Teach English in Thailand with TravelBud
An accredited TESOL certificate
Experience the famous skyline of ancient Bagan, the major drawcard for travelers to Myanmar.
A TravelBud teacher in her classroom in Thailand.
Teachers taking a stroll along the beach in Hua Hin.

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Guaranteed Job Placement with Peace of Mind Pre Departure and In-country Support

We outline the entire process you’ll follow to realise the dream of teaching in Myanmar, from all pre-departure support, to guaranteeing you a job in one of our trusted and vetted schools and supporting you during your entire experience.

Our knowledgable, experienced and passionate enrolment and support teams guide and support you every step of the way both before you leave your home country and once you arrive in Myanmar.

TravelBud Profile Photos

With TravelBud, you’ll always be talking to someone who has taught abroad before, so you’ll get informed, first-hand advice to guide, prepare and support you before, during and after your experience.

  • We guarantee you a teaching job in carefully vetted and trusted schools where every effort is made to match placement preferences.
  • We'll explain all the paperwork, visas, contracts, taxes, work hours, budgets, requirements, responsibilities and answer all of your questions to help ease any anxieties.
  • We guide you through everything you need before you depart to Myanmar and from the moment you touch down, you'll continue to receive peace of mind 24/7 support from our in-country team who will be on hand for you throughout your placement.

Quick Facts

Salary

Earn $600 – $1000 USD * (2 million to 3.5 million kyat) per month.
* May fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility.

Placement Types

Placements are mainly in language centers and private schools teaching kindergarten, primary (elementary and middle) and high school students.

Contract Length

Placements are for 6 months or 1 year and can be renewed if you’d like to stay and continue to teach and travel.

In-class Accreditation & Placement Only options

Get TEFL/TESOL certified in-class in Myanmar. If you already have an accredited TEFL/TESOL certification, our Placement Only option is best for you.

Eligibility Requirements

You don’t need to have any teaching experience to teach English in Myanmar. You do need:

Required

  • A passport from the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand

Preferred on case-by-case basis

  • A Native English Speaker
  • Between 20 and 59 years of age
  • No major medical or mental health diagnosis or medication in the past 5 years
  • No communicable diseases
  • No criminal conviction whatsoever (even misdemeanors)
  • No visible tattoos, such as on the face, neck and hands
Free Enrollment Consultation
Unsure? Get expert advice and guidance

We’ll send you more info, explain the program and answer all your questions.

Can I teach English in Myanmar without a degree?

Yes! Our Myanmar program is one of the few programs to accept non-degree holders.

If you are a non-degree holder you might also be interested in our Teach English in Cambodia program.

Can I teach English in Myanmar with a diploma or associate degree?

Yes, our Cambodia program accepts diploma or associate degrees as well as non-degree holders.

Reviews

5.0 (3 reviews)

Throughout the whole experience travelbud were by my side

Throughout the whole experience TravelBud were by my side, Saskia and Lydia were my pillars. A lot of contact to the build up to leaving your home country and then checking in to see how we are getting along. The ground team are amazing and really help you adjust to Myanmar life.

Joni

United Kingdom, Dec 10, 2019

An experience I never imagined

I have had such an incredible experience with TravelBud and in Myanmar. The TravelBud team has been nothing but supportive and kind during the whole process. From the moment I signed up to present day while I am still teaching. Every question I had was answered and I was fully ready to go with all documents on the day of my flight.

Mindy

United States, Jan 09, 2019

Program Options

Option 1: In-Class TEFL & Placement

If you do not have an internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL certification, we highly recommend our in-class course held in Myanmar to prepare you for your teaching adventure abroad.

Option 2: Placement Only

If you already hold an accredited 120 Hour TEFL/TESOL certification, then our Placement Only option guarantees you a teaching job with all our in-country support benefits.

What’s included for each Program Option

scroll horizontally to view full table

Option 1

In-Class TEFL & Placement

Option 2

Placement Only

Secures your spot
Comprehensive pre-departure support and guidance
Personalised one-on-one Support
Visa Guidance
Your questions answered
Guaranteed Job Placement
24/7 In-country support
Lifetime Teaching Placement Guarantee
TEFL/TESOL Course
(4 weeks in-country)
Internationally Accreditated Certification
Practical Teacher Training in-class
Airport pickup and transfer
Subject to correct arrival times
Airport Assistance
Info & guidance on trains/taxis/buses and routes
SIM Card Included
SIM Card guidance
Local bank account guidance
Shared Accommodation
(for 1st month in-country)

(for 1st week in-country)
Cultural Orientation including excursions
(1 week)

(1 week)
Visa Run
(for 1st month in-country)

(for 1st month in-country)
Lesson Plan templates and resource directories
Support Network
Self-development and advantageous future employability

Fees

View FeesView Fees

Full Program Highlights

  • Comprehensive pre-departure support and guidance

    • Getting the necessary documentation prepared prior to departure.
    • Assisting you with all planning, packing, visas, costs, budgets and booking flights.
    • Answering your questions to help ease any anxieties you may have regarding your trip.
  • Logistics and safety when arriving

