Top 5 Countries to Make the Most Money Teaching English Overseas
Posted by info ITA on Tue, Jan 04, 2011 @ 05:50 PM
Everybody is familiar with the saying “you don’t become a teacher for the money,” and while going abroad to teach English will almost certainly be one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences you will ever undertake, you probably don’t want to count on it to buy that tropical island you plan to buy for your retirement. That said, there are thousands of opportunities around the world for certified English teachers that do pay well and offer exceptional benefits.
Here are the top 5 countries in the world
to find these sorts of opportunities.
A prosperous economy and a deep-rooted commitment to education make Korea a top destination for certified English teachers, especially those looking to make money.
Highlights of working in Korea:
- Teachers typically make enough to save around 50% of their salary each month, which can top $1,000 a month, or up to $15,000 a year.
- Furnished housing is provided to teachers.
- Teachers will be reimbursed for their airfare to Korea and provided with a stipend for a flight home at the end of their contract.
- Teachers who complete their 12 month contract will typically receive an extra month’s salary as a bonus.
- Teachers can get hired in advance from home.
- Cities are cosmopolitan and modern, offering world-class shopping, historical attractions, nightlife and recreat ional and sporting opportunities.
- Proximity to other Asian countries makes it a great base for exploring the world’s largest and most diverse continent.
Offering an unparalleled combination of culture, cuisine, history and stunning natural beauty, Japan has long been a top market for qualified English teachers.
Highlights of working in Japan:
- Make enough to save $600-$800 a month after expenses.
- Get hired in advance from home.
- Step back in time while strolling through the historic streets of medieval Kyoto.
- Visit Tokyo’s legendary Tsukiji Market, largest fish and seafood market in the world.
Located on an island off the southeast coast of China, Taiwan offers a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture in a subtropical environment (think Florida or Jamaica).
Highlights of working in Taiwan:
- Make enough money to save $500-$700 a month after expenses.
Live in a prosperous and democratic Asian society where living standards are high.
- Enjoy the vibrant street life, colorful markets, and world-class shopping of Taipei.
- Spend your weekends enjoying Taiwan’s gorgeous coastlines or exploring the country’s lush, mountainous interior, known for its innumerable hot springs and awe-inspiring views.
4. Gulf Arab States
(Saudi Arabia, U.A.E., Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain) – Tremendous oil wealth and a desire to become international players in the economic and political arenas have led the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf region to invest billions of dollars into their educational systems, particularly English language instruction. As a result, qualified English teachers are offered very attractive pay and benefits packages to come to teach. However, because the number of opportunities is only a fraction of what is found in Asia or Europe, the job market can be exceedingly competitive (an MA and/or a professional background in education is often required for many positions).
Highlights of working in the Persian Gulf region:
- Salaries ranging from $2,000 - $5,000 per month (tax-free).
- Benefits may include free health insurance, furnished housing/housing stipend, and flights to and from your home country.
- An opportunity to experience a region rich in culture and history.
Sloping from the border of China into the heart of Southeast Asia like the body of a mythical dragon, Vietnam represents a distinct blend of Chinese Confucianism and Cambodian Buddhist cultures, with a taste of French-colonial charm. Boasting thousands of miles of coastline, mountainous highlands, and a collection of colorful and bustling cities, Vietnam offers something for everyone.
Highlights of teaching in Vietnam:
- Low cost of living with the ability of saving $ 600 a month makes it the best standard of living on mainland Asia.
Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling population over 1 million people with modern conveniences mixed with the exotic Asian street markets.
- Hanoi is a jewel of the old colonial Vietnam with the French windy streets and charming cafe’s around every corner.
- The beaches of Vietnam are said to be some of the most spectacular of all South East Asia.
No matter where you teach, a TEFL certification will be required to be a professional English teacher. Learn about the ITA Online TEFL Class or International TEFL Class location to see what is your best option.
