Teach English in Nepal

There are so many reasons why teaching English in Nepal is an amazing opportunity! You’ll be making a real difference in the lives of Nepali students by helping them improve their language skills and opening up new opportunities for them. 

You’ll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, learn about Nepali customs and traditions, and even pick up some Nepali language skills of your own! 

Nepal is a breathtakingly beautiful country with stunning landscapes and a deeply spiritual connection with the world – you’ll have plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration during your downtime. 

And let’s not forget the warm and welcoming Nepali people, who will make you feel right at home. So if you’re looking for a meaningful and rewarding teaching experience, Nepal is the perfect destination.

Read more: Teaching off the beaten track – 9 Alternative TEFL destinations

If you want to jump on a rickshaw in the bustling city of Kathmandu, hop on a boat in the boating paradise of Pokhara, surround yourself with temples in Bhaktapur or explore the low-lying hills of Dharan, these are the hot spots for TEFL teachers in Nepal.

Kathmandu

The capital city is a hub for international schools and language centres, making it a great place to start your search for English teaching jobs. There are many places in Kathmandu to visit that have cultural and historical significance.

Pokhara

Located in the stunning Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is a famous place in Nepal and a great place to teach English. You’ll have the chance to work with students from diverse backgrounds and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Bhaktapur

This ancient city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It’s home to several language schools and centres that offer English teaching positions. The best place to visit in Bhaktapur is the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards showcasing intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and traditional Newari architecture.

Dharan

Dharan is a city located in the Sunsari District of Nepal, situated at the foothills of the Mahabharat Range; it is known for its vibrant mix of cultures, scenic beauty, and historical significance as a trade route connecting Nepal with Tibet.

No matter where you end up teaching in Nepal, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience and make a positive impact on the lives of your students.

• Visa requirements: To teach English in Nepal, you need a work visa. You can apply for a work visa at the Nepali embassy or consulate in your home country. You need to provide a copy of your passport, a letter of invitation from your employer, and a completed application form.
• TEFL certification: Many employers in Nepal require English teachers to have an accredited TEFL certification. 
• Bachelor’s degree: To qualify for most English teaching jobs in Nepal, you need a Bachelor’s degree. It doesn’t necessarily need to be in education or English, but having a degree makes you a more competitive candidate.
• Experience: Some English teaching jobs in Nepal require previous teaching experience, while others are open to first-time teachers.
• Insurance: It’s a good idea to have travel insurance or medical insurance while you’re teaching in Nepal. 
• Start-up capital: You’ll need to have some money saved up to cover your initial expenses in Nepal. This includes the cost of your flight, visa, accommodation, and living expenses.

Teaching English in Nepal is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, and meeting these requirements can help ensure that you’re prepared for the adventure of a lifetime.

Here are some of the most common types of English teaching jobs in Nepal and their salaries and benefits:

International schools

International schools in Nepal offer competitive salaries and benefits packages. Salaries range from $1,000 – $3,000 USD (Rs 130,000 – Rs395,000) a month, depending on your qualifications and experience.

Language centres

Language centres typically offer lower salaries than international schools, but may provide other benefits such as free or discounted language classes for teachers. Salaries range from $500 – $1,500 (Rs65,000 – Rs 195,000)  a month.

Volunteer teaching

Some schools and organisations in Nepal offer volunteer teaching positions, which may provide housing and meals in exchange for your services. These positions are typically unpaid or offer a small stipend.

Teaching English in Nepal might not be the best way to make millions, but you’ll certainly experience a new culture, make a difference in the lives of your students, and have the adventure of a lifetime.

Learn more about TTA’s charity partnership with United World Schools, and how we built a primary school in Kanpur, Nepal together!

Getting a job teaching English in Nepal can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it’s definitely achievable! 

First, start by researching schools and language centres in Nepal and identifying those that are hiring. You can do this through online jobs boards, social media groups, or by reaching out to Nepali schools directly. Tailor your application to the specific position and school you’re applying for, highlighting your qualifications and experience. 

Once you’ve secured a job offer, make sure to apply for a work visa and arrange any necessary travel arrangements. With a bit of preparation and perseverance, you can land a job teaching English in Nepal and embark on an exciting and rewarding new adventure!

Now let’s look at what you can expect once you’ve made the move to Nepal.

Accommodation

• One-bedroom apartment in city centre: $120 (Rs 15,000)
• One-bedroom apartment outside city centre: $85 (Rs 11,000)

Utilities

• Gas, electricity, water, garbage disposal: $23 (Rs 3,000)

Food and groceries

• Monthly shop: $50 (Rs 6,500)
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 (Rs 250)

Transport 

• Monthly pass: $6 (Rs 900 )
• Single bus or subway trip: $0.20 (Rs25)

Internet

• Unlimited $11 (1,500 NPR)

Yes, it’s possible to save money as an English teacher in Nepal, but it shouldn’t be the main aim of your trip. While the cost of living in Nepal can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle, it’s generally lower than in many Western countries. To save money on a teaching salary, you’ll need to do some clever budgeting.

Living and teaching English in Nepal is a unique and exciting experience! Day-to-day life in Nepal varies depending on where you live and work, but you can expect to experience a different pace of life and culture than what you may be used to.

Read more: Motivation and culture shock 

Nepalis are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners, and you may find that people are interested in getting to know you and your culture. As an English teacher, you’ll likely have a structured schedule, with classes during the day and free time in the evenings and on weekends. Depending on your position, you may have access to benefits such as housing, airfare reimbursement, and health insurance. 

Outside of work, you can explore Nepal’s rich cultural and natural heritage, from trekking in the Himalayas to trying new foods and learning about different religious practices. 

While there may be some challenges to living and teaching in Nepal, such as adjusting to a new language and culture, the experience is incredibly rewarding and provides you with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Begin your teaching journey by signing up with the world’s most accredited TEFL course provider today!