    • Airport pickup (provided if applicant lands within four days of start date and between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM).
    • Sim card and setup assistance.
    • Assistance with opening a local bank account.
    • Welcome group dinner.
  • A toolkit for navigating Burmese culture

    • Cultural Orientation and excursions.
    • Social events and meet and greets.
  • Practical Teacher Training

    • To hone your craft and ensure confidence before you begin teaching professionally.
    • Lesson Plan templates and resource directories.
  • Guaranteed Job Placement

    • At carefully vetted schools.
  • An Internationally Accredited TEFL/TESOL certification

    • The knowledge required to teach english successfully.
    • You will graduate with an Internationally Accredited 120 hour in-class TEFL/TESOL certificate that never expires and can be used to teach all over the world.
  • A support network of fellow teachers

    • Lifelong friendships and travel opportunities.
  • 24/7 In-country support

    • Ex-foreign teachers and local, on-the-ground support staff provide you with personal assistance throughout the duration of your teaching experience.
    • You can rest assured knowing that any queries will be answered such as translation help, legalities, emergencies, travel options or school queries. Someone is on hand.
    • Teacher meet-ups.
    • We check in with you regularly and keep up to date with your teach abroad experience.
  • Lifetime Teaching Placement Guarantee

    • Once you’ve completed your contract, we can guarantee you a position at another partner school throughout Asia for which you are eligible, at no additional charge to you.
  • Self-development and advantageous future employability

    • When you do head back home, you’re not just another resume in a pile of resumes – you are someone different who’s done something interesting and rewarding.
    • Add teaching abroad to your CV to stand out from the crowd.

Free Enrollment Consultation
Expert guidance and support

We’ll send you more info, explain the program and answer all your questions.

Guaranteed Job Placement

We find you a teaching job or jobs to ensure you have the maximum work hours allowed under your visa.

You could spend your own time trying to find your own teaching position.

But this can be time-consuming and stressful because you’ll have to wade through a myriad of risk factors and paperwork when evaluating teaching positions.

These can include but are not limited to: 

  • Work visas, relevant permits and documentation
  • The interview process
  • The credibility of the school
  • Your safety at the school
  • Understanding contracts, contract length and hidden clauses
  • Payment terms and what happens in the event of non-payment
  • Taxes
  • Teaching philosophy and environment
  • Teaching materials
  • School code of conduct
  • Local staff support and English proficiency
  • After school activities and requirements
  • Disciplinary processes
  • And many more considerations!

So you might find a job but you’ll be unprepared from a teaching, cultural, financial and emotional perspective.

We take the pressure and stress away from you by guaranteeing your job placement and providing peace of mind support

  • We guarantee you a teaching job in carefully vetted and trusted schools where every effort is made to match placement preferences.
  • You can focus on enjoying your new lifestyle knowing your income of $600 – $1000 USD is secured.
  • We’ll explain all the paperwork, contracts, taxes, work hours, requirements and responsibilities.
  • We guide you through everything you need to know before you depart to Myanmar and from the moment you touch down, you’ll continue to receive peace of mind 24/7 support from our in-country team who will be on hand for you throughout your placement.
  • We’ve all taught abroad before and, having placed over 2200+ participants around the world, know the key to success is well-trained, culturally-adjusted, and emotionally-supported teachers. Read more about our teaching placements.
Free Enrollment Consultation
Expert guidance and support

Our experts will explain the program and answer all your questions.

Awards & Nominations

We’re thrilled to be recognized as one of the best Teach Abroad organizations and these awards reflect our commitment to delivering an exceptional standard of professional support, training and experiences to our community of teacher travelers worldwide. Read more about our values and team.

TravelBud Top Rated Teach Abroad Organization 2022!
TravelBud Won the 2021 Innovation Awards in the Teach Abroad Category
TravelBud recently won a GoOverseas Community Choice award for the Best TEFL Course with Job Assistance in 2020!
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Lifetime Placement Guarantee

Once you’ve taught in one of the TravelBud schools, we can guarantee you a position at another partner school in any of our destinations for which you are eligible on your program line, at no additional charge to you.

TravelBud Lifetime-Placement Guarantee Program Lines Infographic

  • Pay one fee and you’re able to teach in any partner school on your program line as long as you like.
  • It’s a once-off fee for a lifetime of opportunities to make a difference in the lives of your students and travel the world in a sustainable way.
  • For example, once you’re finished in Myanmar you can travel over to Thailand or Vietnam and experience a whole new cultural adventure.

Boost your employability

You might think you’re taking a step back by taking a year off but nothing could be further from the truth!

Although you may think it’s a halt in your education journey, you’re actually fast tracking yourself through:

  • Learning independence.
  • Learning how you react to different situations.
  • Learning how to master and grow your confidence in public speaking.
  • Learning how to overcome obstacles.
  • Learning about yourself through your own personal self discovery.
  • Learning how to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself.

These would normally take much longer in a normal, sheltered environment and wouldn’t be nearly as much fun!

