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Teach English in Central America

Central America is comprised of seven countries bridging the gap between Mexico and South America, with the Pacific Ocean bordering to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Teaching in Central America is perfect for individuals looking to gain experience, make a difference, earn a living wage, and simply immerse themselves in the Spanish language and ethnic culture of the region. 
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21 Teaching Jobs in Central America

International TEFL Academy

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Get TEFL Certified & Teach English in Costa Rica!

Do you want to get paid to live and teach English in Costa Rica? Earn your accredited TEFL certification & receive lifetime job search guidance with International TEFL Academy & begin your journey today! Click on the link to learn more about ITA's award-winning TEFL course in Heredia, Costa Rica, as well as our new Guaranteed Job Placement Program for teaching English in Costa Rica. In addition, all ITA students receive lifetime job search guidance to get hired to teach English in Costa Rica and 80 countries worldwide. In addition, you will be able to tap into our exclusive network of 50,000 alumni around the globe. Access your free Guide to Teaching English in Costa Rica! ITA has been named Top TEFL Online Program & Top Rated TEFL Organization by GoAbroad.com 4 years in a row and has also won the prestigious GoAbroad.com People's Choice Award 4 out of the last 6 years—the only TEFL school to do so.

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MAXIMO NIVEL

9.71

324

TEFL/TESOL Costa Rica with Job Placement Guarantee!

Certified English teachers are in heavy demand all over the world. This rewarding career will help you develop new skills, plus travel! Our institute in Costa Rica offers a fun, intensive, internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL Certification program. It is 4 weeks/150 hours long, including 15+ hours of practical English teaching and observation of experienced teachers. We offer a small and personal atmosphere with groups ranging from only 2 to 14 people. The TEFL/TESOL Certification program comes with 12 modules that provide you with an important set of competencies required to effectively teach English in foreign countries, including: - Learning and Teaching Theory - Lesson Planning - Class Management - English Grammar Review, Part 1 - English Grammar Review, Part 2 - Teaching Grammar - Teaching Vocabulary - Teaching Speaking - Teaching Writing - Teaching Reading - Teaching Listening - Assessing Learners Our program also includes a special introduction to international English exams including the TOEFL, Cambridge, and IELTS.

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Greenheart Travel

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Teach English in Costa Rica with Greenheart Travel

We are excited to assist the Costa Rican Government’s “English Training for Employability” initiative, which provides intensive English education and life skills training to local communities. The goal of this program is to empower at-risk young adults so they can gain employment at local businesses that require basic to intermediate levels of English. Program at a glance: • 4-month volunteer English teaching placement • Housing and meals with a local Costa Rican host family • Placements throughout Costa Rica • Extensive 4-day group orientation upon arrival in San Jose Qualifications: Native English speaker Ages 21-45 TEFL/TESOL Certification

TEFL Heaven

9.91

11

Paid Teaching in Costa Rica & Lifetime Placement Guarantee

Teach English abroad in Costa Rica and experience firsthand the locals’ simple, positive outlook on life—“pura vida.” Included is a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging from $700 to $1,500. We provide extensive support before your departure, round-the-clock assistance in Costa Rica during your teaching placement, and the chance to earn your TESOL/TEFL certification in San Ramon or online. This makes our program the top choice for those looking to teach in Costa Rica! Already have a TEFL/TESOL certification? We have a program designed for you that comes with guaranteed job placement, full support, and a 1-week group orientation filled with cultural activities and outings! Feeling ready? Apply now, but hurry as spaces are being snapped up fast: 12th February 2024 - FULL 8th April 2024- spaces available 3rd June 2024 - spaces available 15th July 2024 - spaces available 19th August 2024 - spaces available 25th November 2024 - spaces available We recommend booking at least three months before your preferred start date. Inquire now to chat with one of our Abroad Advisors—who all have also taught abroad!

Global Work & Travel

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TEFL/TESOL in Costa Rica | Teach & Travel in the Americas

When people talk about “running away and living on a beach somewhere,” this is what they are talking about. Whether you need a change or want to experience a new culture and live like a local, this trip to Costa Rica is for you! Settle into your new life in paradise, starting with a 4-week intensive TESOL course that lets you gain an internationally recognized qualification to teach English. Upon successful completion, you can earn enough money to live and travel while changing lives. You’ll have the option to take on a paid teaching placement that could take you anywhere across Costa Rica, whether on a pristine beach somewhere or next to one of the country’s famed jungles! You can also take your certification to other countries instead of teaching and traveling worldwide. Global will take care of everything you need to get started so you can focus on sliding into this new chapter of your life!

