Expert: Juan Carlos Valencia - 1/7/2008

Question
I am looking into the possibility of teaching English in Colombia. I have found a school in Bogota that offers certification in TEFL, and will place me in a job in any one of several Colombian cities. I have heard from several sources that the pay is anywhere from $600-$1000 US. What I wish to know is if this a reasonable salary to expect from such a position, and is there a great need for native English speakers in Colombia. Furthermore, if I were to relocate to Colombia, what would be the chances of an American to find employment in other areas? Thank you

Answer
Dear Nicholas,

english native speakers with training and certifications as language teachers are in great demand in the big cities of Colombia.

The government is trying to make english the second language of the country (which I personally believe is unfair and even silly: other countries are promoting bilinguism in a more open way, letting people choose between english and Mandarin, German, Korean, French, Japanese, etc). So public and private schools are always looking for native-speakers.

Universities are also loking for english teachers and some are even offering part of their courses in english. Students from all professions must take the TOEFL and pass it in order to graduate.

There are also many private institutions that offer language courses. One of the most prestigious is called Centro Colombo-Americano, with links to the U.S government.

So you would certainly find job opportunities in Colombia. As for the pay, you must remember that this is a poor country with a minimum monthly salary of around 240 U.S dollars. (Yes, unbelievable, isnt it?) The range that you mention in your question sounds fairly accurate for english teachers but it depends on your teaching certifications. Just being a native speaker will not be enough. You may get part time jobs at low end institutions and will have to work long hours starting at dawn and going deep into the night.  If you have teaching certifications or even postgraduate certifications, that would mean that you could get better jobs with higher pay, less teaching hours and decent schedules.

Translation certifications and working experience would a plus. There is a fairly big printing industry in the country and editors are always looking for translators but then, your spanish must be good enough. Is it?

Private classes to individual students could also be an option.

To live in Colombia with some level of tranquility and well-being would mean paying:

Small apartment or studio in a middle-class area: 250 U.S/month

Transportation cost (buses, taxis): 150

Food & personal care: 300

Internet, Laundry, Cable TV: 120

Health care insurance: 100

Other costs (Short land trips, bars, movies): 80

So you would need a salary of at least 1000 US per month.

I hope that this helps.

Saludos

JCV