When you do head back home, you’re not just another resume in a pile of resumes – you are someone different who’s done something interesting and rewarding.

People who are able to reflect on their experiences will give them an edge in their interview, no matter what industry or profession.

Read why working abroad boosts your employability →

Teaching Placements

Myanmar Teach Abroad

Teaching Placement Overview

Salary range in USD per month$700 - $1000 USD *

* May fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility.

Salary local currency per month2 - 3.5 million Kyat
Saving potential in USD per month$100 - $200+
Employment TypeFull-time
Contract Length6 months, 1 year
Placement TypesLanguage Centers, Private Schools
Classroom AudienceKindergarten, Primary (elementary and middle), high school students, adults
Classroom AgeBetween 4 - 18
Classroom SizeGeneral English classes of maybe 10 to 30 students; private tuition classes of 1 to 10 students.
Working Hours per week20-35
Days off2 days per week but may not be consecutive
Holidays / Paid Leave3 – 10 paid vacations days and 15 public holidays per year (paid)
Tax rate range for teachers10%
VisaBusiness Visa
Initial Enrollment to Arrival3 Month Minimum
Top Placement Locations1. Yangon
2. Mandalay
3. Monywa
4. Tachileik
5. Pyin oo Lwin

Teaching Placements

Placements are mainly situated in Yangon, a bustling and steadily growing city.

Placements are in language schools and private schools.

The language centers run all year around and the private schools run for nine months of the year.

Language Centers

Language center are at their busiest on the weekends so teachers usually teach those days and evenings during the week, with two days off during the week.

Private Schools

Private schools run Monday through Friday during the daytime with Saturday and Sunday off.

The teaching environment varies with some classes having air-conditioning while others do not. Some classes have technology in the classroom while many do not. For the younger learner classes, there are sometimes teaching assistants in the classroom, but not in all cases.

Age Groups

All ages. You may end up teaching anywhere from kindergarten students to high school students. It depends on the school that is interested in your profile. When you take the TEFL/TESOL course you will be trained to teach people of all ages and skill levels.

Working hours

The position is full time, ranging from 15 to 25 hours per week in the classroom, five days per week and have two days per week off but the days may not be consecutive and those teachers working at language schools should be prepared to teach on Saturday and Sunday as those are the busiest days of the week for language schools.

What if you are unhappy in a job? Can you get a new one?

It depends on the circumstances. If you perform poorly or are fired for poor behavior, then we are not responsible for finding you a new job. But if the issue is beyond your control, then we will help you find a new position.

Dress code for teaching?

Professional dress unless otherwise negotiated with the school.

Cultural Preparation

Part of the success of your experience comes from understanding the culture that you’re going to be living and working in.

Cultural awareness training helps you to settle into your new environment, make local friends, avoid misunderstandings, and enjoy success in social and professional life.

Our Program Includes:

Pre departure Support

to guide and prepare you

Logistics and safety

when arriving

A toolkit for navigating

your new country

A support network

of fellow teachers

24 / 7 In-country support

for peace of mind

Having Fun!

& embracing your new adventure

Pre-departure Support

We assist you with all planning, packing, visas, costs, budgets, booking flights and any questions or information you need. 

Pre departure Support

  • We’ll outline the entire process you’ll follow to realise the teaching abroad dream.
  • You’ll be provided comprehensive information relating to each step in the pre-departure process and you’ll have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you like, no matter how silly you may think they are!
  • We’ll explain and help you get the necessary documentation prepared prior to departure.
  • We’ll assist you with all planning, packing, visas, costs, budgeting and booking flights.
  • We’ll ease any anxieties you may have regarding your trip and share the positive and life-changing adventures of the teach abroad experience.

Logistics and Safety when arriving

We’ll pick you up from the airport and introduce you to your support team in-country.

Logistics and Safety when arriving

  • We’ll pick you up from the airport so you won’t have to stress when you arrive off the plane (provided if applicant lands within four days of start date and between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM)
  • We’ll introduce you to your 24/7 support team on the ground.
  • We provide you with your SIM card and help you get setup so that you can contact your loved ones back home and your new friends you’re about to make on your epic orientation!
  • We assist you with your local bank account setup so you can save money on international withdrawal fees. Your salary is paid into your local bank account.
  • You’ll get to meet and greet fellow teacher travellers with a welcome dinner or beach barbeque!

A toolkit for navigating your new country

The perfect foundation for adjusting to life in your new country and meeting your fellow teachers and in-country stafff members.

A toolkit for navigating your new country

Our 1 week cultural orientation on Burmese culture and language gives you the perfect foundation for adjusting to life in Myanmar as well as an opportunity to bond with your fellow teachers-in-training and in-country staff members.

Learn foundational Burmese language

We help you with foundational language to help you navigate:

  • The bustling markets.
  • Grabbing a taxi.
  • Ordering a delicious meal.
  • Garnering respect from locals.

(plus it’s pretty cool to impress your mates at home or add it to your resume!)

