Teach English Abroad This Summer In Thailand

What documents will I need with me when I arrive in Thailand?

Be certain you pack to bring with you:

• Your notarized/legalized degree from your embassy.
• A copy of your university transcripts original University Degree Certificate or Original University Degree Transcript.
• Criminal Background Check

Is housing included?

You will receive a stipend at the end of your program that can offset your rent as you would in your home country. School staff will assist you in finding accommodation near your school. Please keep in mind that housing in Thailand might not live up to your current standard of living at home. In some towns or locations, there are not as many housing options available. Accommodation will typically be Thai-style studio apartments with private bathrooms, or in a shared townhouse with your own room. There will be an A/C Unit or fan, hot water, a double-sized bed and closet. Extra amenities like refrigerators or TVs can typically be rented from the landlord.

What is the likelihood of other teachers being in the same accommodation?

Depending on the school and location, there may be other teachers in the area.  No teacher will be required to share a room.

Is the bedding provided?

Beds and other furnishings are provided, but bedding is not. You can either bring your own, or buy some in Thailand to save space in your luggage.

When will I find out where I will be teaching – prior to arrival or upon arrival in Thailand?

You will know the answer to this question well before you head to Thailand.

What age group will I be teaching?

Placements are made in Kindergartens, Primary, and Secondary schools.

What is the most common level of teaching – elementary, pre-intermediate, intermediate, upper-intermediate, advanced? Does this differ by age group?

Age can often be a deceiving indicator of English ability among Thai students. For planning purposes, we recommend preparing your expectations for lower ability students ranging from elementary to advanced beginner.

Will teachers be teaching alone or will there be assistant teachers?

Some private primary schools will have Thai co-teachers, but it is best not to expect a co-teacher – you will likely be leading your class on your own.

How many hours per week will teachers be contracted to work?

The contract may state that you need to be at the school from 7am until 4pm or 8am to 5pm. Teaching hours will be between 18-24 per week. Many schools might let you leave a reasonable amount of time after your last class (2:30/3:30pm) but that is dependent on the school. Therefore, the contract will read 7am-4pm and 8am-5pm.

Are teachers provided with Thai lessons from the schools?

Not officially or formally. But for anyone who wants to learn Thai, you will find everyone around you more than helpful and encouraging!

What should I wear when I’m teaching?

Think lightweight fabrics, as it gets very hot and humid in Thailand!  Modest dress is required at schools.  You will be provided with a suggested packing list.

How safe is Thailand?

Thailand is an incredibly safe country to visit in terms of crime, illness, and general hazards. Malaria is one of the main concerns for those traveling to Thailand, however, it is very uncommon. You should consult your doctor before coming over as to the appropriate precautions to exercise for preventing illnesses of any kind as well as for their recommended inoculations.

Is it expensive to live in Thailand?

Thailand has a very low cost of living; however, it really depends on your lifestyle. Food and accommodations are extremely affordable but things like running your air conditioner 24/7 can run up your electric bill.

Can I apply with friends, family or significant others?

One question we often get is whether it is possible to teach in Thailand with a friend, family member or significant other. The answer is absolutely! Finding placement for two or more people in the same school or area makes the task of job placement more challenging and tends to narrow the placement options, however, if you are open-minded to location and age group, and do not have narrow preferences, we have a very successful track record of placing friends and family if not at the same school, then certainly in the same town.

Will Schools Hire Teachers That Are Age 50 Or Older?

Most schools do not impose age restrictions, but there may be a subtle age bias towards younger teachers. However, if you are active, vibrant, energetic and a creative educator who loves being around young people, you may be able to secure a job. 

Do I need to have TEFL/TESOL certification?

TEFL/TESOL certification is not required to teach in Thailand, but it is highly recommended and preferred by hiring schools.  A TEFL/TESOL certificate will make your application much more competitive, and you could receive a higher salary.  GeoVisions HIGHLY recommends that you obtain a TEFL/TESOL certificate before teaching abroad.

What about food? What's included and what do I budget?

Budget around $150 per month for food, depending on your standard of living.

Thailand is famous for its food, and rightly so. Their exotic cuisine stems from a history of fertile land and an abundance of food, as well as significant influence in from the Middle East, India and China. Thailand’s informal national dish is Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with subtle flavors suitable to any palate. It’s one of many non-spicy dishes loved by both the locals as well as foreigners. Much like the Kingdom’s geographical diversity, the Thai cuisine will vary in taste and variety depending on which part of the country you’re in. In Northern Thailand the region’s favorite dish is Khao Soi, a creamy noodle curry. In the Southern areas Gaeng Som—a spicy sour fish soup served with rice— is a local favorite. The Northeastern regions are well known for their spicy dishes including Som Tam, a spicy papaya salad.

For those with a taste of the non-spicy variety, there are hundreds of dishes in Thailand that are delicious, affordable and suited to your taste. Street food is also another one of Thailand’s culinary nuances loved by locals, expats and tourists. Food at roadside stalls is incredibly cheap and tasty, with the average dish costing around $1.50.

Application Process

• To apply, you must complete the online application.
• Once your application has been submitted, your Operations Coordinator will provide you with a list of documents required for the program. All documents can be attached and uploaded with your supplemental application.
• We will then submit your completed application to our Thailand office for approval.
• Within 2-4 weeks, you’ll know if you’re accepted to the program. You will receive an acceptance letter and we will provide you with more information regarding placements, visas, and training schedules.
• You will receive your placement prior to arrival.

When you're ready to apply, fill out, and submit your application (red button below) with your $350 fee.

• We'll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your temporary housing, while you choose an apartment you want to call home. Staff at your school help you navigate the apartments and locations. Your apartment is fully furnished and rent-free.
• Orientation begins.
• The work experience you are receiving in Thailand is envied by future employers.
• You should plan on working approximately 35 hours each week. (Individual contracts may vary.  Please read through your contract when offered a position by a school.)
• GeoVisions Foundation's 24/7 support from the moment you depart your home.

For summer 2020:
Session 1: June 8 to July 24
Session 2: June 29 to August 14

What's Included

• Teaching Placement.
• An experienced U.S. based GeoVisions Program Manager who will serve as your coordinator and liaison with our in-country staff in Thailand.
• Professional, locally-based staff to provide orientation, supervision, and guidance throughout your stay.
• Important documents, including pre-departure packs, orientation information, and all in-country informational materials.
• Five days of orientation to include extensive Thai culture and language orientation program that covers Thai history, politics, geography and culture, all taught by area experts. 
• Accommodation during your orientation, group activities and excursions.
• Survival Thai language lessons.
• Teaching assignment with a screened school along with a “thank you” fee provided by the school at the end of the weeks of teaching.
• Local airport pickup is provided.
• Comprehensive peer lesson plan resource.
• Alumni teacher network and events.
• A toll-free 24-hour emergency hotline in the U.S.

What's Not Included

• Flights.
• Meals. Budget around $300 for the month for food, depending on your standard of living.
• Accommodation is included during Orientation. While teaching, your school will assist in finding accommodation (not included).
• Local transportation.
• Visa costs for the "O" visa.
• International health insurance.