How much can I earn teaching English in Cambodia?

Cambodia is an increasingly popular destination for teaching English abroad. Phnom Penh is home to the largest market for foreign teachers. Other smaller cities such as Siem Reap, Battambang, and Sihanoukville are also worth a look if you prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. One reason for its growing popularity is that a 4-year degree is not an official requirement for living and working in the country. Because of this, Cambodia is a great place for new teachers to find a job that will give them the experience necessary to work in more lucrative countries in the future. Others choose Cambodia simply because it is a little off the beaten track and offers plenty of adventure.

What are TESOL salaries in Cambodia?

Your expected earnings in Cambodia will depend on your level of teaching experience, the location, and the type of employer you work for. On average, a first time teacher should be able to earn around $1,000 to $1,200 per month, or around $10 to $12 if paid an hourly rate. Extra benefits such as airfares, housing, health insurance, and paid holidays are rarely included in a teachers contract. The only exception would be if you secure a job in an international school, although these positions are few and far between.

What kind of schools employ English language teachers in Cambodia?

Government run public schools are generally off-limits to foreign teachers, however, there are a large number of privately owned schools that actively seek out qualified English language teachers. Most of these schools are found in large cities and include primary, middle, and high school levels. A typical working day would be from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and then from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Private language academies are the other big employer of teachers in Cambodia. These are located all over the country and provide after-school English lessons to children of all ages and lessons for adults looking to study in their own time. Most classes in these schools are run in the evenings and at the weekend.

What is the recruitment process for teaching English in Cambodia?

Although you might find a small number of jobs advertised online, the majority of teaching positions in Cambodia are secured following a face-to-face interview. While this means you will need to head to Cambodia without a job in place, it also means you can meet potential employers and negotiate a reasonable salary before committing to a job. Due to the high demand for teachers across the country, most people have no trouble finding a suitable positions soon after arriving.

What is the cost of living for English teachers in Cambodia?

The average salary for teachers in Cambodia is certainly low by western standards, but so is the local cost of living. A good quality apartment can be rented for around $200 to $300 per month, with an extra $70 to cover utility bills. Eating out at local restaurants and other entertainment options are also very cheap compared to many other countries. Due to the low cost of living, most teachers find they are able to live a comfortable lifestyle during their stay in Cambodia.