Thinking about a teaching English? Let me help you find the TEFL course in Thailand that best suits your situation.
I'll give my experience on what it's like actually being a teacher here: the main benefits and what to expect on a day to day basis.
I'll also cover exactly what you should be looking for in a course, and give you the best options and the requirements for each.
Content:
If you want to skip the reading, use the quick reference table below.
Best TEFL Courses in Thailand
TEFL Company Recommendations
Online & Abroad
Online & Abroad
In Thailand Only
In Thailand Only
Online Only
Online Only
Online & Abroad
Online & Abroad
In Thailand Only
In Thailand Only
Online Only
Online Only
Courses available in London, Birmingham, Sydney, the United Kingdom, Ireland, North America and Australia.
Certification from many different cities, including the U.S., Europe, Central and South America, and Asia.
Located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, location is a huge program highlight. If you’re looking for a culturally-immersive learning experience with a guaranteed job at the end of the course, this is it!
On-site at various paradise locations around Thailand, including Samui and Phuket.
100% online & fully optimised for mobile/tablet access - study from anywhere in the world. You can also sign up for a free 2-day course before you commit to buy (see ‘Visit Site’ link above).
All courses offered online. Therefore you can complete your study from anywhere in the world.
Online and classroom learning TEFL opportunities and certifications available.
Both international TEFL certification classes and an online class are offered.
SEE offers a 4-week TEFL course as well as a paid internship. Internship is identical to the 4-week course but is only 2-weeks long and tailors to those teachers who don’t want to commit to staying in Thailand longer than 5 months.
Paid internship, or 3 week TEFL course
120 Hour TEFL Certificate. Graduates will receive both a physical and digital certificate from TEFLPros.
4 courses offered: preliminary course, certificate course, diploma course and the advanced diploma of education studies in TESOL. Courses differ based on whether you want an introductory or professional course.
You don’t need any qualifications, though that non-native speakers must have a good understanding of English with a Cambridge CAE qualification or equivalent.
A degree is not required to take a course, however, ITA reminds students that age limits to teach English abroad vary by country and school. That said, to teach in Thailand, a TEFL is all that's required
The 4-week TEFL course requires English language ability of IELTS 6.5 equivalency. However,you must be a native English speaker to attend the internship placement.
Bachelors degree, any subject, native English speaker. Non-native English speakers accepted subject to application approval.
You don’t need to be a native English speaker to enroll, but you must have a good level of English. See the site for minimum English test scores as a suggested level for non natives.
You don't need to be a native English speaker but you must have a good standard of English, such as reading and writing at a high level.
Two online TEFL certificates available: Professional 120-hour certificate and the 60-hour foundation TEFL certificate.
Online, 11-week long, 170-hour TEFL and TESOL certifications are available.
There are no online certifications available. Study is limited to the Chiang Mai location.
No online courses are offered.
TEFLPros only offers an online certification. All those who pass will get both a physical and digital certificate from TEFLPros.
All courses offered are online only.
Job prospects depend on both the course you decide to take as well as where you take the course.
Graduates are offered lifetime job assistance, including learning how to contact schools directly and network effectively.
Graduates are guaranteed a job after completing the 4-week course.
*Guaranteed job after successful completion of the course.
TEFLPros has the TEFLTribe Facebook group where job opportunities, tips and career advice are posted. This is a real-time network for job placement. TEFLPros also offers job support through their team to help you navigate the job search process.
There are many jobs available for GO-TEFL graduates around the world, from Spain to Turkey to South Korea and beyond.
120-hour TEFL costs $199 and the 60-hour foundation TEFL certificate is $279. Onsite pricing varies greatly and will depend on program choice.
Course costs range from $1,595 to $2,495 for an onsite TEFL certification course. The course offered in Pattaya, Thailand costs $1,525 ( accommodation not included). An online certification costs $1,395.
Course costs $1,495. Those who know anywhere from 3-6 weeks in advance that they want to attend the course can save up to $200 by signing up early.
Paid internship: £1,095 ($1,365) TEFL: £1,140 ($1,435).
The 120-hour course costs between $1,500-$2,000 depending on current promotions
Prices range from $159-$249, depending on the course you choose.
Why Become a Teacher?
Happy mediums are hard to come by. I can never seem to find that perfect balance between what I want to do and what I should be doing.
This is especially difficult when we are talking about both working and playing hard.
That being said, I can finally say I have found my balance working as a teacher abroad in Thailand.
On my breaks, I am able to fly down south to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world or explore mountainous terrain in the north of Thailand.
My cheeky students! Love these guys.
While the pay might seem insufficient at first, the cost of living in Thailand is so low that I have been able to live more comfortably here than I have in my entire life.
The benefits are reaped by more than just the potential teachers too, however.
International studies measuring English proficiency show that Thailand falls at 62 out of 70 countries ranked.
The EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) also showed that other Asian countries are doing well in comparison to Thailand, ranking it the third worst Asian country in English proficiency.
Tourism is also one of the biggest job industries in Thailand, with an estimated 8,140,000 jobs in 2025 in tourism according to the Authority on World Travel & Tourism.
For these reasons, English teachers are an important part of Thailand's future development.
So now that you know you are needed, let’s talk about how it is we get there.
What's the Difference Between TEFL & TESOL?
