Top 6 Mistakes U.S. Teachers Make When Applying to International Schools (And How to Avoid Them)

The world is calling, and U.S. educators have a unique opportunity to answer!

With a significant surge in demand for American-curriculum trained teachers in international schools, now is the perfect time for educators to explore teaching jobs abroad.

As the global market for international education expands, the number of international schools has skyrocketed from 8,709 in 2013 to over 13,192 in 2023, creating a pressing need for qualified teachers.

According to ISC Research data, a total of 13,614 English-Medium international schools around the world enrolling close to 7 million students and employing 649,960 teaching staff. The sector continues to demonstrate resilience, generating over $58 billion USD, a growth of 18% over five years.

By avoiding common missteps in the application process, U.S. teachers can revel in the incredible opportunities available for professional growth and cultural enrichment. Careful planning can lead to financial stability and savings, while proper preparation opens doors to rich cultural exchanges and personal development.

To make the most of this exciting opportunity, it’s essential for U.S. teachers to navigate the application process carefully and avoid common pitfalls that could hinder their success:

Application Process

1. Submitting generic applications: Avoid sending the same generic resume and cover letter to multiple schools. Instead, customize each application to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the specific school and position.

2. Having unrealistic compensation expectations: Don’t assume salary packages will be similar to your home country or fail to research typical benefits for international teachers in your target location. Avoid both overestimating and undervaluing your worth.

Interview and Communication

3. Lacking cultural sensitivity: Refrain from making assumptions or comparisons based solely on your home country’s educational system during interviews. Demonstrate awareness and respect for cultural differences.

4. Using overly casual communication: Avoid using informal language, slang, or culturally specific humor that might be misinterpreted in a cross-cultural context. Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions.

Contract and Logistics

5. Overlooking contract details: Don’t sign contracts without carefully reviewing all details. Pay close attention to important aspects like housing allowances, flight reimbursements, and tax obligations.

6. Procrastinating on transition logistics: Avoid leaving important matters like housing arrangements or banking setup until the last minute. Plan ahead for the logistics of moving abroad to ensure a smoother transition.

The journey to teaching abroad offers U.S. educators a wealth of opportunities for professional and personal growth. By being aware of common pitfalls and taking proactive steps to avoid them, teachers can ensure a smoother transition and a more rewarding experience in international settings.

Stand Out To Hiring Schools With A Teach Away Premium Membership

As you embark on your journey to teach abroad, remember that avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your experience. To further support your journey, consider subscribing to Teach Away’s Premium Membership.

What’s included? Everything in the Free membership, plus:

Unlimited job applications
Stand out to employers with a featured badge
20% off courses (excludes teacher certification)
Get 15% off background checks with Avvanz
FREE culturally responsive teaching course ($49 value)
Eligible candidates receive access to Teach Away job fairs

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your international teaching aspirations a reality.

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