Unfortunately, not all TESOL/TEFL courses advertised are of the same quality. For example, correspondence courses without a teaching practicum don’t properly prepare you for teaching abroad and many courses don’t meet the standards or the required in-class hours for international recognition
The Oxford Seminars 60-hour course includes a well-designed teaching practicum component and is an internationally recognized certificate. Graduates of Oxford Seminars include the following reasons to explain why they chose our course:
- Convenience: Our course, held on weekends, is offered on college campuses across the US and Canada throughout the year.
- Instructors: they are certified TESOL/TEFL instructors who are dynamic, experienced, and have a wide range of international teaching experiences.
- Price: it’s one of the most affordable TESOL/TEFL courses available and the course content consistently exceeds students’ expectations.
- Teacher Placement Service: you receive free assistance with the job search process and access to our extensive job database after you graduate.

2. What qualifications do I need to take this course?

The Oxford Seminars TESOL/TESL course is open to anyone who is:
- 18 years of age or older
- a native speaker of English, or a non-native speaker with fluent English abilities
- open-minded about living and working in a new environment

3. What do you mean by "Internationally Recognized" TESOL/TEFL certificate?

Regardless of your educational background, initial exposure to the professional field of TESOL/TEFL is essential to give you the confidence needed to succeed in academic ESL fields. Currently, there are no international standards for TESOL/TEFL qualifications as there is no international governing body for TEFL Training Programs. Courses vary in content and contact hours in the classroom, with some (mostly online courses) having no “in-class” exposure. Certification is the formal recognition given to participants who have completed studies in training programs focusing on TESOL/TEFL, applied linguistics, studies in second language acquisition, English for Specific Purposes (ESP), ESL literacy, and English for Academic Purposes (EAP). All legitimate employers require teachers to be trained and certified. Thus, if you want a good job in the more competitive markets, you should take a TESOL/TEFL certificate training course. A recognized certificate is essential in the highly popular teaching locations.
Oxford Seminars' TESOL/TEFL Certification Course is held throughout the US and Canada. We have been successfully placing graduates worldwide since 1992. Employers in overseas schools have become familiar with Oxford Seminars' high caliber teachers and often contact us looking for qualified ESL instructors. Employers have confidence that our graduates have received practical, engaging, and authentic contemporary TESOL/TEFL training that has effectively prepared them for overseas ESL teaching positions. Oxford Seminars certification demonstrates to employers that our graduates are familiar with both the theoretical approaches as well as the practical techniques required to be a successful ESL teacher.
Oxford Seminars' TESOL/TEFL Certification Course is detailed, comprehensive, up-to-date, and effective. Our highly skilled Teacher Placement Department offers years of field experience to enable a graduate of our program to be placed in one of the thousands of teaching positions in various exotic locales around the world!

4. Will this TESOL/TEFL course really help me to find a full-time job?

Finding a job with our TESOL/TEFL certification is guaranteed. Oxford Seminars’ TESOL/TEFL certificate demonstrates to employers that you are familiar with both the theoretical approaches as well as the practical techniques required to be a successful ESL teacher. We back this up with our exclusive money back guarantee.
Many Oxford Seminars students who begin their search during the course, receive interviews and job offers for full-time teaching positions before the course is over.
Throughout the course, Oxford Seminars instructors provide useful approaches to all stages of the job search process. If students require further assistance, they can fully utilize our Teacher Placement Service.
Furthermore, younger graduates without extensive prior work experience discover, upon their return, that their overseas teaching employment becomes invaluable in opening doors to job opportunities and career choices that were previously unattainable.

Having overseas teaching experience is a unique asset that differentiates many of our graduates and gives them a competitive advantage when applying for other jobs upon their return from abroad. Graduates who are planning to continue in the education field find that their overseas teaching experience becomes a valuable asset when applying to teachers college.

5. How do I register for the course?

Check the upcoming course section and choose the dates and location that are most convenient for you. The course fee is $995 and includes all course materials and access to our Teacher Placement Service. To register anytime by phone, online, fax or mail, click here.

Preparing to Go and Returning Home

1. What should I bring?

Clothing
- Weather/Culturally appropriate clothing. Depending on where you are traveling to it may be inappropriate to wear items such as tank tops and bikinis.
- Conservative teaching attire. Make certain to ask your employer if there is a dress code.
Documents
- Passport
- Appropriate Visa
- Your original degree (if applicable)
- A copy of your transcript
- Health Insurance
- Passport sized photos
Money
- Research the cost of living in the country that you are planning to travel to. See our Country Profiles for more information. Bring enough money to support yourself for at least one month. Depending on the pay period of your school it might be up to 4 weeks before you receive your first pay check.
- Some schools will offer you a start up stipend; others will offer you a loan. If funds are a factor in your travel, you should discuss these options during your contract negotiations.
- Try to bring funds in the currency of the country you are going to; however, depending on where you are going, it might be difficult to obtain. If this is the case, most international airports will have a currency exchange kiosk.
- Traveler’s checks can be cashed at most international banks and foreign exchange kiosks; however, the bank may charge you a user fee. American traveler’s checks are usually the easiest to get cashed.
- ATMs are available in most large cities, and they give you funds in local currency. However, the fees can be high and they might not give you the best exchange rate.
  
