I have spent quite a bit of money on training for TEFL, completed last Winter.  But, when I read that the China TEFL internship has an age cut off of 55, I wonder if I have wasted my time and my money.  I also notice the US Peace Corps accepts retirees for all of their programs.  It is a little frustrating!

The internships do have a cut off age but don't let that deter you. Many schools and companies will employ people over 55. I have been working in China for 12 months and know of many teachers who are living and working happily...some in their early 70s. I suggest that you look on the many job sites and apply directly. Don't be deterred by age restrictions....often age is overlooked in exchange for experience and or skills that you can bring to the job. Most of all be enthusiastic in your approach.

Best of luck, Katie

 I have just completed my 60 hour ONLINE course. I really enjoyed it & was HAPPY when I passed. It was satisfying to know I could do it after many years free of study.

Where to from here- who knows??

Just remember to keep positive, be patient & revise the modules- its does help. If I can pass, anybody can.

hi everyoneI have asked the same questions, I have studied All my life raised my son family etc etc, I am 50 in June and I believe that if you have the self confidence and determination we "oldies" can achieve so much, we have life experience along with our qualifications and I hope that gives ME MY new start next year well now that it is 5am THIS YEAR GOOD LUCK EVERYBODY, WE CAN SUPPORT EACH OTHER IN OUR AIMS.

TINA

Never think you are too old or you can't do something. My attitude has always been the same..."Don't tell me I can't do something if you don't even give me the opportunity to try!" That is my policy in life and although as I do get older, some things do roadblock me...but being the indomitable kiwi I am, I will always find a way around something if I want it badly enough. I did my 120 hours in 2010, and was planning on moving to Asia to work, but as things happen, things changed and I was offerred a job as Teacher's Assistant here, in an ESL school for a year. Age has nothing to do with attitude! If you think you can do it, give it a go, and don't let someone else tell you, you can't unless they are prepared to give you a go. I am to be 60 this year and although a November car accident has left me without a position in the ESL school now (I'm injured), I will continue to try and find the next trail in the forest and see where that takes me....as soon as the injuries heal. 

Some places have cut off ages of 55, others have 60 or 65. My uni won't hire people over 45.

I am working in South Korea, I have been for a year, and there are quite a number of the over 50's working here.  I applied when I was 49 (because I just hit the big 5-0!) and there was no issue at all with my age.  I am currently sorting out a new contract for another year here and my age has not been a barrier.  There are a few places that only want the young ones, but there are many more that actively seek older teachers because they want some life experience, or some business experience.  If you have a look at the huge array of web sites that advertise ESL jobs you will find that there are MANY opportunities for getting an ESL job if you are older.  Its a wonderful way of life, very rewarding and great fun.  I am still working on my TEFL course, I started it last week. I elected to do the 140 hour course and there are benefits in doing the longer course such as the units that specialise in Teaching Business English, Teaching One to One and Teaching Young Learners. 

I would have to say that any money spent on education is money very well spent in my mind, it is never a waste as you just don't know where it will take you.  If one place doesn't want you there will be another that does!  Its a great way of life, and I think at our age we have a lot to offer -so go for it - and good luck!

As an over-60 year young individual thinking about doing the TEFL training soon (I already have a Master's Degree in Education, though most of my career was spent in public relations) - I am grateful to all of you for your positive attitudes and encouragement about finding a job teaching English abroad, despite the many obstacles and age biases!

One post I read suggested to try Language schools rather than private and public schools; another suggested that Ecuador may be a less age-biased country.  (I'm aiming for Thailand.) As DeeG implies above, Teaching Business English may be a way to go, and, also, starting your own little English-teaching school may be feasible (not sure how much 'red tape' is involved)...

Yes, good luck to all of us oldies!

I am with your thoughts on professional progress. When I first started with the 80 hour TEFL I was scared but my desire to move and serve in another part of the world pushed me each day. It was a challenge but one I craved. Now I am moving onto the specialty courses. After that I will focus on a overseas gig. Italy is my dream but anywhere in Europe is the start I am praying on.

Never stop growing. A mature Educator from Phoenix, AZ

I'm really interested in this subject.  I'm 56 and my wife isalmost 59.  We're really interested in teaching beginning with this fall.  Next week we start our FBI checks.  Hoping first for Korea, then maybe China or Thailand.  I'd be interested in any feed back about the best way to do this.  So far, we haven't talked yet to any recruiters.  Just trying to get the house sold and our life in the states rapped up.

Hi, I'm 57 and finished my course in January. I put ads on a few free websites and have received a lot of interest from China and other Asian countries. I don't have a degree or experience but some places don't mind.

I will be 60 when I apply, waiting for kids to finish college(I was a late bloomer), etc. I will be doing the 140hrs. program. Is this a waste of money at my age, I have a Undergrad. degree[(Uni. of S. Maine)Geography/Anthropology], have worked at retail(supervisory positions) for the past 20+ years. My degree is recent(2011) as I did it part time while life happened around me. I have a multitude of life experiences, crossing the Atlantic twice,both ways, EAST to West, West to East via. Tristan Du Cunha, living and sailing in the Caribbean for many years, being ship wrecked in the Madagascar channel, rescued by the French Navy, diving and sailing on islands off the East coast of Africa. Originally from South Africa, now Maine, USA, where I attended/graduated the Landing School of Boatbuilding and Design(1989). I have held my 6 pack Captains license for the waters around ST. Thomas, USVI, as well as Advanced Open Water Dive Certification. So I bring a lot of interesting situations to the classroom.

Is age going to be an issue, as I would rather put my resources and energy someplace else if not a viable option. I would really appreciate comments from past students and those currently in the search. 

Thanks.