I always encourage readers to do their research into the infinite possibilities! One thing you will have found perusing the job boards is that some schools will pay your transportation to the location, maybe help with accommodations… that kind of thing. These are serious expenses that you should take into account when you make the decision to teach abroad.
Financial Considerations to Ponder
What about the myriad other expenses you won’t get reimbursed for, though? Obtaining a passport will cost over a hundred dollars. Any required visa? You will probably have to pay for that, and they aren’t cheap, either. What kind of wardrobe will you need given the climate (political and/or religious, not just temperature) you are headed to? How will your in-country transportation be taken care of? Will you be able to, you know, eat? And when you have the time to travel around the area, will you have enough savings to enjoy yourself?
Continue reading “Get Your Feet Wet! Start Teaching English With No Experience or Training”
There are many companies that will happily help you jump through the bureaucratic red tape in order to get yourself situated with a promising family. They all charge different fees and make varying promises to you. With some thorough research and help from a trusted adult, you should be able to narrow down the choices to one or two organizations to pursue further.
