Frequently Asked Questions
- Is teaching experience necessary to participate on the CIEE Teach in Spain program?
- Can I bring my child or spouse with me when I teach abroad? What about my girlfriend or boyfriend?
- Why does CIEE charge a program fee?
- I have not completed my bachelor’s degree, can I still participate in Teach in Spain?
- Do I need to speak Spanish?
- How competitive is the application process?
- Does CIEE arrange my international flights?
- What advice does the State Department give to Americans living abroad?
- Does the Teach in Spain program allow me to qualify for student loan deferral?
- My question is not listed.
Is teaching experience necessary to participate on the CIEE Teach in Spain program?
No, but an interest in teaching is necessary. You will receive some training in the theories and practical application of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) during your orientation prior to the start of the program. That said, CIEE encourages candidates with TEFL or teaching experience/certification, English degrees, and other translatable skills to apply as they are highly desirable by Spanish schools.
Can I bring my child or spouse with me when I teach abroad? What about my girlfriend or boyfriend?
We are unable to officially accommodate non-teaching family members or friends on Teach in Spain. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply if their partners/children can make independent arrangements. Boyfriends and girlfriends are encouraged to apply.
Why does CIEE charge a program fee?
In a nutshell, your CIEE program fee covers many things related to preparing, training, and supporting your experience. This includes valuable program support pre-departure and in-country. We are your reference board and problem solvers should you need advice or assistance. Additionally, your program fee covers your pre-departure school assignment, an in-country orientation program, insurance coverage, and a program handbook.
Ask yourself what it might cost to live overseas for a semester or year without a stipend or insurance. Add the cost of housing or the time and energy necessary to solve problems with little or no support and it becomes clear why people choose to teach abroad with CIEE. Simply put, we are a program provider, not a recruiter. CIEE Teach Abroad programs select qualified individuals and provide services for fees.
If finding a paid position overseas were easy to do on your own, everyone would do it. If you can make it happen on your own and you are comfortable with the risks involved in doing so, take the challenge! For those who have not taught overseas before or are looking for more service, advice, experience, and support, we look forward to working with you.
I have not completed my bachelor’s degree, can I still participate in Teach in Spain?
CIEE is able to place candidates who have completed three years of their university degree and wish to take a gap year to participate in this program. Applicants in this situation must have previously studied abroad for one semester, preferably in a Spanish speaking country. Keep in mind that CIEE is not able to issue credits. See eligibility requirements for more information.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Si. It is essential that English is your native language and that you have strong Spanish skills. This requirement was made to ensure that you can functionally participate in a Spanish-speaking work environment. You must be able to converse with colleagues who have limited English abilities, make local friends and enjoy your daily life!
How competitive is the application process?
Due to the demand for native English speaking teachers in Spain we strive to accept as many qualified applicants as possible. Applicants are considered on a rolling basis in the order that complete applications are received. Early applications are encouraged.
Does CIEE arrange my international flights?
No, travel arrangements are made independent of CIEE. You are encouraged to book your flights after your school placement has been confirmed.
What advice does the State Department give to Americans living abroad?
Please consult the State Department travel advisory website at http://travel.state.gov/.
Does the Teach in Spain program allow me to qualify for student loan deferral?
Loan deferment is tricky and particular to each individual’s circumstances and loan types, but CIEE will assist you and even provide some basic information and strategy. U.S.-based CIEE Teach Abroad staff can provide official documentation for each program that officially declares the dates of participation, amount of salary/stipend, and the parameters under which the teaching assignment is carried out. CIEE staff will work with you to achieve your goal of a successful international experience.
Please note that federally subsidized loans have strict qualifications for deferral. Most participants will actually be applying for loan forbearance: a way to temporarily postpone or reduce payments for a set period of time.
My question is not listed.
The CIEE Teach Abroad program staff will be happy to answer your questions by email teach@ciee.org or phone 1.800.407.8839.