Cultural and History lessons

  • Learn from local Burmese staff and ex-foreign teachers who have made their home in Myanmar.
  • You’ll understand the cultural dynamics so that you don’t feel like a fish out of water.
  • You won’t be making any faux pas or disrespecting the locals.
  • How to address locals and your fellow teachers.
  • You will know what you can and can’t do in Burmese classrooms.

Relevant Cultural Excursions

Excursions include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Guided tour of the Shwedagon Pagoda
  • Walking tour of downtown
  • Myanmar/Burmese cooking class
  • Lethwei class (Burmese Boxing)
  • Intro to Buddhism and meditation
  • Welcome group dinner
  • Excursions are subject to change based on your program option and weather

Take part in a Lethwei class (Burmese Boxing).


Walking tours help orientate participants to their new surroundings and give them an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, and people of Myanmar


Experience a guided tour of the Shwedagon Pagoda.


Welcome group dinner, a great way to meet your fellow teacher travelers.

A support network of fellow teacher travelers

In addition the personal assistance and 24/7 support we provide, you’ll also have a support network of fellow teachers.

Meet fellow Teacher Travellers

Meet other like-minded individuals who are experiencing the same pleasures and challenges you are.

Only they understand what you’re also going through in a way that friends at home would never.

Make Lifelong Memories

Many of our teachers visit the friends they make during the cultural orientation and TEFL Course.

This becomes a valuable network and community for you as you’re able to visit your friends in different parts of Thailand and fully experience all that the country has to offer.

You'll meet fellow teachers and make life-long friendships during your in-class TESOL in Yangon, Myanmar.

Diverse range of background

We have teachers participating in the cultural orientation and TEFL course from all over the world.

 

24/7 In-Country Support

  • Ex-foreign teachers and local, on-the-ground support staff provide you with personal assistance throughout the duration of your teaching experience.
  • You can rest assured knowing that any queries will be answered such as translation help, culture shock, legalities, emergencies, travel options or school queries. Someone is on hand.
  • Teacher meet-ups.
  • We check in with you regularly and keep up to date with your teach abroad experience.

Have some fun and embrace your new adventure!

Visit pottery kilns in Nwe-Nyein near Mamdalay, Myanmar

Visit pottery kilns in Nwe-Nyein near Mamdalay, Myanmar

Catch a train around Myanmar and see rural life and culture. This photo was taken as Hsipaw.

Catch a train around Myanmar and see rural life and culture. This photo was taken as Hsipaw.

Visit Kawthoung, Myanmar.

Visit Kawthoung, Myanmar.

Experience your own unique cultural adventure by teaching and traveling in Thailand with TravelBud.

Experience your own unique cultural adventure by teaching and traveling in Myanmar with TravelBud.

Internationally Accredited TEFL/TESOL Certification

There are so many options when it comes to TEFL/TESOL courses that it can be quite overwhelming to understand what’s legitimate and what high quality schools require from teaching staff.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), are often used interchangeably but are essentially the same thing: a certification in teaching English.

A quality TEFL/TESOL course helps teachers avoid the frustration and pitfalls of being unprepared in the classroom and provides all the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively teach English.

With TravelBud’s 120-Hour In-Class TEFL/TESOL certification you get years of teacher insight, experience and practical knowledge which has been refined into a quality internationally accredited curriculum that focuses on preparing students in the best possible way for their teaching abroad experience.

Educational Philosophy

Students are trained based on a global ‘best practices’ approach to teaching English as a second language that incorporates the direct method, communicative approach, and task-based teaching approach within a lesson planning structure of Present, Practice, and Produce.

We focus on teacher creativity. In many environments, teachers cannot depend on technology, so they must be both creative and resourceful in their lesson planning and execution. Technology is a tool, not a crutch.

Our teachers must harness their own creative spirit during the course and perform in a low-tech environment. Then once they have demonstrated that, we begin to instruct on how to use technology and allow students to incorporate technology into their lessons.

We require extensive teaching practice. We believe that proper education in TESOL must involve praxis, or the application of theory in a classroom setting. The course provides at least 16 hours of teaching practice whereby students are placed in a classroom as teachers, under instructor supervision and assessment, during the course. This typically happens several times during the course.

The process entails, preparing lesson plans for classrooms of different ages and skill levels, delivering those lessons, receiving peer and instructor feedback, and adjusting lesson plans and teaching approaches based on that feedback. This process is critical to the course and preparing teachers for the field.

Course Location

The in-class TEFL/TESOL course is held in Yangon, Myanmar, a stone’s throw from the world famous, majestic Shwedagon Pagoda.

Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar, a city that radiates with a charming mixture of modern and colonialist-era ambiance.

Nicknamed “The Garden City of the East,” Yangon is known for its lush parks and vibrant lakes.

Yangon has much to offer to travelers of all ages, and is slowly becoming a well-known international tourist destination.

Myanmar’s main domestic and international hub for air, rail and ground transportation is located in Yangon. Since Yangon is the main center for transportation, the majority of the industrial and commercial economic sectors are located there as well. This makes Yangon the most convenient location for incoming travelers to experience the bustling urban culture of the city, as soon as they enter the country.

