For many EFL positions in public schools a degree is not essential. A strong EFL qualification, however, may ensure that you not only find a position but are able to negotiate your salary and working hours. Such a position may not offer a high salary even if you are well qualified, though it should prove sufficient when thought of in comparison to the low living costs. A position in such a school may offer fun and rewarding short-term employment for an EFL teacher hoping to explore the unique landlocked location. It should be noted that resources in a public school will be basic, often with large class sizes. Teachers who have studied such conditions during their TEFL course may find this a challenging and rewarding experience, while the less confident could find it slightly daunting.

For a more highly qualified ESL teacher hoping for a more secure or long-term position, there are also places to be found in the private and international schools. These schools, located primarily in Asuncion, the country’s capital, are well run and comfortable, with modern technology and materials for ESL teachers to use. Here, class sizes will be much smaller, with a great enthusiasm for the subject and respect shown to ESL teachers. The salary in such a teaching facility will certainly be higher than that offered in a public school.

For either option you can also supplement your salary with private classes. Students may be found in many differing areas, from small businesses and large corporations to one-on-one lessons. Increased use of English in companies may mean, for an ESL teacher with an interest in or experience of business English, that there are many opportunities to work in a professional environment.

Even with these extra classes you cannot expect to earn a great deal in Paraguay. Living costs are so low, however, that you can hope to enjoy the benefits of extremely low accommodation prices and expenditure.

With the academic year beginning around April, the best time to find private or public school positions would be in March. There may, however, be positions available year round. Once you have obtained an offer of a TEFL job in Paraguay, the red tape involved in obtaining your work permit should be relatively easy.