Teach English Abroad

Cultural Exchange

Cultural Exchange is part of our name. It is incredibly important in our shared world today. We're very proud of these teach-abroad program values. We're The Cultural Exchange Project.

A teaching experience will look great on your CV or Resume. Contribute a skill that will last a lifetime.

We seek diverse, qualified individuals who are capable and committed to performing this role. We're better together.

General Questions About Teach Abroad

• Do I need TEFL or TESOL certification to teach abroad?

  Our teach-abroad programs offer a variety of options to suit your needs, experience, and skill sets.

  Being TESOL or TEFL certified is always a great place to begin a teaching abroad assignment. If you have your certification, we will need a copy of it.

  If you want to get your TESOL or TEFL when you arrive, you'll need to arrive 30 days before your assignment begins and take our in-country course. We will cover your tuition and  accommodation, but not your meals.

  If you want to take your TEFL online while you wait for your job to start, you'll get an enormous discount on the course AND your teaching gig by taking our very own TEFL Plus course.

• Do I need teaching experience to qualify?

  No! You don't need any teaching experience.

  Teaching abroad is an incredible way to gain experience in education, however. Teaching candidates need enthusiasm, a desire for new experiences, and openness to new opportunities alongside their passion, allowing them to become successful teachers who can make a difference in students' lives.

  We all know that teaching is a tough job. But it can be even more challenging if you have yet to gain experience in the field of education! That's why we offer our TEFL Plus certification course to those interested, enabling them to become stronger applicants and confident teachers, regardless of their background or location worldwide. This certificate will always be valid. It's internationally accredited.

• I haven't received my bachelor's degree yet, can I still apply?

  No degree? No problem!

  Our teach abroad programs in Costa Rica and Cambodia accept teacher candidates without a degree. Our Adventure Language camp in Thailand doesn't require a degree. The volunteer teaching program in France at a local high school accepts candidates without a degree.

  For any program that requires a Bachelor's Degree,  we welcome applications from graduating seniors also. Ask your academic advisor for confirmation that you'll graduate on time.

• Do I need to know the local language?

  There are no language requirements for our programs, so you can teach in any country without fear. You’ll pick up basic phrases quickly by living there and if necessary use an app to help with communication!

  Most schools prefer you to only speak English and not rely on the local language. This helps the students learn better and rely on English.

• How does the placement process work?

  We employ a holistic approach to match your skills with the right school. We consider everything from where you want to work, how long you want to stay, what grade you prefer to teach, etc.

  In every country where we place teachers, we have different application methods. Some require a video interview, and others rely on the application you fill out on our portal.

• Why do I have to pay a program fee?

  We believe that teaching abroad is an incredible experience, and we want to help you make the most of your time. That’s why our approach includes providing high-level preparation for every step on this journey! We think it's different than what some other agencies do - but based on feedback from participants who have already gone through their program with us (and loved it), we think it's valuable.

  We know that teaching abroad is an exciting opportunity. Before you go, we’ll guide you through the visa process and share lots of useful tips from former teachers who have already taught English abroad with us! Our US-based staff will be there to answer any questions by phone or email so you're involved at every step. We include 24/7 availability for emergency situations when needed most (ie: medical emergencies).

  You can’t just place someone in a job and call it good. Not when there is so much work to do from the moment you decide this is the experience you want, right until you arrive at your school for the first day of school ... and beyond!

  We take pride that our program fee covers the costs for services, staff members, facilities - everything you need.

  This isn't just about finding you a teaching job. We also make sure you receive support from the moment you sign up, until you return a year later.

• More Frequently Asked Questions

  Does teaching abroad let me defer my student loans?
  

  While it's possible to get a deferment or forbearance on your student loans, you'll need approval from the company that holds or services them. Remember - The Cultural Exchange Project can provide letters of acceptance if this is something your loan provider allows you to do.

  Will my compensation be enough to live on?

  Your income as a teacher in our programs will be just enough to live comfortably but not luxuriously.

  Can friends or couples teach abroad together?

  Yes, you can teach abroad together.

  Make sure you both apply near the same time so we can put each name on each application for housing. We will do all we can to place both of you at schools close by each other or one school's neighborhood instead of across town! In rare instances, we can place you in the same school.

  What expenses should I budget for?

  There are a few other expenses you can expect beyond The Cultural Exchange Project program fee. For most programs, you will need to pay for a visa fee and visa-related documents like background checks and medical checks. You’ll need to buy your plane tickets yourself. If housing is not included in your program, you’ll need to budget for the cost of rent as well. Teachers in all locations pay for their own food, phone service, internet, and local transportation.

  Remember that your first paycheck won’t arrive until 4-6 weeks after you start working so it's important to have some savings in order to cover expenses while waiting.