Have you ever imagined living in a country steeped in history, drenched in sunshine, and bursting with vibrant culture? What if you could do more than just visit but actually live, work, and immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle? If this sounds like an adventure you’re ready to embark on, teaching English abroad in Cantabria and other countries in Spain might be the perfect opportunity. But what does it take to qualify for such a role? What are the requirements to teach English abroad in the Spanish program? Let’s dive into these questions and demystify the process by showing you how to teach English in Spain.
Basic Requirements for Teaching English in Spain
The following is required to participate: a passport from the U.S.A., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand and a Bachelor’s or Associate’s Diploma (please note that those applying from Australia and New Zealand can only apply with a Bachelor’s Degree). You are not required to have a TEFL/TESOL or a CELTA, or any previous teaching experience of any kind. You will also need to submit a photocopy of a valid passport, official copies of your transcripts if you’re still in college or a copy of your Bachelor’s Degree if you’ve graduated, a Personal Statement, and a Letter of Recommendation to be considered.
You can still apply to this program if you have not yet graduated from college. As long as you graduate and receive your associate’s and/or bachelor’s degree before the program start date (October 1st of each year), you can apply.
Be a Native English Speaker
If you’re considering how to teach English in Spain, one important factor to consider is the role of your native language. Being a native English speaker will significantly enhance your chances of securing a job. This is because native speakers have been exposed to the language from birth, providing them with an innate understanding of its nuances and subtleties. They are also typically “accent-free,” which can be an advantage when it comes to pronunciation teaching. However, this doesn’t mean non-native speakers can’t find teaching opportunities in Spain. If you’re a non-native speaker, you’ll often need to prove your proficiency in English, and having a strong grasp of Spanish can also give you an edge in your job search.
Make Sure You Understand Visa Laws and Common Spanish Practices
If you’re contemplating how to teach English in Spain, understanding visa laws and familiarizing yourself with common Spanish practices is crucial. Navigating through visa requirements can be complex, but it’s an important step toward legally working in Spain. For instance, those who plan to study at a recognized language school or university may be eligible to work while studying. Teaching in a language assistant program often means you’ll be in Spain on a student visa. It’s also worth noting that different teaching jobs may require different visas, like the commonly used 90-day Tourist Visa. On top of legal considerations, being aware of Spanish cultural norms can enhance your experience and make your transition smoother. Even basic Spanish language skills can significantly improve your interactions both inside and outside the classroom.
Save for Your Start-Up Costs
You may be all set for your journey, but don’t forget one key factor — cost. When thinking about how to teach English in Spain, one thing that goes overlooked is saving for your start-up costs. These expenses can include your TEFL certification, flights, visas, and initial living expenses. While some schools may offer benefits like airfare reimbursement or free housing, it’s important to have a financial buffer to cover these costs before such benefits kick in. You might also need to cover your own living expenses for the first few weeks before your first paycheck arrives. Therefore, having a well-planned budget is fundamental. It’s also worth noting that potential side gigs, like giving private English lessons or babysitting, can supplement your income and help offset these initial costs.
Join RVF International’s Spanish Program
Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey and teach English in Spain? With RVF International, you can make that dream a reality. We’ve outlined the requirements and provided the necessary tools to help you navigate the process and land your ideal teaching job in Spain. If you’re eager to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, broaden your professional skills, and make a real impact by teaching English abroad, we’ll help align you with your goals! Cover these basics and start planning your adventure today!
You may be wondering, “How long does this program last?” The Teach English in Spain program runs every October to the following May. For example, the 2024/2025 program year will start October 1, 2024, and will end May 31, 2025.
If you are interested in teaching abroad, RVF International can help make that happen! Contact us today, and we will get you started in the right direction.
