How can I save money while teaching English abroad?
Saving money while teaching English abroad involves strategic planning both before departure and after arriving in your destination country. Key strategies include:
- Earn TESOL Certification: This can open doors to higher-paying teaching positions.
- Choose Locations Wisely: Countries in East Asia and the Middle East often offer lucrative teaching opportunities with benefits.
- Explore Diverse Opportunities: Consider teaching in multiple countries for varied experiences and potential savings.
- Adopt Creative Approaches: Think outside the box for additional income sources, like private tutoring.
- Live Like a Local: Embrace local living and shopping habits to reduce expenses.
- Find a Roommate: Sharing accommodation can significantly cut living costs.
- Budget and Plan: Effective budgeting and financial planning are crucial for maximizing savings.
By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while teaching English abroad and potentially save money for travel or paying off debts.
Table of Contents
Will a TESOL certificate help me earn more while teaching English abroad?
How will my choice of TESOL destination impact on how much I can save?
How can I earn extra cash while teaching English abroad?
How can I save money on accommodation while teaching English abroad?
What else can I do to save money while teaching English abroad?
Will a TESOL certificate help me earn more while teaching English abroad?
Yes, obtaining an internationally recognized TESOL certification can significantly enhance your earning potential while teaching English abroad. This certification is increasingly becoming a crucial qualification in many top teaching destinations, especially in countries offering the highest salaries for English teachers. It also signals to potential employers that you are a professional and skilled teacher, capable of delivering high-quality instruction in the classroom. Therefore, completing a TESOL course is a valuable step for those aiming to maximize their earnings in the field of English language teaching overseas.
How will my choice of TESOL destination impact on how much I can save?
The choice of TESOL destination greatly influences your potential savings. While European countries like France, Italy, and Spain offer appealing lifestyles, their high living costs make them less suitable for substantial savings. Teachers in these countries usually manage to live comfortably but may find it challenging to save significantly. In contrast, Asia and the Middle East are regions where teachers can save a substantial portion of their income. Countries like South Korea, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, and the U.A.E. are particularly lucrative, offering benefits such as free housing and paid airfares along with competitive salaries. Teachers in these regions often save between 30% and 50% of their monthly income. For instance, in South Korea, savings can range from $500 to $1500 per month, while in the Middle East, it can go up to $2000 per month.
How can I earn extra cash while teaching English abroad?
Earning additional income while teaching English abroad is commonly achieved by offering private tuition. In top teaching destinations like China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan, there is a high demand for private English lessons, especially from parents seeking extra language classes for their children outside of school hours. In these countries, teachers can earn between $20 and $50 per hour per student through private tutoring. Similarly, many European countries also have a strong demand for private English tuition. This provides an excellent opportunity to supplement income in regions with higher living costs.
How can I save money on accommodation while teaching English abroad?
Saving on accommodation costs is crucial for English teachers abroad, especially if your teaching contract does not include free or subsidized housing. The most effective strategy is to opt for shared housing. Many teachers choose to share an apartment or house with fellow educators from their school or nearby areas. Another popular option is renting a room in a local family's home, which can also provide a more immersive cultural experience. Both approaches significantly reduce housing expenses, allowing teachers to save more during their contract period.
What else can I do to save money while teaching English abroad?
New teachers arriving in Asia or Latin America often fall into the trap of frequenting bars, restaurants and supermarkets that are specifically aimed at foreign workers and tourists. Although these establishments are a good way to socialize and make new friends in an unfamiliar environment, they can seriously damage your saving potential if you overuse them. To increase your chances of saving a good amount of your hard earned cash, it is wise to do your grocery shopping at local stores and markets and to hangout at local entertainment venues. As well as saving money, this approach will also provide a more authentic experience while teaching abroad.
