Updated for 2025
If you want to make a lasting difference for people in need worldwide, international teaching is the way to do it. Education is the key to poverty alleviation: it encourages children and youth to build brighter futures for themselves and allows men and women to break the cycle of poverty.
There are so many different teaching abroad opportunities for travelers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels – whether you want to teach English to children, educate adults in business English, mentor youth through sports coaching programs and classroom activities, or even empower women and girls through entrepreneurial and life skills workshops, you’re bound to find an incredible teaching opportunity anywhere you want to travel.
The types of work you can expect to do will vary based on your background and qualifications – if you’re new to teaching, there are wonderful training programs available (many of which are featured in this post!).
As an example, Maximo Nivel is a great organization that offers top-rated TEFL certification and English teaching volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. If you want to get paid to travel and make a difference for communities in need, Maximo Nivel is an amazing choice. Through high-quality TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification programs – which you can complete in-country, online, or even through a hybrid program where you’ll start your learning online and then travel to Latin America to complete your certification – you’ll be able to teach English abroad to learners of all ages and skill levels even if you don’t have any prior experience as a teacher. And better yet: a TEFL certificate will open you up to job opportunities and paid placements globally. What better way to get paid to travel?
International TEFL Academy (ITA) is another great organization that provides all the resources you need to get a great job teaching English overseas. The organization offers online and on-site TEFL courses to get you certification and then lifetime job placement assistance in popular destinations such as South Korea, Costa Rica, Italy, Mexico, and Spain. Their comprehensive guaranteed Job Placement Program in Asia can help you start your teaching career aboard. With ITA, you can truly get your dream teaching job abroad!
If you cannot go abroad for more than two weeks, you may focus more on helping local teachers with their daily work, teaching basic English phrases to students, or even assisting with a school’s administrative work. As an example, GoEco is a volunteer organization with numerous teaching English abroad programs with a minimum 1-week commitment in various countries to inspire you to teach underprivileged adults and children. Currently, GoEco is offering a special travel grant where you can stay for the 3rd week free! Check out the qualifying programs here!
Moreover, Intern Abroad HQ (the sister organization of International Volunteer HQ) is another choice that offers education internships, pre-school internships, women’s education internships, and special education internships to add variety and experience to start your teaching abroad career.
If you’re interested in earning your TEFL certificate and teaching in Africa, then we recommend checking out African Impact, which allows you to earn your TEFL certification and serve as an intern.
Other trustworthy organizations such as GoEco, Project Abroad, Volunteering Solutions, and GVI offer plenty of impactful teaching English programs to check out.
Teaching English in particular can be a way to make the best, and longest-lasting impact on your travels. As English speaking and writing have become one of the most valuable skill sets worldwide for those entering the workforce – particularly in international sectors – it’s vitally important that people all across the world have access to quality English education.
Ready to travel? Let’s take a look at some of the very best teach abroad programs you can sign up for all over the world right now!
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Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has offered volunteer abroad programs, internships, study abroad opportunities, and teach abroad placements in Latin America. This wonderful organization partners with local NGOs and schools to provide the best impact on their communities throughout Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru.
If you’d like to teach English abroad, Maximo Nivel offers TEFL certification. What is TEFL? In this course, it includes 150 hours of coursework, 6 hours of practical teaching experience, and 6 hours of observation from teachers. After completing your TEFL certification through Maximo Nivel, you’ll have lifetime job placement assistance to help you find paid teaching placements worldwide.
Through Maximo Nivel’s volunteer teaching English program, you can travel to Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru to educate ESL learners.
The public education system in these countries does not usually offer high-quality ESL programs, so as an instructor volunteer, your job will be to fill in this gap to provide students with greater academic and career opportunities.
You’ll have the chance to teach in a variety of settings, such as public schools, community centers, after-school programs, and other locations to create lesson plans, teach classes, help with tutoring, and plan games and activities. Learn more here!
If you’d like to get TEFL certified – which will open you up to paid English teaching opportunities worldwide – take a look at Maximo Nivel’s four-week, 150-hour course in Latin America. Modules include Approaches to Learning and Teaching, Critical ESL Techniques, Class Management, Lesson Planning, English Grammar, Teaching Vocabulary, Assessing Learners, and more. In this course, you’ll participate in 100 hours of in-class instruction, 35 hours of reading and written assignments, and 15 hours of observation and practical teaching.
