Egypt Overview
| Main Cities/Areas | Salary range (USD/month) |
| Cairo | $800 β $2500 |
Far fewer tourists have visited Egypt since the recent revolution and it is likely that many TEFL teachers have also been put off by political instability. If you can deal with the fact that situations can change rapidly in this fascinating country then it could be the place for you β although bear in mind that conservatism is sadly on the rise. There are still plenty of opportunities out there and the experienced can earn a very good salary. Students are generally very motivated and keen to learn because their English skills will be of such great use in their careers.
Typical Requirements and Tips
| Degree? | TEFL Certification? | Experience? |
| Yes | Yes | 1-2 Years |
Experienced teachers and examiners are advised to look for openings at the British Council as these are by far the best-paid positions for those without a Master’s Degree.
Those with a Master’s Degree are likely to find very well-paid work, so if you wish to make Egypt a permanent home it would be a good idea to get an MA TESOL first (some universities offer a distance learning course).
Working illegally on tourist visas has become much more difficult since the βrevolutionβ, although you may arrive on one, you should make sure that a proper work permit is obtained as soon as possible.
Work permits must be arranged to work legally. This can take several weeks and must be done in conjunction with your employer.
The cost of living in Cairo is moderate. The salaries go a reasonable way to reflecting the cost of living but teachers without previous teaching experience may struggle to afford a decent apartment.
Pros of Teaching in Egypt
- Considerable demand for English tuition
- Friendly, eager students
- Less competition from other TEFL teachers recently
Cons of Teaching in Egypt
- An unstable nation at present
- Poor pay for those without previous teaching experience
- The cultural differences associated with living in a Muslim-majority nation may be a shock to the inexperienced and conservatism looks set to rise here
