In this article, we will look at the 10 countries with high demand for English teachers. We have also discussed the dominance of English language in the US and Europe in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 25 Countries with High Demand for English Teachers.
10. Panama
GDP Growth Rank: 18
English Proficiency Rank: 42
Average Rank: 30
To teach English in Panama, a TEFL certificate is required, while a 4-year degree is preferred but not mandatory. Native English proficiency is expected. Average monthly salary ranges from $900 to $1,300. Panama offers natural beauty without heavy tourism and job opportunities tend to come up in February-March and July-August. Teachers have to cover their airfare and housing. They typically reside in apartments shared with colleagues, often vacated by former teachers.
9. Kazakhstan
GDP Growth Rank: 39
English Proficiency Rank: 10
Average Rank: 24.5
Teaching positions in Kazakhstan are available in both public schools and private international institutions, with notable opportunities offered through programs like Teach Away, particularly at Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools. These roles often come with competitive compensation packages, including generous salaries and benefits such as housing, utilities, and airfare coverage. The academic year typically runs from September to June, with hiring processes usually taking place during the preceding summer months.
8. Uzbekistan
GDP Growth Rank: 24
English Proficiency Rank: 21
Average Rank: 22.5
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the demand for English teachers across Central Asia, including Uzbekistan. Historically, Russian was the second most prevalent language, alongside Uzbek as the primary tongue. However, a major shift has occurred, with a growing number of individuals now expressing a keen interest in acquiring proficiency in the English language. Out of 113 countries ranked in the English proficiency index by EF, Uzbekistan ranks 92nd, confirming that it has a low proficiency.
7. Cambodia
GDP Growth Rank: 21
English Proficiency Rank: 16
Average Rank: 18.5
To teach English in Cambodia, a TEFL certificate is required, though a 4-year degree and native English proficiency are preferred. Despite not mandating a degree or native fluency, possessing these qualifications enhances job prospects. Cambodia’s English teaching market is rapidly growing, offering salaries ranging from $700 to $1,000 monthly.
6. Benin
GDP Growth Rank: 23
English Proficiency Rank: 9
Average Rank: 16
As the country seeks to strengthen its ties with English-speaking countries and attract foreign investment, there is a growing emphasis on English language education to meet these demands.
5. Ivory Coast
GDP Growth Rank: 13
English Proficiency Rank: 7
Average Rank: 10
The rise of tourism and the desire for Ivorians to access global opportunities contribute to the demand. Furthermore, English proficiency enhances employability, particularly in sectors like hospitality, technology, and education. Consequently, there’s a growing recognition of English as a crucial skill for personal and professional development.
4. Rwanda
GDP Growth Rank: 12
English Proficiency Rank: 5
Average Rank: 8.5
Demand for English in Rwanda is increasing due to its role in global communication, trade, and education. Rwanda’s focus on economic development and integration into the global market necessitates proficiency in English.
3. Tajikistan
GDP Growth Rank: 10
English Proficiency Rank: 2
Average Rank: 7
According to Education First’s latest report, Tajikistan ranks 112th out of 113 countries in English language proficiency, with only the Democratic Republic of the Congo trailing behind. Despite claims of improvement by Tajikistan’s Ministry of Education and Science, outdated teaching methods persist, mainly focusing on text translation and limited use of technology. Modern educators advocate for interactive techniques and technology integration.
2. Democratic Republic of the Congo
GDP Growth Rank: 9
English Proficiency Rank: 1
Average Rank: 5
We all know that English proficiency enhances opportunities for higher education and employment, particularly in sectors such as tourism, business, and NGOs. Moreover, the DRC’s rich linguistic diversity, with French as the official language and numerous local languages, creates a need for English as a bridge language for communication within the country and with English-speaking regions. These factors converge to fuel the high demand for English teachers in the DRC.
It is also the country with the lowest English proficiency in the world, ranking 113th in the English proficiency index by EF.
1.Libya
GDP Growth Rank: 3
English Proficiency Rank: 4
Average Rank: 3.5
Libya’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts tend to prioritize English as a key language for development and reintegration into the global community. Additionally, Libya’s oil-rich economy attracts multinational companies, creating a need for English-speaking professionals. Lastly, the country’s youth seek English proficiency for academic and employment opportunities abroad.
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