  Credit cards are a better option. They often do not charge international user fees, and have fair exchange rates.
  
  Before heading abroad you should speak to a representative of your bank to ensure that your cards are internationally recognized and to find out exactly what the user fees will be on your debit and credit card. Also, you should inform your bank and your credit card company that you are traveling abroad.
  
  Finally you should set up Internet banking before you leave. This way you will be able to easily monitor your accounts while abroad, and pay any outstanding bills (i.e. student loans, credit cards, etc.).
A Guide Book
- Even if you have been there before or speak the language fluently, it is advisable to bring a guide book for your destination country. They can help you find restaurants, affordable accommodations and ex-patriot hot spots.
- A good guide book will also have embassy locations, maps of larger cities and clearly marked subway routes.
A Phrase Book
- If you do not speak the language of the place you are going, you may want to consider bringing a phrase book. A good phrase book will be organized in a logical manner and have a pronunciation key.
Prescription Medications
- If you are on long term prescription drugs, such as asthma medication, consult your doctor before leaving.

2. Will I need to have a medical to get my work visa?

There will most likely be a medical required.
- This will usually entail:
  - Blood tests for STDs and Hepatitis A, B, C, Tuberculosis, etc.
  
  - A routine medical – eyes, ears, lungs, heart
  
  - Urine tests for pregnancy, STDs, infections, etc.

3. What are the difficulties when traveling with prescription medication?

The laws on prescription medication change from country to country.
When traveling with prescription medications please follow the steps below.
- Ensure that the medication is legal in your destination country. Do this by checking with your local consulate.
- Find out how much of the medication you are able to travel with.
- Bring enough of the prescription to cover your needs for at least two months.
- If your contract includes medical coverage, find out if medication and check-ups for pre-existing conditions are covered.
- Research the country to ensure that they have modern medical facilities. In most metropolitan areas you will be able to find an English speaking doctor. Contact other foreigners in the area. Ask them about the facilities
For information about traveling with prescriptions, please refer to http://travel.state.gov/

4. Why is a medical required?

A medical is required by law in most countries in order to obtain a working visa for several reasons.
- The first is for the safety of the population. SARS, the Bird Flu and the West Nile Virus have brought the reality of global epidemics home.
- The second is because you will most likely be provided with medical insurance, so they simply want to be certain that you are healthy. They do not want you leaving a week after you arrive due to medical problems.

5. Should I visit a doctor before I leave?

Yes. Some vaccinations and medications must be administered several times before they are effective. The doctor will tell you what vaccinations are required for the country you are going to, and may recommend other vaccinations or medications. You should have a medical done by a travel doctor here well before you leave.

Your family doctor will be able to help you, but it might be beneficial to go to a travel clinic

6. What are the new restrictions on what I can and cannot bring on the airplane?

Due to recent international events, airport security is being tightened around the world. *Please remember that even if you are just transferring in a country, you must pass through their customs and are therefore subject to restrictions in their country.
For up to date information about US security measures please check out the Transport Security Administration http://www.tsa.gov/

7. What happens if I fail the medical?

This depends on where you are and why you fail. If your sickness is curable you will probably be allowed to take medication at your own cost, and then retake the medical.

If you have a more serious illness you may not be granted a working visa.

8. Is there anything that I should not bring into my destination country?

Obviously you should not bring anything illegal. In addition to this you have to be aware that each country has its own restrictions, especially on items such as fresh fruit, alcohol, cigarettes and prescription drugs. Check with the embassy/consulate of your destination country before leaving.

9. Where is my Embassy?

A great website for locating information regarding embassies and consulates abroad is: http://www.embassyworld.com/

You can also find embassy information at http://usembassy.state.gov/

10. How much luggage can I bring?

In general you can bring two suitcases and a carry on. Your suitcases will need to be under a certain weight. It is important to keep this in mind because if your luggage is over the allotted weight you will have to pay an overweight fee. Check with your airline for luggage policies.

11. What is culture shock?

Culture shock is a physical and emotional response to the change of situation, culture and climate that you may undergo while traveling. Culture shock has four basic stages; the initial excitement and elation of traveling and starting a new career; the inevitable let down which can involve feelings ranging from irritability and homesickness to preoccupations with health and insomnia; an adjustment to the host culture; and finally acceptance and even biculturalism. However, you should be aware that individuals deal with each stage differently and these stages can come and go throughout your entire trip.

