How to Begin Teaching in Hungary

Hungary Could be Seen as the Country of Architecture

English is now in high demand in Hungary.

Hungary could be seen as the country of architecture. From the medieval towns, the Baroque churches, the neoclassical public buildings and the art nouveau influences, Hungary has it all. Budapest is one of the crowning jewels of Europe, and few visitors are able to leave without feeling its magic. This country has its own unique character, which might explain why there are so many artists, musicians and writers. This gives the country a rich art scene. Hungarians also enjoy relaxation, generally in thermal springs. Some Hungarians visit to socialise and relax, while others partake of the waters for medicinal purposes. Hungarian food and wine is also excellent, with Badacsony and Vallány wines being worth a try.

Although Hungary has turned its attentions to the West, after the collapse of the Warsaw Pact in the 90s, those from the West might still meet resistance from some of the locals here. Some remain sceptical of Europe and the EU. Hungary joined the EU in 2004, which means that there has been large foreign investment and ownership in the country. This foreign investment has increased the demand for foreign languages, because many multi-nationals are relocating their companies to the country, due to the favourable business conditions and taxes. This means that English is needed to communicate. Some of the hard economic conditions in the country are also driving young Hungarians abroad.

Teaching Opportunities

This means that English is now in high demand in Hungary. The quality, now expected from those teaching in EFL, has risen. It is extremely difficult to find legal employment without a degree and a 120-hour TEFL certificate. It is also extremely hard to find a full-time position in the country. This means that teachers are either working several part-time jobs or have self-employed status. Self-employment means that you will need to set up a company, which is quite possible to do, and then invoice your school or clients for the work you do. The main classes that are in demand are young learners, general English, and business English (either one-to-ones or in-house).

Finding job opportunities from outside the country also presents a challenge. Therefore, you need to come to Hungary to look for work. You can research the names and addresses of schools online, before leaving your home country. When you arrive in the country, you can then either visit these schools or call for an interview. This means that you will need to pay for your own flight or transport costs to the country, and have at least 4-6 weeks’ worth of savings to see you through. Hungarian students, however, are a delight to teach. They are engaged, motivated, hardworking and have engaging personalities.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement	Typical Contract Length	Peak Hiring Seasons	Visa Info	Typical Students	Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency	Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

BA/BS required

12 months

All year round

Work visa in advance

Business professionals, children

150,000 – 250,000 HUF (420 - 700 GBP)

Degree Requirement

BA/BS required

Typical Contract Length

12 months

Peak Hiring Seasons

All year round

Visa Info

Work visa in advance

Typical Students

Business professionals, children

Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency

150,000 – 250,000 HUF (420 - 700 GBP)

Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

150,000 – 250,000 HUF (420 - 700 GBP)

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