Immerse yourself in a land of diverse cultures, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes, where teaching English is a life-changing adventure. The Indian Subcontinent beckons TEFL teachers to expand their horizons, offering unique opportunities to experience vibrant customs, forge lasting connections, and grow both professionally and personally.
Step into a world where every classroom becomes a gateway to cultural discovery and community impact, and prepare to transform not only the lives of your students but your own as well.
Why Teach English in This Region?
Rich Cultural Immersion
The Indian Subcontinent is a melting pot of languages, religions, and customs. From India’s colorful festivals like Diwali and Holi to Nepal’s serene Himalayan landscapes and Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality, teaching here means you won’t just be instructing in the classroom — you’ll be living the culture.
You’ll be welcomed with open arms by local communities who value education and personal connections, making your journey both professionally and personally enriching.
Affordable Living & Growing Demand
One of the greatest advantages of teaching English in South Asia is the cost of living. In cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, or Kathmandu, your salary can stretch much further than in many Western countries. Despite modest pay scales in some areas, affordable housing, food, and transportation ensure you can live comfortably and even save a bit while exploring the region.
With English as a vital tool for economic and educational advancement, schools and language institutes across the region are eager to hire qualified teachers.
Professional Growth and Impact
Whether you’re a new teacher or an experienced educator looking for a change, teaching English here offers an excellent platform for professional development. You’ll have the opportunity to cut your teeth in unconventional teaching environments that will sharpen your classroom management, lesson planning, and cultural adaptability; skills that are invaluable in today’s globalized education landscape.
Beyond enhancing your résumé, you’ll have the rewarding opportunity to empower local students with language skills that can open doors to better job prospects and global opportunities.
What You Need to Get Started
Essential Qualifications
- TEFL/TESOL Certification: Most schools and language centers in the region highly value or require certification. It equips you with the necessary skills to manage classrooms and create engaging lessons. Get TEFL certified online with The International TEFL Academy!
- English Proficiency: A strong command of English is essential. You don’t have to be a native speaker, but your fluency and ability to communicate clearly are key.
- Bachelor’s Degree: While many institutions prefer candidates with a degree, there are opportunities, especially in volunteer roles, where practical skills can suffice. Read on to find out more!
Volunteer Teaching Opportunities in Different Countries
Trending Guidebooks
Volunteering Abroad AFTER the Coronavirus Outbreak
Read 25,838 times2025 Best Internships Abroad: Medical Care, Marine Biology & More
Read 89,072 timesVolunteer in Australia: Animals, Conservation, Ranching and More
Read 49,050 times2025 Best Volunteer Abroad Programs, Organizations, and Projects
Read 3,644,355 times
India
India is a top destination for TEFL teachers, offering a range of teaching positions in public and private schools, language centers, and even international schools in major cities. With a low cost of living and a vibrant cultural tapestry, teaching in India allows you to experience everything from bustling urban centers to serene rural landscapes.
Explore the following volunteer teaching programs in India:
IVHQ offers two enriching teaching volunteer programs in India.
In Kerala, volunteers spend 1 to 8 weeks in Fort Kochi, working up to 5 hours daily to help improve education quality through English teaching and lesson planning. In Delhi’s Faridabad, programs run 1 to 24 weeks, where volunteers teach children aged 5 to 11 to enhance their language and life skills. Both opportunities provide hands-on classroom experience in under-resourced schools, with TEFL training recommended to maximize your impact.
Experience teaching and community work in Goa! Volunteer in a vibrant program where you teach English at a local kindergarten and support slum outreach in the evenings. Enjoy engaging lessons, fun games, and Culture Week adventures while living in a comfortable riverfront villa.
IVI, an Australian non-profit with 30 years of experience, offers safe, affordable volunteer travel with full in-country support and transparent fees.
In Bodhgaya, support a rural school by teaching English, assisting with nutrition and health education, and helping with renovations — empowering a vulnerable community near sacred Buddhist sites. In Darjeeling, work as an assistant teacher at a kindergarten, creating engaging lessons in English, arts, and more while enjoying the scenic hill station’s charm.
Volunteer in Jaipur and help combat child labor by supporting government and NGO-run schools in rural areas and slums. Teach interactive lessons in English, Math, or Sports to middle school children while immersing yourself in local culture and language. Enjoy a structured schedule with meals, orientation, transfers, and comfortable accommodations, plus free weekends to explore Jaipur and nearby attractions.
Nepal
Known for its dramatic natural beauty, from the peaks of the Himalayas to lush valleys, Nepal provides a multitude of volunteer opportunities for English teachers.
Whether you’re teaching in urban schools in Kathmandu or engaging in community projects in rural areas, you’ll find that Nepal offers a rewarding mix of adventure and cultural immersion.
Join IVHQ’s Teaching English Volunteer Program in Nepal to improve quality education. Available for 1 to 12 weeks, volunteer work up to 5 hours daily teaching English and other subjects in local schools.
Experience meaningful volunteer teaching in Nepal with two unique programs!
In the Everest region, live in a Buddhist monastery and teach English and more to monks, after an enriching Culture Week in Kathmandu. Alternatively, join an Educational Outreach program in Kathmandu (or Pokhara/Chitwan) to support local schoolchildren by assisting with various subjects.
Projects Abroad is a trusted international volunteer organization that has been empowering individuals to make a meaningful impact for over 25 years. They offer transformative programs that provide life-changing experiences and deep cultural immersion around the globe.