TEFL stands for teaching English as a Foreign Language, and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
They are, essentially, one of the same, as both certifications are interchangeable when trying to find a job overseas.
Both certifications give you the qualification required to teach abroad in a classroom where you may be the only person able to speak proper English for miles.
Regardless of your degree (or lack thereof, as many schools don’t actually require one) getting your certification will help you take on a classroom abroad with confidence.
7 Benefits to Having a TEFL/TESOL
1) Travel while you work
Never has it been so easy to travel for work than it is with having a TEFL or TESOL certification.
While you may have completed your certification in Thailand, that doesn’t mean you are confined to this country’s borders.
Oftentimes, those who teach in Thailand will jet off to other Asian countries after they feel as though their work here is done.
2) A job always in demand
Schools are always in need of native English speakers.
Back home, you may face a job market that has left you to the confines of your parents’ basement, flipping burgers or bussing tables until you can really utilize your degree.
Having a TEFL certification opens up so many opportunities for work, from having your own classroom to private tutoring.
A job is never hard to come by, especially in Thailand, for those who have a TEFL certification.
3) Meet awesome friends
If you get your TEFL certification onsite, you will meet many new people who are like-minded in that they all want to teach abroad.
I have made some of my best friends through my course, and these people will most likely become your support group as you tackle working and living abroad.
4) International work experience
What better way to make your resume stand out other than by having some international work experience?
Some may raise their eyebrows at you when you decide to teach abroad with a degree that doesn't’ necessarily correlate with education, but working abroad is one bullet point on your resume that will make you stand out.
5) Get to work to your strengths
If you have a degree in biology, you can teach science in Thailand. Have a passion for math (although this seems highly unlikely to be true of anyone)? You can teach algebra!
While you may have initially traveled to Thailand with the intentions of teaching English only, many schools are in need of different subjects taught in English.
Again, this will look great on a resume, and you find yourself learning more about a specific subject when you need to create lesson plans about it.
6) Work with amazing kids that will change your life
I’ll be the first to say that I was never a fan of children.
I didn't know, however, how much I would fall in love with my students while teaching abroad.
At the end of my first term, I had an overwhelming amount of students crying and taking one too many selfies with me on the last day of school.
It doesn’t get more rewarding than that.
7) Awesome food, wonderful landscapes & very nice people
While teaching abroad, you will slowly learn the language of the country you find yourself residing in as well as learning so much about different cultures and communities.
So, now you know what the potential a TEFL holds, you'll need to choose a course.
There's a ton of them out there, which can be overwhelming. But don't worry, I'll guide you through the process.
A TEFL course in Thailand can lead to a rewarding job with a class of super kids, like this lot!
Let's start with some key considerations when choosing your course.
7 Considerations for Choosing a TEFL Course
1) Does the course offer onsite support, even after you graduate?
As someone who has gone through blood poisoning, a stolen passport and many other unfortunate events, I can not stress how important it is to have some support after you arrive in Thailand.
The language barrier is hard enough without having to explain to the police that your passport is gone.
2) Where is the course located?
I highly recommend picking a course that is located in Thailand already.
It gives you the chance to slowly immerse yourself into the culture before being thrown into a classroom of your own.
You can also narrow down your search to where it is in Thailand you would prefer to go.
3) Do they help you find a job?
Finding a job in Thailand is simple, if you know how to do it.
Having to reach out to schools independently can be difficult, because of the language barrier and for the simple fact that you probably don’t know what you’re doing yet.
Courses that offer job support when you first start out as well as throughout your time in Thailand come in handy, especially if you decide to change schools at some point.
4) Can the certification be used outside of the country of study?
While I think most people who come to Thailand fall in love with the country, many find themselves traveling to Japan, Myanmar and other neighboring countries after deciding it wasn’t for them.
Don’t find out when it’s already too late that your certification can be used in only one country.
5) How much does it cost?
Many companies will act as the middleman, getting you set up to take the TESOL course abroad with yet another company.
During my time getting my certification, some of my fellow soon-to-be teachers had paid over double of what I had for the same exact program.
Do your research to find the best priced company without lowering your standards on quality.
6) What age group do you want to teach?
While many TEFL courses give you a general certification and you find a school teaching the grade of your choice, many certifications are tailored specifically for a certain age-group.
Do your research so you don’t enter Thailand thinking you’ll be teaching Kindergarten only to be in a classroom full of high schoolers.
7) Look at the course’s reviews
A company’s website might blow you away, with it’s distracting colors and promises of riding elephants into the sunset while getting your certification.
The quality of the program, however, could be seriously lacking, despite it’s flashy website.
Right, now we know what we are looking for in a course, let's find you the perfect one.
Oh, but first, in true Thai style, let's take a selfie!
My students love to selfie!
Best TEFL Course Thailand: My Personal Picks
Picking a company to get your TEFL certification with is one of the biggest decisions you will have to make when deciding to teach abroad.
You shouldn’t worry about finding a certification, however, with so many out there to choose from, you need to make sure you find a reputable company that's a good fit with your requirements.
This company can and most likely will be the catalyst of your experience abroad, especially in the first couple of months.
Picking the wrong company can complete affect your entire experience teaching abroad.
If you choose a program provider whose instructors are incompetent, you will find yourself struggling more with your students than they do with your disorganized lesson plans.
In order to avoid anymore stress than you have already taken on at this point, I’m here to help navigate the landscape.
