How much can I earn teaching English in Germany?
TESOL qualified teachers in Germany can typically expect to earn between $1,400 and $2,200 per month. Situated in the heart of Europe, Germany is a prime location for teachers wanting to experience the continent's diverse offerings. The country is in constant demand for English teachers, with opportunities available nationwide. In addition to the competitive salaries, Germany is known for its easier legal work processes for foreign teachers compared to many other European countries. Germany's mix of professional opportunities and rich cultural experiences makes it an appealing destination for those looking to teach English in Europe.
Also read: Do I need a TESOL certificate to teach abroad?
Table of Contents
What are TESOL salaries in Germany?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Germany?
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Germany?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Germany?
What are TESOL salaries in Germany?
The average monthly salary for an ESL teacher working in a private language school in Germany is between $1,400 and $2,200 USD per month. If you choose to work full time as a private tutor or you want to top up your main school income by taking on a few extra students you can expect to earn between $17 and $35 US per hour. The salaries offered by language schools do vary considerably, with the large chains typically offering less than many of the independent schools. The highest pay is usually found in the larger cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Munich.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Germany?
The main employers of English language teachers in Germany are:
- Private Language Schools: Predominantly found in large cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne, these schools are the most common employers for foreign ESL teachers. They offer a range of teaching opportunities, from general English classes to more specialized business English courses.
- International and German Companies: Many international corporations, as well as major German firms such as Volkswagen, Siemens, and Daimler AG, provide in-house English training for their employees. These companies frequently hire ESL teachers for business-related English instruction.
- Kindergartens and Early Education Centers: Teaching young learners is another significant area of employment. Kindergartens across Germany often start English education at a young age, creating opportunities for ESL teachers specialized in early childhood education.
Also read: How do I become a great ESL teacher?
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Germany?
The recruitment process for English teachers in Germany typically involves the following steps:
- Job Search: ESL jobs in Germany are frequently advertised online, allowing candidates to potentially secure a position before leaving their home country.
- Visa Application: Navigating the visa process is a crucial step. Most teachers opt for one of two visas:
- Freelance Visa: This permits working for multiple language schools and teaching private lessons. It doesn't allow full-time employment with a single school but can provide a full-time income if you secure multiple part-time positions.
- Sponsored Work Visa: This visa is tied to a single school, allowing full-time work. Side jobs are also permissible under this visa.
- Visa Processing Time: Be prepared for the visa process to take about two to three months, although this duration can vary across different German states. The process can be more challenging for those who do not speak German, so seeking assistance is advisable.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Germany?
Due to the potential of a protracted wait for your work visa to be processed you should be prepared to support yourself for around three months on arrival in Germany. With the average cost of living for ESL teachers of around $1,000 to $1,500 US per month, this would equate to between $3,000 and $4,500. The more you have in reserve at the start of your trip the better. Accommodation is typically the biggest expense which is why many teachers choose to stay in a cheap hostel or shared house until their first monthly salary is paid. Major cities are always more expensive than smaller towns, although Bremen and Leipzig are generally considered to be the most affordable cities to live in.
Also read: What is the Schengen Area in Europe and how does it affect TESOL teachers?
