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

Teach English in Cuba

There are a few potential reasons why someone might consider teaching English in Cuba:

Cultural exchange: Teaching English in Cuba can be a great way to immerse oneself in the country's unique culture and way of life, and to learn about the history and customs of the Cuban people.
Professional development: Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) can be a valuable addition to a resume, and working as an English teacher in Cuba can provide valuable experience and skills that are transferable to other teaching positions around the world.
Personal fulfillment: For some people, teaching English in Cuba can be a rewarding and meaningful experience, as they are able to make a positive impact on the lives of students and contribute to their language learning journey.
Adventure and travel: Cuba is a beautiful and fascinating country with a rich history, and teaching English in Cuba can be a great opportunity to explore the country and its many attractions while also making a positive contribution to the local community.
Economic reasons: Teaching English in Cuba may also be an attractive option for some people due to the lower cost of living in the country compared to other destinations. This can allow them to save money while still being able to travel and experience a new culture.

What are the requirements to teach English in Cuba?

The requirements to teach English in Cuba can vary depending on the specific school or program you are applying to. In general, however, most schools and programs that hire English teachers in Cuba will look for the following qualifications:

A bachelor's degree: Most schools and programs will require you to have a bachelor's degree in any subject.
TEFL certification: Most schools and programs will also require you to have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This can be obtained through an in-person or online course, and demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively to non-native speakers.
Native English speaker: Many schools and programs in Cuba prefer to hire native English speakers, although some may be willing to consider non-native speakers with a high level of English proficiency.
Age: Some schools and programs may have age requirements, such as a minimum age of 21 or 25.
Criminal background check: Some schools and programs may require you to undergo a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
Health insurance: Some schools and programs may require you to have health insurance coverage while you are working in Cuba.

It's worth noting that the requirements to teach English in Cuba can vary depending on the specific school or program you are applying to, so it's a good idea to research the specific requirements of the position you are interested in.

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

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Cuba can vary depending on a number of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific school or program you are working for. In general, however, English teachers in Cuba can expect to earn a salary that is sufficient to cover basic living expenses, although it may not be as high as what you could earn teaching in other countries.

The average salary for an English teacher in Cuba is around $800-$1000 per month. This can vary depending on the specific school or program you are working for, as well as your qualifications and experience. Some schools and programs may offer additional benefits such as housing or a stipend for food, which can help to offset the cost of living in the country.

It's worth noting that the cost of living in Cuba is generally lower than in many other countries, so even a relatively low salary may be sufficient to cover basic expenses. However, it's always a good idea to research the cost of living in the specific city or region you will be living in to get a better idea of what you can expect to earn and how far your salary will go.

What is the cost of living in Cuba?

The cost of living in Cuba can vary depending on the specific city or region you are living in, as well as your personal lifestyle and spending habits. In general, however, the cost of living in Cuba is lower than in many other countries, especially when compared to major cities in the United States and Western Europe.

Here are some estimates of the cost of living in Cuba:

Housing: Renting an apartment in Cuba can cost around $200-$400 per month, depending on the location and quality of the apartment. Some English teachers may be able to find housing provided by their school or program, which can help to offset the cost of living in the country.
Food: The cost of food in Cuba can vary depending on where you shop and what you buy. Basic groceries such as rice, beans, and vegetables can be relatively inexpensive, while imported goods may be more expensive. In general, it is possible to eat well in Cuba for around $10-$20 per day.
Transportation: Public transportation in Cuba can be relatively inexpensive, with bus and taxi fares typically costing a few dollars. However, the availability of transportation can be somewhat limited in some parts of the country, so you may need to plan ahead if you are traveling long distances.
Entertainment: The cost of entertainment in Cuba can vary depending on your interests. Movie tickets, for example, can cost around $5-$10, while admission to a museum or cultural attraction may be less expensive.

Overall, the cost of living in Cuba is generally lower than in many other countries, especially when compared to major cities in the United States and Western Europe. This can make it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad on a budget.

The best places to teach English In Cuba

There are many places in Cuba where you could potentially teach English, as the demand for English language instruction is high throughout the country. Here are a few cities and regions that are popular among English teachers in Cuba:

Havana: As the capital and largest city in Cuba, Havana is a popular destination for English teachers. It is home to a number of schools and programs that hire English teachers, and it is a vibrant and culturally rich city with many attractions and activities to enjoy.
Varadero: Located on the northern coast of Cuba, Varadero is a popular beach destination with a number of hotels and resorts that hire English teachers. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, and is a popular spot for diving and other water sports.
Santiago de Cuba: Located on the eastern coast of Cuba, Santiago de Cuba is the country's second-largest city and is known for its rich history and cultural traditions. It is a popular destination for English teachers, and is known for its lively music and arts scene.
Trinidad: Located in the province of Sancti Spíritus, Trinidad is a beautiful colonial-style city that is popular among English teachers. It is known for its charming architecture and vibrant arts and music scene, and is a popular destination for tourists.
Viñales: Located in the province of Pinar del Río, Viñales is a small town that is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Viñales Valley, which is home to a number of tobacco farms. It is a popular destination for English teachers, and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities.

These are just a few examples of the many places in Cuba where you could potentially teach English. It's a good idea to research the specific city or region you are interested in to get a better understanding of the local culture, cost of living, and job opportunities.

Living in Cuba

Living in Cuba can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as it is a unique and culturally rich country with a vibrant history and way of life. Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about living in Cuba:

Cultural differences: Cuba is a very different place from many other countries, with its own set of customs and traditions. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with these differences before you arrive, so that you can better understand and appreciate the local culture.
Language: Spanish is the main language spoken in Cuba, so it can be helpful to have at least a basic understanding of the language before you arrive. This can make it easier to communicate with locals and navigate daily life in the country.
Infrastructure: Cuba's infrastructure can be somewhat different from what you may be used to, and you may encounter some challenges in terms of access to certain goods and services. For example, electricity and internet connectivity can be somewhat unreliable, and the availability of certain consumer goods may be limited.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Cuba is generally lower than in many other countries, especially when compared to major cities in the United States and Western Europe. However, it's always a good idea to research the specific city or region you are planning to live in to get a better understanding of the local cost of living.
Safety: Cuba is generally a safe place to live, with low rates of violent crime. However, as with any country, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to stay safe.

Overall, living in Cuba can be a rewarding and exciting experience, as it is a unique and culturally rich country with a vibrant history and way of life. It's a good idea to do some research and prepare before you arrive to make your transition to living in Cuba as smooth as possible.

Some facts About Cuba

Here are some facts about Cuba:

Cuba is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) south of Florida, United States. It is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea to the north and west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east.
The official language of Cuba is Spanish.
The population of Cuba is about 11.2 million people. The majority of the population is Cuban, but there are also significant minority groups of Afro-Cubans, Chinese, and Europeans.
The capital and largest city of Cuba is Havana.
The currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso.
Cuba has a planned economy that is based on socialism. The country is known for its strong agricultural and service sectors, as well as its production of tobacco, sugar, and pharmaceuticals.
Cuba is a socialist state, with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government.
Cuba is a member of the United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Cuba has a rich cultural history, with influences from its African, Spanish, and Caribbean past. The country is known for its music, literature, and traditional handicrafts.
Cuba is home to a number of natural attractions, including the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, the Cienaga de Zapata National Park, and the Valle de Vinales. The country is also known for its beaches, including Varadero Beach and Guardalavaca Beach.