12. Can I avoid culture shock?

Culture shock is not something you can necessarily avoid, but it is something that you can work past. Each individual experiences culture shock in a different way, so the approaches to dealing with it can vary. Here are some ideas:
- Before traveling, educate yourself about the culture and customs of the area that you are moving to. For country specific information please review our country profiles
- Once you are in your new country, try to meet people. A great way to do this is by signing for a language course, or by joining a team, a club, or a gym. Building a social group abroad can be integral to your to your success.
- Get to know the area you are living in by learning where the grocery store is, finding a place that serves western meals, etc.
- Travel around the area on weekends. Try the local food, and get to know the local people outside of your classroom
- Keep a journal of the new and interesting things that you experience each day.
- Remember to keep a positive attitude, an open mind, and do not forget to bring your sense of humor.
- In the end, dealing with culture shock is the same as dealing with any other big change in your life: it really depends on you.

13. Travel Warnings

The international situation is constantly changing. For your own safety, we recommend that you keep an eye on the news of the country in which you are interested.
For the most updated travel information please check out http://travel.state.gov/

Locating Employment Overseas

1. How does Oxford Seminars’ Teacher Placement Service work?

Approximately two weeks after you have completed your standard 60-hour TESOL/TEFL certification course you will receive an e-mail introducing you to your Job Search Advisor and detailing how to initiate your service. You can also e-mail initiate@oxfordseminars.com anytime after you have received your certificate.
Your Job Search Advisor will work with you to ensure that you receive job offers from overseas schools.
The Oxford Seminars’ Teacher Placement Service provides six months of free services anytime after you have completed the course.
We have developed and maintained partnerships with reputable organizations and schools abroad to provide our graduates with access to employment opportunities worldwide.
Our services include:
- Assisting graduates in creating an ESL specific resume and cover letter.
- Providing graduates with valuable job market information.
- Informing graduates about important steps to prepare before going abroad.
- Providing tips on negotiating contracts, and how to recognize a great contract offer.
Your Job Search Advisor can also help secure you a position with a reputable school.

The key to a successful placement is knowing what is best for you based on your personal interests, finances, education, travel expenses, and of course, the job market. This means you should determine your needs and conduct some preliminary research to ensure that your education and experience is relevant to the market in which you wish to teach.

2. If my six month Teacher Placement Service expires and I still have not found a position, will my Teacher Placement Advisor (TPA) still work with me?

Generally a TPA will be able to help you secure a position within the free 6 months of Teacher Placement Service. However, if you are still working with your advisor on particular contracts when the service ends, he/she will continue to help you through the negotiation process.

3. How specific can my location choice be?

Oxford Seminars’ Teacher Placement Department will work on your behalf to find you a placement within your top three countries of choice. Before initiating your service, research your preferred placements to ensure that you meet the specific qualifications of your chosen countries. Remember that focusing on a specific city or even a singular country will limit your options and opportunities.

4. In which countries does the Teacher Placement Department have contacts?

We have many contacts around the world. Please see our graduate opportunities for more information.

5. I want to teach in the European Union (EU). Do I need an EU passport?

In order to legally work within the European Union, as in any country, you will need a work visa. A valid EU passport allows you to work legally in EU countries without having to obtain a working visa.

It is possible to get a working visa in the EU without an EU passport; however, the process is difficult and expensive for the schools. Few schools are willing to go through this process and many schools are not comfortable with hiring teachers who are applying from overseas.
Some EU countries will hire ESL teachers without EU passports; however, you will likely be working “under the table,” that is, illegally, on a tourist visa.
It is worthwhile to see if you are eligible to obtain a working holiday visa. Please consult your nearest embassy or consulate for more information.

6. What is the easiest way to start teaching in the European Union (EU)?

For ESL teachers holding EU passports it is recommended that you travel to the area you hope to work in and start contacting schools with your application. Some teachers find that with persistence they are able to obtain a teaching position when applying from the United States.
Non-EU ESL teachers will likely have to travel to the area in question and apply in person for positions and try to secure employment “under the table,” that is, work on a tourist visa that may in time lead to a work visa.
Contact the nearest embassy of the country in which you, your parents (in some cases, grandparents) were born and inquire as to whether you qualify for an EU passport. You can obtain a passport by completing a form online or in person, having it signed by a Notary Public, and paying a processing fee. Please be patient when applying, as passports can take a month or longer to obtain.

7. How frequently do graduates who travel to the EU find positions?

This is a difficult statistic to gauge; however, it has been our experience that once in the country our graduates who put an honest effort into their job search are able to secure employment. Your Teacher Placement Advisor (TPA) will be able to send you information to help your search.

