Program Reviews

Let me just say, that CIEE prepares you to be the very best TEFL Instructor. I was very nervous in the beginning not really knowing what I was going to learn or go through, but the course prepares you in areas in teaching I didn't know about. If I can give you some advice, is to keep an open mind and enjoy your time during the course. Use all the available resources they provide you (which is so much and so helpful!!). Get to know your classmates also, you might end up teaching abroad together!

As a professional educator I was apprehensive about teaching abroad because I assumed everyone participating in the program would be fresh out of college. Although many are, there are still plenty of other link-minded adults moving abroad. This was a perfect way to refresh my passion for teaching and gain new skills and experiences to bring back to my classroom. CIEE made the transition so easy providing all the necessary information to make the move as simple as possible! Working only 16 hours a week and having three day weekends to travel has made it the most enjoyable year of my working adult life so far.

I really liked this course and I think it prepared me for my English teaching job. There’s a lot of work each week, but I felt like the modules and assignments were helpful and informative, not just busy work. I also appreciated having a tutor that met with the class every week to discuss assignments and previous modules. I enjoyed getting to know my tutor and peers during these meetings. The required practicum allowed me to gain some real world experience and I got to network with other TEFL/ESOL teachers.

When I saw an ad a year ago on social media for this certification through CIEE, I was curious, though not sure if I would actually go through with it. As of now, I am awaiting my placement! The process was intimidating, but very easy to follow and the coordinators at CIEE are always available to help and lend support. Although I personally had a stressful application process, if everything is done on time to its full extent, it’s a breeze. I highly recommend trying this program for this unique experience!

Teaching English as a volunteer in Spain was a great experience for me. I taught the secondary school students at a school in Valladolid. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the other teachers because they were always welcoming to me. Many times the teachers would invite me to grab a coffee with them during the break time, or to try tapas after school. In addition, living with a Spanish family allowed me to gain a truly authentic experience. I learned a lot of Spanish along the way and I got to immerse myself in all parts of the Spanish lifestyle. My family was welcoming, fun, and always made sure that I was comfortable in their house. On top of all that, they were great cooks! I would definitly recommend this experience to anyone who is lucky enough to consider this opportunity.

CIEE has provided me with the best possible teaching experience that I could possibly ask for! My school is wonderful and I know that if I need anything CIEE will be there to help me in a second! Throughout the whole process of applying to landing in Madrid I have been completely at ease and this is only because of CIEE. Moving to another country is a difficult choice and there is no one else I would trust to help me with this adventure than the incredible crew at CIEE! Thank you for changing my life!

I came I to this program knowing some college friends would be around therefore I was furthermore excited for this opportunity. This program provides so many experiences inside and outside the classroom. I worked with Infantil and it's so rewarding. At first the kids would just stare at me in confusion, but after a couple weeks I am proud to say that they are learning the songs and repeating them. Songs such as the itsy bitsy spider, the wheels on the bus, head shoulders knees and toes etc. I would work with the age group again!

CIEE's 150-hour TEFL Certification has helped me build confidence as a future teacher very close to my departure to go teach in Chile. The staff is very hands-on and my instructor is very supportive. The course-load is rigorous but not too difficult, and keeps you on your toes and prepares you well to teach abroad. I could not have asked for anything more from this course and I look forward to our weekly tutorial, which adds a nice human element to the online course. 10/10 would recommend this program!

I think the TEFL course is very practical and relevant to possible situations an ESOL teacher can face. The grammatical side of the course covers all key topics and issues that are related to teaching them. Having a pedagogical education and some teaching experience from before, I find this course well structured and I think it is a good tool to refresh some pedagogical and methodological knowledge and skills. I firmly recommend to those who has no pedagogical education/experience and to those who has teaching knowledge from before, to consider TEFL course from CIEE as professional development or/and first step in teaching career.

It was a very helpful experience and the support was what I needed moving to a new country. CIEE was helpful in the starting process and leading me in the right direction. As the school year is moving forward, CIEE is still there to help and offer support, but they do so from the side. They really make it an experience for you and to only offer their support when you need it. It is very reassuring knowing that CIEE is there to help when it is needed. It has been a great experience overall and I am learning a lot as I move forward each day.