Teaching has gone global; as English has become the international language of business, countries around the world are always looking for native speakers to teach in international institutions or language schools. Qualifying as a teacher in the UK means you can set off on a globe trotting adventure; teaching culturally diverse groups of pupils, developing professionally and opening the door to cultural and financial benefits that you can’t find at home. Teaching abroad can be a competitive business so you might want to set yourself apart from the crowd. We’ve put together a list of advanced qualifications you can earn to give you the best chance of finding your dream job teaching abroad. Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or looking to elevate your career, earning a recognised international teaching certification can be a game-changer.
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
Best for: Teaching English abroad in non-English-speaking countries.
Overview: TEFL is one of the most popular certifications for teaching English overseas. Designed to provide people with native English the tools to languages abroad; with a specific focus on people learning English as a second language. Embraced by language schools across the world, a TEFL qualification is often the minimum requirement for English teaching positions in Asia, Latin America, and parts of Europe. Government projects designed to help national populations improve their English often employ a large number of TEFL qualified UK nationals to teach in state sponsored language projects; China and the UAE famously operate these kinds of institutions. A TEFL qualification can let you work as a teacher abroad without having any formal teaching qualifications; however, more permanent positions in International Schools will most likely require applicants to show they are a fully qualified educator. If you have passed your teacher training in the UK but want to show your determination to teach internationally then getting an additional TEFL qualification can significantly boost your CV.
Course Information
Duration: Typically 120 hours
Recognition: Widely recognised globally
Notable Providers: International TEFL Academy, TEFL.org, Most UK universities offer online and in person TEFL qualifications.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Best for: Teaching English both abroad and domestically, especially in multicultural classrooms.
Overview: TESOL is similar to TEFL and often used interchangeably depending on the country. It’s especially popular in North America and focuses more on pedagogical skills for diverse English learners. TESOL is designed to be more adaptable than the older TEFL curriculum; focussing on teaching English as a second language in diverse settings; both abroad and to foreign nationals studying in an English speaking country. It is meant to prepare teachers to work effectively both in person or online, providing teachers who earn the qualification with a range of professional opportunities both at home and abroad.
Course Information
Duration: Varies (120+ hours for certificate; 1–2 years for a master’s)
Recognition: Globally accepted, especially in academic settings
Notable Providers: Arizona State University (online), Manchester Metropolitan University, Trinity College London
CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
Best for: Teaching English in formal or adult education settings worldwide.
Overview: Offered by Cambridge English, CELTA is a rigorous and prestigious certification. It includes practical teaching experience and is highly regarded by employers, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. Adult education programs have become increasingly prevalent in recent years; as countries such as China, Japan, Argentina and India have heavily invested in educating their adult populations in English, with the hopes of sparking international development opportunities. Jobs teaching abroad in the adult education institutions can be very rewarding; with good work/life balance, career stability and strong government support (including discounted accommodation and tax breaks).
Duration: 4–5 weeks full-time or part-time options
Recognition: Highly respected worldwide
Notable Providers: Cambridge-authorised CELTA centres globally
PGCEi (Postgraduate Certificate in Education – International)
Best for: Qualified teachers or aspiring educators seeking international school careers.
Overview: The PGCEi is an academic qualification, often offered by UK universities, that focuses on international education. While it does not grant Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in the UK, it is respected by international schools globally. It is an alternative to the normal Postgraduate Certificate offered across the UK; with a focus on teaching in culturally diverse classrooms, managing language and cultural barriers to provide high quality education to varied pupils, it also focuses on teaching subjects more common in international schools than here in the UK. Requiring a year of part time study and counting as a postgraduate qualification this is an academic path for educators who have seriously considered moving abroad to teach and are ready to commit to a career in the international school system.
Duration: Typically 9–12 months (part-time online)
Recognition: Highly valued by international schools
Notable Providers: University of Nottingham, University of Sunderland
IB Certification (International Baccalaureate)
Best for: Teachers aiming to work in IB World Schools.
Overview: The International Baccalaureate organisation offers a certification program that prepares educators to teach in IB programs. The International Baccalaureate is an education program designed specifically for use in international schools; with the idea of creating a globally recognised qualification recognised by the best higher educational institutions around the world. Its curriculums are designed to educate pupils with both a global and local focus; allowing expats to educate their children in an academically rigorous environment wherever they are in the globe. An IB educators certificate is basically essential if you want to teach in an international school offering an IB curriculum but otherwise has limited use; make sure you’re certain you want to teach in an IB environment before embarking on a potentially lengthy and expensive qualification. The IB organisation also offers a course in Leadership in IB institutions; a great way to boost your CV if you’re looking to take the next step and take on a management position in a school offering the IB Curriculum.
Duration: Varies depending on the provider and program level, mostly 3 – 9 months depending on full time or part time study.
Recognition: Required or highly preferred by IB schools globally
Notable Providers: University of Bath, University of Dundee
Montessori Certification
Best for: Educators interested in early childhood or alternative education methods.
Overview: Montessori education focuses on child-led learning and development, a Montessori teaching credential is often required by schools using this method. Specifically focused on primary level education; Montessori is a globally recognised educational methodology that promotes play and self learning. Increasingly popular amongst families that want to educate their younger children in a way that is dynamic and inclusive, primary level institutes offering courses to the children of expats might provide Montessori education as an alternative to other primary curriculums. If you are an educator focused on early years education a Montessori certificate can show your determination to explore alternative methodologies; whether you intend to teach internationally or at home.
Duration: 9 months to 2 years
Recognition: Essential for teaching in Montessori schools worldwide
Notable Providers: Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Montessori Education UK
QTS (Qualified Teacher Status – UK)
Best for: Teaching in UK-curriculum schools around the world.
Overview: QTS is the standard teaching qualification in England and is highly valued by British international schools. Many international schools in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East seek teachers with QTS, in fact many countries require a teacher to demonstrate QTS in order to qualify for a visa as an educator. If you have completed your formal postgraduate teaching qualification then you may have already gained your QTS; especially if it included practical elements and classroom assessments. It is a good idea to make sure you have your QTS certification before starting to apply for work teaching internationally as it is an essential qualification most international schools will require from applicants.
Duration: 1–2 years, or through assessment-only routes for experienced teachers
Recognition: Gold standard for British international schools
Notable Providers: UK Department for Education, Tes Institute, University of Buckingham
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right international teaching certification depends on your career goals, teaching interests, and the regions you plan to work in. Whether you’re aiming to teach English in Asia, join an international school in the Middle East, or explore innovative education models like Montessori or the International Baccalaureate, the right certification can significantly boost your employability and confidence in the classroom. Before enrolling, research your target country or school system to ensure the certification is recognised and valued. Once you’ve got yourself qualified then PureTeach can get you started on your teaching abroad adventure; we aggregate teaching jobs from all over the globe so trust us to help you find your dream international teaching job today.