During the final week of your course, you’ll take over duties in an English class, teaching hour-long lessons for five days so you can become more familiar with the work you’ll do as an ESL instructor. Then, you receive your TEFL certificate. Click here to learn more!
Founded in 2010, International TEFL Academy (ITA) provides the best internationally accredited TEFL courses both online and in-person in 20+ locations across the world. ITA certifies 5,000 people per year, and graduates are teaching in over 80 countries and online. In addition, they can help with securing teach abroad jobs in Asia in their guaranteed Job Placement Program.
For those looking to teach English abroad, ITA is a great choice. They can truly help you achieve your goal of getting a great job and enjoying the experience of a lifetime teaching English overseas. If going overseas isn’t an option at the moment, ITA can even assist you with getting an ESL job online.
All ITA TEFL courses – including online TEFL classes – include live practice teaching and employ a state-of-the-art curriculum taught by highly credentialed and experienced instructors.
In addition, all International TEFL Academy students receive lifetime job search assistance that includes personalized guidance from a team of expert advisors. To learn more and begin your journey, download your free TEFL Guide now.
ITA can assist with job placement in Spain, one of the most popular destinations in the world for teaching English. You need a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate, which you can get through International TEFL Academy.
Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona offer the most options for English teachers, and teaching jobs are usually a part of a government program such as the Cultural Ambassadors Program.
Head to the ‘Land of Smiles’ and teach English in one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets. Destinations abound for teaching English in Thailand too. You can choose to teach in the bustling city of Bangkok, journey to the beaches of Phuket, or experience the jungles of Chiang Mai. It’s up to you.
If you have a 4-year degree and TEFL training through ITA, obtaining a job in the location of your choice shouldn’t be a problem. English teaching jobs are in abundance in primary schools, language centers, universities and other educational institutions.
Embark on a transformative journey with International TEFL Academy’s 4-week intensive TEFL course in Incheon, South Korea. Situated on Yeongjong Island, the course offers a unique blend of rigorous training and cultural immersion, with Incheon’s vibrant food scene, outdoor activities, and green spaces at your doorstep.
Proximity to Seoul, just 40 minutes away via the airport express subway line, allows for further exploration. Graduates benefit from lifetime job search guidance, connecting them to a global network of teaching opportunities.
International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) provides comprehensive programs to support your teach abroad aspirations.
Their 100-hour online TEFL certification course equips you with essential teaching skills and is internationally recognized by TEFL placement agencies. This flexible course is available at a discounted rate, making it accessible to aspiring teachers worldwide.
Step into the heart of China’s rich culture with the Summer Outreach Teaching program in Xi’an. During the school summer holidays, volunteers join local educators to teach English and organize fun, interactive activities for children. Your days will be filled with laughter, learning, and the joy of connecting with eager young learners.
Experience the warmth of Middle Eastern culture while making a real difference through the Teaching program in Amman. Volunteers work alongside local teachers to help children improve their English skills, using creative and interactive methods to make learning fun.
In addition to your classroom efforts, you’ll have the chance to explore Jordan’s awe-inspiring treasures, from the ancient city of Petra to the serene waters of the Dead Sea.
Escape to the tropical paradise of Jamaica while contributing to local education with the Teaching and School Support program in St. Mary. Volunteers assist teachers with English lessons, creative activities, and extracurricular programs, bringing enthusiasm and support to the classroom.
Outside of your volunteer work, soak up the sun on stunning beaches, enjoy authentic Jamaican cuisine, and dance to the rhythm of reggae music. The warmth and gratitude of the local community will leave a lasting impression as you help students build confidence and grow academically.
Combine your passion for education with the vibrant culture of the Caribbean in the Teaching and School Support program in Crown Point. Volunteers support teachers by helping with English lessons, homework, and creative classroom activities. Your efforts will play a vital role in boosting students’ confidence and love for learning.
During your free time, explore the island’s stunning beaches, taste flavorful local dishes, and immerse yourself in Trinidad and Tobago’s lively festivals and traditions.
Join the Teaching Assistant program in Malawi and make a meaningful impact on education in this warm-hearted African nation. Volunteers work closely with local teachers, assisting with English, math, and other subjects while creating engaging activities for students. Your role will help provide much-needed support and individual attention, inspiring young learners to reach their potential.
Founded by International Volunteer HQ, a trusted organization that has placed more than 130,000 volunteers on programs worldwide since its founding, Intern Abroad HQ provides affordable, responsible, and flexible internship opportunities around the world.
