If doing a TEFL course is part of your plan for 2020 self-discovery and fulfilment, we hope our guide to avoiding TEFL scams can help you in your accomplishment.
Obtaining a reputable hands-on TEFL qualification enables university graduates to apply for TEFL jobs abroad via reputable placement agencies. And this results in jobs at reputable schools with better living conditions, pay and ultimately valid work visas. But unfortunately with the wide use of the net, there will always be scammers out there. We have compiled a list of conditions to implement, as well as to avoid.
There are various things to consider when it comes to avoiding scams and how to select a reputable TEFL placement agency (Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is).
The first and most important step is to do your own homework and adequate research regarding the country you wish to teach in. Find out the maximum teaching hours, minimum wages etc, as this will enable you to more easily identify a scam.
Under no circumstances should a placement agency charge any applicant a placement fee. The schools hiring should pay the placement agency finders fees. Avoid agencies that make you pay a fee or that have any hidden costs down the line. Especially avoid an agency that insists on taking a cut of your salary.
Does the placement agency offer assistance in obtaining legal working visas. Never teach English abroad to foreigners on a holiday visa. Contact the relevant High Commission or Embassy and find out first hand what visa you need to apply for, and the necessary documents you will require.
Do they find candidates jobs at reputable schools? Check if the school they are placing you at is accredited with any associations. Something else to consider is, do they offer supportive teach abroad programs. This support would include from on arrival to continuous opportunities for professional development.
Do they have a trustworthy record? Again, it boils down to doing your homework. Research the placement agency and school. There are plenty of online tools in order to do this, including message boards, forums, online reviews and blacklists. Finally, check if they have a professional-looking website with other experienced English-speaking staff.
Avoid individual people who approach you over social media such as Facebook. If the country you are wanting to teach in requires a university degree, and they insist you only need a high school diploma, turn away. Often scammers will use a legitimate school name that has positive reviews but double-check that the email address corresponds with the school. Beware!
Questions to ask the placement agency:
- Where is the exact location of the school?
- Will there be other ex-pats teaching at the school?
- What will your work hours be?
- What are the demographics of the students?
- What will your remuneration be, and are bonuses included?
- What type of housing is on offer?
- What vacation time is included?
- Can the contract be renewed?
- Is medical insurance included?
- Will airfare be paid for?
Remember you are uprooting your life and it is far better to know all the conditions prior to your arrival at the school. You don’t want any unwelcome surprises on arrival!
Conditions that the TEFL placement agency should assist with:
- Reaching an agreement on your contract.
- Pre-departure information.
- Pre-departure support and integration.
Join our family at English Access Gauteng, one of the best International Language Schools in South Africa and qualify to teach TEFL in 2020. We are a full member of EduSA and registered with the Department of Higher Education which ensures the highest learning standards to our students.