Should I take my TESOL course before I head overseas to teach?
Deciding whether to take a TESOL certification course before heading overseas is an important consideration for prospective English teachers. While both options - completing it in your home country or in your destination country - have their advantages and disadvantages, there are compelling reasons to complete your TESOL course before leaving home. First and foremost, taking the course in your home country allows you to focus on your studies without the distractions and adjustments of living in a new country. It also provides the opportunity to start applying for jobs abroad with the qualification already in hand, which can make the job search more straightforward and potentially more successful. Additionally, completing the course before departure gives you the confidence and skills needed for teaching English in a foreign classroom, ensuring you are well-prepared for this new career path.
Table of Contents
Can I get an ESL teaching job before I leave home?
Should I keep my options open if I’m not sure where I want to teach?
Is it cheaper to take a TESOL course in my home country?
Can I take an in-class TESOL course in the U.S?
Can I get an ESL teaching job before I leave home?
Securing an ESL teaching job before leaving your home country is entirely possible. In regions with high demand for teachers, such as many parts of Asia - including China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan - employers frequently post job vacancies online. Successful applicants typically undergo interviews via webcam. This advanced recruitment process is also prevalent in the Middle East, with countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait often organizing job details well before the teacher's departure. Additionally, government programs such as France's TAPIF and Spain's Cultural Ambassadors Program, also recruit teachers in advance. Given these trends, completing your TESOL training in your home country prior to departure is a logical step, preparing you for a smooth transition into your ESL teaching career abroad.
Should I keep my options open if I’m not sure where I want to teach?
Keeping your options open is a wise strategy if you are uncertain about where to teach abroad. Completing a TESOL certification course before leaving for overseas provides this flexibility. It allows you to make an informed decision about your teaching destination after completing your training, rather than committing prematurely. Being TESOL certified first means you can explore a wide range of job opportunities in various countries, giving you the freedom to select the most suitable one post-graduation.
Conversely, if you are already set on a specific teaching destination, enrolling in a TESOL course within that region could be more advantageous, as it positions you for immediate job applications and interviews. However, for those valuing the ability to compare offers and choose the best one, regardless of location, undertaking TESOL training in your home country can be a good choice. This approach ensures maximum flexibility and a broader scope of options.
Is it cheaper to take a TESOL course in my home country?
Taking a TESOL certification course in your home country is often a more cost-effective option compared to pursuing it overseas. While the experience of attending a course abroad can be memorable and enriching, it also involves additional expenses such as flights, accommodation, and daily living costs. Conversely, enrolling in an in-class course in your hometown can significantly reduce these financial burdens.
For those without access to local in-class courses, online TESOL courses present a viable and affordable alternative. Although online courses may not offer the same level of in-person instruction and practical teaching experience as their in-class counterparts, they still provide valuable foundational knowledge and skills to start your TESOL journey, all while being more budget-friendly. This makes taking a TESOL course in your home country, either in-class or online, a financially sensible choice for many aspiring teachers.
Can I take an in-class TESOL course in the U.S?
Yes, you can take an in-class TESOL course in the U.S. ITTT offers a comprehensive full-time four-week training program in New York City. Additionally, there is a combined course option available at the same location, providing both in-class and online learning experiences. This is particularly advantageous for residents within commuting distance of New York City or for those who wish to spend some time in this vibrant city while completing their TESOL certification. Enrolling in an in-class course in the U.S. provides hands-on training and real-world teaching experience, making it an excellent choice for aspiring ESL teachers preparing to work abroad.
