Teach English in Indonesia

Details

Summary

With tourism such an important industry, the ability to speak English is a valuable skill. North American and British teachers are in high demand, while recruitment from Australia and New Zealand is increasing.

Main TEFL regions

Jakarta, Bandung, Medan, Bogor and Surabaya; with many schools also on Sulawesi and Bali. Opportunities arise in both urban and rural areas

Types of teaching

Private Language Schools: General English, Business English
State Primary & Secondary Schools: General English, English for Younger Learners

Accommodation

Schools usually include air-conditioned, bills-inclusive accommodation free-of-charge, or provide a housing allowance. Outside the biggest cities, you may have to arrange your own accommodation after the first month is provided free, though sometimes you will be given an interest-free loan to help you get on your feet.

Flight reimbursement

Typically on completion of your 12-month contract

Salary

Can vary, but generally US$800-$1200 per month, relative to your qualifications and experience.

Taxes

Income tax will vary from 5-25% depending on how much you earn. In practice, your overall income will be taxed at around 10%, which will be arranged by your employer.

Cost of living

As a teacher, you will earn up to ten times the local salary and live a comfortable lifestyle. If you’re willing to forego expensive restaurants, you’ll find the delicious local food very cheap. Getting around won’t break the bank either, with long-distance bus journeys often costing less than a dollar.

Potential to save money

Given the high salaries and low cost of living, it’s possible to save on as little as 7,000,000 (US$750) rupiah per year. But if you work outside the big cities and party less, you can save more!

How much TEFL training is recommended?

Having any recognized TEFL qualification gives you an excellent chance of getting a pre-arranged job in the big cities. Although the better your qualifications, the higher your earning potential will be.

Common teaching conditions

You will work for around 25 hours, spread over a 5-day working week, although this can vary. Lessons are usually between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., with occasional early mornings and weekends.

Be aware…

It is possible to sneakily bypass visa requirements by teaching English in return for living with families in more remote areas. But Indonesia’s work permit regulations are strict, and doing so could see you deported and barred from the country for life.