How To Become An English Teacher In Asia

The ubiquity of English as a worldwide language has caused a surge in the global demand for English tutors, especially in the Asian sector. From communication in international business to recreational utilization, English has become an integral part of everyday life and thus calls for a great number of teachers versed in the language.

In Asia, a myriad of ESL teaching jobs are available for both native and non-native English speakers to cultivate their linguistic abilities and furnish learners with aplenty of new possibilities in numerous educational facilities such as language schools, universities and private institutes.

Becoming an English teacher in Asia is a rewarding and exciting experience. If you’re interested in taking this path, there are some basic steps you’ll need to take.

Research the Different Asian Countries

Investigating the peculiarities of various Asian nations, ranging from their economy and living expenses to the culture and political structure, is an essential first step to becoming an English teacher in Asia. Doing so will empower you to make the right choice, granting you a fruitful and advantageous time spent in the process of imparting knowledge.

Get TEFL or TESOL Certification

Attaining TEFL or TESOL authorization is imperative for anyone wishing to take up the mantle of an English instructor in Asia. With TEFL denoting Instruction of English as a Foreign Tongue and TESOL spelling out the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages, procuring one of these certifications is a prerequisite for any pedagogue envisioning teaching English in an Asian nation. A paramount point is to ensure that the educational program in which you invest ought to be adequately accredited and fulfill the protocols established by the English-speaking countries.

Look for English Teaching Opportunities in Asia

Once you have your TEFL/TESOL certification, it’s time to start looking for English teaching opportunities. There are many jobs available, so it’s important to narrow down your search. Make sure to factor in the type of job, salary, hours, and culture when looking for a teaching position.

Most teaching jobs require a minimum of 20-25 hours per week, with weekends off. The salary can vary by country, with the most common being either a flat monthly rate or hourly rate. Keep in mind that you will also have to pay for your own housing and Visa expenses.

Gain an Understanding of Asian Culture

Whether you’re teaching English or any other subject, it’s important to gain an understanding of local culture and customs. Take the time to learn about social norms in different Asian countries. Some countries may also have laws or customs that you need to be aware of.

Additionally, try to learn a few words and phrases of the local language. Even if it’s just a few phrases, it will go a long way in showing your students that you’re understanding of their culture.

Prepare for Your Move to Asia

Having identified your idyllic employment prospect, you must now dedicate the necessary resources and diligence to effectuate your relocation to Asia and be ready to embark upon a momentous change of locale. As adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings and practices can be challenging, it is essential to carefully consider every facet of the process, including obtaining visas, setting up a financial network, and procuring lodgings.

It’s also a good idea to create a budget before moving. This will help you to better manage any unexpected expenses, such as flights and transportation.

Have an Open Mind

But it is equally invaluable to embrace and keep an open mind throughout the process, for you have the one-of-a-kind chance to delve into new languages and customs, thus enabling yourself to garner extensive knowledge and wisdom from the experience. Consequently, capitalizing on such a remarkable teaching experience will surely lead you to achieving success.