Museums within Yangon proudly display relics from the ancient kingdoms, and they strive to share their knowledge of Yangon’s transition from an ancient metropolis, to the modern state it is at today.
The majority of the Myanmar population is Buddhist, so it should be no surprise that many of the historical sites are related to Buddhism. One of the biggest attractions in Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda that towers with dominance and beauty. There are over 80,000 pieces of jewelry dotting the Pagoda and the surrounding shrines.

But Shwedagon is far from the only ornate site in Yangon. The city also offers other well-known beautiful sites including, Botataung, Sule and Chaukhtatgyi, just to name a few.

Yangon also offers an exquisite nightlife, full of discos, clubs and pubs, where you can meet other travelers, teachers, and locals.

Yangon is also home to some of the best sporting facilities in the country. If you feel like getting an eyeful of one of the local matches, find an evening game, and a team to root for, in one of the various local events, such as volleyball, tennis, swimming or football.

Yangon is truly an emerging city with an ancient background and a new modern feel. The city has a lot to offer, and it’s a great place to travel abroad.

 

Course Components

  • Information and discussion about Myanmar culture, history, politics, and society to provide exposure and help students navigate their new environment.
  • Significant instruction in Burmese language (7 Hours).
  • Strong grounding in the history and theory of teaching English as a foreign/second language. This is taught in a way that emphasises application of theory to enhance success in the classroom.
  • Significant practical training in teaching listening, reading, speaking and writing in the classroom, including extensive lesson planning, presentation, and feedback from peers and instructors.
  • Tons of tips, tricks and examples of how to teach English to every age group.
  • Advice and guidance for effective classroom management.
  • Practical training and assessment through participation in a non-profit English camp for disadvantaged kids.

Detailed Course Overview

Week One – Orientation

The first week of the course is an amazing, interactive orientation on Myanmar culture and language, as well as an opportunity to bond with other teachers-in-training and staff members.

The program is held in Yangon, Myanmar encompassing Myanmar language, culture, and society. The course is taught by area experts and includes several exciting and informative cultural excursions.

Myanmar has a rich history and participants will explore the distinct ethnic and cultural regions and exotic neighbours that make up Myanmar’s national and regional geography. Students will receive a strong foundation in Myanmar language, society, politics and geography and this knowledge will be reinforced during several cultural excursions.

Cultural awareness training helps clients settle into their new environment, make local friends, avoid misunderstandings, and enjoy success in social and professional life.

We provide a vast array of exciting and adventurous excursions within the local community to immerse our clients in culturally rich local experiences. 

Week Two

The second week of the course is a deeper exploration of theory in the discipline of English as a second language and how to teach grammar.

Students learn about the structure and key elements of a lesson plan. Every lesson requires a detailed lesson plan that lays out the procedures of the class, and encourages teachers to consider the challenges, technology resources, and other factors that can impact a successful lesson in the classroom.

During week two, students will also learn how to teach speaking and grammar.

Grammar can be challenging to teach. One of the reasons for this is that it has been a long time since native English speakers have reviewed grammar rules, so we provide students with a bit of a refresher.

The major assignments for week two are to create a lesson plan for teaching grammar and to present a full lesson just as a teacher would in a classroom.

Week Three

The third week of the course focuses on how to teach reading and listening.

The major assignments for this week are to create lesson plans for teaching reading and present full lessons just as a teacher would in the classroom. During this week participants will learn more about teaching young learners and practice planning lessons for kindergarten students.

Additionally, our participants will learn about curriculum development for long term learning goals for their students.

Week Four

The final week the class is dedicated to classroom management and preparing for and conducting the English camp *.

While classroom management may be the final topic covered, it is in fact extremely important, especially in cross-cultural contexts. Classroom management is about setting ground rules, apply them consistently, getting to know your students, and earning and maintaining their respect and commitment.

Students spend several days preparing their lessons for the English camp. The camp typically lasts 2-3 days.

During the final week there will also be an in-class final exam.

International Accreditation

Our internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL course is accepted by employers around the world and is accredited by Accreditat. Accreditat is registered under the UKRLP (UK Register of Learning Providers), Number 10065351. Registration on the UKRLP means they have been verified against a recognised legal source.

Graduates of our internationally accredited 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course have used their TEFL/TESOL certificate to successfully find employment in ESL teaching and education fields in nearly every Western, native-English speaking country, as well as across Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the TEFL/TESOL Course

Your fee includes shared accommodation for the duration of the course and includes internet, electricity, and air conditioning. Rooms are shared (with someone of the same gender).

A room in the communal house during your In-Class TESOL. Clean and tidy.

A room in the communal house during your In-Class TESOL. Clean and tidy.

Accommodation after the TEFL/TESOL Course

Once you’ve completed your TEFL/TESOL course, your accommodation will vary from place to place, but it is typically somewhat basic.

Some accommodations may have a kitchen area, air conditioning, and even a laundry machine for washing.

Usually, internet is not included in rent prices. However, it is very cheap to purchase a subscription or data for your phone. Alternatively, you can head over to a local internet cafe in major cities.

