Job Discussion Forums

neilmac · Joined: 23 Jun 2007 Posts: 4

i am a 32 year old british guy and am considering doing a TEFL course (CELTA or TESOL), as i would like to go to latin america to teach. thing is, i don't have a degree and wonder if this will hold me back and reduce my chances of securing work there. is there anyone out there without a degree but with a CELTA or similar certificate, who has tried to get work in latin america?

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

As far as Peru goes, they really value education. The TEFL cert isn't too much of a help here, but the majority of the places require a degree. That being said, you might be able to get work at a language institute, but would probably be doing so illegally. If you want more info, PM me.

EverReady · Joined: 19 May 2005 Posts: 48 Location: Nobody Cares

In Mexico you can find work without a degree, but it will probably be at a language school, at least at the start. They dont pay as well and have longer hours but if you stay for awhile you might be able to work your way up. You can work legally in Mexico with only an TEFL certificate in certain parts of the country. Big metropolitan areas tend to be the most lenient in this regard. If your planning to go to Mexico it might be best to do your cert. in country for immigration reasons. Best of luck.

jillford64 · Joined: 15 Feb 2006 Posts: 397 Location: Sin City

The immigration office here in Morelia will accept only a TEFL cert as proof that you are qualified to teach English.

rlloydevans · Joined: 23 Jan 2006 Posts: 26 Location: Guayaquil, Ecuador

Here in Ecuador I am teaching happily without a university degree. Of course I have teaching experience and training through military service, some good documentable life experience and a TEFL Certification. SO it can be done. I am an exception, though.