Teaching English in the Philippines

03:44 Monrovia 0 Comments

The Philippines is an increasingly popular destination for English teachers, thanks to its warm tropical climate, affordable cost of living, and English proficiency among the population. As a former U.S. colony, English is one of the official languages of the Philippines and is widely spoken throughout the country. However, the demand for native English speakers continues to grow, especially in private schools, language centres, and among students and professionals aiming to improve their fluency.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about teaching English in the Philippines, including hiring requirements, salaries, TEFL certification, the cost of living, where to teach, and the necessary documents to work legally. Whether you're looking to teach in bustling cities like Manila or the scenic islands of Cebu or Palawan, this guide will help you understand what to expect.

Introduction to Teaching in the Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia made up of over 7,000 islands, and it’s known for its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. English is widely used in education, business, and government, but there is still a strong need for qualified English teachers to help students and professionals refine their language skills.

The growing outsourcing industry, commonly referred to as the BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) sector, along with the demand for English proficiency in business, technology, and hospitality, has created numerous opportunities for English teachers in the Philippines. The country’s friendly and hospitable people, combined with a laid-back lifestyle, make it an attractive destination for expatriates.

Whether you’re interested in teaching at private schools, universities, language centers, or through online platforms, the Philippines provides a variety of teaching opportunities for both new and experienced teachers.

Click here to Grab $20 Off TEFL Courses – Limited Time Offer, Min. Spend $79!

Hiring Requirements for Teaching English in the Philippines

While the Philippines has a relatively high level of English proficiency, many schools and companies are still looking for native English speakers to improve their students' fluency and accent. The requirements for teaching English in the Philippines can vary, but the following are generally expected:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree is often required to teach in private schools, universities, and language centers. While the degree does not necessarily need to be in education or English, having one in a related field will give you an advantage. Many online teaching platforms may be less stringent about degree requirements.
• TEFL/TESOL Certification: A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is highly recommended, especially for those who want to teach English as a foreign language. Most language schools and online teaching platforms require at least 120 hours of TEFL training. While not mandatory for all teaching jobs, a TEFL certification increases your employability and credibility as an educator.  
• Native or Fluent English Speaker: Schools and language centers often prefer native English speakers, especially for positions that involve teaching advanced learners or students who are preparing for exams like IELTS or TOEFL. However, non-native speakers with a strong command of the language and teaching experience are also considered.
• Teaching Experience: Teaching experience is not always required, especially for entry-level positions or online teaching jobs, but having at least one to two years of experience is often an advantage, especially for university or private school positions.
• Work Visa: Foreign teachers must obtain a work visa to legally teach in the Philippines. Many schools and employers help with the visa application process, but you will need to provide documentation such as proof of qualifications and a job offer.

Salaries and TEFL Certification

TEFL Certification

Obtaining a TEFL or TESOL certification is essential if you plan to teach English in the Philippines. A 120-hour TEFL course is the standard requirement for most teaching jobs, but you can also pursue more advanced certifications, such as CELTA or DELTA, which are especially valuable for teaching in higher-paying or more prestigious institutions.

Completing a TEFL course in the Philippines itself can be a great way to gain local experience and potentially make connections with local schools and institutions.

Click here to Grab $20 Off TEFL Courses – Limited Time Offer, Min. Spend $79!

Salaries

Salaries for English teachers in the Philippines can vary based on the type of institution, location, and your qualifications. While the pay may not be as high as in Western countries or some other parts of Asia, the low cost of living makes it possible to live comfortably. Below is a general breakdown of salary expectations:

• Private Language Schools: Teachers in private language schools usually earn between R10,000 to R25,000 per month. Many of these schools cater to young learners and working professionals looking to improve their business English skills.
• International Schools: International schools tend to offer the highest salaries, ranging from R30,000 to R60,000 per month. These positions are competitive and usually require a teaching license or several years of experience.
• Public Schools and Universities: Public school positions tend to offer lower pay, between R8,000 to R16,000 per month, but they provide more interaction with local students and an opportunity to immerse yourself in Filipino culture. University positions, on the other hand, offer better pay, typically ranging from R20,000 to R35,000 per month, depending on the institution.
• Online Teaching: Online English teaching platforms are highly popular in the Philippines. Teachers can earn anywhere from R150 to R500 per hour, depending on the platform and the number of students taught. Teaching online allows for greater flexibility and the opportunity to teach from anywhere in the country.
• Private Tutoring: Private tutoring is a flexible way to supplement your income. Tutors can set their own rates, which typically range from R200 to R600 per hour, depending on the student's needs and the teacher's qualifications.