I've picked 6 of the most highly rated courses and compared them based on a number of different factors, which should make your search much easier.
I took the first one personally, and I've spoken to and had interaction with all the others over the years – so I know these are all sound.
I'll cover the best course you can take inside Thailand, and the best online course too.
By the way, if you can't be bothered to read on, just go back up the page and see my comparison table for a quick overview of each. Then click on the ‘Visit Site' buttons to do just that.
Let's get started:
1. SEE TEFL (on location in Thailand)
If you want to study in Thailand, SEE TEFL is number 1, and for good reason.
Located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, hopeful teachers can check off location as being one of the highlights this program has to offer.
If you're looking for a culturally-immersive learning experience in Thailand, with a guaranteed job at the end of the course, this is it!
Courses Offered:
SEE offers a 4-week TEFL course, as well as a paid internship.
The internship still contains the TEFL qualification, but with the remaining time spent at a paid placement that lasts 5 months.
Qualifications Required:
The 4-week TEFL program accepts any nationality, so long as you are competent with the English language: the recommended level is an IELTS 6.5 equivalency.
In order to be eligible for the internship you to be a native English speaker and be comfortable using Microsoft Word or OpenOffice.
They also list that participants must be adaptable to unpredictable situations and be friendly and flexible.
Aside from these requirements, I can’t emphasize enough how being ready for anything and being patient when things go wrong is one of the most important requirements for anyone looking to teach abroad.
Regardless of the program you choose, things are oftentimes bound to not go as planned at some point.
Online Certifications:
There are no online certifications available. The course is run solely from the Chiang Mai location.
Job Prospects:
Graduates are guaranteed to get a job shortly after completing their 4-week course, which is great because course participates will already have been a month without working and could know doubt do with the money.
SEE TEFL Pricing:
The TEFL course costs $1,595.
However, if you sign up between three and six weeks in advance you can get up to $200 off the standard price. The paid internship costs $1,295.
Click here to visit SEE TEFL
2. TEFL Heaven (on location in Thailand)
TEFL Heaven presents a great alternative to SEE TEFL if you'd rather study on an island than up in Chiang Mai.
TEFL training takes place over three weeks in a tropical Thai location such as Koh Chang, Krabi, Koh Samui, Phuket, or Koh Phangan).
After this, TEFL Heaven will place you in a school around Thailand, based on your individual preferences.
Courses Offered:
The Paid Internships Thailand program is 3 weeks TEFL training on a paradise island and then a paid teaching job, which would be anywhere in Thailand for 5 months or more.
There is also a TEFL certification option for those without a degree, but the job guarantee is not given; though assistance is provided.
Qualifications Required:
Only native English speakers with a degree can apply for the Paid Internship program.
Job Prospects:
Native English speakers with a Bachelor’s degree are guaranteed a paid job in Thailand after the TEFL certification.
TEFL Heaven Pricing:
The Paid Internships Thailand fees are 1,095 GBP (1,365 USD).
You'll receive a 120 hr TEFL certificate, a guaranteed teaching job, full time assistance, visa help and accommodation for the 3 week TEFL certification period.
The TEFL Certification course is priced at 1,140 GBP (1,435 USD). You'll receive 4 weeks of TEFL training, guaranteed job placement, preparation assistance and visa help.
Click to visit TEFL Heaven
3. i-to-i TEFL (online & on location)
i-to-i offer courses in London, Birmingham, Sydney, the United Kingdom, Ireland, North America and Australia, as well as online courses and paid internships in Thailand, Vietnam and China.
i-i are popular because of the flexibility to study either in class or online, and because they have established a respected reputation among teflers and education institutions worldwide.
Courses Offered:
There are both online and classroom learning TEFL opportunities and certifications available, both domestically and abroad.
Qualifications Required:
You don’t need any previous qualifications to take an i-to-i TEFL course, though they do ask that non-native speakers have a good understanding of the English language with a Cambridge CAE qualification or equivalent.
Online Certifications:
There are two online TEFL certificates available:
A professional 120-hour certificate, and a 60-hour foundation TEFL certificate. There's also a big discount on at the moment!
Job Prospects:
Job prospects depend on both the course you decide to take as well as where you take the course, but you won't be without work having taken one of the i-to-i courses.
They have hundreds of employers across 23 countries providing the top salaries, perks and progression opportunities. You can search for jobs by region on their website.
i-i Tefl Pricing:
The 140-hour TEFL certificate is currently £249 and the 120-hour TEFL certificate is £149. Prices for paid internships start at £895.
Click here to visit i-to-i TEFL
4. International TEFL Academy (online & on location)
The International TEFL Academy is on a par with i-i and offer similar opportunities.
You can get your certification from many different places, including the U.S., Europe, Central and South America, and Asia.
They also offer a great on-site training opportunity for those wanting to teach in Thailand.
You will first jet off to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where you'll spend three weeks before going to Pattaya, Thailand, for the last week of your training and the presentation of your certification at this seaside location.
Courses Offered:
Both international TEFL certification classes and an online class are offered.
Qualifications Required:
You don't need a degree or any other qualification to do the course, but the company does advise you that age limits to teach English abroad vary by country and school, as does whether or not you need hold a degree.
For the most part, however, neither will stop you from getting a job in Thailand.
Online Certifications:
An online, 11-week long, 170-hour TEFL and TESOL certification are available.
