If you’re planning to spend more than three months working in Europe, search for a job well in advance. International placement agencies are often the easiest way to find employment abroad, especially for those interested in teaching English. Although often only available to college students, internships are a good way to segue into working abroad; although they are often un- or underpaid, many say the experience is well worth it. Be wary of advertisements for companies claiming to be able get you a job abroad for a fee—often the same listings are available online or in newspapers. Some organizations include:
While some elite private American schools offer competitive salaries, let’s just say that teaching jobs abroad pay more in personal satisfaction and emotional fulfillment than in actual cash. Perhaps this is why volunteering as a teacher instead of getting paid is a popular option. Even then, teachers often receive some sort of a daily stipend to help with living expenses. For countries that have a low cost of living, even though salaries at private schools may be low compared to those in the US, the low cost of living makes it much more profitable. In almost all cases, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree to be a full-fledged teacher, although college undergraduates can often get summer positions teaching or tutoring. Many schools require teachers to have a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate. You may still be able to find a teaching job without one, but certified teachers often find higher-paying jobs.
Those who can’t speak the local language don’t have to give up their dream of teaching, either. Private schools usually hire native English speakers for English-immersion classrooms where no local language is spoken. (Teachers in public schools will more likely work in both English and the local language.) Placement agencies or university fellowship programs are the best resources for finding teaching jobs. The alternative is to contact schools directly or to try your luck once you arrive in Europe. In the latter case, the best time to look is several weeks before the start of the school year. The following organizations are extremely helpful in placing teachers in Europe.
Au pairs are typically women aged 18-27 who work as live-in nannies, caring for children and doing light housework in foreign countries in exchange for room, board, and a small spending allowance or stipend. One perk of the job is that it allows you to get to know Europe without the high expenses of traveling. Drawbacks, however, can include mediocre pay and long hours. Average weekly pay will vary depending on location. Much of the au pair experience depends on the family with which you are placed. The agencies below are a good starting point for looking for employment.
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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