Teaching English abroad is a great way to travel more economically and build deeper connections with a local community. As many pursue this opportunity after finishing university or while traveling abroad in their 20s, you may be asking: Am I too old to teach English abroad?
While international travel is often associated with younger people, there is no age limit on having meaningful experiences abroad. When it comes to teaching English, your life and work experience may even make you more suited for the job. This article will fill you in on everything you need to know about teaching English abroad, including age restrictions, the benefits of teaching English at an older age, and tips for teaching English in foreign destinations.
Is there an age limit for teaching English abroad?

You can make a difference as a teacher at any age!
So, is there an age limit for teaching English abroad? According to the International TEFL Academy, most countries only require that English teachers are above the age of 21. However, work visa restrictions and age preferences will depend on which country you decide to teach in, so it is important to do your research before you begin to apply for jobs.
For example, countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand typically prefer to hire teachers between the ages of 21-40, which may make it more difficult to find a job in these locations. You may also have trouble securing a work visa if you are above a country’s retirement age. If you want to find out about age restrictions for a particular destination, International Schools Review provides information on age limits for foreign teachers.
5 benefits of teaching abroad at an older age
Now that you know that you can teach abroad at an older age, you’re probably wondering if it’s a good idea. Traveling and working abroad is an amazing experience at any age, and there are several reasons why it can be even more valuable when you’re older. Here are five benefits of teaching abroad at an older age:
1. You’ve had more life experience

The experience you’ve gained at work and in life will help you inspire your students and make the most of your time teaching abroad.
You may have already traveled the world, had a career, or even worked abroad. These experiences will not only make you a better teacher but also may enrich your time abroad.
You may be more open to trying new things, knowledgeable about the world, and aware of your personal travel style. You will be better able to apply the things you learn in your new country to the context of your life and appreciate the significance of your experience abroad.
2. You may be more qualified
Whether or not you have already received your TEFL certification or have prior experience working abroad, you will certainly have acquired skills in jobs, academic endeavors, or travel experiences. Attributes such as master’s degrees, professional experience, and previous international travel may make you stand out to potential employers. These qualifications can also ease the transition to your teaching job, as you can apply your skills to your new position.
3. You can more easily adapt to your environment
You are no longer the gap year student or first-time traveler who has just left their home for the first time. As an older traveler, you know who you are and what you need to feel comfortable in your new environment.
Even if you have never traveled for long periods of time, life is full of unpredictability and change. You have surely experienced a difficult move, a long-distance friendship, or the sorrow of leaving your hometown for university. These experiences will make you better equipped to deal with the uncertainty of life in a new country.
4. You are more financially stable

You won’t have to count coins to live comfortably if you teach once you’ve saved up some money.
Gone are the days of hostel dorm rooms and ramen noodle dinners. While many people choose to teach abroad after graduating from university, a lack of a stable income or substantial savings may make the financial burden of living abroad a significant challenge.
However, if you choose to teach English abroad at an older age, you will probably be in a better financial situation than your average backpacker. As such, you can enjoy your travels without stressing about the money.
5. You can use it as a career break
Maybe you’re still pursuing a career path but need a break from the 9-5 work grind. Taking a career break is a great option when you need time to relax and experience something outside of your comfort zone. Teaching English abroad will allow you to immerse yourself in a new culture, try a new job, and gain a greater perspective for when you return to the workforce in your country.
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5 tips for teaching English abroad in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond
As you now know, nothing is keeping you from teaching English abroad in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and even beyond. Teaching in a foreign destination is a great opportunity at any age and in any phase of life.
However, there are certain things to keep in mind when teaching English abroad at an older age. Here are five tips to consider when applying for jobs and embarking on your TEFL experience:
1. Do your research

Carefully research the countries where you want to teach to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success.
As mentioned before, challenges such as visa requirements may limit where you can teach abroad. Before applying to teach in your preferred destination, you should make sure that it is a viable option.
Beyond age requirements for teaching English, there are other things to keep in mind when choosing a country as an older traveler. Some things to consider include the availability of health care, cultural norms surrounding age, and housing options. Be sure to do thorough research to ensure there are no surprises during the application process or upon arriving at your destination.
2. Get your TEFL certification
Getting your TEFL certification is not only a requirement for several destinations but will also open the door to more opportunities. Teachers with a TEFL certificate often receive better pay, more working hours, and more prestigious opportunities.
If you’re worried that age will set you back in the competition for a teaching job, becoming TEFL certified is a great way to make yourself more valuable to potential employers. TEFL courses often take around 120 hours to complete, and you can do them online at home or abroad.
3. Be open to a variety of destinations

It’s time to stop asking if you’re too old to teach English abroad and find a job in a dream destination instead!
If you want to teach English abroad at an older age, it is important to keep an open mind about where you are willing to go. Age requirements and other barriers may mean that you can’t go to your top-choice destination.
However, there are plenty of amazing countries that are perfect for older English teachers. Some of the best places to consider teaching English abroad when you’re older include Mexico, Panama, Spain, and Cambodia.
4. Consider your relevant skills and experience
When crafting your resume or interviewing for an English teaching job, you should use your professional and personal experiences to your advantage. Carefully consider if your previous jobs, travels, or degrees are relevant to the TEFL field, and take every opportunity to emphasize your suitability for the role. This will make you stand out from the recent college graduates and young adults.
5. Don’t let age restrict you!
Most importantly, don’t let age restrict you from what could be a life-changing experience. As the saying goes, age is just a number. Stereotypes and societal expectations should never hold you back from continuing to live an exciting life full of new places, cultures, and people.
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Age is just a number! Get out there and teach English abroad
No one is ever too old or young to experience the transformational power of traveling abroad. Teaching English abroad is a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture, acquire new skills, and make a difference in the lives of your students. Now that you know that teaching abroad is not only possible but is also an incredible opportunity for older travelers, what are you waiting for?
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