A variety of fields are offered through Intern Abroad HQ, whether you’re passionate about business and communications, social work, environmental conservation, law and human rights, education, engineering, or economics. These experiential learning internships include a guided reflection course to foster resume-building skills that are universally transferable within diverse employment and social settings. In the field of education, teaching, social work, and youth development, Intern Abroad HQ provides internships throughout Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa, including access to discounted online TEFL certification.
If you’re looking for an education internship that incorporates elements of social work, then the Youth Development & Education programs can be an excellent option. Intern Abroad HQ offers internships in both Cape Town, South Africa, and Cusco, Peru, focusing on assisting youth and teens in areas where they need the most support.
There is a broad scope to gain valuable experience – interns with basic to intermediate Spanish language skills are encouraged to join placements in Cusco, Peru, while English-language speaking placements are provided in Cape Town, South Africa. These flexible internship destinations offer weekly intakes for new interns. Learn more here!
In Seville, immerse yourself in a hands-on environment, collaborating with experienced local teachers to assist with classes and lesson planning. Engage with students of all ages, enhancing their English listening and speaking skills, while refining your mentoring techniques. Complement your experience with included Spanish language lessons, enriching your cultural integration.
In Prague, contribute to public and language schools by supporting local educators in preparing and delivering English lessons. Your role may encompass tutoring individuals and aiding in school management tasks, providing a comprehensive teaching experience. This internship offers a unique opportunity to develop practical teaching skills within a city renowned for its architectural beauty and vibrant cultural scene.
Since 2006, GoEco has offered affordable volunteer abroad programs and internships in over 40 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Australasia, Central America, Europe, the Middle East, and South America.
With more than 150 different wildlife, marine, medical, and teaching programs, GoEco is a great organization to check out if you’re looking for a variety of impactful trips to choose from, from wildlife conservation to teaching English overseas.
GoEco was recently recognized as the Top Volunteer Abroad Organization by GoAbroad, Top Eco-Enthusiast by Greenmatch, and has been recommended by Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, and more. As a volunteer, you will have 24-hour support from the GoEco team, from start to finish.
Want to break down international education barriers? This English literacy project for women in Sri Lanka gives you the wonderful opportunity to help women become more confident, empowered, and employable. Your main daily task involves teaching English to women in small groups. It’s an amazing experience to see their language skills improve.
What’s also nice is that you’ll be teaching English near world-class beaches. During your free time, relax on the sand, do yoga, cycle around town, and more. Interested? Learn more here!
Teach English to children ages 6-18 years old with local teachers in primary and secondary schools, while immersing yourself in Thai culture. You will plan lessons and fun activities to engage the children to learn English, as well as assist local teachers as needed. There are no formal requirements to teach as long as you have intermediate English, even teenagers are welcome to assist in teaching (with parental consent)!
Known for being a beautiful beach destination, this coastal town has golden beaches for swimming and snorkeling during your free time.
Teach and care for local children at a boarding school in Accra. The school is under-resourced, which means overworked teachers need your assistance in the classroom. Your main role will be to arrange activities with the students and teach English through conversation and play. You can also lend a hand in renovation work on the school building.
Additionally, Accra, the capital of Ghana, offers plenty to do when you’re not teaching. Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, hang out at Bojo Beach, and more. Want to learn more? Get all the details here!
Lend a hand in the settlements of Cape Town for a unique type of teaching volunteer program abroad! Rather than teaching English language skills, volunteers in this program will teach the children in the settlements how to swim, surf, and skate after school! Volunteers who choose to can also teach in the local schools in the morning. Learn more here.
You can impact the lives of children from disadvantaged communities by volunteering as an English teacher with Projects Abroad.
Teaching is a great way to gain experience if you’re considering a career in teaching, or if you want to do something meaningful during a summer break or gap year.
Being able to communicate in English is extremely valuable for those in developing countries who are striving to build a sustainable future for themselves and their families. By volunteering as an English teacher, you’ll provide an important boost to those who need it most.
You don’t need any teaching qualification or experience to join one of Projects Abroad’s teaching placements. Staff are there to guide you throughout your project, and they have helpful resources that you can use to improve your experience. Through these programs, you’ll volunteer at local elementary schools, high schools, or universities.
- Visit the fascinating city of Cusco on a Teaching Project in Peru
- Experience life in Nepal as a teacher in a local school
- Travel to Southeast Asia to teach in the Philippines
You also can teach other subjects! If you have expertise in another subject like mathematics, science, music, or a sport, Projects Abroad will help you find a school that needs your assistance.
