Explore & Teach English in Colombia

Colombia, with its beautiful landscapes and rich history, has emerged as an attractive location for teaching English as a second language (ESL). This comprehensive guide offers detailed advice to make the most out of teaching ESL in Colombia and maximize your experience.

What are the requirements to teach English in Colombia?

In order to teach in Colombia, certain requirements must be fulfilled:

Educationally speaking a degree will enhance job prospects but is not strictly necessary if desired - however holding such will increase job prospects considerably

English Proficiency: For effective English teaching, advanced proficiency is needed.

TEFL Certification: It is strongly advised to obtain a 120-hour TEFL certificate from an established institution in order to gain teaching skills and increase chances of finding better positions. This certification equips teachers with essential teaching techniques as well as opening doors to more rewarding positions.

Financial Stability: Saving at least $1,000 can help cover initial expenses until your first paycheck arrives.

Is It Possible to Be an English Teacher in Colombia without a Degree?

Yes, teaching jobs in Colombia without having a degree are achievable. While having both native speaker status and a degree are certainly advantages, non-degree holders still have opportunities available to them; though having one could open up more job options and potentially higher salaries.

What type of English teaching jobs are available in Colombia?

Colombia provides various English teaching positions. Private International Schools: These schools serve an affluent demographic and often offer higher salaries; these positions tend to be highly competitive; typically having both teaching experience and a degree may be required to qualify.

Teaching English in Colombia (TEC) Program is an exclusive government initiative open only to US citizens, offering one year contracts teaching English in public schools in return for a stipend each month.

Public/Government Schools: Public schools in Colombia, especially rural ones, often seek English teachers as part of their teaching staff. While salaries might not compare as favourably to private schools, these positions give English teachers an opportunity to work alongside local communities and create real change for positive change.

Private Language Institutes: Language institutes can be found throughout urban areas and typically offer afterschool or afterwork English instruction to children, teenagers and adults of various ages and qualifications. Salaries vary depending on which institute and how well qualified their instructors are.

Where are the top ESL destinations in Colombia?

Colombia boasts several outstanding ESL destinations that offer unique experiences:

Medellin: Medellin is Colombia's second-largest city, known for its pleasant climate and lively cultural scene. Home to an active expat community and various language institutes.

Bogota: As Colombia's capital and largest city, Bogota boasts an exciting metropolitan lifestyle and offers ESL jobs galore. Home to numerous international schools, language institutes and cultural attractions - this vibrant metropolis makes an excellent ESL employment environment.

Cali: Cali is known for its vibrant salsa music and dance scene. Offering a slower-paced lifestyle with opportunities to teach English at language institutes or public schools.

How Can I Locate Teaching Jobs in Colombia?

Locating teaching jobs in Colombia takes deliberate and concerted effort using various resources:

Placement Programs: Take advantage of reliable placement programs that connect ESL teachers with schools in Colombia. They assist with job placement, visa processes and ongoing support during your teaching experience.

Online Job Boards: Utilize dedicated job boards that specialize in ESL teaching positions in Colombia, such as Teach Away, Dave's ESL Cafe and ESL101. You should expect job listings specifically targeting Colombia on these websites.

Job Search in Colombia: Once in Colombia, you can actively pursue job opportunities by networking with other English teachers, attending job fairs, and visiting language institutes directly. Forming relationships with local educators and institutions could open doors to potential job offers.

Making Your Candidacy Attractive: Make yourself stand out with an attractive candidate profile by emphasizing your TEFL certification, teaching experience and passion for teaching English in job applications and interviews. Emphasize also your adaptability, cultural sensitivity and willingness to immerse yourself into Colombian culture.

Salary and Cost of Living in Colombia:

ESL teachers working in Colombia may find their salaries are slightly lower compared to China or South Korea; however, Colombia's low cost of living offers teachers opportunities for savings as well as an attractive lifestyle; rent, transportation costs and daily expenses in Colombia tend to be much more reasonable compared to many Western nations.

Visa Requirements:

When arriving in Colombia, visitors receive an automatic 90-day tourist stamp. In order to work legally and obtain an M5 work visa from your employer or teaching program, steps will need to be taken in order to secure one - they will assist in this process and provide all the required documents such as contracts and evidence of qualifications.

Teaching in Colombia can be an engaging and fulfilling experience that allows you to immerse yourself in its vibrant culture while making an impactful contribution to students' lives. By meeting requirements and exploring various job opportunities as you look for teaching positions in Colombia - whether its bustling cities like Medellin or Bogota or more laidback coastal experiences in Cali - Colombia provides ample options that fit with your teaching style preferences.

Remember to invest in a TEFL certification to enhance your teaching abilities and job prospects. Furthermore, network with fellow teachers at job fairs or use online job boards to find teaching positions. When applying and interviewing for teaching positions, be sure to highlight your qualifications, teaching experience, and passion for English teaching as part of your applications and interviews.

Though salaries for ESL teachers in Colombia may be lower compared to some other countries, their relatively affordable cost of living allows for an enjoyable lifestyle and potential savings. Take advantage of Colombia's rich culture while taking advantage of this affordable living expense arrangement!

To work legally in Colombia, an M5 work visa will be necessary. Your employer or teaching program should guide you through this application process to ensure a seamless transition into teaching roles.

Teaching English in Colombia opens up doors of personal and professional growth, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. Experience an amazing adventure while making an impactful difference in students' lives while creating lasting memories on your teaching journey through this captivating country.