Teach English in Mexico: Requirements, Jobs, and Salary

Mexico has both a fascinating culture and amazing work-life that attracts many international teachers. With opportunities in larger cities to have high salaries and low cost of living or tropical paradises, teaching English in Mexico has many options. Depending on what you want out of your experience, Mexico offers everyone a chance to connect to a thriving culture and economy.

Whether you’re looking for a coastal paradise or a bustling metropolis in Mexico City, teaching ESL in Mexico is a fantastic opportunity. With a vibrant Latin culture that is welcoming to English speakers, Mexico is often considered the perfect starting destination for beginners. And for the experienced, it offers unique challenges and opportunities that make teaching English in Mexico rewarding for all.

Do you want to know more about English teaching jobs in Mexico? Keep reading to find out all the details.

Teach English in Mexico

Because of its close ties to North America, Mexico has a high priority for English lessons. English is commonly used to do business, so you can be confident that there are many English teaching jobs in Mexico. In order to teach in Mexico, most teachers need a university degree and TEFL/TESOL certification. The average salary for an English teacher in Mexico is around 500 – 1,100 USD per month

Requirements to Teach ESL in Mexico

There are a few legal and preferred requirements to teach English in Mexico. At a minimum, you will need:

• A Bachelor’s Degree
• Travel documentation
• To be a Native English speaker
• A basic level of Spanish can be helpful

Some schools may require TEFL/TESOL certification, and specific institutions in Mexico City might require CELTA certification. You may even find schools that only require a Bachelor’s degree and no teaching experience. Some schools also love it if you have a Bachelor’s degree in the social sciences instead of English, as these applicants are very adaptable. Overall, the qualifications to teach English in Mexico vary a lot, and you should research specific institutions. Remember that while TEFL/TESOL certification might not be required, it makes you more employable.

If you do not have a university or college degree, consider teaching English online.

Types of English Teaching Jobs in Mexico

If you’re planning to teach English in Mexico, you have several options where you can teach. Check out this guide on the various schools and programs.

Public Schools

Teaching English in Mexico at a bilingual public school provides a stable income and schedule. However, they often earn the least, especially elementary school teachers. You’ll usually work from 7 am to 2 pm. Usually, you teach particular subjects in English, rather than English itself. Also, because these students require a specific curriculum, some experience is preferred. Mexico also has several fantastic public universities that offer higher salaries.

Language Centers

If you’re looking to work with children and adults when you teach English in Mexico, language centres are the option for you. They also provide great networking opportunities between educators and professionals. Although work is not as stable as public schools, the hours are more flexible, including work on the weekends. The more experience and history you build with a company, the more work you will get. The average salary for language centre positions is usually higher than a public position but lower than corporate or postsecondary positions.

Company Classes

Mexico has a growing population of professionals seeking to upgrade their skills to compete in an international market. English is a highly sought-after skill in all industries. Therefore, there is a huge opportunity for teaching English in Mexico as an ESL instructor for companies.

Companies will often have their own English schools or programs that are focused on business English. These positions offer the highest salaries and best perks and are usually the most competitive. The schedule can be more limiting and tiring than traditional education as you will work around the schedules of employees. It’s usually a good idea to try and live as close to these positions as you can to make your commute shorter.

Private Tutoring

Private English tutoring in Mexico is a common practice for families that can afford it. As a private tutor teaching English in Mexico, you have the option to work part-time. Or, if you’d like, you can work full-time for a single family, often living and eating with them. It’s a fantastic way to experience authentic Mexican culture and really get to know your students.

Teaching English in Mexico Salary

Comparably, salaries are much lower in Mexico than they are in North America. Your salary also will change depending on the location of your job and the amount of experience and certification you have. While the average salaries are between $500 – $1,100 USD per month, you can find both higher and lower wages. You can also supplement your income with private tutoring, or you can work for a family or business. You can also teach in Mexico without prioritizing your salary, working for accommodations and food, and a small stipend while you teach in some of the more rural disadvantaged areas.

If you’d like to make a bit more cash, consider one of these high-salary ESL teaching jobs somewhere else in the world, like in Hong Kong or Japan.

Things to Know about Teaching English in Mexico

By this point, you might be ready to send your application to become an English teacher in Mexico. But before you do so, read through the following things to consider when teaching English in Mexico.

• Salaries vary widely, even within the same city.
• Daily life and leisure are very affordable.
• English is very accessible.
• Hierarchy is important in the classroom and in the social culture.
• There is a high standard of dressing for professionals.

Cost of Living in Mexico

The cost of living is much more affordable in Mexico, even in the larger cities. Depending on your salary, you can save several thousand dollars each year teaching English in Mexico. Local food and housing are very cheap and affordable. On average, you can expect to pay about 300 USD per month on your living expenses. Make sure to compare various schools for their hourly rates or salaries. You can also really make Mexico affordable by negotiating some benefits like a travel stipend into your employment package.

FAQ About Teaching English in Mexico

Looking for quick information on teaching ESL in Mexico? These frequently asked questions will let you know everything you need.

Can I save money while teaching English in Mexico?

If you live as the locals do, you will be able to pocket a small amount of savings each month. Benefits and perks added to your employment package also reduce the cost.

How much do English teachers in Mexico earn?

The average salary for English teachers in Mexico is $500 – $1,100 USD per month.

What qualifications do I need to teach English in Mexico?

To teach English in Mexico you will need a bachelor’s degree. TEFL or CELTA certification always helps!

Is teaching ESL in Mexico hard?

Mexico is one of the most exciting and welcoming destinations, even for new teachers. Spanish skills are a benefit but not required in all positions.

Should I Teach English in Mexico?

Deciding whether to teach English in Mexico is a personal choice that depends on various factors. Here are some points to consider that may help you make an informed decision:

Passion for Teaching

If you have a passion for teaching and enjoy sharing knowledge, teaching English can be a fulfilling experience.

Cultural Experience

Teaching in Mexico can provide you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Mexican culture, learn the language, and gain a deeper understanding of the country.

Demand for English Teachers

Mexico has a growing demand for English teachers, both in schools and private language institutes. This could potentially provide you with good job opportunities.

Language Skills

Assess your own proficiency in English and determine if you possess the necessary language skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers.

Qualifications and Experience

While not always required, having a teaching qualification, such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate, can enhance your chances of finding employment and may open up better job prospects.

Financial Considerations

Research the cost of living in the specific area of Mexico where you plan to teach, as well as the average salaries for English teachers. Consider whether the financial aspect aligns with your needs and expectations.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Teaching in a foreign country requires adaptability and flexibility to navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and potential challenges that may arise.

Personal Safety

Research the safety situation in the specific location you are considering. While Mexico, like any other country, has areas with varying safety levels, it is essential to be aware of any potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Long-Term Goals

Consider how teaching English in Mexico fits into your long-term goals. Is it a temporary experience or part of a broader plan? How might it contribute to your personal and professional development?

Teaching English in Mexico: Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts about teaching English in this amazing country? Is it the right option for you, or are you considering teaching in another country like Oman, Russia, or Argentina? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Also, be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter. It’ll help other English teachers like yourself find this useful guide.

Last update on 2022-07-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API