Job Prospects:
Students and graduates are offered lifetime job assistance, including showing participants how to contact schools directly, network properly and utilize things like job boards.
ITA Pricing:
Tuition ranges from $1,595 to $2,495 for an onsite TEFL certification course. The course offered in Pattaya, Thailand costs $1,525 (accommodation not included). An online certification costs $1,395.
Click to visit International TEFL Academy
5. TEFL Pros (online only)
TEFL Pros is 100% online. It is a comprehensive, state of the art course designed for the digital generation.
Compatible on all mobile devices, tablets and computers, it is well-suited to those who want to study anywhere, anytime.
What's more, they also offer a 2-day introductory course – FREE. See here.
So you get to test-run the course before you fully commit to buying. That's pretty cool and not something any of the other online companies are doing.
Types of Courses Offered:
TEFL Pros offers a a 120-hour TEFL online course, but with some significant differences to others of the same length.
They combine over 50 hours of video content, weekly coaching calls and one-on-one support with professional instruction and practical skill-building methods.
There is a an emphasis on classroom management, lesson planning, and confident teaching.
What's more, job assistance is provided to help you find your first career placement at a school.
Qualifications Required:
Students do not need to be native English speakers to enroll in TEFL Pros but must have a high level of proficiency.
Check out the site for recommendations on how good your English should be to take the course.
Online Certifications:
Graduates will receive both a physical and digital certificate from TEFLPros.
I really dig the fact that they post you out a physical certificate and don't just email one for you to print out.
Job Prospects:
TEFLPros has what they call a TEFLTribe Facebook group. In this group you'll find job opportunities and tips, and advice from the course leader, Whitney – who both have many years of experience teaching overseas.
The TEFLPros community can also help each other by posting tips and advice. The idea behind this FB group is that it creates a larger, real-time network for job placement.
TEFL Pros Pricing:
Pricing details are provided during consultation. You can book your Strategy Session Call via the website to see if the course is going to be a good fit. Once your suitability has been established, you will be offered a place on TeflPros.
In a nutshell, this course delivers the quality of an in-person course with the flexibility of a deeply immersive digital learning experience.
It's great training by a highly-experienced TEFL teacher who teaches English to business students and private companies.
Visit TEFL Pros here
6. Go-TEFL: (online only)
All of the courses are offered online only, therefore you can complete your TESOL from anywhere in the world.
Courses Offered:
TEFL Training College offers four courses, including the preliminary course, the certificate course, the diploma course and the advanced diploma of education studies in TESOL.
Each course differs depending on whether you would like an introductory course or something more professional.
Qualifications Requirements:
You do not need to be a native English speaker, however, the website does state that you must have a good standard of English, such as reading and writing at a higher level.
Online Certifications:
All of the courses offered are online only.
Job Prospects:
There are many jobs available for TEFL Training College around the world, from Spain to Turkey and even South Korea.
Go TEFL Pricing:
Prices range from $159-$249, depending on the course you choose.
—————-
That's it! Pick your best TEFL course Thailand, get your certificate and the world's your oyster.
And don't forget, when you've finished your course, you can find lots of teaching jobs in Thailand right here on the TTL Job Board.
A Final Word
Teaching in Thailand has been a dream come true for me. The benefits are far-reaching and know that one day I'll look back in my journal and cherish these memories forever.
If you need a reason to teach in Thailand, here's my top 8:
- Thai kids are generally sweet and super fun
- The food in Thailand is diverse and delicious
- Thai people are so welcoming
- The weather is always sunny
- The beaches are beautiful
- Every day is an adventure
- Every weekend is a holiday
- A TEFL certificate is a pass to teach anywhere abroad
Don't sit around waiting for life to happen. Try TEFL for a year, what else will you do? Who knows where this pathway will take you.
Last Updated on
Krishla says
Dec 23, 2021 at 9:40 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 24, 2021 at 4:10 am
Colin says
Dec 05, 2021 at 7:18 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 05, 2021 at 7:00 pm
Kevin says
Dec 08, 2021 at 1:40 pm
Jake says
I've done a lot of searching online but I'm finding that a lot of the information seems out date - i.e some schools have closed (I assume lack of demand due to virus) so it's quite frustrating.
If anyone can help me out I'd be most grateful.
Thanks in advance!
Jul 28, 2021 at 10:24 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 28, 2021 at 4:36 pm
Jake says
Thanks!
Jul 28, 2021 at 5:02 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 29, 2021 at 4:43 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 02, 2021 at 6:23 pm
Jake says
1. I am planning to enroll in a TEFL/TESL course in Phuket (not sure which one yet). Do I need a student visa to do this? If I do need one, does enrolling in a TEFL course entitle me to get a student visa?
2. Is it possible to enroll in a TEFL/TESL course after I arrive in Phuket/Thailand or do I have to do it from outside of Thailand?
3. Many of the companies/schools offering these courses also offer internships and job "support" after completing the course. I understand they may not want to promise they can find a job or internship, but by "support" does that mean they try to help with "good advice" or do they actively try to find internships and jobs?
4. The embassy said it was not possible for the TEFL schools to arrange a work visa or study visa. They said that I could only get a study visa if I enroll at a university in Thailand. Is this correct or is a study visa even necessary to take the TEFL course?
5. Can the business/school arrange student or work visas (in Phuket) that lasts for at least 6 months?
Thanks a lot.
