Teaching abroad can be a fantastic opportunity to travel to other parts of the world, immerse yourself in another culture and experience an entirely new way of life. It can be a very lucrative career change, and depending on the institution you work with, you may even have all your moving expenses covered.

Both non-teaching individuals and U.S. certified teachers who hold a bachelor's degree can secure positions  

teaching abroad

 . However, there are different processes for each.

Non-Teachers Seeking Credentials
Individuals who hold a bachelor's degree, but have not taken education classes, can receive training that can allow them to secure an international teaching position. One such program is known as FAST TRAIN, provided at George Mason University (Washington, D.C.). The FAST TRAIN program can be completed over two five-week summer sessions or through an evening program for students who live in the Washington, D.C. area.

Upon completion of the FAST TRAIN program, graduates must perform 15 weeks of unpaid student teaching overseas, either at one of the already-qualified schools or through a contact at another school of their choosing. Once the classroom training and the student teaching requirements are met, graduates of the program will be certified to teach K-6 education or English as a Second Language in an international school.

Just like the FAST TRAIN program, there are similar programs out there that cater to non-teachers who have obtained their schooling, but didn't receive their degree in education. It is important to conduct thorough research before jumping into any program to ensure that it is the best one for your career needs.

Certified Teachers
For those certified to teach in the U.S., opportunities to explore an international teaching position can be quite competitive, yet high-paying, with wages rivaling private schools in the U.S. In fact, the salary is even more lucrative, as the income is tax-free in the U.S. and local host country taxes are usually not imposed. Many schools also provide roundtrip airfare, housing, and health care for each teaching contract. In addition, tuition for children of teachers is reimbursed; many schools will even provide international teachers with the use of a car.

All across the globe, in nearly every capital city, there is an international school. Some are called colleges, while others are known as American International Schools. These are accredited U.S. schools that provide an American curriculum to students who are children of diplomats, missionaries, and business people. Many students have lived all over the world and can speak several languages. The opportunities in such positions are attractive to those seeking to make difference in the global classroom.

Securing an international teaching position can open the doors to an exciting new chapter in your life. By doing your homework and being prepared well in advance, you will be in the best possible position to find an international teaching position that can change your life forever.

For more information on teaching abroad, be sure to check out: Interested in Teaching Abroad? Six Tips for Attending an International Job Fair.

Sound Off! Post Your Comments