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Keen to get going to see the world? Now you can complete your TESOL training overseas.
Jun 21,2025
Dreaming of travel, cultural immersion, and a rewarding career all in one? Teaching English overseas might be your perfect path. With global demand for English teachers continuing to rise—especially in Asia, Europe, and South America—Australians with the right training have exciting international opportunities at their fingertips.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or adventure-seeker, teaching English as a second language offers the chance to earn money while living abroad, all while making a genuine impact in communities around the world.
The most common requirement is a recognised TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. These courses equip you with the skills to teach grammar, pronunciation, and communication techniques to non-native English speakers.
Some employers may also prefer a bachelor’s degree in any field—especially in competitive locations or more formal education settings like universities. But in many countries, a TESOL or TEFL qualification is enough to get started.
Explore education and TESOL courses that can help you launch your international teaching career.
English teachers are in demand across the globe, but some regions are especially hot right now:
With their low cost of living and friendly culture, Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and Thailand are top picks. Cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are ESL hubs, offering good salaries relative to expenses and a vibrant lifestyle.
Known for offering generous salaries, furnished housing, and flight reimbursements, both countries have long-standing government programs such as EPIK (Korea) and JET (Japan). They’re great options for structured, long-term placements.
While China’s market has tightened recently due to regulation changes, teaching roles in private language centres and international schools still offer high salaries—especially in major cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen. Be sure to research current visa requirements carefully.
Countries like Poland, Hungary, Colombia, and Chile are growing ESL markets with lower barriers to entry and a strong demand for conversational English. These are great destinations for those seeking immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Some TESOL providers now offer on-location training, giving you the option to complete your certification while living overseas. For example, you might study TESOL in Vietnam or Turkey and transition directly into a job placement. This is ideal for travellers who want to hit the ground running without waiting to finish their qualification in Australia.
If this sounds like you, be sure to:
Teaching abroad can be incredibly rewarding—but preparation is key. Here’s what to check before you board that plane:
Teaching English overseas is more than a job—it’s a chance to see the world, grow personally and professionally, and connect with cultures in a meaningful way. If you’re ready to take the leap, the first step is getting the right training.
Explore TESOL and teaching courses today and unlock opportunities around the globe.
Louisa Veidelis shares practical tips on career advancement, job search strategies, and skill development at Career FAQs.