How much can I earn teaching English in Brazil?
TESOL qualified teachers in Brazil can typically earn between $800 and $1,500 per month. As the largest country in Latin America, Brazil presents numerous opportunities due to its fast-growing tourist industry and booming economy, which fuel a strong demand for ESL teachers. The country is an attractive destination for teachers because of its warm climate, stunning landscapes, exotic wildlife, vibrant social scene, and some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Table of Contents
What are TESOL salaries in Brazil?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Brazil?
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Brazil?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Brazil?
What are TESOL salaries in Brazil?
When teaching English in Brazil you can expect to earn a monthly salary in the region of $800 to $1,500. While this may not offer significant savings potential, it generally allows for a comfortable lifestyle outside of work. In Brazil, teachers are often compensated on an hourly basis rather than a fixed monthly salary. New teachers can expect to earn about $10 to $15 per hour, while those with more experience can command rates between $20 and $25 per hour. The country's relaxed lifestyle is a significant draw for foreign teachers, adding to the appeal of teaching in Brazil.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Brazil?
The main employers of English language teachers in Brazil are:
- Private Language Schools: These schools are prevalent throughout the country, especially in larger cities. They serve a diverse student body, making them ideal for inexperienced teachers to gain experience teaching different age groups and proficiency levels. Teachers in these settings may conduct lessons on school premises, in business offices, or in informal settings like homes, cafes, or parks.
- Private Tutoring: For teachers with more experience, private tutoring becomes a viable and often lucrative option. Many teachers start by taking a few private students while working at a language school, eventually transitioning to full-time private tutoring once they have established a solid client base. Private tutoring can offer higher earnings compared to language schools.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Brazil?
The recruitment process for English teachers in Brazil typically involves the following steps:
- Hiring Seasons: The peak hiring seasons are in March and August, though language school jobs can often be found throughout the year. January and February are usually less ideal for job hunting due to being the main vacation months.
- In-Person Interviews: Most employers prefer conducting interviews in person, necessitating your presence in Brazil during the job search.
- Job Hotspots: The major locations for ESL teaching jobs include São Paulo, the financial hub, and Rio de Janeiro, a key tourist destination. Other large cities with opportunities include Fortaleza, Recife, Salvador, Belo Horizonte, and Brasília.
- Qualification Requirements: Requirements vary widely; some schools hire based on native English proficiency, while more reputable ones require a TESOL certificate and possibly a degree. Proficiency in Portuguese is a significant advantage.
- Work Visa: Officially, a work visa is needed and should be arranged by the employer. However, due to extensive paperwork, many schools accept teachers working on a standard 3-month tourist visa, which can be renewed for another three months.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Brazil?
As Brazil is such a vast and diverse country, the cost of living can vary greatly from one area to another. Popular tourist destinations such as Rio de Janeiro are hugely more expensive in every respect compared to many other areas. To reduce overheads it is common for teachers to share accommodation with friends or colleagues, or to rent a room from a local family. You should also try to avoid shopping and socializing in areas that are popular with foreign tourists.
