Questions

Answers

How much does it cost?

Students take an online TESOL training course followed by one week of face-to-face work at TEFL International’s Ban Phe, Thailand location. This gets the student TESOL certified. Students then volunteer for one to two weeks in Thailand's Elephant Nature Park in Chang Mai.

Total costs for the online course, face-to-face training in Ban Phe, and one week volunteering costs about US$2290 (see table below). All meals and accommodations are included in this fee.

The TESOL course followed by two weeks volunteering in the Elephant Nature Park has a total cost of about $2690 (see table below).

Is there a deadline to pay my money?

Deposits for the TEFL course and for volunteering in the Elephant Nature Park must be made 1 month before arrival; final payment to be made on arrival. Deposits paid to the Elephant Nature Park are not refundable if cancellation of your volunteering application is received within 4 weeks of planned start date. The following table sets forth how much the course and volunteering costs and what and when deposits and final payments are required.

How do I pay?

Depositsto register for the TEFL program and to secure a place in the volunteer programare required before arriving in Ban Phe. These can be paid at TEFL International's payment web site: http://www.tefllife.com/payments.html

Balances to be paid when you are at TEFL International's Ban Phe training facility.

Do I pay for my own transportation?

Students pay for their own round trip ticket to the Bangkok airport. Students then take a bus from the Bangkok airport to Ban Phe at a return ticket cost of about $12. When you have completed your TESOL course in Ban Phe you will then travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (round trip fares (paid by you): air—about$200; train—about $50; bus—about $40. Once in Chiang Mai your transportation from Chiang Mai to the Elephant Nature Park and return is handled by Park management and is included in your volunteering fee.

Does TEFL International offer any sort of flight discounts to Costa Rica?

While TEFL International is not involved directly with flights and travel arrangements we would like to recommend STA Travel for all of your travel needs. They offer competitive rates, flexible return flights, and travel insurance. Please visit them at www.statravel.com/teflcourse for more information.

If there are multiple students travelling together who will arrange for transportation?

All students are responsible for their own travel arrangements.

What types of accommodations are provided while volunteering?

Volunteers stay in houses inside the park. Rooms are fan-cooled, rustic, comfortable, and blend perfectly into the park's outstanding natural scenery.

Is there a limit on how many students can go?

At this time TEFL International is not aware of any restrictions on the number of volunteers that can be accommodated but this can change with the needs of the volunteer accepting organization. Best to check with TEFL International as early as possible on availability to be taken in as a volunteer. Note: applicants for volunteering are reviewed by Park management and may or may not be accepted.

Is there a deadline to withdraw an application?

No. However please note the Elephant Nature Park requires conditions so that you don't lose your deposit.

When I take the TESOL course in Ban Phe where will I stay, will I have to pay for accommodations myself and how much will it cost?

Your accommodation is covered in your course fees, both during your one-week face-to-face teacher training course (at our center) and for two weeks of volunteering.

As a volunteer in the Elephant Nature Park after my TESOL course who will arrange this?

Staff at TEFL International’s Ban Phe training facility will assist in getting you to Chiang Mai. In Chiang Mai Park management will take you from Chiang Mai to the Park and return you to Chiang Mai at the end of your volunteering time.

How long does an environmental volunteer assignment last?

Volunteering can be for one week or two (maximum is two).

What type of work can I expect to do as a volunteer?

Volunteer jobs are varied, from bathing elephants to basic health care. Traveling around the country in a variety of modes, from 4 wheel truck to bamboo raft, volunteers will experience local and tribal lifestyles, culture and hospitality.

When do I start the on line course?

You can start the online portion of your TESOL training anytime.

How long do I have to complete the online course?

Take as much time as you wish to complete the online training but you should complete that part before arriving in Costa Rica

How far in advance of the one week training in Ban Phe should I arrive?

You might wish to arrive a day or two ahead of the start of training especially given the beautiful beaches in Ban Phe. TEFL International has accommodations available for US$ 15/day.

Can I get university credits?

TEFL International recommends you discuss your plans with your advisor before you travel. TEFL International can send your advisor information on credits.

What's the climate like?

the region has three distinct seasons: the cool season, hot season and rainy season. Chiang Mai is known as the 'cool capital', and in comparison to the sweaty heat of Bangkok, the climate is far more agreeable

What should I pack for my trip?

Seasonal Considerations

Bedding at the park is included as well as mosquito nets. We have left blankets at the villages for your comfort when you are away from the park. During the cool season (Oct-Feb) it is cold; bring warm clothing and, if you have one with you, a sleeping bag. May-Sep is rainy season so a waterproof jacket is recommended.

Do I need a Visa to enter Thailand? How long can I stay?

Depends on the country you live in. Check with the Thai embassy or consulate in your country.