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, since certification will be required. If you have your certification, we will need a copy.

  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. We bundled in the program and the 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, 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, Japan, South Korea, Spain, and Cambodia accept teacher candidates without a degree. Our Adventure Language camp in Thailand doesn't require a degree. The volunteer teaching program at a local high school in France accepts candidates without a degree.

  For any program that requires a Bachelor's Degree,  we welcome applications from graduating seniors. 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 that you can teach in any country. You’ll pick up basic phrases quickly by living there, and if necessary, use an app to help with communication!

  Most schools prefer you speak only 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?

  Unlike free placement agencies that simply match you with a school, we provide comprehensive support throughout your entire journey, which requires dedicated staff, resources, and infrastructure to deliver well.

  Here's what's included in your program fee:

  • Pre-departure preparation: Visa guidance, TEFL certification [if applicable], cultural training, and teaching workshops.
  • Ongoing support: US-based team available by phone/email throughout your contract, plus 24/7 emergency assistance.
  • On-the-ground help:  orientation, housing assistance, a local coordinator, and a guaranteed teaching job.
  • Community: Connection with alumni and current teachers for honest advice and support.

  Free agencies can connect you with a school, but they can't provide this level of preparation and support—because there's no revenue to fund it. We've built our model around what teachers actually need to thrive abroad, not just arrive.

  We're confident in the value because 95% of our teachers renew or recommend us to friends.

• 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 your loan provider allows it.

  Will my compensation be enough to live on?

  Your income as a teacher on 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 around the same time so we can put each of your names on each housing application. We will do all we can to place both of you at schools close to each other or in the same school's neighborhood, rather than 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 visa fees and related documents, such as background 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 for 4-6 weeks after you start working, so it's essential to have some savings to cover expenses while you wait.