Paid TEFL Internship
- 4 Weeks of onsite TEFL training with certification in Chiang Mai and 6 observed teaching practices at a range of local schools.
- Followed by a 4-5 month managed teaching placement in, or outside of, Chiang Mai.
- Guaranteed minimum salary of 35,000 THB per month.
- 30 nights single-occupancy superior room hotel accommodation with breakfast at the Darley Hotel during the training period.
- Accommodation support during the placement period.
- Assistance to purchase a SIM card and register as an outpatient at local hospitals.
- Visa advice and support.
- Explore Doi Suthep Mountain excursion.
- Free Chiang Mai Airport collection (if requested).
Program Summary
SEE TEFL offers a PAID 4-5 month placement for full-time English Teaching in Chiang Mai or a provincial town with a minimum salary of 35,000 Thai Baht (THB) per month — included before placement is 4 weeks of face-to-face TEFL training with observed teaching practices in Chiang Mai + accommodation (while training). At the end of the initial training period participants receive TEFL certification. These teacher training + paid internships are offered twice per year, at the beginning of both Thai school semesters.
It’s not necessary to possess previous teaching experience or to know any Thai language.
Effective TEFL Training
- 4-week (Monday to Friday) on-site 120-hour TEFL Certification.
- SEE teacher training provides the fundamentals needed to begin teaching English as a Foreign Language, including lesson planning, classroom management, and the Presentation-Practice-Production (PPP) TEFL teaching method.
- SEE participants gain a strong foundation in teaching fundamentals, course preparation, authentic practice, grammar and Thai cultural appreciation.
- Teaching Inputs. These are the individual classroom skills an EFL teacher needs in order to be an effective EFL teacher. Each skill is looked at individually in separate practical-skills development workshops. Detailed descriptions of all Teaching Inputs are listed further down this page.
- Grammar Inputs. These inputs develop awareness of language and structure. They also show how to teach structure, language ideas and context to non-native speaking students. Detailed descriptions of all Grammar Inputs are listed further down this page.
- Authentic six 1-hour observed teaching practices with real students at a range of levels and ages in local real schools (see caveat below, for courses that take place during the school semester breaks).
- An online grammar terminology and teaching process review is now included with all 4-week TEFL courses. An introductory refresh of grammar terminology, as well as an overview of the teaching process, will help with preparation for the course. The grammar terminology and teaching process review will be emailed to trainees approximately 4 weeks before the start of their training date.
- Cultural awareness training (1 day). Effective insights into how Thais process the world and their societal values. This is essential for successfully living and working in Thailand.
- Survival Thai language instruction (8 hours). This also allows trainees to experience the language teaching classroom from the perspective of their future students.
- SEE achieved ISO 9001 Quality Management certification in 2009 (the first TEFL training organization in Asia to do so).
- SEE is licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education to teach TEFL teacher training. This allows the SEE certificate to be notarized at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Chiang Mai. This is a requisite for legal employment in several countries including China and Vietnam.
- SEE is an Approved Center of Training Qualifications UK (TQUK), which in turn is recognized by the UK Government Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual).
- SEE offers through TQUK an Ofqual regulated Level 5 certificate extension to our standard 120-hour course. SEE is the only onsite trainer in Thailand to offer this certificate.
- Registration and a deposit payment is required to confirm a seat; the balance payment is payable by at least 1 week before training starts.
Effective Working
- Interns will be placed at a private or government formal school. SEE will place teachers according to the Intern's preferences from the list of participating schools presented to them at the start of training in Chiang Mai.
- Teachers when placed are expected to be in school from around 7:30am to around 4:30pm from Monday to Friday. There may be occasional events during the semester in evenings or at weekends that the Intern will be expected to attend.
- Employment contracts last 1 semester (4 - 5 months). The exact start dates depend on each school but it's normally shortly after training ends. The end date will also depend on the school. Both the start and end dates will be included in the placement school presentation.
- If an Intern is satisfied with their school and their school is satisfied with them, they can extend their employment contract with their placement school indefinitely.
- The placement school provides paid sick and holiday leave, a fixed monthly salary of at least 35,000 THB, basic health insurance cover, non-immigrant B visa and work permit support and, perhaps most importantly, an unforgettable life experience for the teacher.
