Teach English in Russia

Options for teaching English in Russia

Teaching English in Russia gives applicants the option of teaching in public or private schools. English is included in public school curriculum, so English teachers are always needed. However, student support is still insufficient in many schools, and young professionals often realize they need to improve their business English after they have graduated. Private schools, therefore, provide a booming market for English teachers.

Salary and benefits when teaching English in Russia

Private school teachers in Russia enjoy a salary of approximately USD $1,500–2,000 per month, and benefits include accommodation and airfare reimbursement.

September and January are the most typical start months in Russian schools. However, teachers in Russia are needed on an ongoing basis, particularly in private language schools, so those looking to teach English in Russia are encouraged to check back often for available teaching jobs.

Qualifications needed to teach English in Russia

Successful candidates should have a TEFL/TESL certificate and prior teaching experience. Russian language students tend to be very interested in formal grammar, so those who have trouble defining specifics—the present perfect tense, subjective pronouns—would particularly benefit from a TEFL certification.

Those hired to teach English in Russia will need to apply for a work visa before entering the country. Currently, teachers will need the following in addition to their visa application form:

• • A passport with at least six months validity beyond their last day of residence in Russia, as well as two pages of free space for the visa

• • An offer letter from the school including job details

• • A negative HIV report issued within three months of the date of the visa application

• • Three passport-sized photos

• • A stamped, self-addressed envelope for the return of the visa from the Embassy or Consulate

Visa applications need to be made in person with the closest Russian Embassy or Consulate, and the processing time is around 15 business days.

Mysterious and often misunderstood, Russia is a culture rich in history, art, and beauty. Whether marveling at the architecture of Red Square or exploring the breathtakingly wild scenery of the Kamchatka peninsula, new arrivals to Russia can expect to be left awestruck.

Cost of living in Russia

Most foreign teachers will find themselves in a major city such as Moscow or St. Petersburg. Rent is one of the biggest expenses, so securing a contract that provides accommodation is helpful. Teachers who do need to pay for their own apartments might consider living outside the city center, as costs are significantly reduced. The price of rent is often set in US dollars, so teachers should be aware of the conversion rates.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in Russia.