8. What counts as teaching experience?

Teaching experience generally means actual classroom experience. However, some schools will consider tutoring, coaching and training as teaching experience; in other countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, teaching experience will have to be in an actual ESL classroom

9. When do overseas schools usually hire?

A large number of overseas private language schools hire teachers on an as-needed basis any time of the year. Often, they are willing to hire you immediately to replace a teacher who has just left or a teacher who is about to complete their contract. Most of these contracts are for a minimum of one year. Our Teacher Placement Service has numerous job openings year-round and assists our graduates in finding teaching positions every month of the year.
Private language schools which run summer programs tend to hire in the late spring which is ideal for university students looking to work right away. Many summer camps only last a few months and thus involve short-term contracts between May and August.
Government programs such as JET (Japan), EPIK (Korea) and NET SCHEME (Hong Kong) hire a few months before the academic year starts. Keep in mind that public schools, colleges and universities generally begin in September (Northern Hemisphere) and in March (Southern Hemisphere).

10. I have a criminal record; will this affect my ability to be placed overseas?

A criminal record can affect your ability to find employment abroad.
- A country may refuse you entry if you have been convicted of certain offenses.
- A potential employer may decline your application if you have a criminal record.
- It may be difficult to obtain a working visa abroad if you have a criminal record.
Check with the embassy of the country you are going to. They will be able to give you more information about your particular circumstance.

11. Will my age affect my ability to be placed?

We have successfully trained thousands of graduates of all ages at Oxford Seminars and our Teacher Placement Department works diligently on every graduate’s behalf to find them suitable placements.

If you are a mature teacher, it is best to research the retirement age in your countries of choice to ensure that you are eligible to work there. Many of our mature graduates have found their life experience and past work experience to be an asset when searching for a position.

Negotiating a Contract

1. I have decided to look for work on my own. Can the Teacher Placement Department still help me?

If you decide to secure employment on your own behalf, there are still a number of items that the Teacher Placement Service can assist you with!

Your Job Search Advisor is available to assist you throughout the application process. They will not only assist you in composing a great ESL focused resume and cover letter, but are also more than willing to offer useful advice on applying to and working in your countries of choice. They can supply you with a list of online resources, websites, chain schools, and lists of language institutes in your countries of choice. They are also available to look over the contract that you have been offered and will guide you through the negotiation process.

2. What should I look for in my contract?

It is best to do some research on what the standard contract typically includes in the country that you have chosen to travel to, so that you can distinguish between common practices and traps. For example: schools in Western Europe do not often supply their teachers with airfare. If airfare is not included in your contract for a school in Italy, that is not a trap, but rather common practice. The following are items that you should pay close attention to when examining your contract.
- Split shifts - Some schools are open from early morning until late at night. As a result some teachers do not work straight through the day (i.e., 9am-5pm), but may instead work in the morning from 8am-12pm and then in the evening from 4pm-10pm. In some countries, such as Taiwan and Korea, split shifts are very common.
- Unpaid holidays
- Sick days - Schools that pay by the hour do not often pay for sick days. If you are paid a salary then you should expect a certain number of paid sick days.
- Reimbursement for airfare - It is important to know which countries typically supply this benefit and ensure that it is included on your contract if it is standard (eg. Korea).
- Overtime - The contract should detail how many hours you will be expected to work and should state an hourly rate for any additional teaching time. It is important to confirm that overtime hours are optional.
- Accommodations - Your contract should state whether or not the school will provide you with paid accommodations. If they do not, then it is common for a school to provide you with help finding accommodations. Your contract should also detail whether these accommodations are shared or single, furnished or unfurnished.
  
  Many overseas contracts will provide accommodations (often a two bedroom apartment that you would share with another teacher, or dormitory style housing), but if they do not, the salaries will reflect the cost of housing.
  
