10 Best Countries for TEFL Certification Classes in 2019

Editor’s note: This article is part of our Meaningful Travel Forecast series and official travel report for 2019. ☆ TEFL certification courses are becoming increasingly popular, and with good reason! They are a great option for recent college graduates, long-term travelers, or those who are looking for a career change. Earning a TEFL qualification not only opens doors to new opportunities for the teacher, but can also make a difference to the lives of their future students. As the demand for English increases, more and more people across the world are seeking qualified teachers, either for their schools or businesses, or for private classes.

Read the GoAbroad Official Report on the 10 Best Countries for TEFL Certification Classes in 2019

Getting TEFL certified in a different country is not only an amazing opportunity in itself to be immersed in another culture as you study and practice TEFL techniques, but can also help you to find an English teaching job after you finish your course. TEFL graduates can choose to stay in the country in which they are studying, or move onto virtually anywhere else in the world! A TEFL certificate is your key to traveling the world for a living.

But, where are the best countries for TEFL certification classes? Read on to find out all about the best places to get TEFL qualified in 2019 according to international educators, experts, travelers, and ESL speakers themselves.

The best countries to get TEFL certified in 2019

best countries for TEFL certification courses 2019

1. Thailand

Recently, Thailand has become one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists, backpackers and long-term travelers. With awe-inspiring sights such as Wat Pho buddhist temple, the beautiful beaches of Phuket Island and the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s vibrant street markets, Thailand is the perfect destination for those looking for bucketloads of culture. For aspiring English teachers, the demand for TEFL-qualified applicants means Thailand has some great options for TEFL certification classes.

Usually based in Bangkok, Phuket or Koh Samui, TEFL courses in Thailand involve studying the English language and teaching techniques, observing qualified teachers, and finally, putting all your new knowledge into practice by teaching your own classes. After you get your certification, you will have the option to travel and teach elsewhere, or take advantage of the opportunity to teach English in Thailand. Since many aspiring teachers choose Thailand as their starting point, you can be sure to settle in to both a supportive expat community, and an eye-opening local culture.

GoAbroad’s program pick: LanguageCorps
Traveler’s program pick: Entrust TEFL Premium Program

Twenty years ago, the standards expected of us as ESL teachers were so much lower. Students didn’t expect much and often studied as a hobby. Nowadays, students are often counting on English getting them higher positions, promotions, etc. And they expect their teachers to help them.—Kenneth Arnold, TEFL Worldwide Prague

2. Vietnam

Like nearby Thailand, Vietnam has also seen an influx of foreign visitors. With so much diversity in all areas of Vietnam’s culture, from food flavours to natural scenery to opportunities for foreign workers, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to holiday, volunteer and spend their gap years here. Brimming with international and private schools, there are plenty of opportunities for aspiring English teachers get TEFL certified, and then easily find a job, should they choose to stay.

TEFL courses in Vietnam also tend to be combined, meaning you will get plenty of practice in the classroom after being shown the ropes. The demand for English teachers also means there are opportunities to teach different age groups, from toddlers to adults, depending on your preferences. Expats can also find great support networks, both from their TEFL tutors and fellow trainees and from the large expat communities in Vietnam.

Traveler’s program pick: AVSE TESOL Course in Ho Chi Minh City

3. South Africa

One of the most rapidly changing countries in the world, South Africa is in need of English teachers to keep up with the growing demand for business English. As businesses in South Africa become more international and tourism becomes more popular, TEFL qualified teachers can help people to take advantage of opportunities to further their careers.

As students study their TEFL certification classes,they can also explore South Africa’s incredible landscape. What better way to spend a weekend than wildlife-spotting (including elephants, lions, rhinos and giraffes) in Kruger National Park, or experiencing the breathtaking views of the Blythe River Canyon? Teaching English in South Africa will be an experience of give-and-take, with teachers providing local people with a deepened knowledge of the language and the opportunities that comes with it, in exchange for an increased understanding of the country’s fascinating history.

Traveler’s program pick: Bay Language Institute TEFL Teacher Training

These countries make it a priority that their children learn how to speak English, so English teachers are in high-demand.—Rachael Van der Werff, International Educator

4. Philippines

The Philippines is not just one country, but more than 7,000 individual and unique islands. Naturally, the archipelago is famous for its beaches and is a paradise for water and adventure sports lovers. Although English teaching opportunities are less common than in other parts of Asia, TEFL students can still get qualified and potentially find work if they wish to stay in the Philippines.

The capital of Manila and the city of Cebu are the most popular locations for TEFL certification classes to take place, and the easiest areas in which to find work. It’s also possible for aspiring teachers to earn their certification in the Philippines before moving on to teach in a country with more demand. However, whilst studying a TEFL course in the Philippines, be sure not to miss the World Heritage listed Banaue rice terraces, or the historic Fort Santiago, both a stone’s throw away from Manila.

Traveler’s program pick: International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT)

5. Canada

Perhaps not the most obvious choice for a country in which to study a TEFL course, Canada actually has a reputation for being a great place to get TEFL certified. English teachers who are interested in working abroad elsewhere, particularly in Asia, can benefit greatly from training in Canada thanks to this status, as recruiters from schools abroad often travel here to interview potential teachers.

TEFL course providers in Canada also offer a range of options to suit differing schedules, from full-time, intensive courses to flexible online training. Part-time courses, whilst still providing students with all the necessary skills and experiences to make an effective teacher, may offer more time for visitors to drink in Canada’s renowned natural beauty. Trips to National Parks such as Banff, Gwaii Haanas and Waterton Lakes are a must.

