Ways to Use Your TEFL Certification (That isn’t Teaching Abroad)
Authored By:
Benefits of a TEFL Certification For After You Teach English Abroad
A TEFL Certification is an essential training program that equips aspiring English teachers with the necessary skills to teach English as a foreign language. However, there are many more benefits of a TEFL Certification that can help you succeed even after you've finished teaching English abroad.
That’s because a TEFL certification:
- Is a professional qualification that never expires. Having a TEFL certification can open a lifetime of opportunities. All it takes is looking in the right places! Although seeking positions in the U.S. might take a little more effort than abroad, they are out there. Take the initiative and continue to teach no matter where your life takes you!
- Can boost your resume for future jobs outside of education. Having a TEFL certification may be a teaching qualification, however, it also demonstrates to prospective employers that you possess effective communication, problem-solving, and an ability to roll with the punches. All critical life and professional skills.
- Looks good on college applications. Are you thinking of continuing your education? A TEFL certification and teach abroad experience (if applicable) can make you stand out on your future college applications.
- Teaches you to become a global citizen. Even here in the United States, having a deep sense and understanding of cultural awareness can help make a difference in your life and local community. A reputable TEFL certification dives into how to be culturally sensitive.
5 Ways to Use Your TEFL Certification (That Isn’t Teaching Abroad)
1. Teach English Online from Home.
Teaching English can be done anywhere in the world—even from your own home! This is a great way to make some extra cash and continue to use your certification to help others learn English. And if you're passionate about teaching English but need a way to do it on your schedule, teaching online is a great way to go. You have the ability to make your own hours and work as much or as little as your schedule allows!
Read More: How to Teach English Online & Earn Money From Home or Abroad
2. Start your Own Business as a Private Tutor.
There are many non-native English-speaking families in the United States and parents who are seeking private English tutoring for their children. This might be a bit of an adjustment for those who are used to instructing a classroom, but the need for private English tutors in the United States is there! Much like teaching English online, giving private English lessons is a great way to work part-time as an English instructor.
3. Become an Au Pair Abroad.
Outside of the United States, the demand for private English tutors is even higher! Many au pairs working abroad help families and their children with private English lessons. Having a TEFL certification might give you a leg-up on other au pairs seeking work and could even assist in negotiating a higher salary.
4. Teach Adults at Local Language Centers or Colleges.
Just because you live in the United States doesn't mean you're a native English speaker. There are many adults who have immigrated to the United States who are looking to learn to speak English and better adjust to society. These adults are looking to learn English for their everyday lives, businesses, and careers.
With such a high number of immigrants and refugees joining major cities across the U.S., English classes can be found at community colleges, community centers, local libraries, and local language centers. This is a fantastic way to continue to put your TEFL to good use and help those right in your community.
5. Make a Difference and Volunteer at Home.
Make a difference with your TEFL certification and give back to your community by volunteering your time to those in need of language instruction. Aside from local colleges and private academies, there are also non-profits that are dedicated to helping immigrants and refugees in the United States learn English, adjust to the culture, and prepare for their citizenship test.
With a TEFL certification, you can assist people in need and potentially make lifelong connections. You can find organizations in your area that enlist the help of volunteers to tutor English both in person and even online with a quick Google search or through local churches.
Helpful Resources for Using Your TEFL Certificate After Teaching Abroad
After completing your teach abroad experience, you may be left wondering what to do and where to start. Here are some helpful resources and tips for what can come next after teaching English abroad.
- Advertise your private tutoring services or teach English online: Cambly, TutorMe, Lingoda, Preply
- Join a tutoring association: National Tutoring Association, Association for Tutoring Professionals
- Volunteer to tutor English online with NGOs: Paper Airplanes, CC English, English Online
- Volunteer your ESL skills in the US or abroad: Americorps, Peace Corps, Teach for America
- Improve adult and child literacy or English ability: National Literacy Directory, Reading Literacy, Refugee Council USA
- Apply to become an Au Pair: Totalnannies, Au Pair World, Au Pair International
- Consider a career in a related field: Study abroad advisor, English teacher at an international school, international development advisor, curriculum developer
Learn more about CIEE TEFL and Teach Abroad Programs
Are you at the beginning of your TEFL journey? CIEE is here to help!
CIEE TEFL’s 150-Hour TEFL Course
One of the first steps to teaching English abroad is enrolling in a quality TEFL course. It's an essential requirement for most TEFL jobs and a must for learning the ins and outs of teaching English as a foreign language. It's especially beneficial for those who wish to teach English without a degree or who lack professional teaching experience.
CIEE TEFL's 150-Hour TEFL course is a fantastic jumping-off point for your professional career. That’s because the CIEE TEFL 150-hour course includes the following:
- Course material accredited by ACCET, a trustworthy third-party recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- One-on-one feedback from a highly-qualified TEFL tutor.
- A mandatory 20-hour practicum providing hands-on experience in the classroom.
- Lifetime job search assistance.
CIEE Teach Abroad Programs
If you have yet to make the move abroad to teach English, CIEE Teach Abroad has helped aspiring teachers find reputable ESL jobs abroad for decades. CIEE Teach Abroad participants can choose placements in exciting destinations like Spain, South Korea, Thailand, and more. Not only does CIEE Teach Abroad assist applicants in choosing the best program and finding a job, but we also provide a safety net throughout the entire move abroad experience.