Teaching English in Mongolia: Your Ultimate Guide to TEFL Jobs, Schools, Living Costs, and More
Are you ready to explore the rugged landscapes of Mongolia while building a rewarding career in teaching English? Teaching English in Mongolia offers a unique opportunity to experience a fascinating culture, explore its vast and remote terrains, and help students from diverse backgrounds develop their language skills. Whether you are a fresh graduate, an experienced ESL teacher, or simply looking for a career adventure abroad, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about TEFL jobs in Mongolia, teaching requirements, living costs, and more.
Why Teach English in Mongolia?
Have you ever dreamed of teaching in a country where the culture is as rich as its landscapes? Mongolia, a land of ancient traditions and stunning natural beauty, is emerging as an exciting destination for ESL teachers. With its rapidly developing economy and increasing demand for English education, now is the perfect time to explore teaching English in Mongolia.
Why Mongolia?
- Cultural Diversity: Experience a fascinating mix of nomadic traditions and urban life in the capital, Ulaanbaatar.
- Growing Demand for English: The demand for English language skills is booming in Mongolia as the country seeks to strengthen its ties with the international community.
- Adventure Awaits: From the steppes to the Gobi Desert, Mongolia offers stunning landscapes to explore during your time off.
- Affordable Living: With a low cost of living compared to many Western countries, Mongolia allows you to save money while enjoying a high quality of life.
TEFL Jobs in Mongolia: Where to Find Them
1. Types of Schools in Mongolia
When it comes to teaching English in Mongolia, there are several types of schools and institutions to consider. Each offers a different experience, but they all require qualified, dedicated teachers to help students improve their English skills.
a) Private Language Schools
- These are the most common places for ESL teachers to find employment in Mongolia.
- They typically cater to a wide range of students, including children, teenagers, and adults.
- Some well-known private language schools include English World, Wall Street English, and Haas International School.
b) Public Schools
- Teaching English in a public school can be more structured with a traditional curriculum.
- These positions might be harder to secure as they usually require higher qualifications or previous teaching experience.
c) Universities and Colleges
- Higher education institutions also require English instructors, particularly for courses in business, science, and technology.
- These jobs might offer better pay and benefits but often require more experience.
d) International Schools
- International schools in Mongolia are often located in Ulaanbaatar and offer English-language education to expatriates’ children.
- These schools tend to offer competitive salaries and benefits but might have stricter hiring criteria.
What Are the Requirements to Teach English in Mongolia?
2. Teaching Requirements in Mongolia: Do You Have What It Takes?
Before you can start teaching English in Mongolia, there are certain requirements you’ll need to meet. Although these requirements can vary depending on the type of institution you apply to, there are some general standards you should be aware of:
a) Bachelor’s Degree
- A bachelor’s degree is generally required for most teaching positions in Mongolia. It doesn’t necessarily need to be in education or English, but a degree in a related field such as linguistics or TESOL is often preferred.
b) TEFL/TESOL Certification
- A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate is usually required.
- You can find reputable TEFL courses in Mongolia or opt for online courses, such as those offered by TEFL Zone LTD, which provides accredited online TEFL certification recognized globally.
c) Teaching Experience
- While teaching experience is not always mandatory, it can be a plus, especially for positions at universities or international schools.
- Many employers will look for candidates who have at least 1-2 years of teaching experience, but entry-level positions are also available.
d) Native English Speaker (Preferred)
- Many schools prefer hiring native English speakers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, non-native speakers with excellent English proficiency can also find opportunities, particularly if they have a high level of education and a solid teaching background.
e) Criminal Background Check and Health Check
- A clean criminal background check and health clearance are typically required to get a teaching visa in Mongolia.
TEFL in Mongolia: What You Need to Know
3. TEFL Course in Mongolia: Get Certified and Start Teaching
If you’re serious about teaching English in Mongolia, taking a TEFL course is your first step. While you can complete a TEFL course online, completing one in Mongolia can give you a local perspective on teaching English in the country.
Why Take a TEFL Course?
