7 Best Government Teaching Programs to Teach English Abroad in 2026

EPIK is the South Korean Government’s English-teaching programme aimed at improving the public school system through internationalisation. 

Applications open twice a year: 

• February (for the autumn intake, with an end-of-May deadline) and 
• August (for the spring intake, with a deadline at the end of November).

Read more: Discover The EPIK Programme: Your Gateway To Teaching English In South Korea

How to apply to the EPIK programme

You can apply either directly to the Ministry of Education or through a recruiter. If you decide to apply through a recruiter, the EPIK website lists recruiters approved by the Korean Ministry of Education — apply only through these recruiters. 

❗ Never pay a recruiter — they are paid by the Ministry of Education.

The application is completed via the EPIK web portal and is divided into four sections: Background Information, Health Self-Declaration, Personal Essays, and Lesson Plan. 

Application documents:

Personal essay 

Your essay should address why you want to teach EFL and why you want to do so in Korea specifically.

Connect your background (degree or work history) to EFL, explain your teaching philosophy, and reflect on how you’ll engage with cultural differences. For the Korea-specific section, consider how South Korean educational ideology aligns with your own approach.

Lesson plan

Your lesson plan should be conversation-focused rather than grammar-focused — think real-world scenarios, such as navigating an airport or ordering at a restaurant. Research the relevant school level (elementary, middle, or high school), as each has distinct objectives. EPIK values both quality and word count, so make it detailed and original.

Others

• Notarised and apostilled copies of your degree
• Notarised and apostilled teaching qualifications
• Original criminal background check
• Apostilled birth certificate or other proof of birthplace (may be requested to determine conscription (mandatory military service) liability.

Read more: Teach English in South Korea

The Japanese government runs the JET Programme to increase internationalisation of education. There are three strands: 

• Assistant Language Teacher (ALT)
• Coordinator of International Relations (CIR)
• Sports Exchange Advisor (SEA)

The CIR and SEA roles require a high level of Japanese proficiency. From a TEFL perspective, most applicants will be applying for the ALT position, which requires a high level of English proficiency, but no knowledge of Japanese is required.

The application process opens from mid-September for the JET programme for intake the following year. But the specific application closing dates vary, depending on your country of citizenship.

For example, in 2025:

• South Africans can apply until 17 October.
• US citizens can apply until 14 November.
• UK citizens can apply until 6 November.

How to apply to the JET programme (ALT)

Each country has its own JET website, and requirements may vary. 

The application is completed online and covers background information: education, employment, coaching/teaching roles, and intercultural experience.

Read more: What Is An Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) In Japan?

Application documents

Statement of Purpose

Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) is the most important part of the application. Focus on what you can bring to the community — relevant EFL experience if you have it, or transferable skills from other areas of life. Reflect on your experience of new cultures and what you’ve learnt from them (even a family holiday counts). If teaching experience is limited, draw on your own time as a student: what made lessons engaging, and how would you replicate that?

Teacher Sithembiso, in his fourth year with the JET programme, has this advice for your SOP: 

• • It’s important to have a strong Statement of Purpose for the application process. The SOP is the document that provides interview panellists with insight into who you are as a person and why you are applying to JET. 
  • Outline why you want to do the JET Programme, why you want to teach in Japan specifically, why you want to teach English and how you’ll influence learners at the school(s) that you teach at and the community in your town culturally. 
  • It’s the only part of the application where you are able to motivate why you’re a good prospect for the JET Programme, so it’s important you spend a considerable amount of time on it.  My suggestion is to write an SOP like a life story rather than like a resume. Don’t forget to proofread it!

Others

• Proof of your degree
• Academic transcript  
• Proof of nationality
• Two reference letters 
• A doctor’s statement (if required)
• Criminal background check
• A TEFL certificate 

Documents must be uploaded to the online application portal as PDFs. Multi-page documents should be combined into a single file before uploading.

Read more: Here are 11 Key Things You Should Know About the JET Program

TFETP places Foreign English Teachers (FETs) and English Teaching Assistants (ETAs) in Taiwanese public schools.

TFETP applications are done on a rolling basis. Applications close once all spots are filled. The application deadline is the end of April, with interviews in May and notifications by June.

How to apply to the TFETP programme

Applications are submitted via the TFETP website. 

Application documents

Statement of Purpose

Your SOP should be about 700–1,500 words and should cover three areas: reasons for applying to TFETP, objectives during your time in Taiwan, and plans for using the experience after returning home.