Mobile services are usually very fast, with most networks running on 5G speeds. Otherwise, connectivity is somewhat slow, especially in smaller villages, where internet access is still limited.

An example of accommodation in Yangon. Simple and clean. Single room options are available at an additional expense.

An example of accommodation in Yangon. Simple and clean. Single room options are available at an additional expense.

Kitchen and bathroom facilities are basic with everything you need.

Kitchen and bathroom facilities are basic with everything you need.

How much will rent cost?

Rent will vary depending on where you are living, but it is generally between $200 USD to $350 USD per month, not including electricity and water.

Will I be living with someone?

If you are placed with a friend or partner, you will be able to live together. Otherwise, you might be living alone or sharing with another ESL teacher.

We’re here to help you through the whole process and will provide help, guidance, information and assistance finding your ideal accommodation during your teach abroad experience.

Dates

  • One of the huge advantages of taking the TEFL/TESOL course in Myanmar is that the course itself prepares people thoroughly for teaching in Burmese schools and gives you first-hand experience in the classroom during the practical portion of the course.
  • The course begins on Monday morning, we typically have a welcome meeting on the Sunday afternoon before the intake. We would want all participants to be in country by Sunday afternoon before their course starts.
  • Placement Only candidates will join one of the dates outlined below for their orientation before heading to their placements.

2025

3 February 2025Spaces AvailableApply
28 April 2025Spaces AvailableApply
23 June 2025Spaces AvailableApply
27 October 2025Spaces AvailableApply

Budgets

Our support team will walk you through everything prior to you departing to ensure you have exactly what you need by when you need to have it.
Currency Converter

Change to your currency. Default prices in US Dollar (USD). Please take note that the amount reflected above is based on the current exchange rate and may fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility on the day of being invoiced.

Budget before you arrive

Our support coordinators will assist you with:

  • Booking flights.
  • Explaining and finding the best insurance required.
  • Advising you on all the document costs involved.

Flights

Flight prices vary depending on where you travel from and when you book. Prices can occasionally exceed this range. We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance or more for the best rates.

$450 - $850

Insurance & Vaccines

Travel insurance prices and vaccination (optional) can vary depending on things like provider, age, country of origin and duration of your stay. This range is for TravelBud's recommended policies based on stays of 6 months or 1 year. Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all TravelBud programs.

$350 - $1500

Documentation

This budget is assuming all of your current documentation is in English, you are in possession of your physical degree and you hold a valid passport.

$211 - $420

TOTAL

$1011 - $2770

Budget for 1 month TEFL/TESOL course in Myanmar
  • You will also need to take over enough spending money to cover living expenses during your Myanamr TEFL/TESOL course and first month of teaching english in Myanmar.
  • Bear in mind that you will be spending at least 2 months in Myanmar before you receive your first paycheck.
  • You will therefore need to budget enough money to see you through the 1 month TEFL/TESOL course and your first month of teaching.

Accommodation Deposit

For our in-country partner residence, you will need to put down a deposit, which will be returned to you at the end of the course minus utilities (water and electricity).

$250 (refundable)

Day-to-day expenses

Food, transport, laundry, etc. These costs can vary depending on how tight your budget is. Eating local food and using shared public transport can dramatically reduce your spending

$140 - $200

Optional expenses (nightlife, entertainment, shopping, weekend excursions)

Depending on your needs and interests, these costs can vary. Chat to us for specific advice.

$0 - $100

TOTAL

$300 - $900

Budget for first month of teaching

Transportation to Your Placement

At the end of the week, the placement team will advise you on the best way to get to your placement. They will assist you in purchasing the correct van, bus, train, or plane ticket. The bus system is the most common (and cheapest) form of transport.

Most people will take a bus to their placement and the bus tickets will cost about 17,000 MMK depending on distance.

* Note, it is unlikely you will fly to your placement, but if so, please add on an extra cost to your total of 130 USD.

$13 - $16

Daily Expenses (Food, transportation to school and around town,
nightlife)

This amount depends a lot depending on your placement area and spending habits. The amount given here is a safe approximation for most placements in Myanmar.

$132 - $264

Accommodation


Accommodation can be tricky to newcomers as landlords may have certain practices westerners are unused to. Luckily, we have a few options for you!

1. Though it seems odd, most landlords will ask renters to pay six months of rent up front when you rent an accommodation in Myanmar. Depending on your location, type of accommodation you choose, and if you are sharing the accommodation with others or if it is private, the rent will cost anywhere from 250,000 MMK – 400,000 MMK. You may be able to find an accommodation that you can pay the normal month to month, but they are few and far between and the rent per month may be higher than if you were to pay six months up front.

2. You may also be able to find accommodations that will rent to you for three months at a time, but again, these can be more difficult to find.

Depending on your electricity usage you can expect to spend approximately 50,000 MMK per month on electricity and other utilities like water and wifi. This is the cost you should budget for the most! Rent tends to cost a lot in Myanmar while everything else is very cheap. Please make sure you budget accordingly for rent. * Note, while this may be a high upfront cost it is important to point out that then you have no more monthly rent for an extended period.