Jul 21, 2021 at 12:36 pm
JamesE says
Jul 21, 2021 at 10:14 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 22, 2021 at 5:34 am
Jake says
I found a couple of the schools that were offering courses have closed, I assume due to the virus - can you recommend any that are still open for business. Ideally one that is not based in Phuket town if possible.
Many thanks again.
Jul 22, 2021 at 12:03 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 22, 2021 at 2:38 pm
Jake says
I went to the SEE site. Nicely explained. All clear, thank you.
I also tried to go to TEFL heaven but I can't see any place I can send an email to Mike the owner. Would you mind giving me his email directly and I'll contact him.
One last thing, do you or anyone else reading this know of any TEFL schools that are not based in Phuket town but are on Phuket island?
Best.
Jul 22, 2021 at 4:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 23, 2021 at 2:14 pm
Kevin says
Non-immigrant ED visas are issued to Thai-language students, foreigners studying at a formal school that typcially is a university and foreign students attending a cultural study or training course. This visa can be given for one year or as short as 3 months.
The Thai-language route is currently ‘Covid suspended.”
This visa requires extensive documentation and can take 5 to 8 weeks to receive. And given that it's good for only 90 days—and you can't work on this visa—it has no advantages over the VE or Tourist Visa options.
The non-ED visa is not a recommended option and as Thai embassy authorities noted pre-Covid on their websites that a Non-Ed visa is usually not required for short courses (less than three months) and they cite programs such as Thai cooking, or boxing or meditation as examples.
Non-immigrant ED (Education) Visa is not recommended.
Come in on a tourist visa, do a one-month TEFL course. Then find a job and that institution should issue you a Job Offer Letter. With that, you can apply for a non-Immigrant B visa and subsequently a Work Permit.
Jul 22, 2021 at 3:27 pm
Phil says
Jan 11, 2021 at 2:41 am
Brian says
I have just come across your page and have a question for you, wouldn't it be better to actually learn Thai before perusing
an English teaching position? it would certainly be more beneficial.
So where?, in your opinion is the best place to learn Thai?
Regards
Brian
Jan 05, 2021 at 12:32 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 05, 2021 at 8:52 pm
JamesE says
Jan 05, 2021 at 11:28 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 05, 2021 at 11:47 pm
Rina Fourie says
Im a widow. I want to teach english and move to Thailand. But I need help. Please
Oct 01, 2020 at 2:26 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 01, 2020 at 4:06 am
Ambreen Ahmed says
Jun 13, 2020 at 4:48 pm
Steven Ginn says
I am 71 and live in country on an "O" retirement visa. I was teaching English to some kids in my village, but due to circumstances involving a certain Thai English teacher who can't speak English, who moved into the village, I had to curtail my lessons. I miss the interaction with the kids and would like to continue teaching.
Do I still need to have a Work Permit to teach as an "assistant"?
May 18, 2020 at 10:31 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 18, 2020 at 10:39 pm
Steven Ginn says
May 19, 2020 at 9:12 am
TheThailandLife says
May 24, 2020 at 3:15 am
Claire says
May 07, 2020 at 8:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 07, 2020 at 8:25 pm
Kevin says
Yes, the online course will impart knowldege but without applying that knowledge through practicue you won't develop skills.
Imagine taking a course in tennis--mastering the book, watching all the videos. So what happens when you go out on the courts for the very first time? Do you play like Nadal? Or do you spray the ball all over the place like any beginner? You need to practice knoweldge to develop skills so you can actually do something.
That's why, when you're learning to drive, you can just learn the book, you have to get behind the wheel of a car to really know how to drive.
Sep 03, 2020 at 10:44 am
Michelle says
I really like your website, recently I wanna escape from Australia to Thailand from my heartbreaking breakup.
I am still holding a Taiwan passport but a Permanent Resident in Australia, I could only apply a Tourist visa in Brisbane.
I am wondering would you recommend that I apply for a single entry tourist visa or multi entry one as the later one only valid for 6 months , it mean I could have only reenter Thailand once if I stay full 60 day for each entry.
Currently, looking at learning Thai or volunteering and even try to find a teaching job in Bangkok.
Unsure about my future plan, but would love to spend more time to explore Thailand.
Best wishes,
Mar 15, 2020 at 1:23 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 15, 2020 at 9:37 pm
Claire says
May 07, 2020 at 8:05 pm
LaJoyina S Thompson says
Mar 14, 2020 at 10:46 am
behren mendoza says
I am from the Philippines and wanted to teach in English in Thailand. I have been working in the Business Process Outsourcing(BPO - Call Center) companies in the Philippines catering English speaking clients.
What do I need to do or prepare when going to Thailand to land a job in as English teacher? In case I have English Proficiency Certificate issued in my country, will that be useful?
Thank you.
Feb 27, 2020 at 3:33 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 27, 2020 at 4:27 am
Oshani says
Feb 25, 2020 at 5:30 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 25, 2020 at 6:36 pm
Ray says
Aug 28, 2019 at 1:55 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 28, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Chry says
Jul 29, 2019 at 7:47 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 30, 2019 at 2:34 am
Asma says
Jul 14, 2019 at 1:40 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 14, 2019 at 9:16 pm
Bhargobi Gogoi says
May 28, 2019 at 9:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 28, 2019 at 11:23 pm
Rina says
Apr 26, 2019 at 9:38 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 26, 2019 at 10:13 pm
John Davies says
Apr 25, 2019 at 4:50 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 26, 2019 at 6:49 pm
Peter says
I have a university degree and fellowship of two UK professional Engineering institutions (Chartered Engineer)
I’m 63 now - a daily gym goer and fit as a fiddle mentally, socially and intellectually.