  Many ESL teachers worry that their housing will be substandard. It is important to keep in mind that it would not be in the best interest of the schools to place you in sub-standard housing. If they did, most teachers would simply pack up and leave. The school would then have to go through the added expense and time to hire another ESL teacher.
- Key money (mainly in Japan) - If a school is not providing you with accommodations you may need to secure your own housing. In some countries landlords will ask for key money which is often the equivalent of anywhere from 3-6 months rent. This is not a security deposit. You will not receive this back when you finish your lease. Some schools will assist with this deposit, or provide you with school owned housing that does not require it.
- Transportation - It is important to know how far away your accommodations are from the school in which you will be teaching. If your housing is relatively far away, many schools will subsidize a scooter or a bus pass. If your school requires you to travel to a number of different locations throughout your work week, they should provide a travel stipend.
- Unpaid preparation time - Often teachers are not paid for preparation time. The school may require that you prepare for your classes during office hours held at the school. Though this is common, if a school asks you to hold unpaid office hours for what seems to be an unrealistic amount of time then compensation should be discussed.
- Unpaid extracurricular activities - Compensation is not usually provided for extracurricular activities, such as graduations or holiday parties. Many contracts will state a maximum amount of extracurricular hours you are expected to work and may pay you overtime for additional hours.
- Healthcare - Whether or not healthcare is covered should be included in your contract. If it is not included it is a good idea to look into private health coverage prior to departing.
- Holidays - Your contract should state the holidays that you will receive time off. Depending on where you go, Christmas, New Years and Easter may not be celebrated; however, there are many different and exciting local holidays to celebrate!
- Transportation from airport - Your contract should indicate if a representative from your school will meet you at the airport or if you will be responsible for arriving at the school on your own. If the city that your school is in does not have an airport you may need to take a train or bus to your school.
- Private tutoring - Your teaching contract may state that private tutoring is not permitted by the school. While this may be stated in your contract, it is very common for ESL teachers to tutor discretely. A good alternative to private tutoring is working additional overtime at your school.

Visas

1. How can I get a working visa?

The visa process is different for each country. For information about getting a visa for the country you are interested in, contact the closest embassy or consulate or visit their website.
Often, you must apply for a working visa from outside the country in which you intend to work. Some countries even require that you apply for the visa from home.
- In general you will need a letter of intent from your employer, a copy of your contract, return airline tickets, a copy of your degree and transcripts (if applicable), your passport, your birth certificate, another form of identification, two passport size photos and a fee.
- Working visas can take anywhere from a day to a month to process.

2. Can I work on a spousal visa?

This depends on the country. If your spouse is Japanese you can legally work in Japan on a spousal visa. In other countries you may have to apply for a secondary working visa. Contact the nearest embassy/consulate and find out the exact requirements.
If your spouse is also a foreigner you will need to secure a separate working visa in most, if not all, countries.

3. Can I work on a student or tourist visa?

This is popular practice for many ESL teachers because you do not have to go through the hassle of obtaining a work visa and are free to switch schools whenever you want. Tourist visas are usually valid for about 90 days depending on the country that you are traveling to.
In Asia many schools will ask you to come on a tourist visa, especially if there are time constraints involved, and will secure you a work visa upon arrival. This practice may require you to do a visa run to a nearby country. If this is required, the school should be responsible for the cost.
In some countries (like those in Latin America) it is very difficult to obtain a working visa. So working on a tourist visa is common practice. There are many downsides to this practice:
- It is illegal and, if caught, a teacher can be fined and perhaps deported. In some countries the fine will be charged to the school.
- You may be required to leave the country often (approx. every three months) to renew your visa (this is commonly known as a visa run).

4. Why is it more difficult to get working visas in some countries than others? How can I find out about getting a visa in the country in which I wish to work?

How one country will treat its foreign workers is often reciprocated. For example, if the United States does not have a visa arrangement with citizens from Malaysia, then, typically, Malaysia will not offer visas for Americans.
Each country has different regulations when it comes to issuing valid working visas. For more information regarding the issuance of work visas, contact the nearest consulate or embassy of your target country.
In most cases in order to qualify for a working visa you need to have secured employment and have proof of that employment. Usually a letter from your employer will suffice.

5. What is a Working Holiday Visa (WHV)?

A WHV is an agreement between the United States and another country that allows American citizens to go to that country to work and travel. In turn, the United States allows citizens of that country to work and travel in the United States.
Most of these agreements are for the period of one year and often have age limitations (generally 18-30).
To find out where the US has WHV relationships visit http://www.anyworkanywhere.com.

What to expect from your school

1. Will there be resources?

Unless you are volunteering, your school should provide you with the basic necessities you need to teach a class:
- Text books/Reference materials
- White board/chalk board/markers/erasers
- Curriculum
- Most schools will provide you with the above material as well as other useful material such as: flash cards, worksheets, story books, ESL games, etc.
- Some schools may have language labs and Internet learning for students.
If you are volunteering you may want to consider bringing helpful tools like chalk and flashcards.

2. Will there be a curriculum?

Your school should provide you with a curriculum.
- More established schools and chain schools will definitely provide you with a curriculum and sometimes even daily lesson plans.
- Newer and smaller schools will be more apt to change their curriculum. As you grow more confident in your role as a teacher, you may be asked to revamp or recreate the curriculum. This could be a great opportunity to expand your skills base.

3. What are the usual class sizes?

Class size depends on the school you are in.
- If you are teaching in a private cram school, you will probably not have more than about 20 students in a class. Sometimes a class can be as small as 2 or 3 students.
- If you are teaching in a public school then your classes might have as many as 50 students. If this is the case you will probably be provided with an assistant or a co-teacher.
- If you are teaching in a college or university your class sizes could be quite a bit bigger. Again, you will probably be provided with an assistant or a co-teacher.