In Nepal, join this year-round project at local primary schools to help children improve their English and literacy. Gain practical classroom experience, develop leadership skills, and work with local teachers. No prior experience is required — just intermediate English. Live with a friendly host family, explore Nepal’s majestic mountains and sacred temples, and boost your resume while making a difference.
In Kathmandu’s primary schools, you’ll assist local teachers, inspire underprivileged children, and impart essential English skills. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Buddhist culture by teaching monks at monasteries while learning local traditions.
Assist local teachers in Kathmandu by teaching English, Maths, and more. Enjoy supportive guidance, comfortable accommodation, and delicious meals while inspiring students and learning about Nepalese culture. This enriching experience empowers both children and volunteers in a vibrant, culturally diverse environment.
Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning organization that connects passionate volunteers with impactful projects worldwide. By partnering with local communities, GVI creates life-changing experiences that empower individuals to make a lasting difference.
In beautiful Pokhara, volunteer and apprenticeship programs empower local communities through education. Teach English, literacy, and numeracy in schools, support after-school classes, and facilitate creative learning activities. Enjoy comprehensive training, and hands-on experience, and live in homestay-style accommodation with stunning views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s friendly atmosphere and rich history make it another appealing destination.
With initiatives often supported by local and international organizations, you can expect a structured experience that also allows for exploration of the island’s natural beauty.
Join the Teaching Volunteer Program in Sri Lanka to improve access to quality education. Volunteers teach English in Kandy’s schools, temples, monasteries, and community centers.
Programs run for 1 to 12 weeks with flexible hours up to five daily. Suitable for volunteers aged 16+ and families, no teaching experience required. Enjoy local orientation, cultural activities, and supportive supervision. Live in shared volunteer houses and experience Sri Lankan heritage, delicious cuisine, and vibrant community while making a truly rewarding, meaningful impact.
Experience the rewarding Kindergarten Teaching Program in southern Sri Lanka. Volunteers support early childhood development by nurturing social and English skills in under-resourced schools with local teachers. Engage in creative classroom activities and lesson planning while enjoying cultural adventures, yoga, bike tours, and movie nights.
Accommodations near Unawatuna Beach in Galle offer a community experience. Commit 1 to 20 weeks.
Volunteer Teaching with Monks in Sri Lanka offers classroom experience in a coastal town near Colombo, where you stay with a host family. Ideal for aspiring educators and recent graduates, you teach conversational English, numeracy, music, IT, and more in government schools, IT centers, or teaching temples.
No prior experience is needed; thorough induction, workshops, and lesson materials are provided. Three daily meals are included.
Discover three enriching teaching programs in Sri Lanka.
- In Ella, begin with a Kandy cultural orientation, then off to local preschools and tea estates, where you teach English and creative arts to young children.
- In Hikkaduwa, focus on enhancing English for children and monks in a vibrant coastal setting through engaging lessons and creative activities.
- Near Kandy, support kindergarten education, village kids, and special needs schools with dynamic, interactive lessons.
All programs provide excellent accommodation, meals, orientation, transport, and ongoing local comprehensive support.
Join our Children’s Teaching Volunteer Program in southern Sri Lanka, where you help underprivileged children aged 6 to 12 improve their English and gain confidence. Enjoy immersive cultural experiences while living in a tropical Unawatuna villa near the beach. Receive orientation, local transportation, and daily meals.
Engage in activities like yoga, movie nights, and bike tours. This program offers cultural exchange and teaching experience while making a lasting difference in young lives.
The Maldives
The Maldives, renowned for its stunning islands and booming tourism industry, is increasingly recognizing the value of English language skills in today’s global economy.
Although opportunities here may differ from those in India or Sri Lanka, positions in private institutions and tutoring centers provide rewarding work experiences and unique insights into the local culture.
Join a 2 to 12-week experience on remote Naifaru Island. Working 35 hours weekly, you will inspire young minds through sports, education, and environmental awareness while assisting marine biologists caring for sea turtles. Collaborate with local teachers in six schools, support kindergarten classes, and organize extracurricular activities.
Enjoy island excursions on Saturdays, shared dorm-style accommodation, three daily meals, airport transfers, and comprehensive support. Embrace island life, bridge cultural gaps, and contribute to sustainable community development.
Tips for a Successful Teaching Journey
- Research Ahead: Look into specific schools and programs in your target country. Use reputable job portals and connect with expats who have taught in the region.
- Prepare Your Application: Tailor your résumé and cover letter to highlight relevant qualifications, teaching certifications, and any volunteer or tutoring experience.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Learn a few phrases in the local language and familiarize yourself with social customs. Small gestures of cultural respect can go a long way.
- Network: Join online communities and social media groups for teachers abroad. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly valuable.
Teach, Travel, Transform
Teaching English across the Indian Subcontinent is an adventure that offers lifelong memories, personal growth, and the chance to make a tangible impact in communities eager to learn.
With diverse opportunities, affordable living, and a rich cultural backdrop, this region beckons educators from around the world to step out of their comfort zones and embrace an extraordinary journey.
So, are you ready to pack your bags, get certified, and embark on an experience that will change your life?
Happy teaching!
Munira Maricar · Travel Writer
With an international living background spanning Singapore, Qatar, Japan, and Mexico, Munira enjoys sharing insights on immersive travel while emphasizing the vital role of cultural respect and ethical engagement. Her extensive experience offers a unique perspective that inspires others to explore the world through service, ensuring that every journey respects and contributes positively to local traditions and communities.