Do you reckon I’d be able to get a job teaching English in Thailand? Or is age a barrier? Do you know of any senior folk reaching?
Feb 13, 2019 at 3:01 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 13, 2019 at 6:22 pm
Nicolas Milliner says
Feb 02, 2019 at 10:11 pm
Lee says
Jan 12, 2019 at 2:02 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 12, 2019 at 5:13 am
Lee says
Any more tips for me about this process?
Also your article on marriage and the sinsod is very informative and clears up something i really could not understand about Thai culture, your blog page has been the best thing i've read and given me hope that i can make it in what seems a minefield to people wanting to start a new life in Thailand, so thank you very much.
Jan 13, 2019 at 2:03 am
Megan says
If I would be unable to teach, are there any other job opportunities that would be available to me?
Any advice would be great,
Thank you!
Oct 07, 2018 at 4:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 08, 2018 at 5:51 pm
Mini Rahmat says
Can you please give some ideas or suggestions.
Thank you.
Sep 11, 2018 at 9:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 12, 2018 at 4:02 pm
surya murali says
I am an Indian with an Engineering (Undergraduate) and a Management degree (Postgraduate). I studied in English medium schools and colleges throughout. I am a Sales professional with 4.5 years of experience. I am keen to pursue teaching as my career. However, since English is not my native language, which TEFL course providers will accept me? Also, would it be impossible for me to get a job in any country post course completion?
Aug 29, 2018 at 12:03 am
Nora says
Your post has been very helpful since I'm contemplating getting my TEFL certification in Thailand as I'm interested for a teaching post there as well. I'm from Malaysia btw so as you can see I'm not a native English speaker although my degree and postgrad degree learning has all been conducted in a full English medium. I know that most employers will prefer the native speakers but do you have any advice or tips for me to go on. Right now I'm still considering whether to take my certification in Malaysia (cheaper in Malaysia) or Thailand (easier to apply for job if I'm already there). Any input is really appreciated by me.
Cheers!
Jul 18, 2018 at 4:12 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 18, 2018 at 5:20 pm
Ken says
Any qualification that's truly professional--and good for like--would have an independent body accrediting its curriculum and program. Additionally, there would be ongoing 'moderation' or reviews of each TEFL course to ensure they're delivering the program according to prescribed standards.
The best schools are increasingly looking at a program's accreditation when reviewing job applications.
Jul 05, 2018 at 4:19 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 05, 2018 at 5:14 pm
Kevin says
Accreditation is an ongoing exercise with continuous reviews.
And its something the Thai MoE does not have in place for any 'foreign' programs--like TEFL certification programs.
Jun 07, 2019 at 1:09 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 07, 2019 at 3:58 pm
kobus says
Apr 29, 2018 at 4:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 30, 2018 at 4:16 pm
Gerry says
Thankyou
Mar 26, 2018 at 10:09 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 26, 2018 at 4:36 pm
Keith says
This is coming from someone who has been on earth for some considerable years!
Regards,
Keith.
Feb 28, 2018 at 8:39 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 01, 2018 at 4:06 am
Jasdeep Bains says
Feb 01, 2018 at 1:39 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 01, 2018 at 1:58 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 01, 2018 at 4:29 am
Amy says
I work full time atm so I need something I could study with on the move; perhaps on the train.
Any advice?
Thanks again.
Oct 06, 2017 at 9:34 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 06, 2017 at 10:55 pm
Juliana Miranda says
Jul 03, 2017 at 5:52 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 03, 2017 at 5:05 pm
Karen says
I just wanted to say thanks a million for the information. It has been really helpful. I'm very excited now to get the ball rolling! Can I just ask whether having a degree can guarantee you a better paid English teaching job or is it all the same just once you have the TEFL/TESOl accreditation?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Karen
Jun 15, 2017 at 4:38 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 15, 2017 at 5:43 pm
Kevin says
Learning the theory online does not prepare you for a successfully teaching English in a classroom. Every trainee we've taught got demonstrably better after their classroom teaching practices. There is no substitute for this. It's a key reason why most schools downgrade online-only programs.
Yes, online programs are convenient, flexible and allow you to continue working, but there's a significant trade-off.
The only online program to consider is some kind of Combined TEFL where you do the book online, but still do your practicum in front of real non-English speaking students.
May 23, 2017 at 12:07 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 23, 2017 at 3:23 pm
Kevin says
But the operative words are "a job." As in "any teaching job."
Those same candidates might land much better jobs if their qualifications included a full TELF that includes a practicum. Thailand's most prestigious schools have a basic qualifications bar that they use to short list the hundreds of applicants they can get for a single position.
And isn't it more than just Thailand? Some teacher candidates might want to take a longer view and pursue a qualification that would also be recognized by top schools in South Korea or Japan--and lot of other places around the world
Some of the students we've trained already had a an online TEFL--with teaching experience--but as they were moving out of Thailand, needed to upgrade their qualificatons for more demanding institutions.
