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

Teach English in Hungary

Teaching English in Hungary offers an enriching experience in a country known for its rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant cultural life. Situated in Central Europe, Hungary is a hub of cultural heritage, featuring everything from Roman ruins and medieval townhouses to baroque churches and neoclassical public buildings in bustling cities like Budapest, its capital.

The demand for English teachers in Hungary has grown as the country continues to integrate more deeply into European and global markets. English is increasingly recognized as crucial for business and tourism sectors, creating opportunities for teachers in various settings including public schools, private language schools, universities, and private tutoring.

Living in Hungary offers an affordable cost of living compared to other European countries. This affordability, combined with the rich cultural experiences available, including world-renowned music festivals, thermal spas, and a thriving culinary scene, makes Hungary an attractive destination for teachers.

Why Teach English in Hungary?

Hungary is an attractive destination for teaching English for several reasons, from its historical and cultural richness to its strategic location in Europe. Here are some compelling reasons why Hungary could be the perfect place for your teaching career:

Cultural Richness: Hungary’s history is layered and complex, offering teachers and expatriates a fascinating backdrop against which to live and work. From the historical baths of Budapest to the vineyards of Tokaj, Hungary boasts a heritage that is both diverse and accessible.
Affordable Living Costs: Compared to other parts of Europe, Hungary offers a lower cost of living, which means teachers can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a teacher’s salary. This affordability extends to dining, entertainment, and travel within the country.
Demand for English Education: As Hungary's economy continues to grow, so does the demand for English proficiency in the professional and academic sectors. This demand ensures a steady supply of teaching jobs and the potential for stable employment.
Warm Community: The Hungarian people are known for their hospitality and the strong sense of community in both urban and rural areas. Expatriates often find it easy to integrate into Hungarian society, which can make the teaching experience even more rewarding.
Professional Opportunities: Teaching in Hungary can be a pathway to further professional opportunities. The educational sector is expanding, and there are often chances for ambitious teachers to advance into roles that offer more responsibility and involvement in curriculum development.
Geographic Location: Located in the heart of Europe, Hungary is an excellent starting point for travel to other European countries. Its central location offers easy access to Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Teaching English in Hungary not only provides a chance to contribute to the educational development of students but also offers a lifestyle enriched with historical and cultural exploration. It’s an ideal choice for educators looking to make a meaningful impact in a captivating European setting.

What are the requirements to teach English in Hungary?

To teach English in Hungary, you will typically need the following qualifications:

A bachelor's degree: Most employers in Hungary will require applicants to have a bachelor's degree in any subject.
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification: A TEFL certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to teach English as a second language. There are several different types of TEFL certifications available, and the specific requirements may vary.
A clean criminal record: Many employers in Hungary will require a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
Fluency in English: You will need to be fluent in English to teach it effectively.
Work permit: If you are not a citizen of Hungary or the European Union, you will need to obtain a work permit in order to work in the country.

It is worth noting that the specific requirements for teaching English in Hungary may vary depending on the employer and the specific job role. It is always a good idea to research the requirements for the specific position you are interested in and to contact the employer directly to confirm their requirements.

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

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Hungary will depend on a variety of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific employer you are working for.

The average salary for an English teacher in Hungary is around HUF 4,000,000 per year (approximately USD 14,000). However, this can vary significantly depending on your specific circumstances. For example, teachers with more experience or advanced qualifications may be able to earn higher salaries.

It is worth noting that the cost of living in Hungary is generally lower than in other Western European countries, so even a relatively modest salary can go a long way in terms of purchasing power. However, it is always a good idea to research the cost of living in the specific location you will be living in and to budget accordingly.

What is the cost of living in Hungary?

The cost of living in Hungary is generally lower than in other Western European countries. According to Numbeo, a website that provides cost of living information, the cost of living in Hungary is approximately 20% lower than in the United States.

Here are some examples of the costs of common expenses in Hungary:

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: HUF 80,000 - 100,000 per month (approximately USD 280 - 350).
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: HUF 50,000 - 70,000 per month (approximately USD 175 - 250).
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for a one-bedroom apartment: HUF 20,000 - 30,000 per month (approximately USD 70 - 105).
Monthly transportation pass: HUF 9,500 (approximately USD 33).
Loaf of bread: HUF 400 - 600 (approximately USD 1.40 - 2.10).
One-way ticket on public transportation: HUF 350 (approximately USD 1.20).
Meal at a cheap restaurant: HUF 1,500 - 2,000 (approximately USD 5 - 7).

It is worth noting that the cost of living in Hungary can vary significantly depending on the location and lifestyle. For example, living in the capital city of Budapest may be more expensive than living in a smaller city or town.

It is always a good idea to research the cost of living in the specific location you will be living in and to budget accordingly.

The best places to teach English In Hungary

The best places to teach English in Hungary will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Some factors to consider when choosing a location include the cost of living, the availability of teaching jobs, and the local culture and attractions.

Here are a few suggestions for places to consider when teaching English in Hungary:

Budapest: The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural history. There are many English teaching job opportunities in Budapest, and the city has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European capital cities.
Debrecen: Located in eastern Hungary, Debrecen is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its universities and research institutions. It is also home to several international schools, which can be a good source of teaching job opportunities.
Szeged: Located in southern Hungary, Szeged is a city with a rich cultural history and a thriving arts scene. It is also home to several universities and international schools, which can be a good source of teaching job opportunities.
Pécs: Located in southern Hungary, Pécs is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene. It is also home to several universities and international schools, which can be a good source of teaching job opportunities.

It is worth noting that these are just a few examples of the many places to consider when teaching English in Hungary. It is always a good idea to research the local job market and cost of living in the specific location you are interested in before making a decision.

Living in Hungary

Hungary is a country located in Central Europe with a rich cultural history and a thriving economy. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, historic cities, and cultural attractions, and is an increasingly popular destination for travelers and expats alike.

Here are a few things to consider when living in Hungary:

Language: Hungarian is the official language of Hungary, and while many people in the larger cities may speak English, it is always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Hungarian to help you get by.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Hungary is generally lower than in other Western European countries, and the country has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European capital cities.
Healthcare: Hungary has a universal healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare to citizens and residents. The quality of healthcare in Hungary is generally considered to be high.
Transportation: Hungary has an extensive network of public transportation, including buses, trams, subways, and trains. Many cities also have bike-sharing programs, and it is common for people to walk or bike as a means of transportation.
Culture: Hungary has a rich cultural heritage, and the country is known for its music, dance, folk traditions, and cuisine. There are many festivals and cultural events throughout the year, and the country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites.

It is worth noting that these are just a few examples of the many aspects of living in Hungary. It is always a good idea to research the specific location you will be living in and to plan accordingly.

Some facts About Hungary

Here are some facts about Hungary:

Hungary is a country located in central Europe, bordered by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia.
The official language of Hungary is Hungarian.
Hungary has a population of about 9.8 million people.
The capital of Hungary is Budapest, which is known for its rich cultural and artistic traditions, as well as its history and architecture.
Hungary has a diverse landscape, which includes the Carpathian Mountains, the Great Plains, and the Danube River.
Hungary is a member of the European Union and the NATO alliance.
Hungary is known for its contributions to art and culture, including literature, music, and cinema.
Hungary is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, and the thermal baths of Széchenyi.
Hungary has a long and rich history, with a culture that reflects its location at the crossroads of Europe.
Hungary is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as goulash, chimney cake, and lángos. It is also home to many famous wineries and is known for its production of wine and pálinka, a type of fruit brandy.