How much can I earn teaching English in Slovakia?
TESOL certified teachers in Slovakia can earn between $550 and $1,000 per month. This Central European country, though not yet a widely popular destination for English teachers, is rapidly becoming more recognized due to its modernization efforts. Slovakia's rich history, evident in its ancient castles, medieval fortresses, and cultural heritage, adds to its appeal. Since joining the EU, the demand for foreign English teachers in Slovakia has significantly increased, offering a variety of job opportunities in a safe and peaceful environment.
Table of Contents
What are TESOL salaries in Slovakia?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Slovakia?
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Slovakia?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Slovakia?
What are TESOL salaries in Slovakia?
TESOL salaries in Slovakia typically range between $550 and $1,000 per month. While these figures are not high by European standards, they can provide a comfortable living, especially for those with a TESOL certification and enthusiasm for teaching. Teachers with higher qualifications and previous classroom experience are more likely to earn towards the upper end of this salary range. The availability of teaching jobs is widespread across Slovakia, offering opportunities for various levels of experience and expertise.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Slovakia?
The main employers of English language teachers in Slovakia are:
- Private Language Schools: These schools are the largest employers, offering English lessons both on-site and at private companies. Teachers can expect around 20 to 30 classroom hours per week, although the location may vary daily.
- Government-Run Schools: Primary and secondary schools run by the government provide opportunities to teach young learners and engage with the local community. While the pay is generally lower than in private language schools, the teaching experience is often rewarding, with enthusiastic and eager-to-learn students.
- Private Tuition: Many teachers in Slovakia supplement their income through private tuition outside school hours, which is a common practice to enhance their basic salary.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Slovakia?
The recruitment process for English teachers in Slovakia typically involves the following steps:
- In-Person Job Search: Unlike in many countries, jobs in Slovakia are not commonly advertised online. It is recommended to start your job search in person, directly in Slovakia.
- Optimal Timing: The best time to search for teaching jobs is in August, with a secondary recruitment period in January.
- Job Availability: There is often a high availability of jobs compared to the number of applicants, allowing candidates to apply for multiple positions and choose the best fit.
- Location of Jobs: While Bratislava, the capital, has the majority of opportunities, other cities like Kosice, Nitra, Presov, and Banska Bystrica also offer significant teaching positions.
- Qualifications: A TESOL certificate is generally required for most teaching jobs. Additional qualifications like a degree and previous teaching experience can significantly increase your chances.
- Visa Requirements: EU citizens have an advantage in the job market due to no work visa requirement. However, many employers are willing to assist non-EU citizens with the visa application process, especially for those committing to a reasonable stay duration.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Slovakia?
In order to compensate for relatively low salaries, teachers in Slovakia should look to make savings wherever they can. The best case scenario is to secure a job that includes free housing in the contract as this is the biggest expense for most teachers. If this does not happen, then most teachers choose to share a rental property with friends or colleagues. In general, everyday expenses are quite low by European standards, so a good quality of life is certainly possible if you are sensible with your budget.