African Impact is an award-winning, responsible travel organization that offers TEFL, volunteer, and internship opportunities in 7 countries across Africa.
It was founded in 2004 and has since hosted over 35,000 volunteers. African Impact has over 20 different projects, ranging from teaching in Zambia to marine conservation in Zanzibar. The organization is known for its long-term objectives and measurable change. It is also recognized as a trusted specialist in volunteering and interning in Southern Africa.
African Impact offers internships, as well as group, family, and high school projects. The minimum age requirement for their projects is 16, making African Impact a great option for teen and high school volunteers.
Based in the picturesque village of Jambiani, this initiative addresses educational challenges by providing free, interactive English and Math classes to students of all ages.
As a volunteer, you’ll collaborate with local educators to create engaging learning environments, enhancing students’ language skills and academic performance. Beyond the classroom, you’ll participate in community projects, such as improving educational facilities and promoting positive early childhood development. Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s rich culture and stunning landscapes while making a lasting impact on the local community.
Established in 2006, this program invites volunteers to collaborate with local educators in rural primary schools, providing individualized attention to students and supporting their academic growth. Mornings are dedicated to classroom assistance, while afternoons offer diverse community development activities, such as reading programs, art clubs, and environmental initiatives. Volunteers stay in comfortable accommodations within the vibrant Victoria Falls Backpackers, just a short walk from Livingstone’s town center.
Beyond volunteering, participants can explore the rich culture and adventure opportunities of Livingstone, including visits to the majestic Victoria Falls.
Involvement Volunteers International (IVI), established in 1989, is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating meaningful volunteer experiences worldwide.
Their teaching abroad programs span various educational settings, including government primary schools, community teaching, after-school clubs, kindergartens, adult education, and special needs teaching.
This initiative invites volunteers to teach English across diverse regions, including the Coast, Highlands, and Amazon. Participants play a crucial role in enhancing students’ reading, writing, and conversational skills, fostering confidence and creativity. Responsibilities encompass reviewing homework, assessing exams, and conducting engaging activities like vocabulary games and discussions.
Volunteers are encouraged to employ interactive teaching methods, such as singing and analyzing English songs, to make learning enjoyable. A basic understanding of Spanish is necessary to effectively communicate and connect with students. By joining this program, volunteers contribute significantly to the educational development of Ecuadorian children, opening doors to future opportunities.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist local educators in teaching subjects like English, Math, and Science to students aged 5 to 14. Your role includes creating engaging lesson plans, conducting educational games, and fostering creativity through arts and crafts.
By dedicating at least four hours daily, you’ll help enhance students’ reading, writing, and conversational skills, instilling confidence and individuality. This program not only enriches the children’s educational journey but also offers you an immersive cultural experience in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Collaborate closely with dedicated local educators, assisting in English language classes for children aged 5 to 13. Your role includes providing individual attention to students needing extra help, introducing basic English phrases, and monitoring each child’s progress. Engage students in extracurricular activities such as sports, art, music, and dance to foster a holistic learning environment. This immersive experience not only enhances the children’s education but also allows you to connect deeply with the vibrant local community.
Founded in 2007, Volunteering Solutions has helped more than 17,000 volunteers to date.
With 150+ projects across 27 countries, Volunteering Solutions has programs in popular destinations such as Nepal, South Africa, and Ecuador. They’re known for their affordable, high-quality, and impactful service projects.
In addition to 120+ volunteer projects, Volunteering Solutions also offers intern and teach abroad opportunities. Whether you want to do a medical internship in Thailand or teach English in Cambodia, Volunteering Solutions has the project for you.
To learn more about Volunteering Solutions and apply to their program, visit their website here (UK readers, please visit their UK site here). Also, check out the three great programs below for teaching English abroad.
Journey to Hanoi, and teach English to children in underserved communities. By doing so, you’ll help these youth obtain a skill that can help end the cycle of poverty. Vietnam has a rapidly growing tourism industry and is becoming an increasingly important player in global manufacturing and business. Those with English skills will have a strong position in the job market.
You’ll work in schools in the Cau Giay District. This is the perfect chance to gain valuable international teaching experience while having fun in the amazing city of Hanoi.
If you’d like to apply to teach English in Vietnam with Volunteering Solutions, click here!
