Ah, Europe. The cradle of Western civilization and the number one destination for traveling tourists and professionals alike. With a rich history and an even richer culture, Europe is the perfect blend of the modern and ancient worlds. With so many options to choose from, ESL jobs in Europe are consistently considered to be among the best in the world.
Keep on reading for all the details you need to know about TEFL jobs Europe. Our goal is to help you decide which European country is the right option for your teaching career.
ESL jobs in Europe
As a teacher, you will have the chance to work in a variety of schools and subjects, whichever is your preference. The work culture in most locations is very familiar to Western teachers. Best yet, living in Europe makes it easy to visit hot spot destinations in many countries by using cheap train or air travel. Whether you end up teaching in the Czech Republic or in Poland, you will find both challenges and fulfillment as an educator.
ESL Jobs Europe
Educators often choose Europe as their destination for its balance of work and social life. As a teacher, you can expect to be paid a decent, if not a high salary that lets you live and save comfortably. Of course, there are higher-paying destinations, such as Spain or France, and lower-paying destinations, mostly in Eastern Europe. For native English speakers with a bachelor’s degree and TEFL/TESOL certification, Europe provides the perfect opportunity to build experience and savings.
Many people want to learn English in Europe for tourism purposes. Check out this helpful resource to recommend to your students: English for Tourism.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about TEFL jobs in Europe.
Requirements to Teach English in Europe
Each country will have its own requirements for entrance and employment. In general, those from a native English-speaking country can expect these requirements to teach English in Europe:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL/TESOL or CELTA certification
- Work Visa for non-EU citizens
Make sure to research the countries and schools that you are interested in before making any major decisions. Some destinations and schools are stricter than others!
The Best Places in Europe to Teach English
The Different Regions You Can Teach English in Europe
Europe is a large continent with a variety of cultures and economies to choose from. There are opportunities for all types of English teachers, no matter where you go. It’s important to consider the region of Europe that best matches your needs as a teacher before you pack your bags. While Europe has some cultural similarities, countries become more similar in culture depending on if they are considered Eastern, Western, or Northern European. Here is a quick look at the different places in Europe you can teach English:
- Western Europe: Teaching English in Western Europe offers a mix of cultural experiences to choose from. In general, the cost of living and work standards are higher here. The teaching experience is also more familiar to North American teachers. Some job markets here can be particularly competitive, such as Barcelona, Paris, and many coastal destinations.
- Eastern Europe: Teaching English in Western Europe is definitely a unique experience. The market for English is rapidly growing here, meaning there are many job opportunities. It might not be as easy to adapt to for a native English speaker, but Eastern Europe has some of the best work-leisure balance in the world. Best yet, it’s the most affordable European option.
- Scandinavia/Northern Europe: Don’t forget about the opportunity to teach English in Northern Europe! Though not as popular, the countries of Scandinavia offer a high standard of living and extremely beautiful nature. International teachers often rate countries like Sweden and Norway as their best experiences.
You can also teach students based in Europe through online ESL schools like Skyeng.
The Best Locations to Teach ESL in Europe
The following destinations are the most desired in all of Europe! They offer the best affordability, quality of life, or job opportunities. Check out this guide before you do any further research.
Spain: A Growing Job Market for ESL Jobs Europe
- Population: 46,780,000
- Average monthly salary: $800-$1,000 USD
- Average cost of living: $700 – $1,000 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification. Spanish Skills
Not only does Spain have a beautiful climate, but if you avoid areas like Barcelona and Madrid, you can land a high salary in an affordable area. However, for most positions, Spanish is a necessity. Find out more: Teaching ESL In Spain.
Italy: Welcomes Beginners for TEFL Jobs Europe
- Population: 60,337,000
- Average monthly salary: $1,000 – $1,400 USD
- Average cost of living: $1,000 – $1,200 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree
Though Italy has one of the highest average costs of living in Europe, it is offset by its even higher standard of living. If you are looking to enjoy yourself while working a ESL Europe job, consider Italy as the best location.
France: Booming Culture and Economy
- Population: 65,470,000
- Average monthly salary: $800 – $2,000 USD
- Average cost of living: $700 – $1,200 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL/TESOL certification. Two years of work experience.
France has exceptional standards for employment, so you can expect some great benefits as a teacher. Plus, you get one of the highest average salaries and all that fantastic French cuisine. Learn more: Teaching English in France.
Germany: Best Teaching Experience
- Population: 83,129,000
- Average monthly salary: $2,500 – $4,800 USD
- Average cost of living: $1,000
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL or CELTA certification. Teaching experience is preferred.
Along with The Netherlands, Germany offers the highest average salary for English teachers in Europe. In order to attract the best talent, job packages in Germany are often very competitive. With the right qualifications, you can expect a lot of your expenses to be reimbursed.
