Which TEFL Internship Abroad Is Right for You?

Find Your Perfect Fit With Premier TEFL

Teaching English abroad is one of the most life‑changing decisions you can make. But it can also be overwhelming: where should you go? How long should you commit? What’s the culture like outside the classroom?

TEFL internships are designed to answer exactly those questions — giving you real teaching experience, structured support, and a chance to explore a new country while you grow professionally.

In this blog, we break down the best Premier TEFL internship destinations — Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, Cambodia, and Germany — and help you decide which one fits your goals, personality, budget, and career plans. Along the way, you’ll find real student quotes, comparison charts, and insider tips from people who have lived the experience.

What Is a TEFL Internship — and Is It Worth It?

Before comparing destinations, let’s look at what a TEFL internship really involves — and why it’s one of the most beginner‑friendly ways to start teaching abroad.

A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) internship combines:

• ✔ A recognized TEFL qualification

• ✔ Structured orientation and ongoing support

• ✔ A real, paid teaching placement abroad

• ✔ Housing support and sometimes visa assistance

Unlike independent teaching contracts, internships provide a safety net. You get trained, introduced to your school and local community, and usually placed with other international interns. It’s the perfect “first step” into global teaching.

During your placement, you’ll teach students of all ages — from energetic primary kids to motivated adults — while developing cultural awareness and soft skills that travel with you anywhere.

“A TEFL internship isn’t just about training — it’s about applying it in real classrooms, building confidence, and arriving home with stories, skills, and professional experience.” 

For anyone unsure about launching straight into a one‑year contract overseas, an internship offers structure, guidance, and community from day one.

The Ultimate Comparison: Internship Destinations

Here’s a snapshot comparison of Premier TEFL’s main programs:

Destination Deep Dives

🌏 Vietnam – Culture, History & Classroom Energy

Best for: Cultural explorers, budget‑minded travelers, and adventurers who want both structure and freedom.

Vietnam offers an incredibly immersive internship. With vibrant cities such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find a balance between professional teaching and daily discovery.

Interns typically teach for five months, earning around US$1,000 per month, with rent‑free housing. The job allows you to live comfortably while saving for weekend adventures — from motorbike trips through rice terraces to evenings at local food markets.

💬 Real Intern Voices — Vietnam

“Vietnam is ranked as the fifth happiest country in the world. The locals are always smiling… I cannot recommend this internship enough. Whether you want a career break, a fresh environment, or you’re just feeling adventurous, it is one of the most rewarding experiences you could ask for.” — Will Davies

“If you’re thinking about a TEFL internship in Vietnam… just do it. You won’t regret it!” — Laura, 2024 intern

A Day in the Life:
Wake to the sounds of scooters and morning markets, grab a hot bánh mì and strong Vietnamese coffee, and head to your school where students greet you with “Hello teacher!” After classes, explore lakeside cafés or take a sunset boat ride with fellow interns.

Why it’s great: You’ll gain confidence teaching, enjoy some of Asia’s best food scenes, and travel affordably within Southeast Asia — all while experiencing one of the region’s warmest and most welcoming cultures.

🌞 Thailand – The Land of Smiles

Best for: First‑time travelers, nature lovers, and those craving a flexible, friendly teaching environment.

Thailand’s internship placements usually last four to six months, with options to extend. Interns earn 30,000–35,000 THB monthly, plus housing support.

Teaching often takes place in local primary or secondary schools — intimate class sizes, smiling students, and the chance to lead creative lessons (think English karaoke or storytelling games).

💬 Intern Testimonials — Thailand

“I chose Premier TEFL because I liked that I got a TEFL certificate, real teaching experience, and help with the work permit and visa — it made everything easier.” — Brianna

“I loved being part of Thai culture. Weekends exploring temples, waterfalls, and local food makes this experience unforgettable.” — Angelique

“Thailand is probably the most beautiful place I’ve been… I’ve seen elephants in the wild and hiked mountains. It’s a dream.” — Steph

A Day in the Life:
Start with sticky rice and mango from a morning stall, teach energetic teenagers through fun English activities, and finish with evening markets or a group cooking class. The rhythm of life is relaxed yet full of joyful surprises.

Why it’s great: Thailand delivers everything — cultural immersion, affordability, and endless travel — while keeping you supported. Ideal if you’re new to teaching or traveling alone.

South Korea – Structure & Strong Salaries

Best for: Career‑oriented teachers seeking structure, savings, and longer contracts.

South Korea’s TEFL internships are well‑organized and professional, often lasting 6–12 months with salaries from US$1,250 to 1,750/month. The program may include flights, orientation, and rent‑free apartments.

You’ll teach at public or private schools, both known for modern facilities and engaged students who often participate in English clubs or cultural exchanges.

Important to Know: South Korea requires a bachelor’s degree and a clean background check. Some positions are restricted by nationality due to visa regulations, so check details before you apply.

Cultural Highlights:
Between classes, you’ll discover K‑pop cafés, glowing night markets, high‑tech cities like Seoul and Busan, and serene countryside temples. It’s a country that mixes futuristic energy with deep traditions.

Why it’s great: The pay is strong, the teaching experience is respected worldwide, and it’s a perfect launchpad for anyone planning to continue teaching or working in education long term.

