Earnings from teaching English abroad vary widely by country, your qualifications and experience, and the type of employer. Some regions pay more and add benefits such as housing or flights, so real income depends on the whole package, not just the headline salary. Because the variables are so many, the only reliable figure is the one you research for your specific target country and profile. Earnings vary widely, so research your specific country and profile.
What affects pay
Pay depends heavily on the country and its cost of living, your qualifications and experience, and whether you work for a school, language centre or privately.
Higher qualifications and experience generally improve pay.
Regional differences
Some regions, including parts of the Middle East and East Asia, are known for higher pay and benefits, while others offer lower salaries but lower living costs.
Comparing net income matters more than headline figures.
Benefits beyond salary
Packages may include housing, flights, insurance or bonuses, which can significantly affect how far your pay goes.
Always consider the total package.
Researching realistically
Before committing, research current salaries and packages for your target country and qualification level.
Realistic expectations help you plan.
Comparing offers fairly across countries
When comparing roles in different countries, look beyond the headline salary to the real value: housing or allowances, flights, insurance, bonuses and, crucially, the local cost of living, which determines how far the pay goes.
A seemingly modest salary in a low-cost country can leave you better off than a higher one in an expensive city. Building a simple comparison of net, after-cost income gives a far truer picture than salary alone.
Growing your earning potential over time
Early roles may pay modestly, but experience, strong references and higher qualifications can open better-paid positions over time.
Specialising — in young learners, business English or exam preparation — can also increase your value to employers.
Treating your first years as a foundation, and building deliberately, tends to improve earnings more than chasing the highest starting salary.
What to check
- Target country and cost of living
- Your qualifications and experience
- Employer type and benefits
- The whole package, not just salary
- Current, country-specific research
- Comparing whole packages, not salaries
- Factoring in cost of living
Important distinction
No course can promise a particular salary. Pay is set by local markets and employers, and varies with experience, qualifications and conditions.
Related quick questions
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How do I compare offers across countries?
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What is the most reliable figure?
Can I increase my TEFL earnings over time?
Should I chase the highest starting salary?
Related LCT pathway
The TEFL/TESOL Online pathway at London College of Teachers is the most directly related programme.
Explore TEFL/TESOL Online