While most teachers aren’t exactly in it for the money, many are turning to teaching English abroad to make a decent living while doing so. As not all countries are the same, some regions pay very little while others like Asia and the Middle East compensate fair wages.
Here are the top five places to teach English abroad.
1. Japan
Japan offers an excellent mixture of history, beauty, culture and cuisine. With one of the best markets for ELS teachers, you can save nearly $700 a month after housing expenses. Here you can visit Tsukiji Market, the largest fish market in the world.
2. China
From the imperial palace of the Forbidden City to the 250 mile-per-hour trains, China offers a wealth of culture and experience. Over 400 students are studying English every year. ESL teachers can earn anywhere from $500-$2,000 a month after housing expenses. You can discover the treasures of one of the earth’s oldest civilizations.
3. Gulf of Arab States
The Gulf of Arab States includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, all of which are rich in oil and desire to become top players in the political and economic areas. As a result, ESL teachers are in demand with many beneficial packages and an attractive salary to go along with it.
However, due to the small number of opportunities (compared to the European and Asian market, ESL jobs can be quite competitive and require a professional background in education. Salaries range from nearly $2,000 – $5,000 a month – tax-free! Many companies provide benefits including health insurance, furnished housings, and flights that are compensated.
Remember that all countries have different requirements. With a bit of luck research and education, you can set yourself up for an excellent salary while experiencing an entirely new culture.