- Interns arrive initially with a 60-day Tourist visa or they arrive without a visa and receive a 30-day Visa Exemption. Both options can be extended for a further 30 days in Chiang Mai. If more time is needed before their non-immigrant B visa and work process is completed, they can obtain further Tourist visas and Visa exemptions.
- SEE provides extensive support during training and the placement period. SEE will act as the Intern's representative with the placement school ensuring an employment contract is prepared and signed, the school adheres to the contract, the salary is paid on time, clarifying any instructions from the school and negotiating with the school if there are issues
Effective Living
- This program includes a 30-night single occupancy stay to cover the training period with a daily buffet breakfast at the Darley Hotel during the training period. Rooms are cleaned 2 times each week and include a bedding and towel change and 10 bottles of drinking water per week. Cancellation policy: if at least 7 days in advance, 1 night's charge. If less than 7 days, it's at the hotel's discretion.
- We provide advice on finding comfortable accommodation (4 - 6,000 THB/month) for the placement period and for long-term living while employed as a teacher.
- SEE provides a free Chiang Mai airport collection and transfer (if requested) to the Darley Hotel at any time of the day. Please forward no less than 72 hours before your arrival, your flight number, airline, arrival date/time and whether you are arriving at the Domestic or International terminal.
- SEE TEFL Certification at the end of the initial training phase of the program.
- SEE provides assistance to purchase a Thai SIM card and pre-paid data package.
- SEE provides assistance to register as an outpatient at a hospital.
- SEE coordinates travel between Chiang Mai and the placement school if outside of Chiang Mai.
- A one-day 'explore Doi Suthep Mountain' excursion on the last day of onsite training. This will include hidden temple visits, hill-tribe village visits and a short jungle hike.
- SEE staff are always available for questions relating to living and teaching in Thailand.
Thai Non-Immigrant B Visa Support
Interns enter Thailand and complete onsite training with either a 60-day Tourist Visa, obtained from any Thai embassy or consulate, or arrive without a visa and receive a 30-day Visa Exemption. Please note that if arriving without a visa, Immigration may request to see evidence of an onward or return flight ticket. Both of these options can be extended for a further 30 days in Chiang Mai.
During training SEE TEFL will coordinate and process paperwork from the placement school to support a non-immigrant B (Business) visa application. The paperwork process takes at least one month to navigate all the necessary Thai government departments. This visa can be obtained from a Thai embassy or consulate in a country that borders Thailand during either the period between the end of onsite training and the start of the placement period or shortly after the start of the placement period.
A non-immigrant B visa is needed before a school can apply for a work permit. Once the intern receives their work permit, this visa will be extended to match the placement period or longer.
We will give more specific advice by email to each intern depending on their situation.
Visa costs are the responsibility of the intern. Visa costs may include a journey to a Thai embassy or consulate in a country that borders Thailand to obtain a non-immigrant B visa. If traveling overland, this cost including transport, accommodation, food and the visa should cost around $100 - $150 and take around 3 days.
There is no additional charge for visa support paperwork. The cost of the work permit will normally be reimbursed by the placement school at the successful completion of the placement period.
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Everything you need to know about becoming a TEFL teacher in Thailand – even without prior teaching experience.
- Be an English native speaker
- Hold a passport from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK or the USA
- Be a university graduate and hold a recognized bachelor’s degree
- Be no older than 50 and no younger than 21
- Be adaptable to new and unpredictable situations
- Be of good character and possess a friendly, patient and flexible personality
- Have basic IT skills
If you meet these requirements, you are eligible to join our Internship program. Please register here.
Placement schools set these requirements for this Internship Program.
If you don't meet these requirements, you may be eligible for our 4-Week TEFL Certification Program.
A police clearance needs to be provided as part of the paperwork requirements of a non-immigrant B (Business) visa application. This can be obtained from the Intern’s home country before departure for Thailand or in Chiang Mai from the Thai Police. Please contact us to discuss specific details.
Interns also need to bring to Thailand their original Bachelor’s degree diploma and university transcripts. These are required for non-immigrant B visa and work permit applications.