Others

You will require quite a handful of documents for this application, including the following:

• Passport
• Degree/diploma/certificate
• Teaching license/certificate OR proof of qualification as an ETA in a Ministry of Education public school
• Teaching demonstration video (4–5 minutes)
• TWO recommendation letters
• Criminal background check

Those who provide proof of TA experience must also hold ONE of the following:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Education, English or similar
• An accredited TEFL/TESOL certificate

Note: Only clear A4-sized PDF documents scanned in colour will be accepted. 

You can apply any time, with placements for the 2026/2027 academic year from August/September through June/July.

Read more: Teach English in Taiwan

The Programme d’Assistants de Langues Vivantes Étrangères (ALVE) or Language Assistants Programme places foreign language assistants in French public schools to improve learners’ communication skills. It places 4,500 assistants from about 70 countries in schools across urban and rural France.

Language assistants work for 12 hours a week. Vacation dates follow the local school calendar.

How to apply

Applications are handled through the ADELE portal. You will be able to list three placement choices (académies), but you are restricted to only one per group: Group A, B, or C. If you have no preference, you can select “indifferent”.

❗ Important: Applying means a serious commitment. If you withdraw, you’ll need to give a reason, or you could be prevented from applying in the future.

Application documents

Personal essay

Your personal statement must be written in French and be a minimum of 500 words. Focus on how you will use your native English skills to create interactive lessons and demonstrate your enthusiasm for sharing your home culture.

Others

• Proof of university enrolment or a degree, with a minimum of three years of higher education completed.
• A language assessment from a French professor or an official test result, such as the TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) or DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française)
• Criminal background check
• Copy of birth certificate (used for the French social security/Carte Vitale setup)

Contracts run from 1 October to 30 April (seven months) and are renewable if your home country allows it. Non-EU citizens must return to their home country to renew their visa for a second year.

US citizens need to apply through the TAPIF programme.

Read more: Teach English in France

CETP is Hungary’s primary provider of native English teachers to public and private schools. Due to Hungarian governmental recommendations, CETP can currently only place teachers who are citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, and other EU countries, provided applicants are native English speakers. Nationality requirements may change from year to year, so it’s best to contact CETP directly with questions.

CETP accepts applications year-round, but applying six months in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred location. Applications for the main September intake typically close in June, and the January intake closes in November.

How to apply to CETP

The application process is managed by a non-profit organisation working directly with the Hungarian school system. Email your CV and cover letter to: [email protected]

CETP teachers work around 22–26 hours a week. No teaching experience is required. However, you must be willing to take a TEFL course and do 10 hours of volunteering in a classroom setting before your job begins. 

Application steps include: 

• Complete the application form
• Submit a personal statement
• Attend a Zoom interview

Application documents 

Statement of Purpose

Your statement (up to two pages) should explain why you want to teach in Central Europe and what life experiences have prepared you for living and working abroad. Talk about your role not just as a teacher, but also as a temporary member of the community, including how you plan to handle the mix of Western ideas entering the local culture. Include information on recent overseas study or work experiences, your hobbies and interests, and any other information you think is relevant to your application. 

Others

• Bachelor’s degree 
• TEFL certificate (not required but helpful)
• Criminal background check
• Doctor’s letter confirming good physical and mental health

❗CETP requires a placement fee of $2,500, which covers your work visa, health insurance, housing (with utilities), orientation, airport pickup, and 24/7 in-country support.

Placements run for the full school year, although semester placements are available. Placement extensions are possible for an additional semester or a full year. 

Read more: Teach English in Hungary

EOPD is a reputable volunteer programme for those seeking a Latin American adventure in Chile. It’s backed by the Chilean Ministry of Education and the United Nations Development Programme. It aims to improve English proficiency in public schools.

There are two intakes: March (first semester) and July/August (second semester). For the first semester, applications open in September/October. For the second semester, applications open in March/April.

How to apply to the EODP

To apply, go to the International Volunteers website and navigate to the National Volunteer Centre tab.

Application documents

Personal essay

The first step in the application stage is to write a personal essay explaining your interest in Chilean culture and your motivation for working in rural/underserved communities. Flexibility and a positive attitude are key — be honest about why you want to volunteer in this context.

Others

• Bachelor’s degree
• Criminal background check
• CV/resume
• Recommendation form completed by a professional or academic reference

⭐ A TEFL certificate is highly preferred and will significantly increase your chances of being placed in your preferred location. 

