Teach English in Asia

The fact that English is the universal language seems more important now than at any other time in history because of the advent of globalization. Countries in Asia want their citizens to be globally competitive by gaining fluency in oral and written English. This is the reason why English language instructors are in such big demand.

Best Teach Abroad Programs in Asia

Popular Places to Teach in Asia

Popular destinations to apply include: Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Other places to consider: Bangladesh, Bhutan, East Timor, Laos, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Palestine and Tibet.

How to Teach in Asia

Teaching English in Asia has its share of advantages. For one it is a great opportunity to get a paid job in Asia and to get to know the culture of another country. This job pays a decent salary with bonuses and help in accommodation. The salary varies but are high compared to worldwide TEFL destinations.

Being an English language instructor is one job opportunity in Asia that has many vacancies, hires fast, and does not require too many qualifications. This position is open for fresh graduates and anyone looking to work abroad where the ultimate requirement is excellent written and oral English language communication.

In Asian countries like Japan and South Korea, you are not required to even have a degree or TEFL certification. Nevertheless, teaching experience is definitely an advantage.

Teach in North / East Asia

The Asian economic tigers of Japan, South Korea and Taiwan continue to have excellent TEFL markets, with China quickly catching up as it is in so many other spheres. In the top three countries (Japan, South Korea and Taiwan) pay is very good and work is plentiful.

These are countries where English teachers can save money. Housing may be subsidized. The cost of the flight there may be reimbursed after completing a school year. Pay and conditions can vary widely in a large country like China, but pay is usually good by local standards.

In addition to a TEFL certificate a bachelors degree of some sort is required in these countries. Most teachers report that they work quite hard but that the rewards, financial and otherwise, make it well worth the effort.

Teach in South East Asia

Thailand and Indonesia have the most established TEFL markets in South Asia, but Cambodia and Vietnam are emerging as good places for EFL teachers. The lifestyle in these southern countries is often more relaxed than in the north.

There is quite a teachers market in Thailand. TEFL certificates are usually required and can help you get a better-paying job. University positions generally require a Bachelors Degree in any subject with a TEFL certificate. There are many Thai holidays throughout the year which make it possible to travel around the region. It is one of the best and cheapest places to fly to the rest of Asia from. Pay is quite good by local standards and the cost of living is low. The pay in Indonesia is also quite good by local standards. The cost of living is low and schools may assist with obtaining accommodation.

Cambodia and Vietnam both have growing TEFL markets. Basically, an EFL teacher here can earn in a few days what a local person earns in a month. Making ends meet while working even part-time is not difficult here. In the capital of Cambodia, individuals with a TEFL certificate are almost guaranteed to find employment.

Asia TEFL FAQ

Hours
Most teachers are expected to teach 15-30 hours per week. Classes are typically 45 minutes-1 hour. Office hours may be required or advised in order to allow for lesson planning and preparation. Some schools may also request your presence at staff meetings and extra-curricular events. The typical school day starts around 7am and ends around 4 or 5pm Monday through Friday. Many schools will take a long break in the middle of the day for students to go home for lunch.

Students
Teachers are highly respected in Asia society and among students. This will be an incredibly rewarding experience and you will realize that students are eager and motivated to learn English. A to of placements are in middle and high schools within the public school system. The students’ ages range from about 6-18 years old.

Compensation
You will be receiving a competitive and comfortable salary. In larger cities like Bangkok, Beijing and Singapore the salaries are potentially a bit higher. Some schools offer a contract completion bonus at the end of the contract, which can be applied to travel, a ticket home, or to your savings account.

Cost of Living
The cost of living in most Asian countries is also far less expensive than of those in Europe and USA. Tax is also cheaper so saving is easier.

Important Things to Consider
Homesickness and culture shock are just a few of the many challenges that comes with working in a foreign region. Moreover, one should not forget that teaching is a serious commitment to impart knowledge. It requires patience and passion of being an educator.

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