Cost of Living in the Philippines

One of the advantages of teaching English in the Philippines is the affordable cost of living. Depending on your lifestyle and location, you can live comfortably on a modest salary, especially in smaller cities or rural areas. However, living in metropolitan areas like Manila or Cebu will require a larger budget.

• Accommodation: Rent in the Philippines is affordable compared to Western countries. In Manila, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost between R6,000 to R15,000 per month, while in smaller cities or rural areas, rent for a similar apartment may be as low as R3,000 to R8,000 per month. Many schools and language centers offer housing allowances or assistance with finding accommodation.
• Groceries and Food: The cost of food in the Philippines is inexpensive. Local markets and street vendors offer fresh produce, seafood, and other staples at affordable prices. A monthly grocery bill for a single person typically ranges from R1,500 to R3,000, depending on dietary preferences. Dining out is also affordable, with meals at local restaurants costing between R50 to R150.
• Transportation: Public transportation in the Philippines is affordable and widely available. Jeepneys (local minibuses), buses, and tricycles are common forms of transportation, with fares costing just a few pesos. In larger cities, ridesharing apps like Grab are widely used. A monthly transportation budget of R500 to R1,000 is sufficient for most teachers.
• Utilities and Internet: Basic utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, usually cost between R800 to R2,000 per month, depending on usage and the size of the apartment. Internet is widely available, and high-speed packages typically cost around R400 to R800 per month.

The overall cost of living in the Philippines is low, allowing teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving a portion of their salary.

Where to Teach in the Philippines

The Philippines offers a range of opportunities for English teachers, from bustling metropolitan areas to more relaxed and scenic provinces. Here are some of the most common places to teach:

1. Private Language Schools Private language schools are the most common option for English teachers in the Philippines. These schools serve students of all ages, including adults looking to improve their business or conversational English. Most of these schools are located in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, where demand for English teachers is highest.
2. International Schools International schools are a great option for experienced teachers with formal teaching qualifications or a background in international curricula, such as IB (International Baccalaureate) or Cambridge International programs. These schools offer competitive salaries and are located in major cities like Manila and Cebu.
3. Public Schools and Universities Public schools and universities also offer opportunities to teach English, though they tend to pay less than private institutions. Teaching at a university may require advanced degrees or prior teaching experience, but it often provides a more academic environment and an opportunity to work with older students.
4. Online Teaching The Philippines has become a hub for online English teaching, particularly for students from China, Japan, and Korea. Many teachers choose to work from home, teaching English to students via online platforms like VIPKid, 51Talk, and Cambly. This option offers flexibility and the ability to teach from anywhere in the country.
5. Private Tutoring Private tutoring is another popular option, particularly in cities where expatriates and business professionals seek to improve their English skills. Tutoring allows teachers to set their own hours and rates, providing flexibility and the opportunity to supplement income from other teaching jobs.

Documents Required to Teach in the Philippines

To legally work as an English teacher in the Philippines, you will need the following documents:

- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

- Work Visa: A work visa is required to legally teach in the Philippines. Many schools help with the visa application process, but teachers must provide proof of employment, TEFL certification, and a degree.

- Alien Employment Permit (AEP): Foreigners working in the Philippines are required to apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP), which is issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Your employer will usually assist in this process.

- Proof of Qualifications: Bring copies of your degree, TEFL certificate, and any other relevant teaching qualifications.

- NBI Clearance: A criminal background check (known as NBI clearance) is often required by employers and is necessary when applying for a work visa.

Teaching English in the Philippines is an exciting and rewarding opportunity, offering the chance to work in a diverse and welcoming environment. While the pay may not be as high as in some other countries, the low cost of living, tropical lifestyle, and opportunity to immerse yourself in Filipino culture make it a great destination for teachers.

Image is designed by freepik.