Teaching English in Nicaragua

Nicaragua Overview

Main Cities/Areas	Salary range (USD/month)
Granada, Managua	$500 – $800

One of the safer Central American nations, Nicaragua is a beautiful country of superb volcanoes and other natural scenery.

The level of demand for native speakers is rather low but most TEFL-qualified teachers can find job openings. Unfortunately, TEFL salaries are relatively low and despite very low living costs you certainly won’t be able to save much, if at all.

As in most Latin American countries, the students are lively and sociable and therefore a pleasure to teach. If you are experienced, persistent and hard-working then you may be lucky to find one of the few well-paid positions, such as those at local universities and bilingual schools.

For the majority, however, teaching English in Nicaragua is a fun experience for a short period of time but certainly not a serious career option.

Typical Requirements and Tips

Degree?	TEFL Certification?	Experience?
No	Yes	No

It is much better to find a job before arriving in Nicaragua but in reality, the vast majority of newly-qualified TEFL teachers looking for starter-jobs arrive on tourist visas. If you have a degree and some experience you should be able to find work at local universities.

Given the low salaries, you may need to supplement your income with extra, private one-to-one tuition. Contacts are essential and found via word of mouth and through local adverts and websites. Bring as much teaching material with you as you can because resources may be very thin on the ground.

American and Canadian teachers may be at a slight advantage. Those who can speak Spanish will find integration much easier.

Your employer is responsible for obtaining your work permit. However, in reality, many work illegally. Despite the flexibility this allows, this is not recommended for obvious reasons. Top employers will actually go through the troublesome process of making your employment legal. Without this, you are always at risk of being deported.

The cost of living in Nicaragua is very low but expect to have to share accommodation with other teachers, to begin with.

You should expect to be paid on a monthly basis. Make sure you actually have a contract or else you may have problems when it comes to payday.

Fun Fact About Nicaragua

One interesting fact about Nicaragua is that it is the largest country in Central America, both in terms of land area and population. Its diverse geography encompasses volcanoes, lakes, lush rainforests, and picturesque beaches, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts. This rich natural environment has also influenced renowned Nicaraguan writers, such as Rubén Darío, who is considered the father of modern Spanish literature and a key figure in the Latin American literary movement known as Modernismo.

Comparable Alternatives

Looking for something a little more laid back and on the rise like Nicaragua? We’d recommend also checking out:

1. Costa Rica

Similar to Nicaragua, Costa Rica is located in Central America and offers beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It is known for its eco-tourism, adventure activities, and vibrant culture.

2. Guatemala

Another Central American country, Guatemala shares similarities with Nicaragua in terms of its indigenous Mayan heritage, colorful markets, and archaeological sites. It offers a rich cultural experience, stunning landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

3. Colombia

While located in South America, Colombia shares some similarities with Nicaragua in terms of its warm climate, stunning coastline, and diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to rainforests. It offers a vibrant culture, historical cities, and a variety of outdoor activities.