Top Rated Program Teach Abroad in Costa Rica 2025

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia)

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36

Xplore Costa Rica TEFL Program with Guaranteed Placement

Join Xplore’s In-Country TEFL/TESOL + Placement Program for expert support, a guaranteed teaching job in Costa Rica, and lifetime placement opportunities. Whether you have a degree or not, we can place you in a teaching position! Earn a globally recognized 120-hour Level 5 TEFL/TESOL certification and start your teaching career with confidence. Our Teach in Costa Rica program is based in San Ramón, a charming town famous for its rich history, vibrant local cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. Costa Rica is a top destination for teaching in the Americas, offering stunning natural beauty, a warm culture, and one of the safest environments for foreigners in Central and South America. With a supportive expat infrastructure, it’s the perfect setting for professional growth and personal adventure. The demand for native English speakers is high, and the Costa Rican government invests heavily in education, creating abundant opportunities for teachers. Take advantage of this growing demand and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most captivating countries.

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

TravelBud

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1

Paid Teaching Program in Costa Rica with TravelBud

Experience life the Pura Vida way with our Paid Teaching Program in Costa Rica! One of the most sought-after paid teaching placements, Costa Rica offers a laid-back Tico culture and a low cost of living. The first of its kind, our program includes everything – a job placement with 100% guaranteed earnings of up to $1500 (USD) per month, 24/7 dedicated pre-departure and in-country support, and an internationally accredited TESOL/TEFL certification. Plus, complete a full week of cultural orientation in Costa Rica before you start teaching. Teaching Abroad with TravelBud gives you the building blocks for a successful experience. We vet our partner schools against strict criteria and tailor your TESOL course specifically to the classroom climate in the country. We're ready to get you started in 2025! See our website for a full list of intake dates.

FutureSense Foundation

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Global Leadership Programme - FutureSense Foundation

Length: 4-6 months | Intakes: January 2026 Join the Global Leadership Programme, designed to provide you with hands-on experience supporting the work of an international development charity. We are looking for passionate graduates, who are keen to learn about global challenges, work with youth and define their own purpose. After an initial period of training, you will be placed in one of our overseas hubs as a Group Mentor and Project Implementor, you will be supporting our in-country team through coordinating group projects and supporting our project participants on their journey to becoming global citizens. Your days will be filled with exciting challenges and fulfilling experiences, including: 1. Coordinating and delivering impactful project activities with our local partners. 2. Embark on a leadership role as you guide your group of project participants through immersive and exciting cultural activities. 3. Engage your group in reflective discussions and interactive sessions to foster personal growth. 4. Reporting on the progress and success of all international project participants and community development project delivery activities.

OnTESOL

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Teach English Abroad with OnTESOL

There’s no better way to earn income, make an impact on others, and discover the world than by teaching English abroad! This is exactly what we offer at OnTESOL—the opportunity to take on a teaching job at your desired location in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Traveling and teaching in another country is perfect for recent university graduates interested in taking a gap year, professionals looking for a career change, and individuals who simply want to experience a new environment. Generally, teaching English requires the following: - University degree - Accredited TESOL, TESL, or TEFL Certification (at least 120 hours) - Native and non-native English speakers OnTESOL can connect you with a broad range of positions across diverse placements: entry-level, professional, IELTS preparation, and Business English. Teach in language academies, private and public schools, and educational institutions. Talk to us today and we’ll help you find a truly rewarding English teaching job abroad!

Teacher's Friend

9.6

5

Teach abroad with personalised support at every stage!

Embrace your dream of living abroad! Unsure about which TEFL course is perfect for you? Let me be your friend, helping your choose based on your unique circumstances. Worried about course content? My pre-course modules are here to help. I'll help you build a strong foundation in basic grammar and TEFL essentials, ensuring you step into the classroom with confidence. PLUS, I provide assistance with assignments and homework throughout the course. Say goodbye to job-search anxiety. My post-course support includes job placement assistance, a CV review, and contract guidance, all geared to help you secure your dream job on this island paradise. Feeling nervous about making friends, navigating another country, and being far from home? There's no need to stress about work permits, logistics, or packing – I'm that reliable friend you need and trust. You'll never have to go it alone with my ongoing support. Expect weekly check-ins, monthly calls, and access to a vibrant alumni community filled with previous graduates who are more than happy to show you the ropes and help you settle in.

Toucan Education Programs (TOUCAN)

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9

Tailored International Internship: 3 to 8 Weeks

This internship program is tailored to fulfill your academic requirements and personal and professional learning goals. You can select flexible durations of 3, 4, 6, or 8 weeks. You are then paired with projects that align with your academic requirements, career goals, and personal interests while also supporting local organizations in Belize. Typically, interns work 30-35 hours per week, applying classroom knowledge to real-world challenges in various fields such as education, conservation, entrepreneurship, social service, and other areas as requested. This experience is designed to enhance important employability skills, including collaboration, independence, and intercultural communication. A typical 4-week program includes living with a host family for deep cultural immersion, along with curated excursions focused on cultural, environmental, and historical topics. Enhance your career readiness and earn academic credit through this flexible, hands-on practicum.