- Training from September 23rd - October 18th, 2024 followed by a paid teaching internship for 4-5 months
- Training from April 16th - May 9th, 2025 followed by a paid teaching internship for 4-5 months
- ***Please note that due to the Songkran Festival in Thailand, training starts on Wednesday April 16th and will run for 10 consecutive days, including Saturday April 19th and Sunday April 20th, before returning to a Monday to Friday schedule for weeks 3 and 4.***
There are four Program components:
- Pre-arrival: Videos and assignments that introduce classroom management skills and review common grammar terminology.
- Post-arrival: 4 weeks of face-to-face group training with 6 observed teaching practices at local schools which focus on developing essential EFL classroom teaching skills, language and cultural awareness and confidence.
- During placement: Ongoing teaching, visa, work permit and placement school communication support from SEE TEFL trainers and staff throughout the placement period.
- Post placement: Liaising with the placement school to extend the placement period if requested and job support at any time after placement if Interns wish to change schools.
Interns are paid at least 35,000 Thai Baht (THB) per month during the placement period. Thailand has low living costs, so this salary can provide a comfortable lifestyle while teaching in Thailand in local Thai communities.
This internship is actual paid employment by a school in Thailand. Interns must be employed by a school in order to obtain non-imm B visas and work permits.
There are two Internship options: Guaranteed placement in Chiang Mai or Guaranteed placement in a provincial town
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- 1. Managed Chiang Mai placement (limited to 10 interns per intake) for 1 semester (can be extended) + 4-week SEE TEFL onsite training/certification + 30 nights accommodation with breakfast at the 3* Darley Hotel to cover the training period.USD$2,650.
- 2. Managed placement outside of Chiang Mai for 1 semester (can be extended) + 4-week SEE onsite TEFL training/certification + 30 nights accommodation with breakfast at the 3* Darley Hotel to cover the training period.USD$2,450.
Payment is made in two parts:
- A USD$900 USD deposit payment made via our Registration page, which reserves a place on the Internship program.
- A USD$1,750USD or USD$1,550 balance payment, which is due one week before onsite training starts in Chiang Mai.
Note that payment includes 30 nights superior room accommodation with breakfast at the Darley Hotel Chiang Mai during the training period. Although rooms have twin beds, the rooms are only available as single-occupancy. A second person can stay with the Intern during this period but there is an additional fee payable directly to the hotel. The Hotel and SEE need to approve, before check-in, a second person sharing the room.
The Program fee does not cover flights, insurance, accommodation during the placement period (normally 4 - 6,000 THB/month), visa/work permit fees and their associated costs.
Chiang Mai and Central or Northern Thailand Provinces
Over the past 10 years we have placed interns in Chiang Mai, and the Central and Northern Thai towns of Khampaeng Phet, Utthai Thani, Phayao, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, Fang, Mae Hong Son and Nan. Bangkok placements are also available.
Placements are at formal Thai schools. Depending on availability at the time of placement, opportunities usually exist to teach in kindergarten (anubahn), primary school (pratom), secondary school (matayom) and colleges working Monday to Friday from around 7:30am to 4:30pm each day. A working week normally involves 18 – 23 teaching periods of between 50 and 60 minutes.
Outside of Chiang Mai and Bangkok, placements are in towns that are more typical of Thailand than standard tourist destinations. There will be other foreigners in the internship placement town, but these are unlikely to be tourists, and larger cities with Western-oriented amenities are never more than a few hours away by local bus.
The academic year in Thailand runs from early May to late March, with a break in early October. Our teacher placement and the two induction training sessions coincide with the start of the two academic semesters in early May (First Semester) and late October (Second Semester).
Choosing Between the TEFL Internship and the 4-Week TEFL
The majority of TEFL teacher trainees will select the traditional 4-Week TEFL course. However, this unique TEFL Internship will appeal to some of our future English teachers.
