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Teach English in Estonia

a world of opportunities

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Kirsten Colquhoun
October 31, 2024

Contents

Why teach in Estonia
Where to teach
Requirements and qualifications
Visa requirements
Teaching experience
TEFL certification
Degree requirements
Non-native speakers
Start-up capital
Jobs and programs
How to get a job
Salaries and benefits
Cost of living
Saving opportunities
Life and culture

Teaching English in Estonia might not be on your bucket list right now, but it should be. Demand for English teachers is growing as the popularity of English grows. It is still an undiscovered teaching destination which also means that competition for job opportunities in Estonia is low. 

Why teach English in Estonia?

Simultaneously historical and modern, Estonia is a naturally beautiful country. From Midsummer Festivals to Christmas markets, there’s a lot to keep you busy throughout the year. What can Estonia offer?

  • Comfortable way of life: By European standards, Estonia has a moderate cost of living. As a teacher, you’ll live a very comfortable lifestyle. As it becomes a more well-known destination, the cost of living might rise – so best to visit soon!
  • A digital hub: Colloquially known as E-stonia, Estonia has cemented itself as a technologically advanced country.
  • Professional growth: Teaching in Estonia provides teachers with ample opportunities to develop their teaching skills.

 

Best places to teach English in Estonia

The majority of teaching jobs in Estonia are found in the capital of Tallinn and other major cities. 

Tallinn

A blend of old and new

The Old Town of the capital of Tallinn is a UNESCO-protected area with quaint cobble-stone streets and castles. Alternatively, it has a buzzing nightlife and an interesting restaurant scene. To help your wallet, it offers free public transportation around the city for visitors and residents. 

Tartu

For the culture vulture

Home to the University of Tartu, Tartu is a vibrant student town. Teaching here involves working with motivated and intellectual students. If you enjoy historical vibes and a relaxed scene, Tartu could be for you.

Narva

For the romantic

Narva is on the border with Russia, so teaching here means teaching students who are probably bilingual in Estonian and Russian. Steeped in history, Narva offers a slower pace of life. 

Requirements and qualifications

What are the requirements and qualifications for teaching English in Estonia?

Do you need a visa for teaching English in Estonia?

EU nationals don’t require a visa to work in Estonia. Other nationalities do. It’s preferable to secure a job before entering the country due to visa reasons. 

Do I need teaching experience to teach in Estonia?

Teaching experience is preferred to teach in public schools and international schools. Language centres are often happy to employ new TEFL teachers, provided they have the appropriate qualifications.

Which TEFL certificate do I need to teach in Estonia?

We recommend a Level 5 TEFL certificate to teach in Estonia. A Level 5 TEFL qualification prepares you for all different circumstances of teaching English. Even if you have no background in education or linguistics, a Level 5 TEFL certificate gives you enough grounding in the field of teaching English as a Foreign Language to ensure you can teach effectively from Day 1.

Can I teach English in Estonia with no degree?

You cannot teach in an Estonian public school without a Bachelor’s degree. Degrees in English, education or linguistics are preferred but not essential. Private language schools may be comfortable hiring non-degreed teachers but it depends on the company.

Can non-native speakers teach English in Estonia?

Absolutely, yes. You don’t need to be a native English speaker to teach English in Estonia, but you need to be proficient. If you aren’t a native speaker you need to be able to prove your proficiency through an English test or educational background.

How much start-up capital do I need?

Here are a few costs you need to consider when starting out in Estonia:

  • Accommodation: First month’s rent and security deposit.
  • TEFL certification: A TEFL course can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the length and level of the course and the course provider. 
  • Document fees: Any costs related to certifying and notarising your degree and TEFL certificate.
  • Flight ticket: Variable. 
  • Visa application: The cost of a visa is subject to your home country. You can expect to pay between $100 and $150.
  • Living expenses: You will need one month’s worth of start-up capital of about Kr 14,000 ($1,000).

Jobs and programs in Estonia

Types of teaching jobs in Estonia

Teaching job opportunities in Estonia can be found in public schools, private language schools and international schools, teaching from kindergarten to adults.

Public schools

To teach in a public school, teachers need a Bachelor’s degree. Public schools in Estonia offer lower salaries than other teaching situations but involve small classes and include benefits such as health insurance and paid holidays.

Private schools

Private schools offer good salaries but require higher qualifications. Private schools cater to Estonian students as well as expatriate students. 

Private language schools

There are a number of private language schools around Estonia, offering General English lessons and Business English. Teachers at language schools can teach in the afternoons and evenings, and possibly weekends.

International  schools

International schools offer bilingual education to their students. Teachers at international schools can expect generous salaries and benefits packages.

Private lessons

Some teachers choose to teach private students to supplement their income. Lessons can take place in a social space like a library or cafe, or at the student’s home.

Online

Teaching English online is another flexible way to earn a bit more cash.

