How much can I earn teaching English in Romania?
Although Romania might not currently be top of the list of destinations for many teachers, it is well worth considering as it has one of the fastest growing populations of English language learners in the region. The majority of jobs are found in the main cities, but you should make time to explore the idyllic countryside that makes up much of the country. Romania?s most famous region is undoubtedly historic Transylvania, where ancient castles inspired Bram Stoker to write his masterpiece, Dracula.
What are TESOL salaries in Romania?
Salaries for ESL teachers in Romania are relatively low when compared to many Western European countries at around $500 to $1000 per month, although teachers with experience might be able to earn more. While these figures do not sound a lot, a low cost of living means that your salary will actually go much further than you might think. Most employers in Romania will recruit both native and fluent English speakers, although a bachelor's degree and TESOL certification are usually expected.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Romania?
The big cities of Bucharest, Constanta, Cluj-Napoca, and Lasi are where the majority of teaching jobs can be found. The capital of Bucharest has a particularly large and diverse job market, with international schools, public schools, private schools, colleges, and language schools all offering plenty of options. As private schools typically offer better salaries than public schools, most teachers go down this route if possible. Private language schools that mainly provide conversational English classes to adults are particularly popular as they allow you plenty of time and potential for private tutoring outside of school hours. This is a great way to earn extra money and to meet the local people on a one-to-one basis.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Romania?
It is common for employers in Romania to only hire EU citizens to avoid the paperwork that comes with taking on non-EU nationals. However, non-EU teachers can still find employers who are willing to help out with the visa application process if they are patient and willing to make a long-term commitment. The best way to give yourself a wide choice of job options is to actually be in the country when looking for work as few schools choose to advertise their vacant positions online. The start of the school year in September is the peak time for job vacancies, while a second recruitment season starts before the New Year semester in January. The end of the school year is in June, although many teachers choose to join English summer camps that start at the end of the month.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Romania?
When compared to North America and Western Europe the cost of living is very low in Romania. Very few teaching jobs come with any form of housing, so this is usually the biggest expense that ESL teachers face. Small apartments can be rented from only $100 per month, although many teachers prefer to club together so they can afford something bigger and more comfortable. Groceries will set you back around $65 per week if you use local markets and avoid expensive imported luxuries. Local restaurants are also great value as a quality meal can be had for around $10 a head. In total, an average monthly spend of between $500 and $800 would be typical.