Standard 4-week TEFL certification
- Offered nearly every month in Chiang Mai
- Work anywhere in Thailand, SE Asia or the world
- Choose the type of school, location and age group
- Comprehensive training
- Experience during training 6 observed teaching practices in real schools with a range of real students
- Fulfills a general employment requirement for TEFL teaching jobs around the world
TEFL Internship
- Offered twice per year (Apr/Oct), before the start of the Thai school semesters
- Guaranteed job
- Cannot choose the type of school, location and age group; internship locations depend upon availability when training finishes; however, we will endeavor to meet our Intern’s preferences
- Experience the real Thailand
- Get paid a guaranteed minimum salary of 35,000 Thai Baht (THB) per month.
- 5-6 month commitment
- Inclusive 4-week training period with resort accommodation
SEE TEFL | Accredited TEFL Courses Thailand
208, 2 Kaew Nawarat Road, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai
5.0 44 reviews
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nicola loucas ★★★★★ 5 months ago
I could not fault my experience at 'SEE TEFL'. I went in to the course already with high expectations and they were greatly exceeded throughout. Before starting the course I had no previous teaching experience and … More had never been to Thailand.
The course provides you with everything you need to know about teaching English in Thailand and what to expect once starting at a Thai school. The first two weeks in the classroom you are provided with lessons on the English language and grammar, a step by step guide on how to teach a EFL lesson, Thai language classes and classes learning more about Thailand and the culture. Towards the end of the two weeks you are guided with how to prepare for the final two weeks of observed teaching practices.
The final two weeks we were given the opportunity to teach a 50 minute class at five different schools of nursery, primary, secondary, college and adult intermediate students. This enabled me to get a better idea on which age of students I wanted to teach and significantly increased my confidence to teach. After each teaching practice we were given informative feedback from a 'SEE TEFL' trainer of what parts went well and what areas we could improve on for next time.
After finishing my course I secured a job instantly and was still supported by the agency in my job search and in any guidance I may have still required. Overall, I could not have imagined moving to Thailand and navigating the world of teaching English here without the support and teaching I experienced at 'SEE TEFL' and would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to pursue a teaching career here or in another foreign country. -
Andrei Frandes ★★★★★ a year ago
I did my course with SEE TEFL 4 years ago and it’s the reason why I live and work in Thailand ever since. I researched a few other courses before deciding to go with them and I am so glad for my decision.
Despite the fact … More that I had no previous teaching experience and I’m a non native English speaker the 4-weeks on site course equipped me with the fundamentals of being an EFL teacher.
Thanks to all the teachers at the language school for helping me build up my confidence, preparing me to sit in front of a classroom and know how to act as a teacher and
telling me what to expect when dealing with students in a foreign country.
Going to all the different schools in town for our observed teaching practices and doing an on-site lesson for most grades is the only way to experience what a teacher goes through at a school in Thailand. -
Michael Shane ★★★★★ 5 months ago
An amazing and beneficial experience! The owners, trainers, and staff all go above and beyond to ensure you have the knowledge and practice to be successful as an EFL teacher. I was able to secure a teaching position directly … More out of the class; I owe that to the wonderful work SEE TEFL did in preparing me. Thank you! -
Anushika Sirinthipaporn ★★★★★ a year ago
I completed and received my TEFL and TQUK Level 5 Certificate almost exactly 2 years ago.
Despite schools being closed due to strict Covid-19 regulations, John, Shouvik and the team made sure accommodate us in the best possible … More way!
Not once do I regret doing the TEFL course at SEE TEFL because in a generation where you have so many options, including obtaining an online certification, getting to experience raw teaching in a classroom definitely expands ones horizons.
The 4-week TEFL program equips you with life-long skills that you can always build up on as you diversify or, in other cases, specialize in the teaching field.
I can proudly say that I've been able to come this far and thrive in the teaching industry mostly because of my decision to go for the on-site TEFL program at SEE. Because of this course, I was able to teach at local Thai schools, as well as establish myself in online teaching.
John, Shouvik, Terry and the rest of the amazing team will guide you through every step, making sure that you are able to overcome any obstacles. So if you're thinking twice about doing a TEFL course at SEE, please don't!
PS: I was also one of the lucky ones to receive the last lot of the limited edition SEE TEFL shoulder bag :) -
Evan Schollie ★★★★★ a year ago
I had a great experience studying my TEFL certificate here in June-July of 2022. All the instructors (Terry, Dean, Sultan, Shouvik, John) helped me become an effective teacher and shared advice on what to expect in a Thai … More classroom. The six teaching practices in local schools were also a critical part of my professional development.
