TEFL & TESOL Certification

This question is probably the one we find ourselves answering the most. The use of these acronyms can be rather confusing, especially since they are frequently used interchangeably. Definitions:

TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language – This term is predominantly used when English is being taught in a country where it isn´t the native language (for example teaching English to Spanish-speakers in Argentina).
TESL – Teaching English as a Second Language – This term refers to teaching English to non-native speakers of English in a country where it is the native language (for example teaching immigrants to the UK/USA).
TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – This term theoretically encompasses both of the above.
ELT – English Language Teaching – This term is used mainly by institutions in the UK.

2. What is the TEFL job market in Buenos Aires like? Will I have trouble getting a job teaching English in Buenos Aires? The job market for English teachers in Argentina is excellent at the moment. The majority of work is found with language institutes that teach English to businesses and groups throughout the capital. There´s a steady stream of jobs available throughout the year, but demand peaks March-June and is at its lowest December-January (summer). The best time to start looking for employment is when you are close to finishing your course.

3. What will GIC Argentina do to help me find employment teaching English in Buenos Aires? We have close contact with many teaching institutes in Buenos Aires and most graduates find work right after the course; some even have work lined up before they finish.

4. What is the average salary like for teaching English in Argentina? It is fair to say that TEFL teachers are quite well paid by local standards in Argentina. The average salary in Buenos Aires is about 25-30 pesos per hour. The rate varies depending on what type of school or company you work for, and whether you work full or part-time. Consult with our program advisor for updated information.

5. How many of the TEFL graduates actually find work teaching English in Argentina? The majority of our course graduates who have wanted to work in Argentina have been able to secure teaching positions.

6. Do schools provide health insurance to their English teachers? Generally speaking, no. However, everyone in Argentina (tourists included) can make use of the National Health Service at no cost.

7. What is a typical English teaching position like? This varies from school to school, but you may be expected to teach a variety of courses, ranging from children to business professionals at all levels. Many English language institutes in Buenos Aires do not give classes in-house; instead teachers are sent clients´ offices and places of work.

8. Is this English teaching TEFL course only for college students?

No, the English teaching TEFL course in Buenos Aires is for people of all ages.

9. What is the average age of GIC Argentina students?

We have students of a varied range of ages. However, on average students in our TEFL TESOL courses in Buenos Aires are between 20 and 29 years old.

10. How long can I go for?

The TESL TESOL course lasts 4 weeks. We also have Spanish courses in Buenos Aires available having a duration from four weeks to an entire semester. Multi-month programs less than a semester in length are also possible. Please let us know the preferred length of your program and we can likely accommodate your needs.

11. How can I enroll in this TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires?

It is very easy. In order to enroll in our TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires, please fill out the application form online.

12. Can I combine the TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires with Tango lessons and/or other programs?

Yes! You can combine TEFL TESOL course with both tango and salsa if you want, but you should arrange this in advance to make sure that there are no scheduling conflicts and that there is space available. You can also combine any of our programs with a program in another location. Please, contact us if this is your situation.

13. Do I receive a certificate at the end of the TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires?

Yes, at the end of the TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires you will receive a TESOL certificate approved by the British Council.

14. Do you arrange excursions on the weekend?

Yes!! We can arrange optional trips to many parts of Argentina – however costs for these excursions are not included in the Spanish course in Buenos Aires. Your program does include cultural activities such as walking tours around Buenos Aires, theaters, museums, etc. For more information, please visit Weekend Trips.

15. Will I meet anyone if I go alone?

Yes! Most students taking the Spanish course in Buenos Aires travel independently and are looking to meet other people with an interest in learning a language and discovering another culture. Not only will you meet other program participants, but you will meet locals as well at the Spanish school, in your home stay, and in your travels.

16. Is airfare included in the price of the Spanish course in Buenos Aires?

Your flights to and from Argentina are not included in the program price. When you have made your flight arrangements, let us know so we may arrange your airport pickup.

17. Is medical insurance included in the price of the Spanish course in Buenos Aires?

No, it is not included. We strongly encourage students to get travel and health insurance. GIC Argentina will not be responsible for any costs incurred by the student relating to medical illness, accidents or other reason that may result in the student’s early return.

18. Is financial aid available for this TEFL TESOL course in Buenos Aires?

Most financial aid can be transferred to your study abroad program. Talk to your financial aid advisor to determine how much financial aid you can expect for your study abroad program. Your home institution makes the final decision in regard to your aid package and policies change from university to university. Call your home university study abroad advisor if you run into problems transferring your financial aid. (read more)