- Certification: A TEFL course equips you with the necessary skills to teach English as a foreign language.
- Cultural Insights: A course based in Mongolia may provide you with valuable cultural insights and practical tips for teaching Mongolian students.
- Job Placement Assistance: Some courses, such as those offered by TEFL Zone LTD, may offer job placement assistance, helping you find a teaching position in Mongolia once you’ve completed the course.
Recommended TEFL Course Providers:
- TEFL Zone LTD: Offers accredited online and in-person TEFL certification programs. They provide job placement support and a detailed guide to teaching English abroad. Check them out here.
- International TEFL Academy: Known for its high-quality training programs and comprehensive job support.
Living in Mongolia: What to Expect
4. Living Costs in Mongolia: Affordable Yet Thrilling
Mongolia, especially in the capital city Ulaanbaatar, offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries. This makes it an attractive destination for ESL teachers looking to save money while exploring a new culture. Here’s an overview of cost of living in Mongolia:
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment in Ulaanbaatar) | $300–$500 per month |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | $50–$100 per month |
| Monthly Groceries | $150–$250 per month |
| Public Transportation | $0.50 per ride |
| Dining Out (Local Restaurant) | $3–$10 per meal |
| Entertainment/Leisure | $20–$50 per month |
Pros of Living in Mongolia:
- Affordable Accommodation: Rent in Ulaanbaatar is very affordable compared to Western cities.
- Public Transportation: Buses and taxis are cheap and widely available.
- Beautiful Outdoors: Mongolia is known for its pristine landscapes and outdoor adventures, such as hiking, horse riding, and exploring the Gobi Desert.
Cons of Living in Mongolia:
- Harsh Winters: The climate can be extreme, with temperatures dropping to -40°C (-40°F) in the winter months.
- Limited Shopping and Dining Options: While Ulaanbaatar has modern amenities, rural areas may have limited options for shopping and dining.
TEFL Jobs in Mongolia: Salaries and Benefits
5. Teacher Salaries in Mongolia: How Much Can You Earn?
The salary for ESL teachers in Mongolia can vary depending on the type of school, your experience, and your qualifications. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect to earn:
| Type of Job | Salary Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Private Language Schools | $800–$1,500 per month |
| Public Schools | $700–$1,200 per month |
| Universities/Colleges | $1,200–$2,000 per month |
| International Schools | $2,000–$3,000 per month |
In addition to salary, many schools offer benefits such as:
- Visa Assistance: Employers typically help with the visa application process.
- Housing Allowance or Provided Accommodation: Some schools provide housing or housing allowances.
- Health Insurance: Many schools offer health insurance as part of the benefits package.
- Flight Reimbursement: Some schools reimburse your flight costs after one year of employment.
Social Life in Mongolia: What’s It Like for Expats?
6. Social Life in Mongolia: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, is home to a growing expatriate community, making it a great place for newcomers to meet people and build friendships. While Mongolia may not have the same level of nightlife as larger cities, you’ll still find plenty of social opportunities.
Popular Activities:
- Explore the City: Ulaanbaatar has modern cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers. You can visit cultural landmarks like the Gandan Monastery and Sukhbaatar Square.
- Outdoor Adventures: Weekend trips to the Gobi Desert, hiking in the Altai Mountains, or experiencing traditional Mongolian festivals like Naadam are popular with both locals and expats.
- Cultural Immersion: Participate in local traditions, try Mongolian food, or learn about the fascinating history of the country.
Conclusion: Ready to Teach English in Mongolia?
Teaching English in Mongolia can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will you be able to make a positive impact on students’ lives by helping them improve their English skills, but you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in a unique culture and stunning landscapes. With a growing demand for English teachers, TEFL jobs in Mongolia offer great opportunities for those looking to
teach abroad.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today by signing up for a TEFL course in Mongolia, researching job opportunities, and packing your bags for an adventure of a lifetime!
For more information, visit TEFL Zone LTD to get your TEFL certification and find the perfect teaching job in Mongolia.
