Teaching in Germany

Options for teaching in Germany

Germany has a number of international schools offering positions for fluent English speakers. Teaching jobs in Germany are competitive, but are available at many levels, from young learners to universities. Teachers who wish to work in Germany’s international schools should hold a valid teaching license and generally have relevant teaching experience.

Salary and benefits when teaching in Germany

Teachers in Germany can expect to earn a comfortable living wage. While housing is not provided in all positions, teachers will receive assistance and resources to help with finding accommodation. Apartments in Germany’s larger cities can be expensive, but other costs – such as groceries – tend to be very reasonable, helping to balance out the expense.

Teach in Germany – Hiring

Hiring for teachers in Germany can occur year-round, although the German school year begins in late summer and ends from mid-June to July. Summer break lasts around six weeks, although the school year contains four or five shorter breaks of around one to two weeks. Exact dates vary from state to state.

Qualifications needed to teach in Germany

International schools in Germany usually require teachers to hold a valid teaching license in their home state or country, as well as previous classroom teaching experience. University requirements can vary, though experienced licensed teachers are preferred.

Visas to teach in Germany

Teachers are responsible for preparing and submitting their own visa applications. As with most EU countries, non-EU residents do face more of a challenge when applying for a work visa, although it is certainly possible to receive one. Applicants will need a passport, two passport-sized photos, an employment contract or letter of intent, and criminal record check, in addition to the application form and any applicable fees.

Today’s Germany is diverse, open, and progressive. Located in the heart of Europe, Germany has become one of Europe’s most popular options for both students and foreign workers. As the home of Einstein, Beethoven, and the original printing press, the country’s history makes for fascinating exploration, and its modern cities and infrastructure make that exploration simple and enjoyable.

Cost of living in Germany

Teachers working in international schools will often find themselves in larger urban centers such as Berlin or Frankfurt. As with many major cities, rent can be costly, although Germany’s overall cost of living is generally very affordable. Spending habits, of course, vary by the individual, but most teachers find it easy to save enough money to enjoy the many social and cultural options available.

Housing for teachers in Germany

Teachers are given assistance finding accommodation if housing is not provided for them. Apartments in Germany’s many cities are not difficult to find, but teachers should be prepared to budget appropriately. It’s recommended that teachers try to save enough to bring at least one to two months of living expenses before moving to Germany.

Things for teachers to do in Germany

Teachers in Germany can enjoy nearly any form of entertainment, from the refinement of the opera to underground clubs in Berlin. Museums and other cultural centers are ubiquitous and affordable. Because of Germany’s engrossing history, the country offers many enriching cultural sites and activities.

Famous for its beer culture, Germany offers no shortage of bars and nightlife. Berlin, in particular, now hosts some of the world’s most cutting-edge music scenes. In addition, restaurants across the country offer a variety of cuisines, including plenty of Germany’s own delicious and filling foods.

Germany Travel

From diverse Berlin, to fashionable Dusseldorf, to beautiful Munich, Germany boasts a number of world-class cities. Teachers living in Germany will find that traveling throughout the country is made simple thanks to Germany’s efficient railway system. The country’s famed Autobahn (highway) tempts drivers from around the world who wish to drive through its many sections free of speed limits.

Berlin, with its famed opera, vibrant nightlife, and sites such as the Brandenburg Gate and remnants of the Berlin Wall, is a traveler’s dream. However, despite the number of bustling cities, the nation is also famed for its beautiful countryside. From the shores of the Caspian Sea to romantic Bavaria, travelers can hike, swim, or ski, depending on the season.

Many schools in Germany require teachers to possess a Teaching English as a Foreign Language certification. An OISE TEFL Certification from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Education OISE can help you become a leading candidate for some of the top teaching jobs in Germany.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in Germany.