Job Discussion Forums

[Reyas]

Hello everyone,

I'm a recent graduate from the University of South Florida and have a BA in History. I am very interested in teaching english as a foriegn language abroad with the goal being able to save money while doing so to finance a second degree.

With that in mind, My first choice of locations would be Saudi Arabia or the UAE since from what I understand, they pay the best. Are the jobs offered there open to recent graduates with no experience or do they require previous teaching experience? If the latter, where would be a good destination to gain expereince, Korea?

Also, what TEFL courses are recommended? I have researched quite a few and the prices vary quite a bit. Is it necessary to spend $1500+ on a TEFL course or will the cheaper online ones be just as credible? Anyone have any recommendations for TEFL courses?

Thank you, any and all help is appreciated

[nomad soul]

For the UAE, you'd need a TESOL-related MA and at least three years of teaching experience at the tertiary level; anything less won't get a second look. The better (direct-hire) jobs in Saudi Arabia require a related MA and a minimum 1-2 years of university EFL teaching experience. However, there are plenty of bottom-feeder contracting companies in KSA; the sketchiest of the batch may be interested in taking on a newbie with an unrelated BA and zero experience. Obviously, signing with a dodgy employer to work in an ultra-conservative country isn't recommended, especially for those completely new to TEFL.

Korea's a better option for you.

[esl_prof]