Job Discussion Forums

smithryansmith · Joined: 27 Dec 2008 Posts: 75

I teach in Europe with a TEFL cert. I would just like to know how much weight a TEFL cert carries in korea and japan? will it get you better jobs? is it a big plus? do most teachers in these countries have TEFL certs? is it worth more than say a BA in English? what about long term, if a person doesnt have it will door be closed in the future

thanks for any answers

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

If all you have is a BA, then you are probably going to be looking at entry level work (ALT or conversation school teacher). In 99% of cases, they don't care about certification.

If you want to get ahead, you will probably have to get one, though, plus a master's degree, but not to get your foot in the door here (Japan).

Oh, and as for it being worth more than a BA, realize that you need the BA as a minimum qualification for a work visa. The cert is just gravy.