Teach English In Egypt

Travelling nowadays is quite pricey, and exploring and discovering the beauty of a country takes time. So working and travelling gives you the best of both worlds.

But why Egypt? There are just so many pyramids, cities, sights and museums to see and activities to do. And the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture is to live in it! 

Plus, English instructors are in demand, so there is no shortage of opportunities to find an English teaching job in Egypt.

Start your teaching journey with a certified TEFL course provider

Cairo, Alexandria and Luxor are the best cities to find English teaching vacancies in Egypt. These three cities have a high concentration of language schools and private universities that hire foreign English instructors. 

Cairo 

A city of timeless history

As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Cairo is a tourism hotspot. This city is the business hub of Egypt– resulting in many language schools and institutions offering English language courses. 

Alexandria 

Cosmopolitan city, beaches and Roman history

Alexandria is a much more cosmopolitan city when compared to other Egyptian cities. There is a large expat community- which is perfect for foreigners to make connections- diverse cultures, beaches as well as Roman and Egyptian monuments to satiate your adventurous side. The climate is much more temperate in this region too. 

Luxor 

Valley of the Kings

This city attracts tourists worldwide for its grand monuments and Pharaonic history. With Luxor being a small city, TEFL teachers who are looking for a more laid-back setting will find this city appealing. Added bonuses are that the cost of living is low and it’s regarded as a safer city.

Ready to rub shoulders with camels? Keen for a cruise on the Nile? Let’s see how you can qualify to teach English in Egypt.

Visa requirements

To work in Egypt, you need to obtain a work visa. This can be done through the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country. Many teachers apply in Egypt for jobs on a tourist visa too. You need to provide proof of your qualifications, a passport, and a letter of invitation from your employer.

TEFL certification

A TEFL certification is required to teach English in Egypt. This certification provides the necessary training and skills to teach English as a foreign language. 

Here’s a tip from the TEFL professionals – us! 

• Choose a basic Level 3 TEFL certificate (120 hours) if you already have teaching experience.
• Choose a Level 5 Combined Course (168 hours) if you don’t have any teaching experience – this TEFL course gives you in-class teaching practice.

Bachelor’s degree

A Bachelor’s degree is required to teach English in Egypt. The degree can be in any field, but having a degree in Education, English, or a related field can be an advantage.

Experience

Having teaching experience can be an advantage when applying for teaching vacancies in Egypt. Experience teaching English as a foreign language is especially valuable.

Insurance

To work in Egypt, you need to have health and travel insurance. These policies will cover you in case of illness, injury, or emergency while working in Egypt.

Start-up capital

You need to have some start-up capital to cover initial expenses when moving to Egypt. This can include housing, transportation, and living expenses for the first few months. 

Let’s break it down:

• Accommodation: If accommodation is not provided by your employer or included in your salary, you’ll need the first month’s rent and a security deposit.
•  TEFL certification: A TEFL course can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the length and level of the course and the course provider. 
• Document fees: Any costs related to certifying and notarising your degree and TEFL certificate.
• Flight ticket: Variable. 
• Visa application: The cost of getting a visa is subject to your home country. You can expect to pay around E£1,000 ($32).
• Living expenses: You will need one month’s worth of start-up capital of about E£9,000 ($300) to live off until your first paycheque.

International schools

Known for their high standards of education and highest-paying salaries, these positions often require English teachers to have a teaching degree or certification plus relevant teaching experience. Private schools usually follow an American or British curriculum. The average salary for English teachers in private schools in Egypt is around E£45,000 – E£75,000 ($1,500 – $2,500 USD) a month.

Universities

English language teachers in universities need to have a Master’s degree in English Language Teaching (ELT) or a related field, along with relevant teaching experience. English language teachers in universities are responsible for developing course materials, conducting research, and participating in academic activities. The average salary for English language teachers in universities in Egypt is around E£20,000-30,000 ($650 – $970) a month.

Language schools

Working at a language school is great as it offers flexible working hours, which makes them an ideal option if you want to have a part-time or full-time teaching job.

You typically need to have a TEFL certificate or a relevant teaching degree. Language schools in Egypt offer different types of courses, including general English courses, Business English courses, exam preparation courses (such as TOEFL or IELTS), and conversation courses. The average salary for English teachers in language schools in Egypt is around E£15,000 – E£30,000 ($500 – $1,000) a month.

Online teaching programs

Want to make money online instead of teaching in a brick-and-mortar classroom? You need to have a TEFL certificate or a relevant teaching degree, along with a good internet connection if you are working from home. The average salary for English teachers in online teaching programs in Egypt will vary. 

The average salary for English instructors in Egypt ranges from E£70,000 to E£80,000 ($2,300 to $2,600) a month.

Good news! The cost of living in Egypt is low, making it a popular destination for foreign teachers. Keep in mind that the cost of living varies depending on the location, lifestyle, and one’s personal preferences. 

Accommodation

• One-bedroom apartment in city centre: E£4,000 ($130)
• One-bedroom apartment outside city centre: E£2,500 ($80)

Utilities

• Gas, water, electricity: E£550 – E£950 ($18-$30) 

Transport

• Monthly pass: E£215 – E£370 ($7 – $12)
• One-way ticket: E£6 ($0.20)

Food and groceries 

• Monthly shop: E£3,000 ($100)
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: E£100 ($3)

Internet

• Unlimited: E£365 ($12)

The cost of living in Egypt is lower than many other countries, making it very possible for English teachers to save some cash. However, the ability to save depends on several factors, such as your salary, benefits, and lifestyle. 

TEFL teachers who receive subsidised housing and other benefits can save a significant amount of money. And if you’re willing to live a modest lifestyle and avoid expensive restaurants, this will most definitely help!

The average salary for English instructors in Egypt ranges from E£70,000 to E£80,000 ($2,300 to $2,600) a month.

But what’s it really like to live and teach in the land of Pharoahs and pyramids?

Living and teaching English in Egypt is a rewarding experience. The culture is unique and diverse and local Egyptians are welcoming and friendly towards foreigners. 

Living in Egypt can be challenging, as there can be cultural and language barriers to overcome. It is advised that women dress modestly as Egypt is an Arabic country, so cover those ankles ladies!

Petty crime is common in Egypt, especially in crowded areas. Also be careful wandering alone, especially as a woman, at night. 

Using the metro is safe, but not so comfortable when it gets crowded. Using public buses takes some effort, as it can get quite confusing if you don’t know any Arabic – and your way around. Uber is relatively inexpensive, but not so much if you are using it frequently. 

It can be hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 48° Celsius in the summer. So, if you enjoy warm weather all year round, this can be a great thing for you! For foreigners who are used to colder climates, this may prove to be a bit uncomfortable at first, but you’ll get used to it quite quickly.

Start your teaching journey with an accredited TEFL course provider.