Head to Nairobi, where you’ll help underprivileged children learn English and improve their future job prospects. Duties include assisting with conversational English, helping local teachers, creating lesson plans, playing games with students to encourage speaking, and more. This program is a fun and rewarding experience, and will certainly improve your ESL teaching skills.
Volunteering Solutions will either place you in an elementary or high school, or an orphanage school. During your free time, you’ll be free to explore Nairobi, a wonderful city with plenty of places of interest.
If you’d like to apply to teach English in Kenya with Volunteering Solutions, click here!
Make your way to Jaipur, the capital of India’s Rajasthan state. There, Volunteering Solutions will place you in a government or NGO-run school to teach students Math, English, or Sports. As a volunteer teacher, you’ll get to know the local challenges facing educators and students as well as implement new ways of learning, including games, activities, and interactive sessions.
When you’re not teaching, you can sightsee in Jaipur, a city known for architecture and pink buildings (it’s called the Pink City). This program overall is a great chance to have an adventure abroad while helping others and improving your teaching resume.
If you’d like to apply to teach in India with Volunteering Solutions, click here!
Since 1997, GVI has placed more than 25,000 volunteers and interns in meaningful programs all over the world.
With opportunities in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australasia, and Africa, GVI has no shortage of impactful adventures you can sign up for – and right now, GVI is offering several dozen teaching placements where you can help out in a classroom, develop your leadership skills, and make a difference for children and teens. GVI also offers TEFL certification if you would like to get paid to teach English worldwide.
GVI is unique from other volunteer programs in three ways: they operate their own volunteer projects to ensure real, sustainable impact on the ground; they provide 360-degree support before, during, and after your placement; and lastly, their alumni network provides increased access to higher education and career development opportunities.
GVI offers a variety of teaching programs in many different locations. Their teaching programs support English language skills, educating women and Buddhist monks, and more. Programs are based in Thailand, Madagascar, Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Nepal.
Kickstart your dream of becoming an international English teacher with GVI’s comprehensive TEFL program in Phang Nga, Thailand. This project requires a commitment of 6 months to ensure you are set up for success. During the first 3 months, you will study and earn your TEFL certificate with the GVI team. Then in the second half of the program, you will join an apprenticeship to teach English in a local institution. Because this program is so comprehensive with intense training, you are strongly positioned to get a job offer in one of the local communities.
Six months is plenty of time to immerse yourself in Thai culture, enjoy touristy places, and build your support network. Phang Nga is a quieter and slower-paced community, yet still offers beautiful beaches, and village life with plenty of food vendors and shops. Your accommodation will be in a GVI volunteer house with staff and other participants to ensure you have a good support system. For more details about this amazing opportunity, click here!
Travel to Cartago, Costa Rica with GVI to teach English to children. This is one of GVI’s most popular programs so it can fill up quickly. This is a great opportunity to visit beautiful Costa Rica country, and at the same time leave a positive impact. No previous teaching experience is required, just the enthusiasm to teach.
You will be teaching English to school-aged children in a childhood development program. You will also engage them in physical activities and other group activities to develop social skills. In your free time, there are many places to visit such as touring San Jose city, coffee plantations, and national parks. Get started here!
Combine a vacation with volunteering in the cultural city of Siem Reap, Cambodia to make your trip more meaningful and memorable! This program aims to bring education to Buddhist monks and children living in Siem Reap. You will be teaching conversational English to Buddhist monks one hour a day, and then introductory English to children in the community for the rest of the time.
The minimum time requirement for this project is 2 weeks, and this allows you to have more time to immerse in the local culture and community rather than just being a tourist. In your free time, spend time exploring the rich culture of the city, and of course, visit the ancient temples of Angkor Wat. Click here to get started!
This 24-week program combines three months of comprehensive TEFL training with a practical three-month work placement, providing you with valuable hands-on teaching experience. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, just a five-minute walk from the Old Market and Pub Street, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and visit landmarks like Angkor Wat.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll assist class teachers, support enrichment activities, and contribute to additional projects such as women’s empowerment and education. This program not only enhances your teaching skills but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on the community.
Ready to Travel?
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your teach abroad experience, check out these articles:
Sarah Vandenberg ยท Director of Partnerships
Sarah has worked as a researcher and consultant in the volunteer travel world since 2004. With a BA from the George Washington University and background working with both public and private sector volunteer organizations, she enjoys exploring the world and collecting and sharing stories, trends, and advice with travelers who want to volunteer, intern, or teach abroad.