The Top Programs For Teaching English in Chile

From the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, Chile offers an incredible backdrop for anyone looking to live and work abroad. But it’s not just the scenery that draws English teachers—Chile is actively working to raise English proficiency across the country, especially in public education and business sectors.

For Americans and other fluent English speakers, Chile represents one of the more accessible entry points into Latin America. The country offers a unique mix of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and a strong demand for English teachers. Whether you're craving life in a vibrant city like Santiago or a quieter pace in the countryside, there’s a path to get you there.

While Chile doesn’t have as many structured programs as some countries, it does have one standout initiative—the English Open Doors Program—along with growing opportunities in private language schools and online teaching. This guide walks you through the top ways to teach English in Chile legally, meaningfully, and with the flexibility to shape your own adventure.

🇨🇱 English Open Doors Program (EODP)

What It Is

The English Open Doors Program (EODP) is Chile’s flagship government initiative for improving English education in public schools. Run by the Ministry of Education and supported by the United Nations Development Programme, it places native or near-native English speakers in classrooms across the country as co-teachers. The focus is on underserved areas—especially rural communities—where exposure to fluent English speakers is limited.

More than just a teaching job, EODP is a cultural exchange program. Volunteers aren’t just helping students learn English—they’re fostering global awareness and building cross-cultural connections that go far beyond the textbook.

Who It’s For

This program is ideal for U.S. citizens and other fluent English speakers aged 21 to 35, though older applicants are sometimes accepted. You don’t need formal teaching credentials, but having a TEFL or TESOL certificate will make you a stronger candidate—and better prepared for the classroom.

To apply, you’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree in any subject
• Fluent or near-native English proficiency
• A genuine interest in education, cultural exchange, and working with youth

Spanish skills are not required but will definitely help with daily life, especially in rural placements.

Perks and Benefits

While this isn’t a high-paying job, the EODP covers the basics and provides strong logistical support:

• Monthly stipend to help with daily expenses
• Free housing with a host family for a truly immersive experience
• Meals included (with your host family)
• Completion bonus at the end of your contract
• In-country support, airport pickup, and a multi-day orientation in Santiago

You'll also have access to a network of fellow volunteers and regional coordinators to help you settle in.

Challenges and Considerations

• Most placements are in rural or semi-rural areas, where isolation, limited amenities, or slower internet may be a factor
• The stipend is modest, so don’t expect to save much—it’s about the experience, not the paycheck
• Volunteers must be self-reliant and adaptable—you’re stepping into a new school system, language, and way of life

It’s not for everyone, but for those who embrace the challenge, the rewards are immense.

Best For

The English Open Doors Program is best suited for:

• Adventurous individuals looking to deeply engage with Chilean life and community
• Those who want to gain meaningful international teaching experience in Latin America
• People interested in careers in education, development, or intercultural relations

Whether you’re fresh out of college or pivoting to something more purposeful, this program can be a powerful launchpad into a globally-minded career—or just a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

🏫 Private Language Schools and Recruiters

Overview

Outside of the English Open Doors Program, another popular way to teach English in Chile is through private language schools—especially in urban centers like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción. These schools cater to a wide range of learners, from business professionals looking to polish their English for international work, to teens and adults studying for exams or personal development.

These roles offer a more conventional teaching job setup and often appeal to teachers who prefer city life, flexible contracts, or longer-term stays.

Requirements and Conditions

The hiring standards vary by school, but most employers will expect:

• A TEFL or TESOL certificate (at least 120 hours, online or in-person)
• A bachelor’s degree is preferred, though some schools may prioritize teaching experience or fluency over formal qualifications
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends, as many students study outside of school or work hours

Pay rates can range from $8 to $15 USD per hour, and full-time teachers may earn around $800 to $1,200 USD/month depending on workload, experience, and school.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• More control over your location—you can base yourself in your preferred city
• Flexible job types—conversation classes, business English, exam prep, etc.
• Potential for visa sponsorship if you stay long-term and prove yourself

Cons:

• Less built-in support—you’ll handle your own housing, legal documents, and setup
• Pay may not cover all expenses, especially in Santiago without additional tutoring or online work
• Jobs may be seasonal, depending on the school or student demand

How to Find These Jobs

Landing a private school job in Chile often comes down to being proactive and well-connected. Here’s where to start:

• Online job boards like Teast
• Facebook groups (e.g. “Teaching English in Chile,” “Expats in Santiago”)
• Local recruiting agencies that help place foreign teachers in city-based schools
• Consider doing an in-person TEFL course in Chile, which often includes job placement assistance and local connections

If you're looking for more independence and want to shape your own teaching schedule in one of Chile’s major cities, private schools offer a flexible and realistic alternative to government programs.

🌐 Teach English Online While Living in Chile

Chile’s growing tech infrastructure and reliable internet—especially in urban areas—make it a solid base for online English teaching. Whether you're working remotely full-time or supplementing a local teaching role, online work can significantly boost your income and flexibility.

This route is especially appealing to:

• Digital nomads who want to live in South America while maintaining global clients
• EODP volunteers looking to top up their modest stipend
• Private language teachers filling in schedule gaps with steady online hours

Platforms like Cambly, Preply, iTalki, and VIPKid (if eligible) allow teachers to work with students from around the world, often on a flexible schedule. Some teachers also transition to private online tutoring after building a reputation through in-person classes.

Online teaching offers:

• Location independence within Chile
• Higher earning potential than local salaries alone
• A buffer for unexpected expenses or travel plans

Combining remote work with life in Chile is a great option for those looking to maintain financial stability while enjoying everything the country has to offer—from mountains to beaches, wine valleys to street markets.

🎯 Choosing the Right Teaching Path in Chile

Not sure which route to take? Here's how to match your goals with the right teaching opportunity:

• Looking for structure, support, and deep cultural immersion?
  → The English Open Doors Program is your best bet. It’s designed for meaningful exchange and community impact.

• Want to live in a major city with control over your job type and schedule?
  → Explore private language schools or freelance teaching roles. You’ll have more flexibility and the chance to build your own routine.

• Need income flexibility or plan to move around?
  → Online teaching and tutoring allow you to set your own hours and supplement in-person roles—or go fully remote.

Each path offers a different way to experience life in Chile. Whether you're after adventure, career experience, or cultural connection, there's a route that fits your lifestyle and goals.

🌟 Teaching English in Chile Can Be a Gateway to Latin America

If you're looking for a way to live abroad, experience a new culture, and make a meaningful impact—Chile delivers. From its dramatic landscapes to its welcoming communities, Chile offers an enriching setting for both first-time and experienced teachers.

While the English Open Doors Program remains the country’s primary structured option for foreigners, there are still plenty of avenues for those willing to carve their own path—whether through private schools, recruiters, or online teaching.

It’s not about finding a one-size-fits-all job. It’s about choosing the experience that fits your goals—whether that means cultural exchange, professional development, or simply trying something new in a corner of the world that too many overlook.

With the right preparation and mindset, teaching English in Chile can be more than a job—it can be your gateway into Latin America, global education, and a different way of living.