Teach English in Mongolia
Mongolia, nestled between Russia and
China in the heart of Asia, is a country of endless horizons, a rich nomadic
culture, and warm, welcoming people. For those who are adventurous at heart and
eager to immerse themselves in a new culture, teaching English in Mongolia can
be a transformative experience. The country is experiencing a growing demand
for English teachers, driven by government initiatives to incorporate English
into the education system and the aspirations of a younger generation eager to
engage with the global community.
This article provides an in-depth
look at what it means to teach English in Mongolia, covering everything from
job types and locations to qualifications, salaries, benefits, and the cultural
nuances of living and working in this unique land.
Why Should You Consider Teaching English in Mongolia?
Mongolia offers a distinctive
teaching experience that blends adventure with cultural enrichment. Unlike more
common destinations like China or Japan, Mongolia presents a less-travelled
path where the need for native English speakers is significant. Many
Mongolians, from schoolchildren to business professionals, are eager to learn
English to improve their prospects. As a result, the demand for English
teachers is high, especially in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.
Teaching in Mongolia allows you to
not only help students improve their English skills but also to gain a deeper
understanding of the Mongolian way of life. The country’s culture is heavily
influenced by its nomadic heritage, and many families still live in traditional
Gers (yurts) and maintain a lifestyle centred around herding and rural life.
Best Places to Find English Teaching
Jobs in Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar
As the capital and largest city,
Ulaanbaatar is the hub for most teaching jobs in Mongolia. It offers a range of
job opportunities in private language schools, public schools, and
universities. The city combines modernity with tradition, featuring everything
from high-rise buildings and shopping malls to ancient monasteries and
traditional markets. English teachers in Ulaanbaatar can explore local culture,
sample unique foods like buuz and khuushuur, and enjoy a bustling nightlife.
However, with the city’s conveniences come higher living costs compared to
other parts of Mongolia.
Erdenet
Erdenet, the third-largest city in
Mongolia, is known for its mining industry and clean, well-maintained streets.
The cost of living here is lower than in Ulaanbaatar, making it an ideal place
for those looking to save money. While job opportunities are fewer, the city’s
peaceful environment and affordability make it a worthwhile consideration for
teachers.
Darkhan
Darkhan, the second-largest city,
offers a blend of industrial activity and cultural experiences. It is a
transportation hub with a growing tourism industry. English teachers here can
expect fewer job opportunities than in Ulaanbaatar, but the chance to experience
Mongolian culture in a more relaxed setting is significant. Local markets,
historical sites, and outdoor activities like hiking provide a balanced
lifestyle.
Khovd
For those who crave an
off-the-beaten-path adventure, Khovd in western Mongolia is a city with a
diverse population of Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Muslims. The city’s location
near the Altai Mountains offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Teaching in Khovd is ideal for those interested in exploring Mongolia’s remote
regions while engaging with its multicultural communities.
Types of English Teaching Jobs Available in Mongolia
Private Language Schools
Private language academies are abundant, particularly in Ulaanbaatar. Schools such as the Success School of English and The American School of Ulaanbaatar are known for being welcoming to foreign teachers. These schools typically offer a structured work environment with modern teaching resources, though the hours can be long, often including evenings and weekends. However, the experience is highly rewarding, allowing teachers to connect deeply with students and witness their progress.
Public Schools
Due to recent government initiatives
to incorporate English into the national curriculum, there are numerous
opportunities to teach in public schools, especially in Ulaanbaatar. While
salaries may be lower than those offered by private schools or universities,
public school teaching provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful
impact on students who may not have access to private education.
Universities
Teaching at universities, such as
Raffle's International University in Ulaanbaatar, offers a more prestigious and
potentially lucrative option. However, the hiring process is more rigorous,
requiring at least a bachelor’s degree and some teaching experience. University
teaching positions often come with additional benefits, such as health
insurance and paid holidays.
International Schools
International schools in Mongolia,
though few, offer competitive salaries and attractive benefits like housing
allowances, health insurance, paid holidays, and annual flights. These
positions often require native-level English fluency, a teaching license or
TEFL certification, and experience in teaching English and other subjects.
Qualifications and Requirements for Teaching in Mongolia
Work Visa and Documentation
A work visa is mandatory for teaching
in Mongolia. The process generally involves a valid passport, a completed visa
application form, and an invitation letter from the employer. Costs can range
from $15 to $270 (around ZAR 280 to ZAR 5,060), depending on the applicant's
home country.
TEFL Certification and Education
While not always mandatory, having a TEFL certification can significantly increase job prospects, particularly in private language schools and international schools. Most universities and higher-paying positions require a bachelor’s degree and relevant teaching experience.
Native English Speakers Preferred
Most schools in Mongolia prefer
native English speakers, and while some positions do not require a TEFL
certification, having one can be advantageous. For university positions, a
bachelor’s degree and prior teaching experience are often required.
Salary, Benefits, and Cost of Living in Mongolia
Salary Range: Salaries for English
teachers in Mongolia range from $500 to $1,500 per month (ZAR 9,360 to ZAR
28,100), depending on the type of school and location. Many programs also
provide accommodation, which can help save on living costs.
Benefits: Common benefits include housing
allowances, health insurance, airfare reimbursement, paid holidays, and
sometimes performance bonuses. International schools and universities tend to
offer more comprehensive benefits compared to public and private schools.
Cost of Living (Basic Necessities)
Accommodation: A one-bedroom apartment in the city
center costs around ₮1 million ($285 or ZAR 5,330), while outside the city
center, it’s about ₮675,000 ($190 or ZAR 3,560).
Utilities: Monthly utilities average around
₮190,000 ($55 or ZAR 1,030).
Food and Groceries: A typical monthly grocery bill is
approximately ₮700,000 ($200 or ZAR 3,750).
Transportation: A one-way bus ticket costs ₮500
($0.10 or ZAR 2), and a monthly pass is ₮25,000 ($7 or ZAR 130).
Cultural Considerations and Working Environment
Understanding Mongolian culture is
crucial for a successful teaching experience. In the classroom, student-teacher
relations can vary, with some students displaying a military-like discipline,
while others may need encouragement to engage more freely. Teachers are advised
not to touch a student’s head, as this is considered disrespectful. Moreover,
maintaining a modest dress code is essential, with men generally wearing pants
and long-sleeved shirts and women dressing conservatively.
Finding a Teaching Job in Mongolia
The best time to start looking for a
teaching job in Mongolia is a few months before the school year begins in
August or early September. Most jobs are concentrated in Ulaanbaatar, with
fewer opportunities available in other cities. Job postings can be found online
on various TEFL job boards or by contacting schools directly.
Teaching English in Mongolia is more
than just a job; it's a journey into a land of breathtaking landscapes, a rich
tapestry of cultures, and a society on the brink of change. Whether you're
teaching in a bustling city like Ulaanbaatar or a remote town like Khovd, the
experience promises to be both challenging and rewarding. For those ready to
embrace the adventure, Mongolia is a destination that offers both personal
growth and professional development.
