Is teaching English in Spain worth it? For many people, yes, but it depends on what you want from the experience.
Teaching in Spain can give you the chance to live abroad, experience Spanish culture, and build international work experience. At the same time, it comes with real tradeoffs, including lower pay than some other countries and the challenges of moving abroad.
If you are considering teaching English in Spain, this guide breaks down the lifestyle, benefits, drawbacks, and what to know before applying.
What Is It Like To Live In Spain as an English Teacher?
Spain is a beautiful and vibrant country, offering an exciting and unique culture. Before considering relocating there to teach English, it can be helpful to understand what life in Spain is like on a day-to-day basis. Let’s take a closer look.
Culture & Cuisine
The Spanish are known for their love of food, and the culture reflects this enthusiasm. From tapas to paella to sangria, the cuisine of Spain is varied and delicious. The Spanish enjoy savoring their meals with friends, taking time to relax while sharing stories and laughter over dinner.
This relaxed attitude towards dining extends throughout the day; breakfast is rarely rushed in the morning, lunchtime often lasts two hours or more in the afternoon, and dinner typically takes place around 9 or 10 pm.
Work & Fun
People in Spain generally work fewer hours than those in other parts of Europe — the typical workweek is around 35 hours instead of 40. The Spanish also enjoy plenty of leisure time; they take pride in spending time with family and friends outside of work, whether that means swimming at the beach on the weekend or taking a long stroll through town after dinner. They tend to prioritize relaxation over productivity, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for fun when living in Spain!
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Spain is relatively low compared to other countries. Rent and utilities are generally less expensive than in the United States, Canada, or the UK. In fact, the cost of living in Spain is, on average, 30.8% lower than in the United States.
Groceries and dining out can also be budget-friendly if you know where to look; there are plenty of affordable restaurants serving traditional Spanish dishes all over the country.
Qualifications for Teaching English in Spain
Requirements vary depending on the program and school. Some teaching jobs in Spain prefer prior experience or TEFL certification, while language assistant pathways like RVF’s are more beginner friendly.
Benefits Of Teaching English in Spain
There are so many benefits to living and working abroad in Spain. You’ll have the chance to learn a new language, immerse yourself in a foreign culture, make lifelong connections with locals, and explore some of the most stunning parts of Europe. Plus, you’ll get paid while experiencing all this! Let’s dive a little more into each benefit.
Increased Professional Development
One of the most significant benefits of working and living abroad is the chance to gain valuable professional skills, such as learning a new language or developing global problem-solving abilities. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with professionals from around the world, which can be extremely helpful for career advancement.
Improved Cultural Understanding
Working abroad provides an opportunity to experience a different culture firsthand, which can help broaden your perspective and open you up to new ways of thinking. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of other cultures and people groups, helping you develop empathy and build stronger relationships with those from different backgrounds.
Language Skills & Immersion
Living in a new country also provides an opportunity to learn and become fluent in a foreign language. You’ll be immersed in the culture, which will help you pick up the language more quickly than if you were just visiting for a short period of time.
Unique Travel Opportunities
Spain is home to a wide range of cultural and historical sites, from its picturesque seaside villages to the bustling city of Barcelona. And with its central location in Europe, Spain makes an ideal jumping-off point for exploring other countries in the region. With so many unique travel opportunities available, living in Spain is sure to be an adventure!
Making Lifelong Connections
Finally, living abroad can help you make lifelong connections with people from all over the world. You’ll build strong relationships and create memories that will stay with you long after your time in Spain is finished.
Drawbacks Of Teaching English in Spain
As with any adventure, there are potential drawbacks to living and working abroad. Here are some of the common challenges you may encounter:
Culture Shock
Moving to a new culture can be overwhelming at times. You might need time to adjust to different customs, languages, food, and social norms—something that may not have been easy if you were just visiting for a short period of time.
Harder To Establish Credit
When you move abroad, it can be difficult to establish credit in your new country. This can make it harder to open a bank account or get a loan if you ever need one. While there are a few banks that offer internationally accepted credit cards, they typically come with high interest rates.
Separation From Family & Friends
When living abroad, you will be separated from your family and friends back home. This can make it difficult to stay connected, especially if you’re in a different time zone or have limited access to technology. It also means that you’ll miss out on important life events such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays.
