Teaching English in Guatemala will be a you’ll be talking about for years to come! Not only will you gain international teaching experience, you’ll have the , , and .
When researching how to teach English in Guatemala, keep in mind the : An incredible asset , unforgettable moments shared with new friends, a feeling of fulfillment, and new skills to set you up for future success.
Can I teach English in Guatemala without a degree?
Teaching English in Guatemala , although there may be a better variety of higher paying positions if you have college/university accreditation. While a degree in teaching or a related field is preferred, you can land a position teaching English in Guatemala with basic teaching certifications.
Guatemala has a very low literacy rate; the most hireable skill will be your knowledge of the English language and ability to . Becoming conversational or fluent in English is one of the most desired outcomes of schooling in many countries hiring English teachers from abroad, so it’s a huge plus if you’re a native English speaker. Requirements to teach English in Guatemala vary by location and school so you’ll want to gather as much information as possible before applying.
6 requirements to teach English in Guatemala
If it’s time for a meaningful job combined with adventurous travel, then it’s time to learn how to teach English in Guatemala.
It’s best to consider all potential requirements when researching how to become an English teacher in Guatemala. Here are some basic requirements to consider:
1. University degree
While teaching English in Guatemala without a degree is possible, having a university degree in any field will set you apart from other applicants. You’ll have no trouble landing a teaching position with a degree. Without a degree, you may need to teach lower grade levels, receive a lower salary, or have difficulty finding a position.
2. Teaching certification
While a university degree is not required to teach English in Guatemala, you will need some teaching certification. A will qualify you for the majority of English teaching jobs available and provide you with the experience and support needed to effectively educate your students.
are often and provide instruction in lesson planning, curriculum planning for different age groups and types of student, and support in finding a position in the country of your choice.
3. Visa
Ready to add the best stamp ever to your passport?
Most English teachers in Guatemala from abroad can teach on a tourist visa and do not need to pre-apply. After 90 days, teachers can apply for a 90 day extension in Guatemala, followed by a renewal in a nearby country every 90 days after. If you wish to permanently work and live in Guatemala, or are from a country where a tourist visa will not suffice, you will need to apply for a residence and work visa.
4. Knowledge of Spanish
While you do not need to be fluent in Spanish to teach in Guatemala, a basic will give you a big leg up when it comes to teaching English and simply living in the country. when you’re fully immersed in daily Guatemalan life and culture, but it’s best to so you can feel comfortable in your new surroundings.
5. Time
It’s important to plan your international teaching experience based on the availability of jobs. Typically you’ll find teaching opportunities in Guatemala hiring between February and March and July to August.
Most likely, an in-person interview will be required prior to being hired, and you’ll need to plan travel accordingly. You’ll be expected to work 20 to 25 hours per week with additional lesson planning time.
6. Start up costs
Depending on your school and position, you may not receive payment for a couple of weeks after being hired. You’ll want to be sure to for start up costs. Travel to Guatemala, food, and accommodation will require a substantial budget, which you should account for even if you secure a paid position right away.
How to teach English in Guatemala
Teaching jobs in Guatemala range from to . Depending on your goals and current experience, here are some steps to take to get started:
1. Get TEFL certified
Take notes and get your TEFL certification to kick-start your teaching career.
While TEFL is not the only choice when it comes to English teaching certifications, it is the most widely accepted worldwide. A to teaching English abroad and . You may be able to and find a program that will help you find options for teaching English in Guatemala.
2. Submit a background check and other prerequisites with your applications
Depending on the positions you’re applying for, it’s a great idea to get a background check and submit it with your other prerequisite materials and application.
3. Choose a location to teach
with many areas you’ll want to travel to while teaching. However, you’ll want to choose a teaching location that makes for a great “home base.”
include Guatemala City, Xela (known as the “educational center”), Antigua, San Pedro, Rio Dulce, and Lake Atitlán. When , keep in mind the safety of the area for international travelers, public transportation available, and the number of open teaching positions you may expect to find.
4. Apply for jobs
It’s okay to to find one that will be the best fit. The school or organization seeking English teachers also wants to find a great match for their students and administration, so make sure to be honest about your experience and regarding what the job will look like day to day.
5. Select a position and prepare for travel
Once you’ve received an offer that you find fits what you’re looking for, make sure you’ve submitted all required paperwork and to the country. , , and start saving for those start up costs! You’ll also want to that may be required upon arrival to Guatemala.
6. Do your research
Time to ! Learn a bit about the history of Guatemala before you go and be better prepared for your .
Map out some trips around the country and start connecting with any local groups in the community or school that could make for a good support system. Start making a budget based on your teaching English salary in Guatemala. You’ll also want to look into how to send and receive mail, sign up for a phone plan, get needed medications, and other similar details.
You’ll be exploring iconic Guatemalan sights in no time.
The in Guatemala seem pretty straightforward, right? These steps may overlap and take some time to complete, but they’ll result in a journey without comparison.
If you can picture yourself learning about Mayan culture amidst ancient ruins, exploring world-renowned Lake Atitlán, surfing in El Paredon, hiking a volcano, or simply enjoying a strong coffee while practicing your Spanish with a , this preparation will be well worth it.
What can I expect from a teaching English salary in Guatemala?
As an English teacher in Guatemala about $500 per month, unless you have a university-level degree and teaching experience that would qualify you for a higher paying position. It’s somewhat common for teachers to supplement their income with side tutoring jobs, and you may be able to negotiate a pay raise if you have other types of experience, are willing to take on more work, etc.
Teaching English in Guatemala salaries do not typically include things like room and board, although there may be opportunities like shared housing with other English teachers. While you most likely won’t save money as a teacher in Guatemala, cost of living is quite low and you’ll be able to easily afford rent and bills. One United States dollar (USD) is equivalent to about eight Guatemalan Quetzals (GTQ).
Pro-tip: and stick to it! Make sure to work in costs for trips to explore the country, souvenirs to bring home, and while there. Cut costs by purchasing groceries and eating meals at home, using local products, and taking public transportation if available.
Why not begin your English teaching career in Guatemala?
Teach English in Guatemala to launch your career while feeding your wanderlust.
Get started with your journey teaching English in Guatemala today! It’s never too early to start . You can also find opportunities in neighboring countries, teach English in Mexico to explore an entirely new culture, or sojourn to nearby Belize for a quick vacation during the holidays. There is no better way to (or any career) than an international teaching experience abroad in Guatemala.
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