Teaching English in Egypt

It was in the 1880s that Egypt was first introduced to the English language on a large scale as the nation was effectively brought under British control. The country managed to gain independence in 1952 and since then the language has been popular among the masses, being taught in public schools and finding use in several fields of the economy and in education. With a population of over 80 million to boast alongside a large middle class, Egypt has extensive interaction with the outside English-speaking world at large. As a result, there is a strong need for instruction in this language though there has been considerable shrinking of the market due to the nation experiencing economic and political turbulence is recent times.

Cairo and Alexandria are the two cities where most of the jobs happen to be concentrated. Crowded and colorful centers of culture and history, these two places are highly sought-after. Other cities such as Swan, Mansoura, Ismailiyah, and Damanhur have far limited opportunities. There are more than 100 international schools and language institutes in the country.

First-timers will usually find employment by giving an in-person interview upon their arrival in Egypt, but they will have to bear the cost of their housing and airfare. There is a great deal of variance in terms of the wages offered but a comfortable lifestyle is not beyond reach for the English teachers thanks to the typically low cost of living. An average work week consists of 20-25 hours of work, leaving plenty of time for those who wish to travel and explore. Many also take on private students in order to earn some extra money. Sharing accommodation with other teachers or expatriates is a common practice.

Some with more experience and advanced credentials as well as a TEFL/TESOL certification may get a chance for advance interview while getting additional benefits such as housing allowance and health insurance. Such jobs can be found only in a highly competitive market.

For most schools, employment is given preferably to those English teachers having a BA and certainly a TEFL certification.