How to get a job teaching English in Estonia

Online websites are the most common avenue to finding teaching jobs in Estonia, especially if you aren’t blessed with an EU passport.

Salaries and benefits in Estonia

What is the average teaching English salary in Estonia?

  • The average salary of a TEFL teacher in Estonia ranges between €1,500 – €3,500 ($1,600 – $3,800) a month.
  • Private language schools pay €16 – €32 ($18 – $36) an hour.
  • For private lessons, TEFL teachers usually charge €15 – €30 ($16 – $32) an hour.
  • Online teachers charge €20 – €25 ($22 – $27) an hour – more if you are highly qualified and experienced.

What are the common benefits for teachers in Estonia?

Teachers in Estonia are usually offered accommodation in an apartment or shared housing situation. Teacher contracts can also give health insurance and paid holidays.

Cost of living in Estonia

The cost of living in Estonia is moderate compared to other European countries. 

What is the cost of living in Estonia?

Here are some of the usual costs of living in Estonia:

Accommodation

  • A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre: Kr9,400 ($650) a month
  • A one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre: Kr6,900 ($475) a month

Utilities

  • Electricity, water, and gas: Kr4,000 ($275) a month

Food and groceries

  • Monthly shop: Kr5,000 ($350)  
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: Kr185 ($13)

Transport

  • Monthly travel pass: Kr460 ($32) 
  • One-way ticket: Kr28 ($2)

Internet 

  • Unlimited: Kr430 ($30)

Entertainment

  • Gym, cinema, clubbing: Kr1,100 ($150) a month

Saving money in Estonia

Here are some tips for saving in Estonia:

  • If you’re in Tallinn, use public transport – it’s free for registered citizens!
  • Make use of supermarket loyalty cards for discounts and special offers.
  • Second-hand shopping is common in Estonia and a great way to shop sustainably for clothes, shoes and household items.
  • Choose accommodation in a reasonably-priced neighbourhood. Double-check the heating situation and rather opt for an energy-efficient apartment to save on energy costs in the long winter.

Life and culture in Estonia

  • Estonia is a great base for travelling Europe, being a short ferry trip from Sweden and Finland, and a bus trip from Germany
  • Almost 50% of the country is covered in forest. Estonia’s national parks are a true gem for nature lovers, hikers and campers. 
  • Estonians are known for being quiet and shy. You can expect your students to be reserved until they get to know you a bit better.
  • Common courtesy is a must in Estonia. A firm handshake and eye contact are expected when greeting.
  • Teachers are highly respected and students are generally well-behaved.

Start your teaching journey with a certified TEFL course provider!

Contents

Teaching English in Estonia might not be on your bucket list right now, but it should be. Demand for English teachers is growing as the popularity of English grows. It is still an undiscovered teaching destination which also means that competition for job opportunities in Estonia is low. 

Why teach English in Estonia?

Simultaneously historical and modern, Estonia is a naturally beautiful country. From Midsummer Festivals to Christmas markets, there’s a lot to keep you busy throughout the year. What can Estonia offer?

  • Comfortable way of life: By European standards, Estonia has a moderate cost of living. As a teacher, you’ll live a very comfortable lifestyle. As it becomes a more well-known destination, the cost of living might rise – so best to visit soon!
  • A digital hub: Colloquially known as E-stonia, Estonia has cemented itself as a technologically advanced country.
  • Professional growth: Teaching in Estonia provides teachers with ample opportunities to develop their teaching skills.

 

Best places to teach English in Estonia

The majority of teaching jobs in Estonia are found in the capital of Tallinn and other major cities. 

Tallinn

A blend of old and new

The Old Town of the capital of Tallinn is a UNESCO-protected area with quaint cobble-stone streets and castles. Alternatively, it has a buzzing nightlife and an interesting restaurant scene. To help your wallet, it offers free public transportation around the city for visitors and residents. 

Tartu

For the culture vulture

Home to the University of Tartu, Tartu is a vibrant student town. Teaching here involves working with motivated and intellectual students. If you enjoy historical vibes and a relaxed scene, Tartu could be for you.

Narva

For the romantic

Narva is on the border with Russia, so teaching here means teaching students who are probably bilingual in Estonian and Russian. Steeped in history, Narva offers a slower pace of life. 

Requirements and qualifications

What are the requirements and qualifications for teaching English in Estonia?

Do you need a visa for teaching English in Estonia?

EU nationals don’t require a visa to work in Estonia. Other nationalities do. It’s preferable to secure a job before entering the country due to visa reasons. 

Do I need teaching experience to teach in Estonia?

Teaching experience is preferred to teach in public schools and international schools. Language centres are often happy to employ new TEFL teachers, provided they have the appropriate qualifications.

Which TEFL certificate do I need to teach in Estonia?