Cambodia – Long‑Term Connection & Community

Best for: Immersive travel, flexible qualifications, and meaningful cultural exchange.

Cambodia’s internships usually span a full year — ideal for those who want to settle and grow roots. Salaries range from US$700–1,800/month, and housing support is included.

You might teach in Phnom Penh’s bustling schools or community programs in smaller towns. Either way, you’ll witness firsthand how language learning opens new doors for your students.

💡 Note: Cambodia offers one of the most open markets for TEFL teachers. You can apply even without a degree, making it accessible to those starting their teaching journey.

“I have been given great direction and the opportunity to live my dream and start making a difference as an educator.” — Miranda on her Cambodia TEFL experience.

Why it’s great: Warm hospitality, delicious food, and the chance to make a direct impact. You won’t just be living abroad — you’ll truly become part of a community.

Germany – The European Classroom Experience

Best for: Short placements, structured travel, and those seeking professional development in Europe.

Germany’s TEFL internships are shorter (from 5 to 10 weeks) and often designed around summer programs. Interns usually receive a stipend instead of a fixed salary, along with accommodation assistance.

These placements are perfect for those pursuing education degrees or who want European teaching experience without committing to a full academic year.

Life Outside Class:
Explore medieval towns, holiday markets, and efficient train routes that connect you easily to neighboring countries. You might teach conversational English or assist in bilingual classrooms, improving your language‑teaching methods in a structured, Western context.

Why it’s great: A short‑term, résumé‑boosting experience that combines travel and professional credibility — all in the heart of Europe.

Income & Living Snapshot

Which Internship Fits Your Personality?

🧭 1. The Culture Explorer

You value experiences over income. You’ll thrive in Vietnam or Thailand, where daily discoveries and new friendships enrich every moment.

“Thailand is probably the most beautiful place I’ve been to in the world. When I’m not in the classroom I like to go on adventures… I’ve swam in beautiful waterfalls where little fishes nibbled at my feet, hiked what felt like a mountain and I’ve seen elephants in the wild just living their lives.” — Steph, Thailand intern

🧑‍🏫 2. The Career Builder

You’re seeking structure, stability, and long‑term teaching potential. Pick South Korea or Germany to experience professional environments and a well‑respected résumé addition.

🌍 3. The Long‑Term Immerser

You want deep ties with your host community, not just a semester abroad. Cambodia is the top choice for teachers who want to make a sustained difference and grow personally through service and teaching.

Preparing for Your Internship

A bit of preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a successful placement.

1. Get TEFL‑ready early.
Complete your 120‑hour TEFL course (included in Internship) before you arrive and practice basic lesson planning — this helps you feel confident immediately.

2. Organize your documents.
Gather degree scans, background checks, passport photos, and visa papers well in advance. Missing paperwork is one of the main reasons teachers delay their start dates.

3. Learn cultural basics.
A few local phrases, gestures, and etiquette rules show respect and help you connect quickly with colleagues and students.

4. Pack smart.
Include professional clothes for class, casual wear for travel, and lightweight layers suitable for local climates.

5. Embrace flexibility.
Schedules may change, and school systems differ. A sense of humor and adaptability are your greatest tools.

What to Expect: Classroom & Lifestyle

Most interns teach 20–25 hours weekly, with time left for travel and social activities. Lessons range from conversational English to grammar, pronunciation, and interactive games.

Schools often provide teaching materials, but creativity is welcomed — think language bingo, story dramatizations, or country quiz days. Beyond your placement, expect invitations to festivals, school trips, or even karaoke nights with staff.

A key highlight? The international network you’ll build. You’ll meet fellow interns who may become lifelong friends — a global support system for your future travels and career.

After Your Internship: Where It Leads

Many interns return home with far more than teaching experience. Some extend their placements or find full‑time jobs in-country. Others use their TEFL certificate to travel across Asia or Europe, teaching as they go.

For those interested in education careers, internships provide:

• A professional reference from your host school

• Real classroom experience for your CV

• Cross‑cultural communication skills prized by employers

Even if you pivot to a different field later, TEFL experience demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and global mindset — traits that stand out to recruiters in nearly any career.

Tips for Choosing Your Internship

✅ Check Requirements First.
Some programs require a degree, others accept fluent English speakers. Always confirm before applying.

✅ Ask About Support Levels.
Look into visa help, orientation, housing, and mentoring. Those details can make a huge difference once you’re abroad.

✅ Budget Carefully.
Internships usually include salaries but not flights — factor in visas, insurance, and extra travel.

✅ Read Reviews Critically.
Focus on patterns rather than isolated experiences. Consistent praise for support and structure is a good sign.

Final Thoughts: Internships Are More Than a Job

A TEFL internship isn’t just a way to teach abroad — it’s a structured journey that helps you grow, connect, and see the world with new eyes. You’ll gain independence, cross‑cultural understanding, and a global professional network.

Whether you see yourself as a future teacher, digital nomad, or lifelong traveler, there’s a Premier TEFL internship ready to help you get started.

💡 Remember:
The “best” internship isn’t necessarily the one with the highest pay — it’s the one that aligns with your values, curiosity, and goals. With Premier TEFL, you’re not only stepping into a classroom — you’re stepping into a community of people changing lives through language.

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