Teach English in Norway
Teaching English in Norway is a dream for many, and it’s not hard to see why. This Scandinavian country offers stunning natural beauty, a relaxed way of life, and a high standard of living. But if you’re thinking of teaching English in Norway, there’s more to it than just packing your bags and hopping on a plane. Let’s look into everything you need to know about teaching in this beautiful Nordic country—from the best cities and towns to teach in, to the types of jobs available, and everything in between.
Why Teach English in Norway?
Norway is famous for its breathtaking fjords, Northern Lights, and welcoming, well-educated people. It consistently ranks high on the happiness index, and the standard of living is one of the best in the world. The work-life balance here is fantastic, with a strong emphasis on spending time outdoors and enjoying nature. Norwegians are friendly and polite, and the country has a strong culture of fairness and equality.
Though most Norwegians speak English very well (it’s taught in schools from a young age), there is still demand for English teachers—especially for business English, private tutoring, and specialised courses for children.
Where to Teach English in Norway
1. Oslo
As the capital and largest city in Norway, Oslo offers the most job opportunities for English teachers. The city is a bustling hub of international business and culture, with many companies and language schools seeking English teachers, particularly for business English. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for private tutoring, especially with expatriates living in the city.
2. Bergen
Located on the west coast, Bergen is known for its beautiful, rainy weather and historic harbour. It’s the second-largest city in Norway and has a more laid-back vibe than Oslo. While not as many jobs are available as in Oslo, Bergen still has several language schools, and there’s always a demand for English tutoring, particularly for children and university students.
3. Trondheim
Trondheim is a vibrant student city in the north, home to one of Norway’s largest universities, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). With a large student population, there is a strong demand for English teachers, particularly those specialising in academic English.
4. Stavanger
Stavanger is Norway’s oil capital, and the presence of many international companies means a good demand for English teachers, especially in the corporate sector. The city is smaller than Oslo or Bergen but offers a pleasant, quieter lifestyle and easy access to Norway’s stunning countryside.
5. Tromsø
Known as the gateway to the Arctic, Tromsø is a small but lively city in the far north of Norway. While job opportunities are more limited here, the demand for English tutors for students and families is still present. If you’re looking for a unique experience and love the idea of seeing the Northern Lights, Tromsø could be the place for you.
Requirements to Teach English in Norway
While Norway has a reputation for being a bit picky when it comes to hiring English teachers, don’t let that discourage you. The requirements are pretty straightforward, though having some qualifications and experience under your belt will certainly help your chances.
1. TEFL Certification
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is often a must if you want to teach English in Norway. The best TEFL certification for Norway would be one that offers at least 120 hours of training and includes practical teaching experience. Courses from recognised providers like the Cambridge CELTA or Trinity CertTESOL are highly recommended as they’re internationally respected and can make a big difference when applying for jobs. While you can still find jobs without these certifications, having them makes you a far more competitive candidate.
2. Bachelor’s Degree
Most employers in Norway will expect you to have a bachelor’s degree, regardless of the subject. Having a degree in education, English, or linguistics will be a bonus, but it’s not always necessary. That said, if you want to teach in a university or some international schools, you may need a degree specifically in education or English.
3. Native-Level English Speaker
Schools and language institutes will often prefer native-level English speakers, but being fluent in English with a strong command of grammar and pronunciation is what truly matters. However, being a native speaker from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or another predominantly English-speaking country will give you an advantage.
4. Work Permit
If you’re from an EU/EEA country, you won’t need a visa to work in Norway. For non-EU citizens, you’ll need to secure a job before arriving, as your employer will typically sponsor your work permit. Norway has strict immigration laws, so having all your paperwork sorted before arriving is essential.
Types of Teaching Jobs in Norway
1. Language Schools
Language schools are one of the most common places to teach English in Norway. Many of these schools offer evening classes for adults looking to improve their English for business or travel. These jobs can be competitive, but they offer a good starting point for those new to teaching English in Norway.
2. International Schools
Norway has several international schools, particularly in cities like Oslo and Stavanger. These schools typically follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and hire English teachers to work with children and teenagers. To teach in an international school, you’ll generally need a teaching qualification and some prior teaching experience.
3. Private Tutoring
Private tutoring is another popular way to teach English in Norway. Many parents hire tutors to help their children improve their English, and there’s also a market for adults who want one-on-one lessons. You can set your rates and schedule, but finding students will take time and networking.
4. University Teaching
Universities in Norway sometimes hire English teachers for academic writing or English language courses. These positions usually require a higher level of qualification, such as a master’s degree or PhD, as well as teaching experience.
English Teaching Salaries in Norway
Salaries for Online English Teachers
Freelance Platforms: On websites like VIPKid, iTutorGroup, and Cambly, you can earn $15 to $25 per hour.
Company Platforms: Companies such as EF Education First and Berlitz may offer hourly pay or fixed monthly salaries. Rates usually range from $15 to $25 per hour.
Salaries for In-Person English Teachers
Private Language Schools: Pay varies depending on the school's size, reputation, and location. You can expect to earn between $2,000 to $3,000 per month.
Public Schools: Public school teachers earn a set monthly salary, usually between $2,500 to $3,500 per month, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
Universities: English teachers at universities often earn more, with salaries ranging from $3,500 to $5,000 per month.
Factors That Affect Salaries
Experience: Teachers with more experience and qualifications usually earn more.
Location: Cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim offer higher salaries than smaller towns.
Institution: Private language schools and universities tend to pay more than public schools.
Teaching Hours:The more hours you work, the more you'll earn.
Cost of Living in Norway
Norway is expensive, but salaries are high enough to live comfortably. Major expenses include rent, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Benefits of Teaching English in Norway
Great Quality of Life: Norway is often rated as one of the best places to live.
Good Salaries: Teachers in Norway are paid well compared to other countries.
Work-Life Balance: Norway values a balance between work and personal time, with plenty of vacation days and flexible schedules.
Beautiful Scenery: Norway's natural beauty, like its fjords and mountains, is a huge bonus.
Teaching English in Norway can be both rewarding and financially stable. While the cost of living is high, the good salaries and great quality of life make it a fantastic option for English teachers. Knowing the salary ranges and factors that affect your pay can help you decide if Norway is the right fit for you.
Is there It Possible to Teach English Online to Norwegian Students?
Yes! Teaching English online is an increasingly popular option, especially with the rise of remote work. While Norway has excellent schools and English instruction, there is always a demand for private English tutors, particularly for students and professionals looking to improve their English for academic or business purposes. You can teach Norwegian students online through platforms like Preply, iTalki, or even by offering private lessons through your own website.
Teaching English in Norway can be an exciting and rewarding experience, whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Oslo, the academic vibe of Trondheim, or the serene beauty of Tromsø. While there may be some challenges along the way, especially with the high cost of living, the opportunity to experience the Norwegian lifestyle, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, makes it all worthwhile. Whether you choose to work in a language school, tutor privately, or even teach online, there are plenty of ways to make teaching English in Norway a reality.
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