We recommend a Level 5 TEFL certificate to teach in Estonia. A Level 5 TEFL qualification prepares you for all different circumstances of teaching English. Even if you have no background in education or linguistics, a Level 5 TEFL certificate gives you enough grounding in the field of teaching English as a Foreign Language to ensure you can teach effectively from Day 1.

Can I teach English in Estonia with no degree?

You cannot teach in an Estonian public school without a Bachelor’s degree. Degrees in English, education or linguistics are preferred but not essential. Private language schools may be comfortable hiring non-degreed teachers but it depends on the company.

Can non-native speakers teach English in Estonia?

Absolutely, yes. You don’t need to be a native English speaker to teach English in Estonia, but you need to be proficient. If you aren’t a native speaker you need to be able to prove your proficiency through an English test or educational background.

How much start-up capital do I need?

Here are a few costs you need to consider when starting out in Estonia:

  • Accommodation: First month’s rent and security deposit.
  • TEFL certification: A TEFL course can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the length and level of the course and the course provider. 
  • Document fees: Any costs related to certifying and notarising your degree and TEFL certificate.
  • Flight ticket: Variable. 
  • Visa application: The cost of a visa is subject to your home country. You can expect to pay between $100 and $150.
  • Living expenses: You will need one month’s worth of start-up capital of about Kr 14,000 ($1,000).

Jobs and programs in Estonia

Types of teaching jobs in Estonia

Teaching job opportunities in Estonia can be found in public schools, private language schools and international schools, teaching from kindergarten to adults.

Public schools

To teach in a public school, teachers need a Bachelor’s degree. Public schools in Estonia offer lower salaries than other teaching situations but involve small classes and include benefits such as health insurance and paid holidays.

Private schools

Private schools offer good salaries but require higher qualifications. Private schools cater to Estonian students as well as expatriate students. 

Private language schools

There are a number of private language schools around Estonia, offering General English lessons and Business English. Teachers at language schools can teach in the afternoons and evenings, and possibly weekends.

International  schools

International schools offer bilingual education to their students. Teachers at international schools can expect generous salaries and benefits packages.

Private lessons

Some teachers choose to teach private students to supplement their income. Lessons can take place in a social space like a library or cafe, or at the student’s home.

Online

Teaching English online is another flexible way to earn a bit more cash.

How to get a job teaching English in Estonia

Online websites are the most common avenue to finding teaching jobs in Estonia, especially if you aren’t blessed with an EU passport.

Salaries and benefits in Estonia

What is the average teaching English salary in Estonia?

  • The average salary of a TEFL teacher in Estonia ranges between €1,500 – €3,500 ($1,600 – $3,800) a month.
  • Private language schools pay €16 – €32 ($18 – $36) an hour.
  • For private lessons, TEFL teachers usually charge €15 – €30 ($16 – $32) an hour.
  • Online teachers charge €20 – €25 ($22 – $27) an hour – more if you are highly qualified and experienced.

What are the common benefits for teachers in Estonia?

Teachers in Estonia are usually offered accommodation in an apartment or shared housing situation. Teacher contracts can also give health insurance and paid holidays.

Cost of living in Estonia

The cost of living in Estonia is moderate compared to other European countries. 

What is the cost of living in Estonia?

Here are some of the usual costs of living in Estonia:

Accommodation

  • A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre: Kr9,400 ($650) a month
  • A one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre: Kr6,900 ($475) a month

Utilities

  • Electricity, water, and gas: Kr4,000 ($275) a month

Food and groceries

  • Monthly shop: Kr5,000 ($350)  
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: Kr185 ($13)

Transport

  • Monthly travel pass: Kr460 ($32) 
  • One-way ticket: Kr28 ($2)

Internet 

  • Unlimited: Kr430 ($30)

Entertainment

  • Gym, cinema, clubbing: Kr1,100 ($150) a month

Saving money in Estonia

Here are some tips for saving in Estonia:

  • If you’re in Tallinn, use public transport – it’s free for registered citizens!
  • Make use of supermarket loyalty cards for discounts and special offers.
  • Second-hand shopping is common in Estonia and a great way to shop sustainably for clothes, shoes and household items.
  • Choose accommodation in a reasonably-priced neighbourhood. Double-check the heating situation and rather opt for an energy-efficient apartment to save on energy costs in the long winter.

Life and culture in Estonia

  • Estonia is a great base for travelling Europe, being a short ferry trip from Sweden and Finland, and a bus trip from Germany
  • Almost 50% of the country is covered in forest. Estonia’s national parks are a true gem for nature lovers, hikers and campers. 
  • Estonians are known for being quiet and shy. You can expect your students to be reserved until they get to know you a bit better.
  • Common courtesy is a must in Estonia. A firm handshake and eye contact are expected when greeting.
  • Teachers are highly respected and students are generally well-behaved.

Start your teaching journey with a certified TEFL course provider!

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