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 Thai schools.
You may submit a preference of teaching location but CIEE cannot guarantee that we will be able to honor your request. Final hiring decisions are made by the Thai schools, not by CIEE or our partner OEG. Please keep in mind that flexibility is key to having an enjoyable experience. The earlier you apply to CIEE the better chance you have of receiving your desired location.
Placement locations are driven by the demand of local schools and do vary each departure. In general we offer school placements in the Bangkok area, as well as other cities, towns, and rural areas except for in the far southern provinces.
Yes! We are very successful at placing friends and couples together at the same institution in Thailand. Each applicant should include a note with their application materials mailed to CIEE. When possible, please mail in complete applications together.
We are unable to accommodate non-teaching family members or friends on Teach in Thailand. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply for a placement teaching at the same school.
Your CIEE program fee covers many things related to preparing, training, and supporting your experience. This includes valuable program support before you go and in-country as well. 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, one-way transfer from orientation to your host school, insurance coverage, program handbook, teaching guides and tools, visa application acquisition, and housing. Please refer to the service page for details.
You must have secured your bachelor’s degree prior to beginning the CIEE Teach in Thailand. However, you can apply while your degree is in progress. If this is your case, please submit a letter from a university professor, advisor, or registrar confirming when you are expected to graduate. Please address your specific situation with CIEE staff.
Special note to spring graduates: Due to the strict Thai government regulation requiring foreign teachers to bring their actual university diplomas to Thailand, spring graduates are eligible for the October, not the May, program departure. In sync with the Thai academic calendar, the May program generally begins the first weekend of the month which is generally prior to graduation.
No. In fact, most schools prefer that their foreign teachers are very foreign. However, having some knowledge of the local language will benefit your day-to-day life.
Due to the demand for native English speaking teachers in Thailand we strive to accept as many qualified applicants as possible. However, acceptance rates do fluctuate with the changing demand by local schools; sometimes CIEE is forced to create a waitlist. Applicants are considered on a rolling basis in the order that complete applications are received. Early applications are encouraged.
No, travel arrangements are made independent of CIEE. You are encouraged to book your flights after your school placement has been confirmed. Travel from orientation in Bangkok to your school will be arranged.
Please consult the State Department travel advisory web site at http://travel.state.gov/.
Is your question not listed? Please contact CIEE with specific questions on teach@ciee.org or 1.800.407.8839.