Teach Away

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Teach Abroad in Honduras

Honduras is known for its unspoiled beaches, forests, and many opportunities for international teachers. Teaching in Honduras is an opportunity for adventurous teachers to live in a country where their work is greatly appreciated and where the local people's hospitality and sociability will make them feel at home. In many Honduran schools, teachers can expect to earn about $250 to $500 per month. The salary may seem modest, but the cost of living in Honduras is also low, and teachers will find that they can live comfortably even more if they supplement their income by offering private lessons. Licensed teachers and experienced TEFL-certified teachers can find teaching jobs that allow them to earn between $500 and $1,200 per month, depending on their qualifications and experience. The most qualified teachers earn upwards of $2,000 per month. The Honduran school year runs from February to November.

Christian American School of Guatemala

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Multiple Grade and Subject Teaching Roles in Guatemala

Christian American School of Guatemala is looking for passionate, dedicated teachers for positions in Pre-K, 1st grade, 3rd grade, High School ELA, Music/Drama, Bible, and AI Technology. In this Christ-centered environment, you’ll create and lead developmentally appropriate lessons to help students achieve North American English proficiency standards. Teachers are responsible for classroom instruction and supervision, lesson planning, material preparation, and communicating regularly with parents about student progress. Qualifications include: • Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate teaching strategies • Proven ability to design and deliver meaningful learning activities • Excellent communication and collaboration skills with students, parents, and colleagues • Ability to maintain a safe, healthy, and engaging classroom • Native English speaker • Certification in Early Childhood Education and experience with classroom technology are a plus Benefits include: • Competitive monthly salary • Housing with utilities • Three paid personal days • Paid holidays • Accident insurance coverage (15,000Q)

A Guide to Teaching Abroad in Central America

Locations

While Belize, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Panama all offer various TEFL/TESOL certification programs, individuals looking to spend hands-on time teaching abroad in Central America will benefit from focusing their search on Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras.  

Costa Rica has the highest number of teaching jobs available for individuals looking to teach in Central America. Although obtaining a paid position can be a bit more difficult than what would be expected in other Central American countries, there are a variety of options for teachers with a wide range of experience. The “pura vida” lifestyle of locals and incredible biodiversity help make Costa Rica the eco- and adventure-tourism capital of Central America. Costa Rica has a high demand for English instruction at every level - from primary education students to adult professionals. San José, the capital city and centrally located hub of the nation, is where the majority of teaching placements in Costa Rica can be found.

Guatemala is the ideal location for beginner teachers looking to gain experience and adventure through volunteer teaching in Central America. Internal conflict, political instability, and lack of resources have increased the need for volunteer teachers across the country in both urban and rural public schools. Some paid teaching jobs in Guatemala can also be found in private and international schools in larger cities - such as in the capital, Guatemala City - including teaching primary education, English language instruction, and various middle and high school subjects. 

Honduras offers international teachers the chance to teach in private bilingual schools. While the major cities of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula provide the majority of teaching placements in Honduras, recently high crime rates and violence make the smaller towns and outlying areas more desirable. Honduras is a destination for teachers with a desire to make a difference in their student’s lives as well as the local community, and although Christianity is not a requirement to teach in Honduras’s private school system, teachers should at least be comfortable reflecting Christian values.

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Latest Program Reviews

A Creative Adventure!

December 05, 2025by: Alex Torres - United StatesProgram: Xplore Costa Rica TEFL Program with Guaranteed Placement
9

This was truly a beautiful experience—one I’d recommend to anyone, whether you’re an aspiring teacher, healer, artist, or any other walk of life. It may terrify you, intimidate you and possibly make you question your life choices, but I assure you, you will not regret it. To have the ability to step out of your comfort zone is in itself a blessing and what better way to learn more about yourself than by being an English Teacher. I had a 6 month contract at Colegio Victoria in Costa Rica where I covered for another teacher who was on a maternity leave. I've already had experience as a teacher but this type of role was completely new to me for 2 main reasons. I found myself teaching an older age group, despite having little experience with that level, and a subject I wasn’t very versed in: American Literature. It pushed me well beyond my comfort zone! So I decided to dig deep as I usually do. With my background in Art as a 2D animator I connected the dots and realized the similarities between literature and 2D animation. The concept of creating fiction in any medium has always been innate to me and the appreciation of a well-written story has always been present with me. When my workload felt overwhelming I used Ai tools to assist me in the Literature Analysis as well. I felt accepted by the students and staff because I was upfront about my learning curve and although I faced challenges, I decided to make the best of it. Currently, I am still in Costa Rica living with my girlfriend (a fellow teacher) and may even consider becoming a resident here.

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