4. What age groups will I be teaching?

This depends on the school you are in and your contract.
- It is common for ESL teachers to begin their career by teaching children.
- There is a strong market teaching English for specific purposes (ESP) such as business English.

5. Will I have to team teach?

This will depend on your contract. You may team teach with another foreign teacher, but it is more likely that you will be working with a local teacher. Generally this teacher will speak both English and the native language of the classroom. This teacher will often be in charge of classroom management, homework and drills.
Some schools do not require team teaching.

6. Will there be a native speaker in the classroom?

If you are working with young children at a beginner level, there will often be a native speaker in the classroom. If there is not, then there will be a native speaker close by. In most Asian countries foreign teachers are assigned a bilingual ‘secretary.’ These people will help you with any problems that might arise.

7. Will I have to sing and dance?

You do not have to do anything. However, if you are working with young monolingual children you will find that this method may work to your advantage. If you are not comfortable with this, you might want to bring children’s songs on a CD from home.

8. How many hours a week am I expected to work?

This will, of course, depend on your contract. In general teachers work between 20-30 hours. Classes can range from 1 hour to 3 hours in length.

9. Is there a dress code?

Many schools have a dress code for teachers. The code itself will depend not only on your school but on the country. For the majority of schools, a dress code will mean casual but conservative dress. However, for some schools this might mean a suit and tie.
- On this topic it is best to take your cue from other teachers working at your school. You may find the rules within the school a little more lax than in the dress code itself.
If you are volunteering then you are often encouraged to dress in a casual manner to ensure a comfortable classroom for the students.

10. Will I be observed?

You will most likely be observed during your training period.
- If at all possible, you should try to observe other teachers not only during your training period but throughout your teaching career in order to continually improve your skills.
You can expect to be observed through the duration of your teaching career. Though this might seem intimidating, it is actually a great way to improve on your teaching skills. The senior teachers who observe you will hopefully provide you with hints on improving your style.

11. Do I need to bring teaching resources?

It is always better to be over prepared than under prepared. Many ESL classes will have the traditional blackboard/whiteboard with little extra resources, while other, more advanced schools will have CALL Labs (Computer Assisted Language Learning), Internet resources, online collaboration, and other technological advances. Most schools will fall somewhere in between. It is best to prepare by asking other current ESL teachers within the organization as to what type of resources are available and what is lacking.
We recommend that you bring:
- A reliable grammar source book and other resource information, as some overseas schools do not have adequate resource libraries or Internet access.
- Current cultural information about your home country. Many overseas students wish to know more about American lifestyles and culture.
  This could include: music, magazines, books, newspaper articles, information about holidays, etc.
- A teacher’s box.
  This could include: stickers, markers, cards, dice, small currency (coins from another country are always interesting to children), etc.

12. What if my students do not speak English at all?

Typically, when you have students who do not have English language ability at all, you will be assisted by a native speaker with some English ability.

If an assistant is not available, you will have to use other means of communicating your ideas to the students using gestures, photographs, drawings, and pantomime.

A skilled ESL teacher may be able to utilize a more advanced student to communicate ideas in their native tongue which will instill confidence and a sense of responsibility in the “assistant” and create a more collaborative classroom.

Traveling with Companions

1. Can I bring my family?

What a great opportunity for you and your family to see the world. This could be an especially good opportunity for children to learn another language and culture.

You can, of course, bring your family with you, but there are things to consider before you do:
- If your contract includes accommodations, it is probably based on the assumption of single occupancy. You should discuss this with your school’s director. Most likely your school will help you and your family find suitable accommodations, even if they will not pay for them. Depending on the school and the country they may grant you a stipend to put towards rent.
- If your children need to attend school while you are abroad you should look into the cost and location of schools prior to your departure. The Council of International Schools will give you information about schools in your destination city.
- In most large cities you will be able to enroll your child into a local bilingual day care. You may be able to hire a nanny when you arrive. Again, these are questions you will want to ask your contact before arriving.
- Generally your spouse will not be able to work legally, unless they also obtain a working visa.

2. Can I bring my pets?

You can bring your pets if you like, but there are several things to consider before you make this decision.
- Your pet should be up-to-date with all shots and vaccinations. Research which vaccinations are necessary for the country you are going to.
- Depending on the country you are going to, your pet might need an import permit (even for transfers). Check out the requirements of both the local government and the airline that will be importing your pet.
- Flying with an animal can be very expensive for you and stressful for the pet. Depending on the airline you might not be able to see your pet for the duration of the trip.
- In general, and with the exception of certified service dogs, pets will most likely have to travel in the cargo compartment.
- Most countries will require a period of quarantine. In Taiwan your pet will have to stay quarantined for 25 days. In Japan, the quarantine period is 40 days. Contact the embassy of the country you are traveling to and any country you might be transferring in.

