As soon as you are TEFL qualified you will be in a good position to find your first teaching job and in many cases that will mean signing a contract. Here we look at how long employers typically expect you to sign on for in different parts of the world.
What is a typical TEFL contract in Europe?
If you are required to sign a contract with a school in Europe it will most likely be for one academic year, which most commonly runs from September to June. This is often convenient as it allows you to take a couple of months off in the summer to travel around the region, or you can earn extra money by taking temporary work in a summer school for example. Summer camps for English learners are a popular employer in many European countries, with contracts generally running for around four to eight weeks. It is also possible to find short-term contracts of three to six months in some schools, although you will need to do a bit of research to find options in this category as they are not common everywhere.
What is a typical TEFL contract in Asia?
Teaching contracts across Asia are most commonly for one year. However, this can sometimes be for a 12 month period or an academic year depending on the situation. If your contract is for an academic year the start/finish date can also vary as different countries have different timetables. You could potentially start your contract in January, May, or September, so it is wise to be a bit flexible if you are planning your departure date in advance. One reason why Asia is the most popular region for foreign teachers is the fact that jobs can often be secured before you leave home. One year contracts organized in advance are commonplace in countries such as China, South Korea, Japan and Taiwan. Shorter length contracts can also be found in many countries, although you will typically need to be in the country to find them as they are less likely to be advertised.
What is a typical TEFL contract in Latin America?
Although formal contracts are less common in this region than elsewhere, those that are offered will generally cover a full or academic year. Across Latin America you will find significant differences to the academic calendar, so it is advisable to research your chosen country before planning your trip. If you are keen to get away from the most common areas in search of adventure, short-term contracts, casual work, and volunteer positions are often available in most countries.
What is a typical TEFL contract in the Middle East?
It is well known that countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar offer some of the best paid jobs in the TEFL world. As well as a tax-free salary you can also expect paid airfares, free accommodation, and plenty of paid holidays. However, to take advantage of these opportunities you will be expected to commit for at least one year or even two years in some cases. If you are looking for a shorter commitment, it might be worth taking a look at some of the smaller countries in the region.
