Teach English in Colombia

Work as an English Teacher in Colombia

If you are considering going to teach English in South America don’t avoid Colombia due to the bad reputation the country once had, embrance this experience. You will be rewarded with one of the most amazing times of your life. You will get to experience cities, beaches, friendly people and incredibe sights.

Colombia has a negative image in the media due to violence and drug gangs which plagued the country in the past decades but now Colombia is a very peaceful country. Students in Colombia are very friendly and eager to improve their language skills and there is a growing demand for native English teachers. You can also teach English in Colombia without a a lot of experience or a degree which makes this an even more attractive destination.

Top Reasons to Teach in Colombia

There is more and more demand for native English speakers to work as teachers in Colombia
Teacher are very respected and held in high regard by local people
The tourist industry is growing year on year and more and more language schools are opening meaning more job openings
This country is very safe
The local food is delicious especially if you stay on the coast you can eat fresh seafood every day
A great way to work in Colombia and experience the vibrant culture
You could combine experiences and learn Spanish in Colombia at the same time
Spectacular places to see in your spare time

TEFL Courses in Colombia

One of the best ways to get a teaching job is to take a TEFL certification in Colombia. There are classroom TEFL courses available to book throughout the country where you will be trained by experienced staff and get to hands on tuition which is great if you have no previous experience.

These courses are an internationally recognized and accredited certification boosting your chances of getting a job teaching English in Colombia and worldwide. Most TEFL schools offer packages which include accommodation, training, a certification and they also organise excursions and activities.

TEFL companies usually have excellent links with recruiters and some offer guaranteed paid jobs on completion of a course.

Best Places to Teach in Colombia

Most teaching jobs can be found in the capital of Colombia, Bogotá and also Cartegena and Medellin. This is where employers and language schools are located. You might also want to consider:

Cali
Barranquilla
Cúcuta
Bucaramanga
Ibagué
Soledad
Pereira

Types of Teaching Jobs in Colombia

You can find teaching jobs at bilingiual schools, private language schools, universities and also by giving private lessons. All employers differ and have individual eligibility criteria.

Requirements & Visa

Most international teachers enter Colombia on tourist visas and then seek employement locally. If you would like to teach legally in Colombia, or stay for over 6 months then you will need to apply for a valid work permit. To be eligible for a work visa you will need to have a degree and also a recognised TEFL certification. Some language schools accept applications from internationals even if you have no TEFL qualifications or a degree. It is recommended you have one of these though to boost your chances of finding paid work.

Best Time to Seek Employment

You can find teaching work all year round although the main peak times for English teachers to be hired are January, November and December.

How to Get a TEFL Job in Colombia

Most jobs are advertised locally and you will usually need to apply and then have an interview. Some jobs in Colombia are advertised online but most TEFL teachers find work whilst in Colombia by reading newspapers or going direct to language schools. We also recommend you learn Spanish, this will help with communication and boost your chances of working. You might like to search our list of the best Spanish language courses in South America.

Salary for Teaching in Colombia

Some schools offer accommodation, return airfare, paid holidays and bonuses. To make the most money you will need a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA qualification, a bachelor’s degree and previous experience of teaching English.

Health & Safety

The Colombian people are very friendly and welcoming to international TEFL teachers and this country is a very safe place for foreigners to live and work despite what you might think.