3. I want to teach and travel with my friend/partner. Can we share an
apartment?

Many contracts will try to place teachers with their partner/friend/spouse to alleviate culture shock and ease the teacher’s transition to the foreign environment.
If you and your partner are not married, you need to keep cultural norms in mind. In some countries it is illegal for a man and woman who are not related or married to live together. However, as long as you are discreet about your situation, most landlords will not bother you.
If you are gay or lesbian, you should be aware of laws in the country to which you are traveling. In some countries homosexuality is still illegal.
If you are traveling as a same sex married couple, your marriage will be recognized in countries like Belgium, South Africa, Spain, the Netherlands, Canada and some US states; however, in many countries your relationship will not be recognized. Please carefully research the country in which you plan to travel.

For more information please visit http://travel.state.gov

Organizing Finances

1. How do I deal with my finances (i.e., taxes and bank accounts) when working overseas?

There are several tax options to consider when living abroad and returning home. These options depend on factors such as:
- How much money you made
- Your marital status
- If you have dependants
- If you paid taxes in your host country
- How long you have been away
- If you claimed non residency status in your home country
- If you have assets such as bonds and properties
Because taxes are dependent on your personal situation we highly recommend that you speak to an accountant before you leave. If you cannot speak to an accountant, you should contact IRS before you depart.
You have several tax options that should be explored before you leave.
You will be required to file taxes when you return home.
We also recommend that you contact your bank before leaving. They will be very helpful when you are putting your financial affairs in order.

2. Do I have to inform the government that I am leaving?

Whether or not you should contact the government prior to your departure depends on your personal situation. You should consider:
- How long you will be gone, as the length of your stay abroad will affect your taxes, and your right to receive government sponsored health benefits and pensions.
- If you have properties or holdings in your home country.
We recommend that you thoroughly investigate your own situation before leaving.

3. How can I send money home?

Sending money home internationally is generally a simple process, though possibly a bit expensive.

You can wire money to an account back home through all international and most national banks. You simply have to go to the bank, give them a void check and your passport/working visa, and they will transfer the money into your home account. This process may take up to two weeks to complete.

Many banks will have English transfer forms; if not, you might want to bring a companion who speaks and reads both English and the language of the country.

4. What should I do about my debts at home?

Set up your bills through Internet/telephone banking
Inform your creditors if you think you will miss one or two payments while you are setting up overseas. A simple phone call will save you many headaches a month or two down the line.

Safety Advice for Women Travelers

1. I am a woman traveling alone. What measures can I take to ensure that I have a safe and enjoyable experience while teaching abroad?

Traveling alone can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help keep you safe on your journey.
- Research the country that you are going to. Knowledge will be your best tool. Know where you are going, and how you are getting there. Get directions before you leave your hotel or hostel.
- Be aware of local customs concerning the social roles of women and what is considered appropriate dress. Being respectful of local customs could mean a safe and a problem free trip.
- Leave expensive clothing and jewelry at home. These items could be lost or damaged during your trip. They could also flag you as a potential victim of robbery.
- Whenever possible remain in public places.
- Do not announce that you are traveling alone. You may consider wearing a wedding band to make yourself seem less vulnerable.
- Keep your purse close to you at all times. Choose a purse that is made of strong material, and has a latch or a fold over the zipper. Do not carry your travel documents in your purse. Use a money belt or something equally as hidden and safe.
- Photocopy two sets of travel documents. One for you to keep and one for your family.
- Keep family or friends updated on your itinerary and set times to call/chat online with them.

Life Abroad

1. Will there be other foreigners at my school?

Virtually every overseas contract will have other ESL teachers who work at the same school. If not, there are other schools where there will certainly be other foreign teachers within the area.
Most overseas placements are in major city centers where there is a thriving expatriate community.

2. Will I be able to eat "western" food?

Major city centers will have large western chains. There will likely be local western restaurants, pubs and grocery stores run by members of the expatriate community. Before leaving, check out your travel guide, it will probably list resources in your area.

3. I am a vegan/vegetarian. Will my diet be a concern?

Many overseas cultures also adhere to vegan/vegetarian diets and often will have fresh produce available for home cooking, and many restaurants will cater to special dietary needs.
It will be useful for you to be able to express yourself in the language of the nation. Expressions such as, “Does this contain meat?” “I’m a vegetarian,” and “Can you recommend any dishes?” can be very helpful.

4. Can I drink the water abroad?

Research your destination country. Speak to a local teacher (which is a common way of getting answers to many of these questions) about the quality of the potable water in the specific area to which you are going. In many countries it will be necessary to drink bottled water.