3. We may be able to have you stay at the accommodation for a few months while you search for your own accommodation, but this is dependent on available space. If you choose to stay at the accommodation, you can pay month to month. The cost of this is 250,000 MMK for a bed in the four-bed room, or 300,000 MMK for a bed in the two-bed room. This includes utilities for the month. Please remember though, how long you can stay depends on if there is space available. We may ask you to move out, with plenty of notice given, to make room for new teachers that are arriving.

4. If there is no space available for you to stay at the accommodation, we can also suggest cheap hotels and hostels you can stay at while you look for your own accommodation

$140 - $200



1. 9901580 (6 months total)

2. 489782 (3 months total)

3. 163195 (per month total)

4. 137 (per month total)

TOTAL

$620 - $1059

(Based off paying 3 months of rent at a time)
Budget Totals

Month on TEFL/TESOL Course Total

$650 - $900

Visa Run (If applicable)

$0 - $132

First Month Teaching Total

$620 - $1059

(based off paying 3 months of rent at a time)

Approximate Total

$1270 - $2091

We realise that moving abroad to teach English in Myanmar is expensive at first, but remember that with TravelBud your teaching job is guaranteed.

  • You can focus on enjoying your new lifestyle knowing your monthly income of $600 – $1000 USD is secured.
  • Once you start earning a salary, your living costs will be comfortably covered and you’ll start to learn how to cut down on your monthly expenses (for example, eating out less and finding the most affordable grocery store in your placement town).
  • You will be able to enjoy your time teaching and travelling in Myanmar!

Fees

The following costs make up the program fee and are payable to TravelBud before you head over to Teach English in Myanmar.

Currency Converter

Change to your currency. Default prices in US Dollar (USD). Please take note that the amount reflected above is based on the current exchange rate and may fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility on the day of being invoiced.

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Option 1

In-Class TEFL & Placement

Option 2

Placement Only

Enrollment Deposit

$599

$599

  • This fee is payable upfront and secures your spot in a program that has limited availability per course and gets the comprehensive support process started.
Comprehensive pre-departure support and guidance
  • You’ll be introduced to the support team and your dedicated Support Coordinator will reach out with your next steps.
  • You’ll be provided comprehensive information relating to each step in the pre-departure process and you’ll have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you like!
  • Our support team help you get the necessary documentation prepared prior to departure.
  • We’ll assist you with all planning, packing, visas, costs, budgets and booking flights.
Personalised one-on-one Support
  • Your dedicated support coordinator will guide you through everything you need to make your teach abroad experience successful and provide personalised, one-on-one support and guidance.
Visa Guidance
  • We make sure that the visa you initially apply for is the best and easiest option available for you as an individual.
  • All documents required before applying for your visa is explained and we even help you prepare the documents needed to apply for a work permit once you are in-country and have been placed.
  • Our support team will hold your hand through the initial visa application, explain visa runs, applying for a new visa once in-country and obtaining a work permit once you’ve been placed.
Your questions answered
  • You'll get to ask questions no matter how silly and arrange calls directly with our support team.
  • We’ll ease any anxieties you may have and share the positive and life-changing adventures of the teach abroad experience.

Online TEFL Fee

Not applicable.

Final Program Fee, Guaranteed Job Placement and 24/7 Support

Final Program Fee

$2300


$1300


Due 12 weeks prior to your selected intake date.
Guaranteed Job Placement
  • We guarantee you a teaching job in carefully vetted and trusted schools where every effort is made to match placement preferences.
  • We'll explain all the job details, working hours, taxes, responsibilities and more.
  • You can focus on enjoying your new lifestyle and planning your adventures knowing your monthly income is secured.
24/7 In-country support
  • You can rest assured knowing that any queries will be answered such as translation help, culture shock, legalities, emergencies, travel options or school queries. Someone is on hand.
  • Ex-foreign teachers and local, on-the-ground support staff provide you with personal assistance throughout the duration of your teaching experience.
  • Teacher meet-ups.
  • We check in with you regularly and keep up to date with your teach abroad experience.
Lifetime Teaching Placement Guarantee
  • Once you’ve completed your contract, we can guarantee you a position at another partner school throughout Asia for which you are eligible, at no additional charge to you.
TEFL/TESOL Course
(4 weeks in-country)
Internationally Accreditated Certification
  • You will graduate with an Internationally Accredited TEFL/TESOL certificate that never expires and can be used to teach all over the world.
  • Graduates of our internationally accredited courses have used their TEFL/TESOL certificate to successfully find employment in ESL teaching and education fields in nearly every Western, native-English speaking country, as well as across Europe, Asia, South & Central America, and beyond.
Practical Teacher Training in-class
  • The course provides at least 16 hours of teaching practice whereby students are placed in a classroom as teachers, under instructor supervision and assessment, during the course. This typically happens several times during the course.
  • The process entails, preparing lesson plans for classrooms of different ages and skill levels, delivering those lessons, receiving peer and instructor feedback, and adjusting lesson plans and teaching approaches based on that feedback.
  • This process is critical to honing your craft and ensuring confidence before you begin teaching professionally.
Airport pickup and transfer
Subject to correct arrival times
  • We'll provide airport pickup to ensure a stress-free arrival.
  • We’ll introduce you to your 24/7 support team on the ground.
  • We’ll take you to your pre-arranged accommodation.
Airport Assistance
Info & guidance on trains/taxis/buses and routes
Not applicable.
SIM Card Included
  • A SIM card is provided for you.
SIM Card guidance
  • We'll aid in setting up a SIM card for connecting with loved ones and new friends during your experience abroad.
Local bank account guidance
  • We provide guidance setting up a local bank account so you can save money on international withdrawal fees. Your salary is paid into your local bank account.
Shared Accommodation
(1st month in-country)

