The largest country in South America, Brazil has recently emerged as an international economic powerhouse, creating unprecedented demand for certified English language teachers. English teachers typically find work in February through March and again in July and August.

While some English language schools interview teachers in advance over the phone and via e-mail, the best way to find a job is on the ground in Brazil during an in-person interview. English teachers in Brazil are responsible for their airfare and housing. Most live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many share accommodations with coworkers.

English teachers can afford a comfortable lifestyle in Brazil. Schools typically offer 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore. While it is possible for TEFL TESOL certified teachers without a bachelor’s degree to teach in Brazil, those with a four-year degree are preferred.

TEFL TESOL certification is required from International TEFL Academy. English teaching jobs are concentrated in the larger cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, Salvador, and Brasilia.

ITA Alumni Stories:

Q&A:
Sao Paolo, Brazil Q&A with Ben Penner

English Teaching Requirements in Brazil

• Education: BA/BS not required but preferred; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification at our Rio De Janeiro Brazil TEFL TESOL Course, any of our other Worldwide TEFL TESOL locations or by taking the Online TEFL TESOL Class.
  

• Peak hiring months: February–March; July–August
  
  
• Types of jobs: English language schools
  
  
• Typical hiring process: in-person interview in Brazil; some e-mail/phone in advance
  
  
• Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time
  
  
• Types of students: business professionals
  
  
• Cost of living per month: $ 1,200 1,400 USD (2,400-2,800 BRL)
  
  
• Average monthly pay: $ 1,200 1,400 USD (2,400-2,800 BRL)
• Start-up cost: $1,800-2,100
  USD
  
  
• Potential to save or break even: break even
  
  
• Accommodation/housing benefits paid: no
  
  
• Flight reimbursement: no

 
Interesting Facts About Life in Brazil

• Brazil will host the summer Olympics in 2016, the first time the games will be held in South America.
  
  
• Brazil will host the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and the national team has won the Cup a record 5 times.
  
  
• Brazil has the eighth-largest economy in the world.
  
  
• The official language of Brazil is Portuguese.