A Brief Guide to Teaching English Overseas

I often get asked about what it's like to teach English overseas. Below I've given a brief description of the different regions where you can teach English.

Middle East
-Well paid, longer-term contracts (think 2-3 years)
-excellent salaries, accommodation and flights are often included
-travel restrictions in some areas, turbulence in others
-university degree and ESL certification are often required

Asia
-HUGE demand for teachers, priority given to native English speakers from Canada, USA, Britain, South Africa, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand.
-flights are often paid for, same with accommodation
-cheap cost of living
-easy to get around to different parts
-salaries begin at $1000/month and go up from there

Eastern Europe
-close to Western European amenities
-salaries hover around the $1000/month level, no flights or accommodation provided
-cheap cost of living
-few qualifications necessary, but a desire to go is best

South America
-salaries hover around the $1000/month level
-cheap cost of living
-Ecuador, Argentina and Brazil are popular destinations

Western Europe
-decent salaries
-university degree and ESL certification often required
-easy to get around to neighbouring countries

North America
-university degree and teaching certificate are required
-good salaries
-demand isn't as strong for English teachers, but North America is a popular destination for international students

Online
-Don't forget that you don't need to travel overseas, you can always teach English online
-not many online English schools which means you're mostly a freelancer
-internet lag-time can be annoying during class

I hope that helps a little bit in determining where you want to go.