What Salary Will You Earn Teaching Abroad in Spain?

Spain is one of the world’s most sought out destinations, not just for travelers but also for teaching English abroad. With stunning beaches, storied cities, and drool-worthy dishes, teaching English in Spain can offer an immersive European experience. 

But, what about pay? Read more to find out what salary you’ll earn teaching English in Spain, and the steps you can take to increase your earning potential! 

Generally, English teachers in Spain can earn around $800-$2,000 USD per month depending on a number of factors. While experience and qualifications play a huge part in the teacher salary in Spain, it also matters what type of school you’re working in. 

• Public school: English teachers at public schools in Spain earn less than at other schools in Spain. Many of these positions are part-time language assistant jobs consisting of 12-20 hours of teaching per week, with notable programs such as NALCAP, BEDA, Meddeas, or UCETAM.
• Private school: Private schools in Spain offer a similar or slightly higher earning potential, and you’re more likely to find positions in larger cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and more. 
• International school: International school teachers are required to have either a CELTA, Master’s degree, or teaching license from home. Due to the higher requirements, teachers can earn a greater salary, but the workload will also be more intense. 
• Private tutoring: Depending on the details of your job contract, you may be able to tutor students privately outside of the classroom. Whether you teach adults Business English or students who want to study abroad, there’s great earning potential for private English tutoring, with hourly rates varying between $15-$25 USD per hour. 

Many factors will influence your saving potential while teaching English in Spain, such as your job type, location, and lifestyle. Most teachers' salaries in Spain don’t lead to substantial saving potential, but it allows you to break even and sustain a fulfilling lifestyle teaching in Spain. However, if you’re frugal and engage in private or online tutoring, you can increase your saving potential. 

There are many ways you can find TEFL jobs in Spain, whether you’re an experienced teacher looking to apply directly to schools or a first-time traveler who requires pre-departure and in-country support. 

• Government programs: Many government programs, like NALCAP, BEDA, Meddeas, or UCETAM offer language assistant positions. While the teaching salary in Spain for these positions are typically lower, government programs often provide guaranteed job placement, excellent support, and a monthly stipend. 
• Teach abroad programs: Teach abroad programs do most of the heavy lifting for you, from providing TEFL certification, guaranteed job placement, visa support, in-country orientations, and more. Beginner travelers or those who are too busy to commit too much time into their job search can benefit from teach abroad programs.
• Job boards: If you’d rather forego a government or third-party program, consider applying to schools directly on job boards. From Go Overseas’ job board to Dave’s ESL Cafe, there are many TEFL jobs that you can find online.

Read more: How to Get a Job Teaching English in Spain

While it’s possible to find TEFL jobs as a beginner teacher, there are many steps towards increasing your employability and English teaching salary in Spain. 

1. Get TEFL certified: Getting TEFL certified is the first step to increasing your employability as a teacher, as employers will know that you understand common obstacles in an ESL classroom. While online 120 hour TEFL courses are accepted, employers are particularly drawn to those who gain in-person TEFL training and practicum experience. 
2. Gain relevant experience: Whether you can find summer camp jobs or volunteer positions in the form of childcare or babysitting, any experience of working with children is invaluable. This shows employers that you’re well-natured and have the personality to communicate with children.  
3. Prepare ahead of time: Gathering documents and recommendations ahead of time will place you in a much better position for teaching in Spain. If you’re a non-EU worker, obtaining a work permit can take time, so be sure to plan ahead. 

Read more: Requirements to Teach English Abroad

Teaching abroad requires much consideration, so here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to teaching English in Spain.

Is it hard to get a TEFL job in Spain?

It depends. While there is high TEFL job availability in Spain, schools may be reluctant to hire teachers outside the EU due to work permit difficulties. However, there are many government and teach abroad programs that make it easier for non-EU teachers to work in Spain. 

Can I get a job in Spain if I only speak English?

Yes! In fact, many employers prefer that TEFL teachers only use English in the classroom to provide full language immersion. However, some government programs may require teachers to have some degree of Spanish language skills.

Can I teach English in Spain with TEFL?

Yes, a TEFL course will increase your employability and prospects when it comes to teaching English in Spain. 

How much money can you save teaching English in Spain?

The salary for teaching English in Spain isn’t as high as other countries. However, the cost of living is low in smaller cities and towns, which allows for better saving potential especially if you teach private lessons.

Are English teachers in demand in Spain?

English teachers are in demand in Spain due to the language requirements for workers at international business and in the tourism & hospitality industry.

Is there an age limit to teach English in Spain?

Generally, there aren’t any age restrictions to teach English in Spain. However, degree-necessary TEFL jobs require teachers to be 21+ years old and some programs restrict the upper age limit to 60 years old.

Although Spain isn’t known as the highest paying country for teaching English abroad, it can still provide an immersive cultural experience and valuable career development. Additionally, the demand for English allows for an opportunity to earn through private tuition outside your regular schedule. Whether you teach in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, or somewhere else, teaching English in Spain can provide a life-changing experience.

Read more about teaching English abroad: 

• The 7 Best Cities for Teaching Abroad in Spain
• What are the Qualifications to Teach Abroad in Spain
• All You Need to Know About Work Culture as a Teacher in Spain
• What You Need to Know Before Teaching Abroad in Spain