Teach English in Costa Rica

Options for teaching English in Costa Rica

The majority of English teaching jobs in Costa Rica are with private language institutions based the country’s major cities. There is particularly high demand for adult English tutors as the ability to speak English has become a coveted skill amongst Costa Rican employers and is essential to finding work in the tourism industry.

Native Costa Ricans are also increasingly looking to move abroad to find employment or further their studies. This means that vacancies are plentiful throughout the year due to a recent boom in private English schools.

Teaching English in Costa Rica means that teachers can generally earn a monthly salary of around $600-1,000 USD. While the amount may sound low, the cost of living is comparably low as well, and most teachers find that they do not have a problem affording rent, food, and smaller luxuries.For licensed educators who find work in Costa Rica’s international schools, some institutions provide accommodation in addition to the teacher’s monthly salary.

Teach English in Costa Rica – Hiring

Language schools in Costa Rica primarily hire in either January or June. Interested candidates should apply for English teaching jobs in Costa Rica by registering on the Teach Away website.

Qualifications to teach English in Costa Rica

A TEFL certificate is frequently, though not always, required in order to teach English in Costa Rica. Teachers with a TEFL or CELTA can usually expect to earn a slightly higher salary and will be more competitive for a wider range of teaching jobs.

Visas for teachers in Costa Rica

Because it is fairly expensive for employers to sponsor teachers on a work permit, schools need to ensure they’re hiring the right candidate before they commit to sponsorship. Therefore, when applying for English teaching jobs in Costa Rica, keep in mind that the interview process can be lengthy.

City living in Costa Rica is fairly expensive relative to the average teaching salary, but living standards are very good – the country is regularly named as one of the happiest places in the world. This, combined with the easy-going nature of the locals, has resulted in hundreds of Americans retiring here every year. The main cities have efficient and cheap transport systems and healthcare provision country wide is affordable and world class.

Housing in Costa Rica

Teachers for language schools will usually be expected to find their own housing, which can run anywhere from around $300-800 USD for a one-bedroom apartment and utilities, depending on the city. Some international schools will provide accommodation for teachers as part of their benefits packages.

Costa Rica is a paradise for the outdoors adventurer. Some of the world’s most varied biodiversity flourishes within its borders, from tropical rainforest to swampland, which is teeming with unique species of birds and animals. There are always more mountains, volcanoes and lush rainforest to discover. And the beaches aren’t just beautiful – visitors are encouraged to take up surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing, fishing and more.Costa Rica’s location means that seafood is fresh and plentiful. Traditional dishes also often involve beans, rice, or both, and spit roast meat is popular as well.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in Costa Rica