Job Discussion Forums

akmassager · Joined: 30 Nov 2008 Posts: 38 Location: Juneau, Alaska

I am considering teaching in Taiwan, but have read that usually it is up to the teacher to pay his way to Taiwan. Since I'm in Alaska, the cost of getting to Taiwan is pretty expensive (I'd imagine close to $1.5kUS$) I don't feel like plunking down $3.5 k just to get to Taiwan and settle in. After all, I'm going to save money to go to graduate school and the last thing I want to do is go into debt.
That being said, I noticed some agencies (Reach to Teach, etc) will PAY my way to Taiwan.
Do any of you know about this? Or am I stuck applying to jobs of tealit.com and having to pay my way?

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

You might want to post this in the Taiwan forum for better/more results.

What you "feel like" paying and what is the norm may not be the same. Get used to it when living overseas. If the norm is for the teacher to pay (as it is in Japan), figure that such a thing proves you are more committed to doing the job.

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

Start-up costs in this job can actually be quite hefty--what with airfare (some countries/schools typically pay, but many do not), TEFL certification, finding accommodation, etc. It can take a while to start saving. How long are you planning on teaching before grad school?

d

akmassager · Joined: 30 Nov 2008 Posts: 38 Location: Juneau, Alaska

I was planning on teaching for year or so... Grad school would start in July... But if I have to fork over $3.5k just to start... well, that's not worth it. Would be better to switch jobs and stay stateside.

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

akmassager · Joined: 30 Nov 2008 Posts: 38 Location: Juneau, Alaska

That would be grad school in '10, not in '09. So I'd have a year abroad and a few months stateside.
I have an interview with Teach Away on Tuesday regarding a position in Taiwan. Ever heard of those guys?

orangepaperclip · Joined: 17 Jan 2009 Posts: 3

Whether of not you are reimbursed for your travel expenses really depends on your qualifications and the school you're working for. It is very common for centers such as the British Council, International House, EF and Bell to pay for most, if not all of the airfare. They usually expect experience and qualifications though. Some centers give the money back at the end of the contract.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 2:42 pm Post subject: