Private School Teacher Salary in Colombia

Colombia is experiencing a remarkable transformation, from its turbulent past as a home for violence and drug cartels to an idyllic nation with an expanding tourism industry. As its popularity as a travel destination continues to increase, so too has demand for English speakers who can teach in Colombia's bustling English-speaking community. Teaching English offers teachers an unforgettable adventure within an exciting culture; here we explore earning potential, main employers, recruitment procedures, cost of living as well as cost of living for English teachers in Colombia.

How Much Can I Earn Teaching English in Colombia?

Teaching English in Colombia may not bring exorbitant salaries, but its low cost of living allows teachers to lead comfortable lives. The average salary in Colombia for private school teachers typically ranges between $700 and $1,000 monthly, with additional benefits like housing stipends and health insurance. Tuition rates for private tutoring can range between $12-25 an hour, depending on experience and location. Additionally, joining the Teach English in Colombia Program can bring a monthly stipend of $400, as well as assistance with accommodation fees. Employers in Colombia often prefer native English speakers with TEFL certification, while having a degree can provide added advantages.

Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Colombia?

The Teach English in Colombia Program (TEC) is an increasingly attractive opportunity for those wishing to live and work in Colombia while making a significant positive contribution to local communities. Offering free language lessons to individuals who cannot afford tuition, this volunteer scheme offers volunteers a way to share their skills. Open only to native English speakers from the US with either TEFL qualifications or experience teaching, teachers receive both a monthly stipend as well as assistance with accommodation arrangements.

Other than TEC, other employment opportunities include private international schools, language institutes and government initiatives. Private international schools typically offer attractive salaries; however they generally require higher qualifications and experience to get hired. Language institutes provide a good middle ground; providing reasonable pay with ample job opportunities. Furthermore, government programs have recently been initiated to hire foreign teachers for public high schools; though salaries may not match private ones but working conditions tend to be much more relaxed and comfortable than in private ones.

What is the Recruitment Process for English Teachers in Colombia?

For those interested in teaching in private language schools, it is advised to be physically present in Colombia in order to find suitable positions, since most employers do not post job vacancies online. Requirements vary, though generally employers look for native English speakers with college degrees and TEFL certification - Bogota, Medellin and Barranquilla are popular teaching destinations in Colombia.

As part of the Teach English in Colombia Program or public schools, jobs must be arranged well in advance before leaving your home country. Most employers should assist with acquiring an official work visa - however some schools require teachers to work on tourist visas instead - although technically illegal but often overlooked by authorities. Although having a TEFL qualification isn't technically needed to secure one of these work visas, having one will increase job prospects greatly when arriving in Colombia.

How much will living costs for English teachers in Colombia be?

With its relatively low cost of living compared to Western nations, Colombia makes an appealing destination for English teachers. Housing typically remains the primary expense; however there are jobs which provide help with accommodations - an additional benefit. Many teachers choose to share apartments with fellow English teachers to reduce rental costs further; other local advice should also be sought as to safe, affordable areas where to reside; public transportation in Colombia tends to be very reasonably priced while groceries tend to be quite inexpensive if you stick with less import goods!

Teaching English in Colombia provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in an exciting culture while earning a comfortable income. Teachers in Canada can enjoy fulfilling lives thanks to an average monthly salary between $700 and $1,000 and an affordable cost of living. English teachers can find opportunities through programs like Teach English in Colombia, employment at private international schools or language institutes, government initiatives or even through government initiatives. Recruitment processes vary, with in-person searches often necessary for private language school jobs. Teachers armed with TEFL certification and meeting all of its requirements can greatly increase their prospects in Colombia - providing an exciting adventure, cultural immersion experience and rewarding teaching experience all at the same time!