There is massive opportunity out there for those who wish to teach English. According to The International TEFL Academy, there are an estimated 250,000 ESL teachers in the world. 80% of those teachers are in non-English speaking countries.
So what are some of the countries who have the highest demand for ESL teachers?
China - The World’s Largest Market
The number of Chinese citizens who are learning English may amaze you. China is becoming an economic powerhouse and has a massive population. You put these two elements together and you have an estimated 300-million people learning English according to a survey by The British Council.
When you teach English in China you’ll be able to make an exciting lifestyle for yourself. Experience a culture with iconic traditions and experiment with foods that you can’t find in the United States. You’ll even be able to make enough money to save up or help you to pay off your student loans.
Spain - Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville
There are more than a dozen cities in Spain which are in need of ESL teachers. The local government is encouraging foreigners to teach in Spain in order to help their citizens learn English. If you’re interested in traveling while teaching ESL, you will have access to easy travel across the whole of Europe with your visa.
Thailand - Cheap Living & World-Class Beaches
When you teach English in Thailand you’ll notice that there’s a lot of expats hanging around. There’s a reason for this - people start teaching there and they don’t want to leave. The country has become a hotspot for backpackers because of the cheap living costs. It’s so cheap in fact that you can live on only $15-$20 per day, making it a great place to work and save your paycheck.
Thailand has a lot to offer too - expansive beaches, ancient temples, and beautiful countryside. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to be an ESL teacher in the Eastern Hemisphere.
United Arab Emirates - The Highest Paying ESL Country
When you teach in the UAE, you’re likely to spend your work day in Dubai. Due to oil riches, the city of Dubai has become a hotbed for economic activity and luxurious lifestyles. Salary expectations put the wage at a staggering wage of $4,000 per month! While this salary does vary depending on where you’re hired, it’s a large sum nonetheless.
Keep in mind that accommodation can be quite pricey as well, but if you manage to be frugal you can save some serious cash. Plus, you’ll be able to see supercars on a daily basis and live among one of the most advanced cities in the world.
Czech Republic - Castles & Native Beer
If you’re looking for a cozy city to nestle yourself into, then look no farther than Prague. The city of Prague has been ramping up the number of ESL teacher it has been hiring. This makes it the perfect time to find a job in a European dream city. There are many language schools that you are able to choose from to find a job that provides you a comfortable living.
The city also has a long history, which includes a castle dating back to the 9th-century! The country as a whole has a fascinating history with beer. On your days off you’ll be able to head to some of the oldest microbreweries in the world.
Nicaragua - Volcanoes, Pupusa’s, and Chicken Buses
Coming out of left field is Nicaragua. Nicaragua is a beautiful country where there always seems to be a volcano in site. You’ll find mouth-watering cuisine such as the pupusa (a disk of dough with meat and cheese inside) and experience riding the local transportation known as the chicken bus. If you can stand the hot temperatures, you will find plenty of opportunities to teach ESL.
Where you choose to teach abroad you’re going to have a lovely time. Teaching English is a rewarding experience and every country offers it’s own unique flavor. You’ll be able to try exciting new cuisine, explore the local history and activities while building a strong bond with your students. Happy travels!
Dimitris works as a full stack marketer at Movinhand. Movinhand helps educators get the salary they deserve. We promote teachers around the world and get them the best possible offer within 10 days of signing up.