Missing Home Comforts
Lastly, living abroad means you’ll have to get used to a new lifestyle and potentially different standards of comfort. For example, if you’re used to having access to all the latest technology and amenities, you may find it difficult to adjust to life in a country with fewer resources.
Potential For Homesickness
Living abroad can be a lonely and isolating experience at times. You may miss your family and friends back home, and it can be difficult to stay connected with them when you’re in different time zones. The language barrier can also make it difficult to make local connections, which can add to the feeling of loneliness.
What To Know Before Applying To Teach English In Spain
Applying to teach English in Spain is exciting, especially if you love language, travel, and the idea of living abroad. Before you hit submit on an application, it helps to get a realistic picture of what the role actually looks like day to day. Reading about a day in the life of a language assistant in Spain can give you a better feel for the schedule, classroom experience, and everyday routine.
A smart first step is figuring out what qualifications you may need. Some roles prefer TEFL certification, while others care more about native-level English fluency or specific program requirements. It is also worth looking into where jobs are most commonly available. Bigger cities may have more openings, but smaller towns can offer a more immersive and unique experience.
You should also spend some time getting familiar with the application process. That means knowing which documents you need, like a CV, letters of recommendation, and copies of diplomas or certificates. Some applicants also choose to include extras, like lesson plan samples or a teaching portfolio, to help their application stand out.
It is also helpful to understand what teaching in Spain can actually look like before you commit. You may not know your exact placement right away, but you can still learn a lot by researching different school environments and talking to former participants. It is also important to look into salary, housing, visa fees, and other startup costs before accepting an offer. Having a clear idea of the full picture can help you feel a lot more confident about your decision.
If this still feels like a lot, that is exactly where RVF comes in. Our team helps make the process feel less overwhelming and supports you through each step of applying to teach English abroad.
When Is Teaching English in Spain Worth It?
Is teaching English abroad worth it? That depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Before packing your bags and jetting off to teach abroad, take some time to reflect on your motivations and expectations. Teaching English overseas isn’t just about escaping your current situation or taking an extended vacation. It’s a serious commitment that requires dedication, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine interest in education.
Let’s explore some scenarios where teaching English abroad might be an excellent choice for you:
You Need a Career Change
If you’re feeling stuck in your current job and craving a fresh start, teaching English abroad could be the perfect opportunity. It’s a chance to break free from the monotony of your daily routine and immerse yourself in a new culture. As home to many English teachers abroad, we’ve found that this experience can reignite your passion for learning and open doors to exciting career paths you might never have considered before.
Teaching abroad allows you to develop valuable skills like classroom management, cross-cultural communication, and adaptability. These skills are highly transferable and can boost your resume, making you a more attractive candidate in various industries when you return home.
You’re Fresh Out of College But Not Sure Which Way to Go
Just graduated and feeling uncertain about your future? Teaching English abroad can be an excellent way to gain real-world experience while figuring out your long-term goals. It’s a chance to explore a new country, learn a second language, and develop important life skills. Many RVF International program attendees have started their teaching careers this way. The experience of living in a foreign country and working with diverse students can help clarify your career aspirations and personal values.
You’re Fresh Out of College, and You Know Teaching English Is Right for You
If you’ve already decided that teaching is your calling, starting your career abroad can be an incredible opportunity. It’s a chance to gain valuable classroom experience, develop your teaching style, and build confidence in your abilities. Teaching abroad allows you to hone your skills in a supportive environment while experiencing the joys and challenges of living in a different culture. This experience can make you a more well-rounded and competitive candidate when applying for teaching positions.
You Know It’s More Than Just a Vacation
Sure, you’ll be teaching English in one of Spain’s fabulous locations, but this program isn’t a glorified vacation. It’s a serious commitment that requires hard work, patience, and dedication. If you’re approaching this opportunity with the right mindset, then it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. We’ve seen many English teachers thrive when they approach their time abroad as a chance for personal and professional growth. It takes focus and commitment if you want to make a difference in your students’ lives, challenge yourself, and gain a new perspective on the world.
Final Answer: Is Teaching English In Spain Worth It?
Simply put: Yes! Teaching English in Spain can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will it provide you with the opportunity to live abroad and immerse yourself in Spanish culture, but it also offers a range of benefits for your professional development. With RVF International’s support, finding a job teaching English in Spain is easier than ever before.
Be sure to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your teaching dreams in Spain!