The building is clean and well-maintained, and the office staff were helpful in getting me connected with teaching opportunities.
This program was the perfect gateway to get me started as an English teacher in Thailand. Recommend! -
Rubenn Remy ★★★★★ a year ago
I recently had the pleasure of attending SEE TEFL where l received my TEFL Certificate. SEE TEFL has truly exceeded my expectations.
One of the standout aspects of SEE TEFL was undoubtedly the incredible dedication of all … More their teachers, especially Teacher Shouvik. From day one, it was evident that he had poured his heart and soul into the school, going above and beyond to ensure every student's success. Shouvik's passion for teaching was infectious, and his commitment to our learning journey was truly inspiring.
Furthermore, Shouvik's extensive knowledge of the English language and his exceptional communication skills allowed him to effortlessly convey complex concepts in a way that was easily digestible for us. He had a remarkable ability to break down challenging grammar rules and vocabulary, making them accessible and applicable in our everyday lives. His patience and willingness to provide individualized attention truly set him apart as an outstanding educator.
Shouvik's dedication extended far beyond the classroom. He was always available to answer any questions or concerns we had, even outside of regular class hours. He invested countless hours in preparing comprehensive lesson plans and providing valuable feedback on our progress, ensuring that we were constantly improving and growing as Aspiring TEFL English Teachers.
Overall, my experience at SEE TEFL was nothing short of exceptional, largely due to the unwavering commitment and passion of teacher Shouvik. His genuine care for each student's success was palpable, creating a supportive and nurturing environment in which we thrived. I am very grateful for the knowledge and skills I gained under his guidance and would highly recommend SEE TEFL to anyone looking to become a TEFL English Teacher. -
Sophie Johnson ★★★★★ a year ago
I studied at SEE TEFL November to December 2022.
A professional and engaging in-person course from start to finish! I had been living in Chiang Mai for a year prior to taking the four week teacher training program. Everyone … More I talked to about various teaching training schools in Chiang Mai had either personally recommend the school, or knew of someone that did.
All the staff are kind, friendly, and helpful. Most of all SEE TEFL gave me the experience and confidence to try teaching. The in-class teaching practices were extremely helpful in building up my confidence.
Overall a great course. Highly recommend! -
Colin Mckenzie ★★★★★ a year ago
I looked at 3 options to complete my tefl training in Chiang Mai. CELTA looked good but quite intense, speaking with CMU their course seemed okay but vague when it came to follow up post course. However after almost an hour … More speaking with John at SEETEFL I was convinced this was the course for me.Not only did it provide me with a fully accredited TEFL qualification, there were so many add ons that came without charge. For example they introduce students to Thai culture in a very practical and effective way with Thai language classes, exposure to cultural events and a full day learning about Thailands people and it’s history.And so much more. Apart from the high level of support and encouragement to get you through the 4 week course of theory and practical sessions at various educational institutions.SEETEFL assists it’s students to find teaching jobs, to get a Visa and work permit and explain the sensitivities of dealing with Thai government officials.With the assistance of SEETEFL I worked at a private school in Chiang Mai. I also worked with SEETEFL in a wide range of teaching opportunities through their school. From teaching formal Business English to company staff and individuals to small group sessions and 1 to 1 IELTS sessions with students.From my experience, the follow up was great. Whether I was seeking advice on health banking or social issues John and Ying were always ready to assist.I have happy memories of the 3 years that I spent in Chiang Mai and through those years a common denominator that contributed to my happiness was John and Ying and the SEETEFL staff. -
Lee Lawrence ★★★★★ 8 months ago
I am in my last few days of training at SEE TEFL and I would like to say to anyone thinking of taking the course, just do it! I think it's fair to say that the course feels intense at times but once it is complete you … More walk away with a tremendous feeling of achievement. I feel confident, well rounded and ready to take on my role as a TEFL teacher. There is an abundance of support on offer from the staff and their ability to communicate all facets of teaching practice is exceptional. I'm so glad I took this course and would like to say a great big thank you to all the staff at SEE TEFL. Keep on producing great teachers!