Upon arrival in Chile, you’ll attend a week-long orientation in Santiago (hotel included). You’ll also receive health insurance, a waiver for visa fees and a free online Spanish course to sweeten the deal.

Housing is a homestay placement with a local family who’ll provide all your meals and a room for free — great for cultural immersion. 

TTA alumna Marie taught with the EODP and has this to say: 

• The entire programme is a cultural exchange opportunity! That means 95% of your time will be spent surrounded only by locals, giving you limitless opportunities to learn about Chilean culture and customs.
• It’s important to remember that EODP is a volunteer teaching programme with a small stipend. I highly recommend saving up in advance so that you have enough funds for travel, socialising, shopping and food.

Read more: What is Chile’s English Opens Doors Program (EODP)?

Spain’s Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports programme (known as Auxiliares de Conversación) places native English speakers in Spanish public schools. Language assistants are commonly referred to as ALTs or conversation assistants. 

Read more: What Is An Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) In Spain?

NALCAP (North American Language and Culture Assistant Program) is the US-specific track under Spain’s MEFP Auxiliares de Conversación programme.

❗Note: In 2026, NALCAP intake will start later than typical timelines due to restructuring. No updates on exact times are available at the time of writing.

The application window is small, typically just a few weeks. It opens around February and closes by the end of March, with dates shifting annually. Monitor the MEFP website for updates.

How to apply to the MEFP

Applications are open to citizens of partner countries (eg, USA, UK, Australia, Canada) and are processed via the Profex 2 portal. 

Application documents

Statement of Purpose

Only first-time applicants to the programme are required to submit an SOP. This letter can be written in English or Spanish and be around 250–300 words long, and must be addressed to the Ministry of Education of Spain.

In the letter, you will explain why you’re interested in being an ALT in Spain. Reasons may include a love for Spanish culture or the desire to enhance your Spanish-speaking skills. Connect your answer to MEFP goals, such as helping students improve fluency through exposure to native input. Highlight relevant experience — volunteering, tutoring, any teaching-related activities — as well as soft skills, such as creativity and adaptability. 

Remember to sign and date your SOP before submission. 

Others

• Valid passport
• Be a native-English speaker OR have a C2 English Certificate or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree OR be enrolled as a 2nd-year or higher college student
• Clean Certificate of Sexual Offences (Certificado de Delitos de Naturaleza Sexual)
• Health statement
• Statutory declaration
• Recommendation letter from a professor or employer

Read more: Requirements And Hiring Process To Become An ALT In Spain

Having basic Spanish skills will boost your application, as will experience living abroad, a TEFL qualification and teaching experience — but these are not compulsory.

Catherine taught in a high school on the island of Gran Canaria. She shares her insights: 

• The ministry programme is the most direct way to get accepted. The programme is very flexible: I could choose my region (Canary Islands) and even the island where I wanted to be based. It also has shorter working hours than other programmes, and there is no upfront payment. 

Everyone has a different lifestyle… If you want to dine at restaurants regularly or live alone, it just means you need to save enough before you go to Spain. 

• “Admittedly, knowing how to speak Spanish was a huge bonus, and all the time and effort I put into learning had paid off.”

ALTs teach 12–16 hours a week under supervision — not as lead teachers — and receive a monthly stipend. 

Read more: Teaching ESL In Spain: Navigating Siesta Culture And Classroom Life

TLG is the Georgian government’s programme aimed at improving foreign language proficiency across the country, including English, French, Italian, and German. 

⭐TLG provide high levels of cultural immersion and is TEFL-newbie-friendly. 

The programme promotes cultural exchange by placing volunteer teachers with host families and introducing innovative teaching methods, especially those emphasising listening and speaking skills. Most placements are in rural or under-resourced schools, while some teachers in cities receive apartments instead of living with host families.

Teachers co-teach with a local Georgian teacher for at least 25 hours a week (including prep time) and provide their host family with 3 hours of language lessons a week.

Applications are generally accepted on a rolling basis for both the spring and autumn semesters. Contracts are year-long, but six-month contracts are available.

How to apply to TLG

Applications are submitted via the TLG website: tlg.gov.ge. 

Application documents

Statement of Purpose

Your statement should be up to two pages and contain the following sections: personal information, cross-cultural and volunteer experience, teaching experience, and any additional information.

You must explain why you want to teach in Central Europe/Georgia specifically. Describe what life experiences have prepared you for living and working abroad. It’s important to discuss your role beyond teaching as a member of the local community. Address how you plan to address the mix of Western ideas entering the local culture. Include details on your hobbies, interests, and any recent overseas study or work experiences.