GoAbroad’s program pick: Uni-Prep Institute
Traveler’s program pick: MyTEFL 120 Hour Professional TEFL Course, Vancouver

6. India

English is still spoken in India, particularly for parliamentary and official business, and is widely utilized as a second language. This makes India one of the best countries for TEFL certification classes, as you can be sure your English teaching skills will be valued in the classroom. After you complete your TEFL training, it’s possible to find work as a private tutor, in a private school, or with a business, usually in more populous cities such as Bangalore and New Delhi.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to stick to those cities! India has so much regional culture (and cuisine!) on offer for adventurous travelers. During or after studying one of India’s TEFL certification programs, you can travel to lesser-known cities such as Hampi, Chennai and Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai Lama.

GoAbroad’s program pick:
Traveler’s program pick: Asian College of Teachers TEFL Certification and Teaching

Effective teaching isn’t about performing, it’s about getting students involved and being aware of what they need. When you teach English as a foreign language, you’re making a huge difference in people’s futures, you have a reason to participate in another culture, and it will change you forever.—James Jenkin, i-to-i TEFL

7. Czech Republic

Buzzing with life and activity, the Czech Republic is an ideal destination to get TEFL qualified in Europe. An exciting spot for architecture enthusiasts, many of Prague’s historic structures, such as Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and the iconic Charles Bridge offer an insight into the city’s turbulent past. However, as one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Prague has become a cultural hub with growing food and nightlife scenes, perfectly complimenting the country’s museums, libraries and galleries.

In Prague, along with other major cities in the Czech Republic, TEFL certification programs are numerous. With English becoming increasingly necessary in various industries, there is a high demand for classes, meaning TEFL graduates can stay in the country to work after completing their certification.

GoAbroad’s program pick: LanguageCorps
Traveler’s program pick: TEFL Worldwide Prague

8. Spain

Within easy reach of the rest of Europe, Spain is one of the best countries for TEFL certification classes for many reasons. Not only are there plenty of opportunities for teachers who want to stay in Spain, but it’s easy to travel and teach in nearby countries. Cosmopolitan cities like Madrid and Barcelona have the most selection for TEFL courses and jobs, but work can also be found in less touristy, but equally beautiful cities, such as sunny Seville or contemporary Bilbao.

TEFL courses in Spain are fully accredited and can be studied online, in person or a combination. Some programs also offer a paid teaching position upon completion, or assistance in finding a teaching job. Be sure not to miss some of Spain’s most inspiring sights, from the majestic Alhambra Palace to the iconic Sagrada Familia, and never turn down an opportunity to sample some tapas.

GoAbroad’s program pick: International TEFL Academy
Traveler’s program pick: TEFL Madrid Academy

“Taking a TEFL course in these countries leads to a higher chance of getting hired in that country. Period.” —Noah Peden, RPCV

9. Japan

Like many other countries in South East Asia, Japan has high demand for English teachers and is an attractive destination for adventurous TEFL students. One of the top job markets in the continent, teachers can earn a competitive salary in one of vast number of private language schools, or alternatively, in a public primary or high school. After studying TEFL certification classes and earning the qualification, you will be well equipped to teach English in Japan. As with TEFL courses in other countries, getting certified in Japan involves a combination of theory learning, observation and classroom practice, and TEFL certification programs often help graduates find a teaching job afterwards.

Although living costs in Japan tend to be higher than in other Asian countries, teaching English is a well-paid profession. TEFL graduates will have plenty of opportunity to explore the country’s diverse country, vibrant and tranquil in equal measure. After class is over, get lost in amongst the 47 neighborhoods of Tokyo, or get in touch with your spirituality in the peaceful temples of Kyoto.

Traveler’s program pick: International TEFL Academy in Japan

10. China

China is one of the countries with the most options for TEFL certification programs. There are so many schools and companies requiring qualified English teachers that TEFL certificate holders are likely to be able to take their pick from several job offers! Because of this, salaries and benefits are competitive—just a couple of reasons why teaching English in China is so popular for TEFL graduates.

The face of modernization, China is perfectly suited to those seeking a fast-paced, forward-thinking lifestyle. However, this expansive country hasn’t totally let go of its antiquity, and fragments of tradition can be found around every corner. From the Great Wall to the UNESCO listed Forbidden City, China’s culture is both cutting-edge and other-worldly. English teachers will have plenty of opportunities to absorb once in a lifetime sights, sounds and feelings.

GoAbroad's program pick: International TEFL & TESOL Training (ITTT)
Traveler’s program pick: Premier TEFL Across China

Next steps to finding TEFL certification programs

Here are handful of resources to get you started on your very own TEFL certification journey. 2019 could be YOUR year to travel—and we can help make it happen! Get free program recommendations that match your travel goals, or use MyGoAbroad to bookmark and compare program options with confidence.

Still hungry for more? Bookmark these bad boys:

TEFL Course Inspiration

Program Selection Advice

Paying for Your TEFL Course

[Get Matched with 5 TEFL Certification Programs for FREE]

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Get TEFL certified in one of these 10 amazing locations this year!

If your aim for 2019 is to travel more, a TEFL certificate is a must! Our community is confident these TEFL programs abroad and at-home will continue to grow in popularity in 2019. A travel opportunity in itself, earning a TEFL qualification is an accessible and sustainable way to travel continuously, or the perfect way to get started in a permanent career in a new country. Open to anybody and a sure-fire way to find English teaching work, a TEFL certificate could really change your life.

Since a TEFL certificate doesn’t expire, and the demand for English teachers is likely to keep on growing, the qualification will surely be useful for years to come. TEFL is a lucrative and rewarding career both abroad and in many English-speaking countries, in which foreign exchange students and expat workers also seek English lessons. However, being immersed in another culture and getting hands-on practice at teaching English is an eye-opening experience for prospective teachers, and an incredible way to live like a local.

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