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

Teach English in Colombia

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

Culture: Colombia has a rich and diverse culture, with a mix of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. This makes it an interesting and rewarding place to live and work.
Location: Colombia is located in South America, which means it has a tropical climate and is close to other popular tourist destinations such as Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.
Demand for English: English is a highly sought-after skill in Colombia, as it is seen as a way to improve job prospects and access to education. This means that there is a high demand for English teachers in the country.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Colombia is generally lower than in other countries, which can make it an affordable place to live and work.
Professional development opportunities: Teaching English in Colombia can be a great opportunity for professional development, as it allows you to gain experience teaching in an international setting and to improve your language skills.
Personal growth: Living and working in a new country can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It can help you to develop new skills, learn about different cultures, and grow as a person.

What are the requirements to teach English in Colombia?

The requirements for teaching English in Colombia may vary depending on the specific school or organization you are working for, but in general, you will need to meet the following requirements:

Fluency in English: You will need to be fluent in English, as you will be teaching the language to students.
A bachelor's degree: Many schools and organizations in Colombia require that English teachers have a bachelor's degree in any field.
A teaching certification: You may need to have a teaching certification, such as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) certificate.
A clean criminal record: Some schools and organizations may require a background check or may ask for a police clearance certificate to ensure that you have a clean criminal record.
A visa: You may need to obtain a work visa in order to teach English in Colombia. This may involve completing some paperwork and paying a fee.
Health insurance: Some schools and organizations may require you to have health insurance while you are working in Colombia.
Teaching experience: While not always required, teaching experience can be beneficial when applying for teaching jobs in Colombia.

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

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Colombia will depend on several factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific school or organization you are working for. In general, English teachers in Colombia can expect to earn a salary that is similar to what they would earn in other countries in South America.

The average salary for an English teacher in Colombia is approximately $21,000 per year. However, this can vary significantly based on the specific location and type of school or organization you are working for. For example, English teachers in private language schools or international schools may earn higher salaries than those working in public schools or universities.

It's also worth noting that the cost of living in Colombia is generally lower than in other countries, which means that your salary may go further in terms of covering your living expenses. However, you should be prepared for some fluctuations in your salary based on the exchange rate between the Colombian peso and other currencies.

What is the cost of living in Colombia?

The cost of living in Colombia varies depending on the specific city or region you are living in, as well as your personal lifestyle and spending habits. In general, the cost of living in Colombia is lower than in many other countries, particularly in comparison to cities in the United States or Western Europe.

Here are some estimates of the average costs of living in Colombia:

Accommodation: Prices for rental accommodation in Colombia vary depending on the location and type of housing. A one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost anywhere from $300 to $700 per month, while a similar apartment in a suburban area may cost less.
Food: The cost of food in Colombia is generally lower than in other countries. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $10, while a week's worth of groceries for a single person can cost around $40 to $50.
Transportation: Public transportation in Colombia is generally affordable, with bus fares costing around $0.50 to $1.00 per ride. Taxis are also inexpensive, with a 10-minute ride costing around $4 to $6.
Entertainment: Prices for entertainment in Colombia vary depending on the activity. For example, a movie ticket can cost around $6, while a monthly gym membership can cost around $30.

Overall, the cost of living in Colombia is lower than in many other countries, which can make it an affordable place to live and work. However, you should be prepared for some fluctuations in prices depending on the exchange rate between the Colombian peso and other currencies.

The best places to teach English In Colombia

There are many great places to teach English in Colombia, as the country has a high demand for English teachers and a diverse range of schools and organizations to work for. Here are a few cities that are popular destinations for English teachers in Colombia:

Bogotá: Bogotá is the capital and largest city in Colombia, and it has a high demand for English teachers due to its large population and thriving economy. There are many private language schools and international schools in the city, as well as universities and business organizations that hire English teachers.
Medellín: Medellín is a vibrant and modern city located in the Andean region of Colombia. It is known for its friendly locals and is a popular destination for English teachers due to its high demand for the language and its relatively low cost of living.
Cali: Cali is the third-largest city in Colombia and is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. It is located in the western part of the country and has a high demand for English teachers due to its growing economy.
Cartagena: Cartagena is a popular tourist destination located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. English teachers in Cartagena can work in private language schools or in the tourism industry, which has a high demand for English-speaking staff.

Overall, there are many great places to teach English in Colombia, and the best location for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

Living in Colombia

Living in Colombia can be a rewarding and exciting experience, as the country has a rich and diverse culture, a tropical climate, and friendly locals. However, there are a few things to consider when living in Colombia:

Safety: Colombia has a reputation for high levels of crime and violence, particularly in certain areas of the country. However, the situation has improved significantly in recent years, and many parts of the country are safe to live in. It's important to do your research and be aware of any safety concerns in the area you plan to live in.
Language: While many people in Colombia speak English, it can be helpful to learn some basic Spanish to navigate daily life in the country. This can also help you to connect with locals and learn more about the culture.
Health care: Colombia has a good health care system, and many expats living in the country have reported positive experiences with the medical care they have received. However, it's important to be aware that the quality of care can vary depending on the location and type of treatment you need. It's a good idea to research the options available in the area where you will be living and to consider purchasing health insurance.
Culture: Colombia has a rich and diverse culture, and it can be a great place to learn about different traditions and ways of life. However, it's important to be respectful of local customs and to be open to trying new things.

Overall, living in Colombia can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it's important to be prepared for some adjustments as you adapt to life in a new country.

Some facts About Colombia

Here are some facts about Colombia:

Colombia is a country located in South America, bordered by Panama to the northwest, Venezuela and Brazil to the east, Peru and Ecuador to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
The official language of Colombia is Spanish.
Colombia has a population of about 50 million people.
The capital of Colombia is Bogotá, which is known for its rich cultural and artistic traditions, as well as its history and architecture.
Colombia has a diverse landscape, which includes the Andes mountain range, the Amazon rainforest, and the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines.
Colombia is an important economic and political power in South America, and is a member of the Pacific Alliance trade bloc.
Colombia is known for its contributions to art and culture, including literature, music, and cinema.
Colombia is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Lost City, the Ciudad Perdida, and the Rosario Islands.
Colombia has a long and rich history, with a culture that reflects its indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.
Colombia is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and sancocho. It is also home to many famous coffee and cocoa plantations.