Can you teach English in Peru without a degree?

If you’ve ever dreamed of teaching English in South America—exploring Incan ruins, sipping coca tea in the Andes, or living in a colorful city like Cusco or Lima—Peru might just be the perfect place to begin your TEFL journey.

And here’s the good news: you don’t need a university degree to teach English in Peru.

While some schools may prefer teachers with a degree, many are more focused on your English fluency, TEFL certification, and willingness to show up and engage with students. This makes Peru one of the more accessible and rewarding destinations for people who are passionate about teaching, eager to travel, and ready to dive into a rich and welcoming culture.

In this guide, we’ll break down what it really takes to teach English in Peru without a degree—covering everything from legal requirements to the kinds of jobs available, plus tips to help you stand out and land a great position.

Let’s take a look at how you can start your adventure teaching and traveling in one of South America’s most inspiring countries.

Do You Legally Need a Degree to Teach in Peru?

Here’s the bottom line: there’s no national law in Peru that requires a bachelor’s degree to teach English—especially in private institutions. That makes it one of the more accessible countries in Latin America for teachers without a university degree.

Of course, some private schools or institutes may prefer candidates with a degree, especially in more competitive areas or for higher-paying roles. But many are far more interested in your TEFL certification, teaching ability, and English fluency than your academic background.

In short: the decision is up to individual employers—not the government. If you're certified, confident, and ready to teach, there are schools that will welcome you.

What Kinds of Teaching Jobs Are Available?

Even without a degree, there’s a diverse range of teaching opportunities in Peru. The key is knowing where to look and what to expect.

• Private Language Schools: Found in cities like Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco, these schools cater to children, teens, and adults. Many hire based on fluency and TEFL training, and often recruit locally.

• Business English: As Peru’s economy grows, more professionals seek English for career advancement. These roles are often found through agencies or language centers.

• Volunteer & NGO Projects: Especially in rural areas, there’s a real need for English education. Some NGOs provide housing or stipends in exchange for your time and skills.

• Private Tutoring: A popular side hustle or main gig for teachers without a degree. You can set your own rates, find clients through local networks, and build a flexible schedule teaching conversation or exam prep.

Whether you're looking for a formal classroom job or something more grassroots, Peru has a path for you.

Visa Considerations

Most English teachers in Peru start on a tourist visa, which is typically valid for up to 90 days (and sometimes extendable). While this isn’t a long-term solution, it’s how many teachers enter the country and begin their job search.

If you land a job with a private language school that’s willing to sponsor you, it’s possible to transition to a work permit—though not all schools offer this, and the process can be inconsistent.

Other legal workarounds include:

• Volunteer visas through NGOs or charitable programs (these often include room and board, but not a salary).
• Student visas if you’re enrolled in a local TEFL course or Spanish language program. These may allow limited work hours and a more stable legal stay.

It’s worth noting that a large portion of ESL teaching in Peru operates in a semi-informal space—meaning many teachers work without long-term visas, especially in tutoring or short-term positions. While common, this does carry risks, so be informed and cautious.

How to Find Jobs Without a Degree

Teaching jobs in Peru often aren’t advertised on major international job boards—so you’ll need to be proactive and use a mix of strategies to land a position.

• Apply in Person: Many schools prefer face-to-face contact. Once you’re in-country, walking into language institutes with your CV can go a long way—especially in cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.

• Use Facebook & Local Networks: Join expat and TEFL Facebook groups specific to Peru. These are great for job leads, housing help, and insider advice.

• TEFL Providers with Placement Support: If you’re taking a TEFL course in Peru, choose one that includes job assistance or placement help—many have relationships with local schools and can make introductions for you.

• Local Job Boards: Sites like CompuTrabajo, Craigslist Lima, or even OLX sometimes list teaching roles, though they may require some Spanish to navigate.

With the right approach and some on-the-ground effort, finding a teaching role in Peru without a degree is more than doable.

Tips to Stand Out

Even if you don’t have a degree, you can absolutely shine in Peru’s ESL job market—if you come prepared and present yourself well. Here’s how to increase your chances of getting hired:

• Earn a TEFL Certificate (120+ hours): This is your strongest asset if you don’t have a university degree. Schools want to see that you’re trained, confident, and capable in the classroom.

• Highlight Any Relevant Experience: Whether you’ve tutored friends, volunteered at a local school, or taught online—experience matters. Be sure to include it on your resume and talk about it in interviews.

• Show Your Adaptability and Enthusiasm: Employers in Peru value teachers who are open-minded, flexible, and genuinely excited to engage with the local culture. A willingness to learn a bit of Spanish also goes a long way.

• Be Professional and Reliable: Many schools struggle with teacher turnover, so showing that you’re dependable, communicative, and in it for the right reasons can set you apart.

Final Thoughts

Teaching English in Peru without a degree is not only possible—it can be an incredibly fulfilling adventure.

You’ll get the chance to explore a country filled with rich history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes—all while gaining international teaching experience and making a real impact in your students’ lives.

The key to success? Come prepared. Invest in a solid TEFL course, bring an open mind, and be ready to work hard and adapt. If you do, Peru can be a perfect gateway into the world of ESL teaching—and a beautiful, meaningful chapter in your journey abroad.