Beginning Your Career

Teaching ESL/EFL requires skills beyond just knowing the language. Teachers must have specialized skills and know methodologies for language teaching. If you are considering a career in TESOL, you will find that the field is as rewarding as it is demanding.

English language teaching opportunities exist throughout the world. Opportunities will vary depending on the following factors:

• Where you want to teach (public/private sector, geographical location) 
• What level you want to teach (pre-K-12, adult, or higher education) 
• Your background and qualifications

If you are interested in beginning a career in English language teaching, the information presented here will help you get started.

Getting Started

• Publications to Help You Get Started
  
  
• A Guide to Common Acronyms in the TESOL Profession


• FAQs About Starting a Career in TESOL (PDF)


• Teaching English as a Foreign Language: Questions and Answers

Doing the Research

• Common Qualifications for English Language Teachers
  
  
• Finding Teacher Education Programs in TESOL
  
  
• Evaluating Teacher Education Programs in TESOL
  • General
  • Independent Certificate Programs
  • CELTA, TEFL Certificate, and Distance Learning Programs
    
    
• Other Resources for Becoming Qualified

Finding a Job

• Finding a Job in TESOL
  
  
• Tips for Evaluating Potential Employers 
  
  
• Teaching Opportunities in the United States
  
  
• Teaching Opportunities Outside the United States