Others

• Resume/CV
• Copy of passport (colour)
• Copies of degrees/certificates/diplomas  
• Two photos (headshots)
• Medical self-assessment form
• Two reference letters 

If you pass the initial stage of the application process, a criminal background check and additional medical documentation will be required.

Additional non-compulsory requirements include teaching and/or volunteer experience, as well as experience with education projects and management.

Read more: Teach English in Georgia

The NET Scheme in Hong Kong places English teachers, known as NETs, in public schools across Hong Kong. NETs support local teachers in promoting English and providing authentic learning opportunities.

It pays well but is not suited for new TEFL teachers, as it often requires teaching experience.  

Applications typically open during the first half of the year for the following school year. However, recruitment can occur at any time if vacancies arise, so there are opportunities throughout the year as well.

The application deadline for the 2026/2027 school year is 24 April 2026. 

How to apply to NET

There are two ways to apply:

1. Through the Education Bureau’s (EB) official website
2. Directly to aided schools (publicly funded schools that manage their own hiring) with NET vacancies

To apply via the EB, download and submit the appropriate application forms from the official EB website here before the deadline. 

Application documents

Supporting statement 

While there isn’t a standalone essay in the initial stage, the application form requires a supporting statement (or Additional Information section). Here, you will justify your category ranking — the EDB ranks teachers based on qualifications.

Focus on your teaching style. Discuss your experience with curriculum development and co-teaching, as well as leading extracurricular activities.

Others

• Completed application form
• Copies of academic and teaching qualifications (eg, TEFL, TESOL, PGCE)
• Proof of teaching experience (if applicable)
• Supporting service records or statements of employment

Shortlisted candidates may also need to complete a written test and attend an interview.

Teachers must also meet NET qualification requirements for the relevant school level, undergo a medical examination before appointment, and obtain teacher registration in Hong Kong.

NETs work during school hours, but are also expected to work outside of these times, including weekends, when required. 

Read more: Teach English in Hong Kong

Now, let’s talk about the joys of getting your documents approved for your application. The information in this section may vary from country to country and should only act as a guide.

Requirements vary slightly by country and programme, but most will ask for:

• Degree certificate (if required)
• TEFL certificate
• A criminal background check (CBC) from your home country

These documents must be officially verified. 

CBCs can be obtained from the relevant authority in your country (eg, DBS in England and Wales, FBI in the USA, SAPS in South Africa). Most countries offer an online application. 

CBCs for visa purposes are valid for six months, after which you’ll need to order a new one.

Once your documentation is ready, you send it to the solicitors. 

Solicitor notarisation

Your documents must first be certified (or notarised) by a registered notary public to be valid and accepted in your destination country. A solicitor who is not a registered notary public cannot perform this service.

The notary public will inspect your documents and contact the relevant bodies (eg, your university or TEFL provider) to confirm their authenticity. The notary will then stamp and sign the documents and emboss them with a special seal stating their name and official details.

It’s recommended that you use copies of your degree and a TEFL certificate for this process, not your original criminal background check.

Read more: How To Legalise Your TEFL Certificate [2026]

Getting your documents apostilled

After notarisation, your documents must be apostilled by your home country’s foreign office — in the UK, this is the FCDO’s Legalisation Office. 

The foreign office first checks that the stamp, signature, or seal is real and issued by a registered public official, such as a notary public. Once this has been confirmed, they will place a small piece of paper on the back of your document called an apostille. The apostille confirms that the document is a certified original or an authenticated copy.

Attestation/embassy authentication

If your destination country has not signed the Hague Convention of 1961, you may also need attestation (also called embassy authentication). This involves sending your documents to that country’s embassy in your home country, where they will be stamped or sealed for use abroad.

A notary public can handle all three steps on your behalf, usually at a fixed price per document per country. This is more expensive than doing it yourself, but it saves a lot of time.

Governmental teaching programmes are great for TEFL newbies and those who prefer structured support and stability. Each programme has its own guidelines and requirements, but all offer great benefits and meaningful experiences. All it takes is a bit of organisation and careful planning to get the ball rolling. 

Interested? Well then, why not sign up for a TEFL course with The TEFL Academy to give you the best shot at being accepted on a government programme. You can’t go wrong with our Level 5 168-hour TEFL course to get you started on the adventure of a lifetime.

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