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.
Teaching English in Mexico
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 ESL 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
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 into specific institutions. Remember that while TEFL/TESOL certification might not be required, it makes your more employable.
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 centers 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 center 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.
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 much a common practice for families that can afford it. As a private tutor, 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.
English Teachers in Mexico
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
As you probably know, 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 working as an English teacher 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.
Teach ESL in Mexico
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.
Join the Conversation About Teaching English in Mexico
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 or Russia? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
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