Learn what qualifications you need to teach English in Argentina, including education, citizenship, visa, and age requirements.
Dream of dancing the Tango until dawn? Does the idea of the perfect steak and glass of Argentinian Tempranillo from a Parillo make you want to jump on the next plane? And don’t get me started on the wonders of Patagonia…
Argentina is a wonderful destination with rich European culture mixed in with Latin American flavor. Now, how can you make your trip last longer so you can REALLY experience the life of an Argentine? Well, become an English teacher of course! Argentina boasts 6-month and 12-month contracts and the requirements may surprise you!
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an English Teacher in Argentina?
To teach English in Argentina, you will need a TEFL certificate. A 4-year college degree isn't required but is preferred. Native English proficiency is also expected to find a TEFL job. The average salary for an English teacher in Argentina is about $600 - $1,100 USD per month.
Requirements for Teaching English in Argentina
Now let's look at the following requirements to teach English in Argentina in detail:
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You must be fluent in the English language
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You must be a trained English teacher
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You must meet the age requirement
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You must have enough cash to cover start-up costs
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You must have a sense of adventure
1. You Must Be Fluent in the English Language
Argentina has English teachers flock from all over Latin America and the globe. You are not required to be a native English speaker in order to work and be a successful English teacher there. Your likely competition may be South Americans, Europeans, Argentines, and of course, native English speakers from around the globe.
Bring your fluency of the English language with you and your ability to teach and you are golden.
Fluency matched with your TEFL certification is key.
2. You Must be a Trained English Teacher
Can you Teach English in Argentina without a Degree?
You don't need a college degree to teach English in Argentina. Fluency in the English language and an accredited TEFL certification are what employers want first and foremost.
You typically will not be asked about your degree but you will always be asked about your training and your TEFL certification. Getting TEFL certified with an accredited and reputable organization will give you the right training to teach English in Argentina.
3. You Must Meet the Age Requirement
English teachers in Argentina range from 18 years old all the way into their 60s. You will not find age discrimination here for being too young or too old. It’s a market where teachers are needed and teachers are hired for their ability in speaking and teaching the English language. You might have the feeling this country seems like it’s for everyone – it really is!
4. You Must Have Enough Cash to Cover Start-up Costs
When moving to Argentina, we recommend that you bring anywhere between $1,600 - $2,200 USD with you. In Argentina they only hire face-to-face, so you will have to move down there with enough money to be comfortable until your first paycheck.
If you move down to Argentina during the hiring seasons of February/March and July/August, you should land a position within a week or two. English teachers usually get paid monthly so you will have four weeks after you accept a job to wait for your first paycheck. Your start-up costs reflect six weeks of spending money and accommodations in Argentina.
Cash is king in Argentina, so try to bring as many bills as possible into the country. Check out what I mean by reading about the Blue Market. Once you have this money saved plan on what hiring season you want to pick and book your ticket!
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5. You Must Have a Sense of Adventure
Argentina is not for the faint of heart. If you are considering Buenos Aires, it’s a very different culture than most English-speaking cities. You want your 7 am latte…Nope, coffee shops open at 10 or 11 am. You want to eat your meal at 6 pm, sure, but the restaurant does not get packed until 9 pm.
It’s a late-night culture and a relaxed vibe even in a bustling city. You’ll also have to get used to the fact of traveling to Uruguay every three months via ferry to renew your visa. Cash is king in Argentina and you’ll be teaching English under the table and renewing your tourist visa every three months in Uruguay.
Call an admissions advisor here to get the scoop on this. If Tango, Tempranillo, and Latin America meet Europe in a wonderful mash-up that appeals to you, then you are Argentina-bound!
Go Further:Posted In: Teach English in Argentina, No Degree, Teach English in Latin America, Teach English Abroad Visas, Teach English in Argentina Must Read
Want to Learn More About Teaching English Abroad & Online?
Request a free brochure or call 773-634-9900 to speak with an expert advisor about all aspects of TEFL certification and teaching English abroad or online, including the hiring process, salaries, visas, TEFL class options, job placement assistance and more.