I get the diversity angle you're trying to get by your six picks. But I think that "balance of options" could be stressed. The way it's now worded with a headline that reads "My 6 Top TEFL/TESOL Course Company Picks", readers may see it as the "Top Six. " Again, there are programs that certainly would not be a lot of expert lists of 'definitive lists."
May 26, 2017 at 11:46 am
richard nash says
May 19, 2017 at 4:42 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 19, 2017 at 11:34 pm
Prachi Mehta says
Mar 16, 2017 at 3:59 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 16, 2017 at 4:50 pm
Wanda says
Thanks,
Wanda
Mar 03, 2017 at 10:35 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 03, 2017 at 3:48 pm
Liam says
Feb 23, 2017 at 6:18 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 23, 2017 at 7:07 pm
Devron says
Jan 09, 2017 at 5:05 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 09, 2017 at 7:40 pm
Devron says
Jan 10, 2017 at 3:57 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 10, 2017 at 6:15 pm
Tony says
Dec 12, 2016 at 6:36 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 12, 2016 at 4:34 pm
Tony says
Dec 15, 2016 at 7:02 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 16, 2016 at 3:57 am
Tony says
Dec 16, 2016 at 7:15 am
Tony says
Jan 12, 2017 at 6:47 am
Tony says
Jan 24, 2017 at 2:24 am
Kim says
I am seriously planning on going over to Koh samui to do the TEFL course and hopefully pass. This will be my first time moving so far away from London. Should i be scared moving to Thailand on my own? also worried i will fail the course! I have been to Bangkok and Koh Samui 3 years ago and absolutely loved it! Of course i went with my boyfriend back then so i wasn't as scared. I know i shouldn't let fear stop me from doing what i love which is travelling and meeting new people. I have been in retail for 13 years and want to try something new like teaching.
Please can you advise me on my dilemma
Thank you
Kim
Sep 09, 2016 at 6:16 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 09, 2016 at 9:56 pm
Kim says
I will not let this distract me from my life goals. But i will be very mindful and alert about my surroundings.
Yes i agree the thai people are extremely friendly and helpful as i went to visit Thailand for the very first time back in 2013 before the curfew by the government kicked in 2014.
Living in Thailand how is that new law treating you?
Thank you for taking the time to reply back to me! =)
Sep 10, 2016 at 2:29 pm
Ken says
The latter was actually my greatest fear the first time I moved to Japan at just 24-years old. And I had good reason to be afraid with only $400 and a round trip plane ticket in my pocket. After all, if I had failed to find a job in time I would have been left with the choice of either being homeless in Japan or being homeless back in California. You see, I had nobody back home to take me in or help me out in any way should things fall apart, so I had nothing to come back to. Now, that’s what I call scary! But I did it anyway because, quite frankly, I would rather try and fail than just sit around wondering “what if” for the rest of my life.
By the way, at that time I actually did get to the point where I only had enough money to stay in my room for two more days and I was facing the prospect of either cashing in the other half of my ticket for a little more money, or using it to go back home to nothing. But luckily that very same day everything just fell into place for me. First I just happened to meet this Korean guy on the street and later that day I met a Canadian guy at my rooming house and after talking that evening we decided to all become roommates. The next day one of the guys found a 3-bedroom house to rent and they let me slide on the rent until I got a job. Then the day after that I found a job through the American landlord of the house we were renting. I ended up staying for a year and then a few years later I went back for another 4 years.
Anyway, if your major fear is being the victim of a violent crime - or even being killed - I personally would not worry too much about such things. As I said in an earlier post, the odds of such a thing happening to you is not really a whole lot greater than it is back in your home country. In fact, you are probably just as (or even more) likely to be raped on your own college campus back home than your are to be raped in Thailand. Also, excluding diseases and suicides, the most likely thing to kill a westerner in Thailand is a traffic accident.
Of course I realize that most peoples fears are irrational and are not based at all on the odds. For example, some people are terrified of flying even though they are actually tens of thousands of times more likely to be killed in a car. So, nothing I can say will help with that. Ultimately you will either be able to confront your fears or you will not.
As for any worries you might have about not being able to cut it over there, again, these are fears that you will ultimately just have to face, or not face. And as for passing a TEFL course and getting your certificate you can always just take care of that in your own country if you are worried about not passing. It’s not exactly rocket science though so I can’t imagine why you would fail the course. Still, if it worries you so much, you might want to contact the people who run these various programs and ask them what percentage of people typically wash out, if any.
Of course, if you have fears about not passing the course then you likely also have fears that you might not be any good at teaching to begin with. All I can say to that is, I would not worry about it. In my experience most people who teach English as a second language abroad are mediocre teachers at best. And many are downright useless. So you would have to be a pretty piss poor teacher indeed to loose your job once you actually find one.
Anyway, I hope this helps in some way.