England: International Community
- Population: 68,382,000
- Average monthly salary: $1,500 – $2,500 USD
- Average cost of living: $1,000
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL or CELTA certification. Two years of relevant experience.
The UK has one of the largest international communities in the world. No matter where you decide to teach, you will be able to access a large network of support. And best of all, you won’t have to learn another language of instruction.
Poland: Fantastic Affordability
- Population: 37,788,938
- Average monthly salary: $750 – $1,500 USD
- Average cost of living: 400 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree
Poland is a good choice for educators who want to prioritize affordability. If you are looking to save on your monthly expenses while making a sizeable salary, then Poland has the best opportunities for you. Check out: Teaching English in Poland.
The Netherlands: High Salaries
- Population: 17,186,000
- Average monthly salary: $1,700 – $3,800 USD
- Average cost of living: $900 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: TEFL certification and a bachelor’s degree
If you’re looking for the perfect balance of salary, work culture, and social life, then the Netherlands is the ideal location. With some of the highest salaries and a balanced work-life, the Netherlands is one of the most competitive job markets for English teachers in Europe because it is so fantastic!
Czech Republic: Amazing Work Culture for ESL Europe Jobs
- Population: 10,735,000
- Average monthly salary: $1,000 – $1,400 USD
- Average cost of living: $600 USD
- Minimum teaching requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL/TESOL certification
If you’re looking for a destination with an amazing social culture and high affordability, then the Czech Republic is perfect for you. This country offers the cheapest beer in Europe, and you will regularly find yourself at a local pub with colleagues after work. Have a look here: Teaching ESL In Czech.
FAQ About ESL Jobs Europe
Looking for some quick information on ESL jobs Europe. Look no further than these frequently asked questions.
What should I know about TESOL jobs in Europe?
Most European locations will require you to have TEFL or TESOL certification. It is usually a good idea to get certified in the country of your employment if the job market is competitive.
Where can I make the most money teaching English in Europe?
Countries like Germany and France have the highest average salary. However, nearly every urban center offers competitive salaries and benefits for qualified teachers. The highest average salary in Europe is around $4,800 USD per month. You could expect to find these salaries in urban centers, at private institutions, international academies, or universities.
Can I save money with the general higher cost of living in Europe?
There are always ways to save money while teaching abroad. Many teachers in Europe select a location for its affordability or supplement their income with a second job like private tutoring. You can also look for job packages that reimburse travel or accommodations.
Can I work and travel between multiple countries?
One of the best things about ESL jobs in Europe is the ease of traveling. You can pick up and move jobs easily. Even better, the trains and planes are very accessible if you’re looking for short visits.
Should I Teach English in Europe?
Deciding whether to teach English in Europe is a personal choice that depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and career goals. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:
- Job Market and Opportunities: Europe offers various opportunities for teaching English, especially in language schools, universities, and international schools. Research the job market and available positions in the specific countries or regions you are interested in to determine if there are suitable opportunities that align with your qualifications and teaching preferences.
- Cultural Diversity: Europe is known for its rich cultural diversity, history, and heritage. Teaching English in Europe can provide a chance to immerse yourself in different cultures, languages, and traditions, offering a unique and enriching experience.
- Language Exposure: Teaching English in Europe may expose you to different languages spoken in the region. This can be advantageous for language enthusiasts who are interested in learning or improving their language skills in languages such as Spanish, French, German, Italian, or others.
- Travel Opportunities: Europe offers a convenient geographical location for exploring various countries and experiencing different cultures. Teaching in Europe can provide opportunities for weekend getaways or longer trips during school holidays, allowing you to explore and discover new places.
- Salary and Benefits: Consider the salary and benefits packages offered for teaching positions in Europe. Take into account factors such as cost of living, healthcare, housing allowances, vacation time, and professional development opportunities. Salaries and benefits can vary significantly depending on the country and institution.
- Qualifications and Requirements: Research the specific qualifications and requirements needed to teach English in the European country you are considering. Some countries may have specific visa requirements or prefer certain teaching certifications such as CELTA or TEFL.
- Lifestyle and Living Conditions: Consider the lifestyle and living conditions in the specific European country you are interested in. Factors such as the climate, social norms, safety, recreational activities, and opportunities for personal and professional growth should align with your preferences and personal needs.
- Language Barrier: Depending on the country, you may encounter a language barrier if you are not familiar with the local language. Consider your adaptability to new environments and your willingness to learn and adapt to a different linguistic context.
Have your Say about ESL Jobs Europe
What are your thoughts about teaching English in this amazing destination? Is it the right option for you, or are you considering teaching in another country like Oman or Russia? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
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