Program Reviews

I thought that it was an excellent program, especially for those that have no teaching experience. This program helped me to create lesson plans, and introduced me to some problems that I could face as a future ESL teacher. I think that this program allowed me to learn more about myself, and what kind of methods that I gravitate towards. It also taught me what some of my weaknesses are and how to improve them. As a beginner ESL teacher, I found thus very useful, and it set me on the right track for my ESL career.

CIEE's online modules were entertaining and fun. They were very well designed, by people who really understand how to teach. There was a good mix of readings, videos, quizzes, conversations, and interactive challenges.
My tutor was passionate about producing good English teachers, and she pushed each of us to challenge ourselves and become the best teachers we could be.
This course includes a practicum, and there was a lot of support provided to help us find a great practicum that suited our needs. CIEE TEFL has connections with schools all over the country that are familiar with TEFL trainees, and happy to host you. This is a great connection to have, as schools can sometimes be hesitant to take on a TEFL trainee if they aren't familiar with the TEFL program.
I also liked the emphasis on the many varied challenges of teaching abroad, and how you can rise to them! So overall, a great experience that I would definitely recommend to any aspiring English teacher!

I have been very happy with my choice to go abroad with CIEE so far. I am currently in South Korea, a few months into my program, and CIEE has continued to support me even once I arrived. I applied to the EPIK program through CIEE and during that entire application process I had constant support and communication through an advisor. CIEE looked over my application and additional materials to make sure I was as prepared as possible. Although it might be a bit pricey, with the TEFL certification included, it was well worth the price in my opinion because they act as a security network if you need it. Also you gain a certification which you can use anywhere and anytime. Once you arrive in Korea there is also an orientation where you can meet other English teachers in the program.

I was a bit skeptical about taking this class. I've never taken an online class, so I was a bit nervous going into it, but I'm now in week eight of the course and am happy with my decision to go through with it. I have an already busy schedule, so being able to plan when I take my class around my existing schedule has made my life significantly easier than it would have been if I'd taken a traditional in person class. I wasn't so sure how it would work out being in contact with classmates and my tutor when I was having difficulty, but my tutor, Lynn, is EXCELLENT and in constant communication. I don't believe I've ever once sent her a message that she didn't respond within a few hours. Even from far away, she is incredibly present.
In February I will be joining CIEE and a few of my classmates in South Korea where I will be teaching for a year. It's been exciting to get to know them, if only virtually. Comparing and contrasting what my experience may be like with others going to different countries reminds me of just how far this work can go!

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!