(1st week in-country)
  • Your accommodation is all pre-booked and sorted for you before you arrive.
Cultural Orientation including excursions
(1 week)

(1 week)

In-class TEFL participants experience:

  • A 1-week cultural orientation that lays the groundwork for your South Korea experience, fostering bonds with your fellow teachers and staff.
  • Learn foundational Korean language
  • Cultural and History lessons
  • Cultural Excursions, including Gyeongbok Palace Tour, Korean War Memorial tour, Korean Cooking Classes, Taekwondo Martial Arts class and a K-POP Dance Class.

Online TEFL & Placement Only participants experience:

  • Cultural Weekends: Join fellow teachers for a Korean cultural program through selected weekends, including group activities and excursions in Seoul.
  • Possible activities encompass a welcome dinner, Gyeongbok Palace Tour, guided cultural walks, traditional hanbok wearing, tea tasting, and more.
Lesson Plan templates and resource directories
  • Access to Lesson Plan Templates and resource directories to help you create fun and engaging lessons.
Support Network
  • In addition to the 24/7 In-Country Support we provide, you'll also have a suport network of fellow teachers.
  • Meet other like-minded individuals who are experiencing the same pleasures and challenges you are.
  • Only they understand what you’re also going through in a way that friends at home would never.
  • Many of our teachers visit the friends they make during the cultural orientation and TEFL Course.
  • This becomes a valuable network and community for you as you’re able to visit your friends in different parts of Korea and fully experience all that the country has to offer.
Self-development and advantageous future employability
  • Learning independence.
  • Learning how you react to different situations.
  • Learning how to master and grow your confidence in public speaking.
  • Learning how to overcome obstacles.
  • Learning about yourself through your own personal self discovery.
  • Learning how to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself.

Total Fee


120 Hour In-Class TESOL

$2899


Placement Only

$1899


Default prices in US Dollar (USD).

Please take note that currency converted pricing is based on the current exchange rate and may fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility on the day of being invoiced.

Free Enrollment Consultation
Expert guidance and support

Our experts will explain the program and answer all your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ

How much does it pay to teach English in Myanmar?

$700 – $1200 USD* (1.4 million to 2 million kyat) per month.
* May fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility.

Safety

Moving to another country to live and work is a big step and we realise that safety can be a concern.

Yangon and Bagan are incredibly safe, with foreigners reporting there is very little crime. There are some areas in Myanmar that are not safe due to continued border problems or occasional political unrest. These areas have restrictions and Westerners are not permitted to travel there. We do not place teachers anywhere near these areas.

Safety Tips

  • Be cautious with eating food that has not been cooked as fresh fruit and vegetables can be washed in tap water which might make you sick.
  • Don’t drink tap water.
  • Be alert and keep your valuables in a safe place, especially in a particularly touristy area.

Are teachers in high demand in Myanmar? Why?

Yes because they are very behind in their English in Myanmar. Foreigners can’t work in public schools but there are plenty of language centers and international schools that need teachers.

What are the expected tax deductions from your paycheck? Does is differ from school to school?

This depends on the school but are in the range of 10%.

Do schools pay you a fee/portion of my salary? If so, Why?

No, TravelBud and our partners DO NOT receive a portion of the teacher’s monthly salary

What is the big difference between language schools, private schools, government schools and varsity?

We do not work with government schools. Private international schools we only deal with a few of them as a number of them only employ teachers with a degree and years of experience, Language centers are everywhere and are very busy on weekends and during the summer.

Refer to the Teaching Placements section for more information.

Do you need a degree to teach English in Myanmar?

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree there is still a good chance you could get placed in Myanmar.

They’re looking to improve the English skills of locals to help in their burgeoning tourism business and to provide further opportunities in business and study.

Can my friend or partner come with me?

Yes! We provide friends and couples with placements in the same towns and sometimes at the same schools.

I have already completed a TESOL/TEFL course elsewhere. Do I still need to complete TravelBud’s course in Myanmar?

This is possible for degree holders. With many courses out there not being accredited and providing the necessary training, our placement team will first need to review your certificate before accepting you for Placement Only.

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We’ll answer all your questions and guide you every step of the way!