A land of ancient history and beautiful beaches, Egypt is an attractive tourist destination and a fantastic potential TEFL location. But how much money can you earn teaching English there?
Typical earnings for TEFL teachers in Egypt are around 9,000-18,000 EGP (Egyptian Pounds) per month ($500-1,000). Most work comes from language academies. International schools pay 27K-46K EGP ($1,500-2,500) depending on experience. Private classes earn 200-250 EGP ($11-14) an hour.
You’re certainly not going to make a fortune teaching English in Egypt. However, the salary is reasonable compared to other similar countries, and the job market is less competitive than in most high-paying nations.
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Options and earnings for TEFL teachers in Egypt
For most TEFL practitioners, language academies are going to be the best source of income. However, if you have experience and a degree-level qualification, international schools offer a higher-paying alternative.
Private tutoring is available to everyone to supplement their earnings.
| Earnings Source | Per Hour ($) | Hours Per Week | Per Month ($) | Annual Estimate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Schools | 11-18 | 30-40 | 1,500-2,500 | 18K-30K |
| Language Academies | 5-10 | 20-30 | 500-1,000 | 6K-12K |
| Private Classes | 11-14 | 20 | 880-1,120 | 10.5K-13.4K |
Don’t be immediately put off by the low salaries available in Egypt. True, those kind of numbers wouldn’t get you very far in the UK or USA, but in Egypt the cost of living is far lower.
In fact, you can get by on as little as 5,500 EGP ($300) a month in many parts of the country. In the major cities, you’ll have to pay more. But even then, you’re looking at 13,000 EGP ($700) for a relatively comfortable lifestyle.
As a result, you can survive on a TEFL salary and even make some savings if you’re smart with your spending.
Political instability in Egypt is probably the biggest worry for prospective TEFL teachers. The nation has undergone significant turmoil over the last decade or so, meaning job security isn’t as high as other places.
Saying that, plenty of other popular TEFL destinations have political problems and teachers still find work. Also, it means there’s less competition for the best jobs.
Getting a visa in Egypt isn’t too difficult, especially as employers will often help you with the process.
May to August is the best time of year for finding jobs. The school year starts in September and finishes up in June.
How much do TEFL teachers make in language academies in Egypt?
The most available and popular source of income for TEFL teachers in Egypt is, like in most places, language academies. These are privately run institutions that offer individual or small-group classes for people of all ages.
Typical montly pay is between 9,000 and 18,000 Egyptian Pounds ($500-1,000). In return for this salary, you can expect to work between 20 and 30 hours a week, meaning the rough hourly rate is 90-180 EGP ($5-10).
Now, I have seen monthly salaries under $500. They can even be as low as $200, but these are for part-time positions or at language academies with very low standards.
To get a job that pays well, you’ll certainly need a TEFL certificate. As in most cases, the more experience you have, and the better qualifications you boast, the higher salaries you can demand.
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Many classes in language academies will be with adults working in the tourism industry, as it’s such an important part of the economy. However, be prepared to teach children and adults of other professions, too.
Cairo and Alexandria host the vast majority of language academies. Head to ESL Base’s list to find links to the likes of the British Council, Berlitz and International House as well as a raft of local companies.
How much do TEFL teachers make in international schools in Egypt?
The education system in Egypt has undergone significant reforms of late. Public schools and most private schools require at least some level of local qualification, even if you have a teaching license from home.
However, international schools are easier to get into. The higher reputation institutions will demand a teaching degree and a few years of experience, but you may be able to get hired by some less-established names with a CELTA, or even a TEFL certificate if you have other assets on your CV.
Monthly salaries are in the region of 27K-46K EGP ($1,500-2,500). Working 30-40 hours a week, this gives you an approximate hourly rate of 200-330 EGP ($11-18).
How much do TEFL teachers make from private classes in Egypt?
Private classes in Egypt earn 200-250 EGP ($11-14) an hour on average. Of course, you can charge more if you have rich clients, while in poorer parts of the country, you may have to lower your rates.
Becoming a private tutor allows you to supplement your income and remain flexible with your schedule. Plus, you get to meet a variety of different students.
However, going full time as a freelancer is very difficult because of work permit laws. Like in most countries, to get the relevant documentation, you need to be employed by a company in the country.
Nonetheless, even if you only take 3 private classes a week (on top of a language academy job) at $11 an hour, you can earn an extra $132 a month. That kind of money goes a long way in Egypt!
Conclusion
TEFL teachers in Egypt won’t make stacks of cash. But compared to the cost of living, salaries for teaching English are more than enough to live comfortably, both in the major cities and elsewhere. With low entry requirements, it’s a good place to get started in TEFL.
And what a country to live in! History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys a hot climate will have a great time in the country. There’s a reason why millions of people go there every year!
Why not head over to my resource: How Much Do TEFL & TESL Teachers Make? Countries compared to see what countries around the world can offer?
