How much can I earn teaching English in Oman?
Teaching in the Middle East is often considered to be centered on countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, however, Oman is among those countries that are starting to challenge this outlook. The country is home to many attractions including a huge amount of pristine coastline, a wide expanse of desert, and rugged mountains. It is also considered to have a more laid-back atmosphere than some of its neighbors.
What are TESOL salaries in Oman?
Fully qualified teachers with a teaching licence can expect to earn around $2,000 to $3,000 per month in Oman. TESOL qualified teachers typically start on $1,000 to $2,000 per month, although this will vary depending on the employer and your previous experience. As these figures are tax-free and many jobs also include free housing, it is possible for most teachers to save a considerable amount of their income each month. The cost of living is generally lower in Oman than in many other countries in the region, which is yet another reason it is increasingly popular.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Oman?
In Muscat, the capital city, you will find a number of kindergartens that are mainly aimed at western expat families. Competition for jobs in these schools is usually very strong as they offer very good salaries and pleasant working conditions. The same can be said for private international schools that offer western curriculums such as British or American. However, in both cases the number of jobs are relatively small and the expected level of experience and qualifications are high.
The largest markets for teachers are in government run elementary and secondary schools and private language schools. There are also a smaller number of privately run elementary and secondary schools that are worth looking at, as well as several universities and tertiary training institutes. For most positions a degree is a necessity, apart from a few schools at the lower end of the pay scale that sometimes accept a TESOL certificate along with previous classroom experience. Typically, teachers with greater experience and higher levels of qualifications will have the widest choice of jobs and the highest earning potential.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Oman?
The majority of vacant positions in Oman are advertised online either directly on the school website or via recruitment agencies. The application process will usually begin with a phone or webcam interview to assess your suitability. At this stage you might also be set an online quiz or similar tests. As the visa application process can be quite lengthy, it is recommended that you start applying for jobs at least six months before you plan to arrive in Oman. The capital city of Muscat is where you will find the largest number of jobs, although Bawshar and Salalah are also worth looking at. One final point to consider is that many teaching jobs in Oman will specify that only native English speakers need apply.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Oman?
Oman generally has a lower cost of living than some other popular countries in the Middle East region. Considering that salaries are tax free and most jobs will include free housing, it is not difficult for most teachers to live well and still save a large chunk of their income each month.