Sep 10, 2016 at 9:48 am
Kim says
Thank you for the reply back! Yes you are very right and have a good point. I am not usually a risk taker at all and moving to another country terrifies me but excites me at the same time. But wow thank you for your story, you must of gone through so much and yet you came out stronger and hopefully happier! Good on you! My friend went to Thailand to do the same course and she told me they placed her in the worse conditioned garage ever separated by all the other people that was in her group because she was Muslim they separated them to the white people. She was taken to the north and all the other people was taken to the beach in the south. She was alone and scared and pretty scarred for life now! She told me it was a big culture shock for her that they can be so racist and was disgusted how the sister company in Thailand treated her and another girl. She was messed about so much and was livid!! I was very lucky she told me her story as i was going to throw myself in it before even thinking first which would be pretty stupid of me! I am lucky i have friends and family here. There are many dangers in this world you are correct and being a girl in my own it is only natural i feel this way. But i thank you for giving me advice and telling me your life story! This has really helped me in deciding whether this is right for me or not. I wouldn't say i am stupid but maybe a slower learner then others? Haha..i cant learn by reading pages of notes..i would have to experience it to learn quicker.
Just by reading my reply back, how would you rate my English? Will i survive out there? Thank you again for taking time to reply to me! Also i love Japan!! Awesome place to visit and enjoyed it very much!! =)
Sep 10, 2016 at 2:22 pm
Ken says
I’m sorry to hear that your friend had such an unpleasant experience in Thailand. This is exactly why I never accept teaching jobs or even enroll as a student in a school from outside of the country. Obviously there is a sense of security in having a job lined up before you relocate but I just don’t trust that things will be as described in the brochure once I get there. And let’s face it, there are shysters out there in every country who might try to take advantage of you. So, for these reasons I always need to see a place in person before signing on.
As to why your friend was treated the way she was over there, there is really no way for anyone to know for sure unless she was specifically told the reason. From what you said however it does seem likely that either race or nationality had something to do with it. I don’t really see how her religion could have anything to do with it though (although TTL knows more about these things than I do). I do know that when I was teaching in Japan White teachers were by far the most in demand. And this is only natural since the White race is most often associated with the English Language in the minds of most people. It’s kind of like the way I prefer a Japanese Sushi Chef to a White one. The White guy might actually be a great Sushi Chef but my brain just tells me that I don’t want to chance it. And it’s often the same with foreign students wanting to learn English. This kind of subconscious bias does not really constitute racism though.
Still, even if your friend would have to end up teaching in a different location than the others due to her background I can’t see any reason why she would be separated from the others during the course or would be treated badly. That just seems stupid and I would personally never do business with any organization that would do something like that.
As for how the majority of Thais feel about Muslims or certain races in general I can’t really say. I do know that the older sister of a Thai girl I used to date was in a long-term relationship with a Muslim man at the time so obviously she had no problem with them. I suppose if you are non-White yourself by chance then you will likely find out for yourself should you go to Thailand.
And as for your English abilities I’m sure they are more than adequate for teaching English in Thailand. But being a good teacher is not just about what you know. For example, the greatest dancer or martial artists in the world might not necessarily be very good at teaching what he (or she) knows to others. Some people are just natural born teachers and some are not. Of course, whether or not you make it in a foreign country has a lot more to do with your drive, determination, and attitude than your abilities as a teacher.
Sep 11, 2016 at 3:42 pm
Kim says
Sep 12, 2016 at 10:59 pm
Ken says
Sep 13, 2016 at 7:29 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 13, 2016 at 1:06 pm
Kim says
Sep 13, 2016 at 2:14 pm
Ken says
Sep 13, 2016 at 3:38 pm
Kim says
Sep 13, 2016 at 1:53 pm
janardhanan E says
Is is advisable to shift the profession giving my age and job offer there.
regards
Janardhan
Aug 31, 2016 at 4:36 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 01, 2016 at 4:31 am
janardhanan E says
Sep 01, 2016 at 4:07 pm
Ace says
I'm moving to Thailand from Australia in two months and planning to live there and work for a year. I don't have any teaching qualifications yet but what I have is a bachelors degree in business and an advanced diploma in marketing. Would either of these be of any use to me in finding a teaching job in Thailand. And would you happen to know what other jobs I could find with those qualifications?
Regards
Aug 18, 2016 at 3:50 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 19, 2016 at 4:02 am
Moungui toko says
please am a cameroonian I have taken the TEFL certificate in south africa and I want to move over to Thailand for a teaching position (still searching) will this be possible for me to get a job?
Aug 18, 2016 at 12:10 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 18, 2016 at 4:25 am
Shams says
Jul 27, 2016 at 1:35 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 27, 2016 at 2:46 pm
Shams says
Jul 27, 2016 at 8:40 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 27, 2016 at 9:50 pm
chailert says
Jun 11, 2016 at 8:59 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 12, 2016 at 8:24 am
Ken says
Anyway I hope this is not the case in Thailand but its something to think about. And of course if you are looking for work at a regular public school and not an English conversation school then it probably will not matter as much. And just because you might have to try harder than others is no reason to give up.
Jul 31, 2016 at 12:36 pm
christo says
So if i do my SEE TEFL Thailand, would that give me a qualification or certificate that i can use to pursue teaching in other countries around the world?
Thanks
Jun 08, 2016 at 9:15 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 08, 2016 at 9:41 pm
Rico says
I've applied for the course in Koh Samui and ofcourse they say that it'll be no problem at all. ( as long as I enroll $$$ )
I would like to hear your opinion. :)
May 27, 2016 at 7:29 am
TheThailandLife says
May 27, 2016 at 11:53 am
Javi says
Apr 22, 2016 at 2:22 am
TheThailandLife says
Apr 22, 2016 at 11:13 am
Charlotte says
Apr 04, 2016 at 2:34 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 04, 2016 at 2:46 pm