Teach English in Bulgaria: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Bulgaria

There are several reasons why someone might choose to teach English in Bulgaria:

Cultural exchange: Teaching English in Bulgaria provides an opportunity to learn about and experience Bulgarian culture first-hand. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in a new way of life, make local friends, and learn about the country's history and traditions.
Professional development: Teaching English abroad can be a great way to gain experience and improve your teaching skills. You'll have the opportunity to work with students of different ages and backgrounds, and to develop your own teaching style.
Personal growth: Living and working in a foreign country can be a challenging and rewarding experience that helps you grow personally and professionally. You'll learn to adapt to a new environment, become more independent, and develop intercultural communication skills.
Career advancement: Teaching English in Bulgaria can help you stand out on your resume and give you an edge in the competitive job market. It can also open up new career opportunities, such as teaching English online or working for international organizations.
Affordable cost of living: Bulgaria is a relatively affordable country to live in, with low costs for housing, food, and other necessities. This makes it a good choice for those who want to save money while living abroad.
Beautiful country: Bulgaria is a beautiful country with a rich history and diverse culture. It has a varied landscape, with mountains, beaches, and forests, and is home to many cultural and historical landmarks.

What are the requirements to teach English in Bulgaria?

The requirements to teach English in Bulgaria can vary depending on the school or organization you work for, as well as your level of experience and education. In general, however, most schools and language centers will expect you to meet the following requirements:

Native or near-native level of English: Most schools in Bulgaria require their teachers to be native or near-native speakers of English. This means that you should be able to speak English fluently and without a strong accent.
A bachelor's degree: Most schools in Bulgaria require their teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree in any subject. Some schools may also prefer candidates with a degree in education or a related field.
A teaching qualification: Many schools in Bulgaria require their teachers to have a teaching qualification, such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. A TEFL certificate demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge needed to teach English effectively to non-native speakers.
A clean criminal record: Most schools in Bulgaria will require you to provide a criminal record check or a police clearance certificate as part of the hiring process. This is to ensure the safety of the students and to protect the school's reputation.
A valid work permit: If you are not a citizen of the European Union, you will need to obtain a work permit in order to teach in Bulgaria. This process can be complex, and you may need to provide evidence of your qualifications, work experience, and language skills.
Health insurance: It is important to have health insurance while living and working in Bulgaria. Some schools may provide health insurance for their teachers, but it is also possible to purchase your own policy.
Other requirements: Some schools in Bulgaria may have additional requirements, such as a minimum age or a requirement to pass a language test. It is important to check with the school or organization you are applying to for specific requirements.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Bulgaria?

The salary that you can earn as an English teacher in Bulgaria will depend on several factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the type of school or organization you work for. In general, English teachers in Bulgaria can expect to earn between 800 and 1,500 BGN (Bulgarian leva) per month, which is equivalent to approximately 400 to 750 EUR.

Salaries for English teachers in Bulgaria may vary depending on the city you work in, with higher salaries typically found in larger cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna. English teachers working in private language schools or international schools may also earn higher salaries than those working in public schools.

In addition to your salary, you may also be provided with other benefits such as housing, health insurance, and paid holidays. It is important to carefully consider all of the terms of your employment before accepting a teaching position in Bulgaria.

What is the cost of living in Bulgaria?

The cost of living in Bulgaria is generally lower than in many other European countries. Prices for basic necessities such as housing, food, and transportation are generally lower than the European average.

The cost of living in Bulgaria can vary depending on the city you live in, with larger cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna generally being more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. The cost of living in Bulgaria may also vary depending on your personal lifestyle and consumption habits.

Here are some estimates for the cost of living in Bulgaria:

Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from 300 to 500 BGN (150 to 250 EUR) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment may cost 500 to 800 BGN (250 to 400 EUR) per month.
Food: The cost of food in Bulgaria is generally lower than in many other European countries. A meal at a cheap restaurant may cost around 15 BGN (7.50 EUR), while a meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around 30 BGN (15 EUR).
Transportation: Public transportation in Bulgaria is relatively cheap, with a single bus or tram ticket costing around 1 BGN (0.50 EUR). A monthly public transportation pass may cost around 30 BGN (15 EUR).
Entertainment: Prices for entertainment in Bulgaria, such as going to the movies or to a concert, are generally similar to those in other European countries.

Overall, the cost of living in Bulgaria is lower than in many other European countries, making it a good choice for those looking to live abroad on a budget.

The best places to teach English In Bulgaria

There are many good places to teach English in Bulgaria, as the demand for English language education is high throughout the country. Some of the best places to teach English in Bulgaria include:

Sofia: Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, and is home to many language schools and international schools. It is a modern and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Plovdiv: Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful historical center. It is a popular place to teach English, with a number of language schools and international schools.
Varna: Varna is a coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular tourist destination and is home to many language schools and international schools.
Burgas: Burgas is another coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. It is a popular place to teach English, with a number of language schools and international schools.
Ruse: Ruse is a city in northern Bulgaria known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural history. It is a good place to teach English, with a number of language schools and international schools.

In general, the demand for English language education is high throughout Bulgaria, so there are many good places to teach English in the country. It is important to carefully research the schools and organizations you are considering working for, and to consider factors such as the cost of living, the availability of housing, and the local culture and way of life.

Living in Bulgaria

Living in Bulgaria can be a rewarding and enriching experience, as it allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and way of life. Here are some things to consider if you are thinking of living in Bulgaria:

Language: While many people in Bulgaria speak English, particularly in larger cities, it can be helpful to learn some basic Bulgarian phrases to help you communicate with locals. Bulgarian is a Slavic language with its own alphabet and grammar, so it can be challenging to learn, but there are many resources available to help you.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Bulgaria is generally lower than in many other European countries, particularly for housing, food, and transportation. However, prices can vary depending on the city you live in, with larger cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna generally being more expensive.
Culture and customs: Bulgaria has a rich cultural heritage and a unique way of life. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to be open to learning about and experiencing new things.
Healthcare: Healthcare in Bulgaria is generally of a good quality, with a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. If you are living in Bulgaria for an extended period of time, it is important to have health insurance to cover any medical expenses.
Transportation: Public transportation in Bulgaria is generally reliable and inexpensive, with buses, trams, and trolleybuses available in most cities. Driving in Bulgaria can be challenging, particularly in larger cities, due to heavy traffic and a lack of clearly marked roads.
Climate: Bulgaria has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. In the summer, temperatures can reach up to 35°C, while in the winter, temperatures can drop to -10°C. It is important to dress appropriately for the weather and to be prepared for both hot and cold weather.

Overall, living in Bulgaria can be a rewarding and enriching experience, with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a relatively low cost of living.

Some facts About Bulgaria

Here are some facts about Bulgaria:

Bulgaria is a country located in southeastern Europe, bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and North Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east.
The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian.
Bulgaria has a population of about 7 million people.
The capital of Bulgaria is Sofia, which is known for its rich cultural and artistic traditions, as well as its history and architecture.
Bulgaria has a diverse landscape, which includes the Black Sea coast, the Balkan Mountains, and the Thracian Plain.
Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and the NATO alliance.
Bulgaria has a long and rich history, with a culture that reflects its location at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East.
Bulgaria is known for its contributions to art and culture, including music, literature, and cinema.
Bulgaria is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Rila Monastery, the Boyana Church, and the Thracian tombs of Sveshtari.
Bulgaria is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as banitsa, kavarma, and katmi. It is also home to many famous wineries and is known for its production of rakia, a type of brandy.