• English Teaching

Teaching English in Panama

Jobs for English teachers in Panama are typically found in February through March and again in July and August. English teachers should expect to interview in person and are responsible for airfare and housing costs. Most EFL teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.

A solid hourly wage affords English teachers the ability to live a comfortable lifestyle. Schools typically offer around 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore. English teachers do not need to have a bachelor’s degree to teach in Panama, but it is preferred. TEFL TESOL certification is required. Most English teaching jobs are found in Panama City and other major towns and cities.

English Teaching Requirements in Panama

• Education: BA/BS not required but preferred; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification at our TEFL Panama Course, any of our 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 and adults
• Typical hiring process: in-person interview
• Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time
• Types of students: business professionals
• Cost of living per month: 700–900 USD
• Average monthly pay: 700–900 USD
• Start-up cost: 1,050–1,350 USD
• Potential to save or break even: break even

 
Interesting Facts About Life in Panama

• The only break in the Pan-American Highway, which essentially forms a complete road from Alaska to Patagonia, occurs in Panama.
  
  
• Nearly 500 rivers run through Panama.
  
  
• Panama is the most sparsely populated Spanish-speaking country in all of Latin America.
  
  
• Panama’s economy is considered to be among the best managed and fastest growing in the region.