5. Does my country of choice have suitable health facilities (i.e., modern hospitals, English speaking doctors and dentists…)?

Many major cities around the world have modern facilities and often have English speaking doctors. However, rural areas might lack proper facilities. In some areas it might be necessary to travel to a major city center for medical attention.
Some countries will not have modern facilities and equipment; however, it would be prudent to research the countries in question and find out if they do have proper medical facilities. Contact the nearest embassy and inquire as to the medical facilities and their reliability. Again, it is recommended that you speak to teachers in the area and discuss their experiences.

6. Can I get my own apartment?

You may choose to find your own accommodations; however, in a foreign country searching and negotiating for a new apartment can be rather daunting and will require assistance.
- Some schools will help you in this process.
- Other teachers may be able to assist you as well.

7. What is the cost of living for most ESL teachers?

Most overseas teachers are paid a more than livable wage for the country that they are working in. Often, ESL teachers are paid five times more than local teachers.
The cost of living depends upon your lifestyle. How much entertainment do you need? Do you cook at home or prefer to eat out? Do you plan to travel on every vacation/holiday/weekend? Etc.
Depending on how you choose to live and the expenses you have at home (i.e., student loans), you should be able to afford a nice apartment and a good lifestyle. Depending on the country you are in, there is an opportunity to put away some money as well.
For more information please visit our Country Profiles.

8. Will I have access to transportation?

Many overseas placements are in major metropolitan areas which have excellent public transportation.
Often, the school will provide you with accommodations that are within walking distance of the school, and if not, they may provide assistance in finding suitable transportation.
Some contracts will require you to have a driver’s license or the ability to operate a moped or motor-scooter to travel from site to site. Again, it will all depend on where you are teaching and the contract and country conditions.

9. Do I need to know the native language of the country that I am traveling to?

There is no need for you to know the native language for the classroom (it is often discouraged to speak the native language in the classroom); however, knowledge of the native language will make your transition and adjustment to the foreign country much easier outside the classroom and help to alleviate culture shock in your day to day activities.
It is recommended that you take a language survival course and/or purchase a phrase book before you leave.

Specializing your Certification

1. Can I upgrade my TESOL/TEFL certification?

After taking our 60-hour in-class course you are eligible to upgrade your certification to up to 220 hours with our specialization modules.

2. What specialization modules do you offer?

Oxford Seminars offers the choice of four modules: Teaching Business English, Teaching English Grammar, Teaching English to Children, and Teaching TOEFL preparation. Each course is conveniently done by correspondence and is an additional 40 hours of teacher training.

3. What specializations are best suited for which particular countries or regions abroad?

While each specialization will provide you with tools that you can use regardless of where you decide to teach, some specializations are better suited to certain areas of the world.
- If you have prior business experience or are particularly interested in teaching adults in the business sector Teaching Business English will assist you in accomplishing this goal. This specialization is particularly useful in many Latin American and European countries as well as in China and Japan.
- Teaching Grammar tests your own knowledge of English grammar. As you may have found in the course, most people for whom English is their mother tongue know grammar intrinsically but do not necessarily understand it. This specialization is recommended for all countries around the world.
- Teaching English to Children provides you with a better understanding of how to work with children and provides you with many teaching aids. Teaching monolingual children, though fun, can be a challenge. Since it is common for first time teachers to work with children, especially in Japan, Taiwan, Korea and China, this can better provide you with the necessary skills and confidence to communicate and work with children.
- Teaching TOEFL Preparation is a great specialization module if you are interested in teaching in Asia, particularly in Korea, China and Japan, especially if you are interested in private tutoring. This specialization is also a great way to refresh your grammar skills.

Acronyms

1. There are so many acronyms associated with this industry. What do they signify?

TESL/ESL
- Teaching English as a second language/English as a second language
  
  English is the second language of the people you are teaching. English is spoken in the country where you are teaching (i.e., you are teaching in English in Britain).
TEFL
- Teaching English as a foreign language
  
  English is taught as a foreign language to people who live in a country where English is not spoken (i.e., teaching English in Brazil).
TESOL
- Teaching English to speakers of other languages
  
  This is a North American term that covers both EFL and ESL instruction. It is also the name of a teachers’ association.
ESP
- English for specific purposes
  
  This term refers to the focused learning of topics ranging from business English to TOEFL. Oxford Seminars offers specialization modules on these topics.
TOEFL
- Test of English as a foreign language
  
  This is an academic based standardized test given to English language learners.
  
  A high score on this test is required for entry into most American colleges and universities to ensure that a foreign student is competent and fluent in English.
TOEIC
- Test of English for international communication
  
  This is a standardized test required in many international work places. It focuses on vocabulary and communication skills.

For more detailed answers to these and numerous other questions, please check out our free information package.

To register for any of our upcoming courses, click here.


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