u/Human_Garlic_9143

Hi everyone!

I’m a native Spanish speaker from Spain and I’m looking for advice from people who already work as Spanish teachers / ELE teachers, especially those teaching online or in the US.

I currently have a Bachelor’s degree in English Studies (Estudios Ingleses) from the University of Seville, and I have professional experience teaching English to children, teenagers and adults.

I have also already had some experience teaching Spanish as a private tutor to both children and adults. This experience has been through private lessons rather than through an official school or language academy, so I wouldn’t consider it formal teaching experience.

I’m moving to the United States next year and I would like to use the time I have before then to build a solid path towards becoming an ELE teacher!!

The thing is that I feel a bit lost about where to start, so I’d really appreciate advice from people who have already gone through this.

My questions:

1. What would you recommend as the first step to becoming an ELE teacher?

Would you recommend an ELE course, Instituto Cervantes training, a university degree/master’s, or something else?

2. Are there good ONLINE programs or certificates you would recommend?

Ideally, I’d like something reputable that I can complete remotely from Spain.

3. Is there any ELE qualification that is particularly useful or respected in the United States?

I’m trying to avoid spending money on a certificate that is useful in Spain but doesn’t really help me once I move to the US.

4. Could I start teaching Spanish online while I’m completing my training?

I already have some experience giving private Spanish lessons, so I’d love to continue building experience while studying.

5. If my long-term goal is to teach Spanish in the US, what would be the best route?

I understand that requirements can vary depending on the state. I’m mainly interested in knowing what I can do now to build a strong profile before moving.

I’d really appreciate any advice about specific courses, certificates, universities, platforms, books, or resources that helped you get started.

Thank you so much! 😊

Hi there!

I am a Spanish woman, and in some months, I will probably move to the US. Either Washington DC, Albuquerque (NM) or San Diego (California). In Spain, I have been teaching English as a second language, therefore, I have experience teaching to teenagers and kids, as well as adults. I have also some experience teaching Spanish (not as much as I wished). I have a degree in English Studies.

My question is the following: do you think I'd be able to find a job as a Spanish teacher in one of these three cities? and also: Is a Master's degree required? I am reading and researching, trying to find as much information as I can. I would like to know if there are opportunities over there, since I have to move there due to my husband's job. He is american and we have to move back.

I would really love your help, thank you