Teaching English In Cochabamba, Bolivia: Requirements And More

Teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia, is an attractive option for many due to the country's affordability, safety, and rich cultural heritage. While it may not be a major job market for teaching English in Latin America, the growing tourism industry and integration into the international economy have increased the demand for English language instruction. This makes Bolivia a solid choice for teachers passionate about perfecting their Spanish language skills and immersing themselves in the local culture.

Requirements: TEFL, TESOL, CELTA or DELTA certification is recommended. A bachelor's degree is preferred but not mandatory

If you're thinking of teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia, you'll need to consider getting a TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or DELTA certification. While it's not mandatory to have a bachelor's degree, it is preferred by employers, so having one will make your application more competitive.

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is a requirement for teaching English in Bolivia. This certification will equip you with the necessary training and qualifications to get hired by a school. You can choose from a variety of online and in-person TEFL courses that offer flexible study options and provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to teach English effectively.

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is another option that will enable you to teach English in Bolivia. TESOL certification is globally recognised and will prepare you to teach English both online and abroad. Obtaining this certification will open doors to various English teaching opportunities around the world.

Additionally, you can explore CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications, which are also widely recognised and can enhance your credentials as an English teacher.

While a bachelor's degree is not mandatory, it is advantageous. Having a degree can make your job search less competitive and increase your chances of being hired by employers who strongly prefer candidates with a degree. If you don't have a degree, be prepared for a more challenging job search.

In summary, obtaining a TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or DELTA certification is essential for teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia. While a bachelor's degree is not required, it can significantly strengthen your application and increase your employment prospects. These certifications will provide you with the necessary qualifications, skills, and knowledge to teach English effectively in Bolivia and open doors to exciting teaching opportunities.

Salary: Teachers can expect to make $500-$900 USD per month

Salary Expectations for Teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia

Teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia, can be a rewarding experience, both professionally and culturally. While the salary may not make you rich, it can offer a comfortable lifestyle in this South American country. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect regarding earnings and expenses.

Salary Range

As an English teacher in Cochabamba, you can anticipate a monthly salary ranging from $500 to $900 USD. This wage range is consistent with the average salary for English teachers in Bolivia, which falls between $500 and $900 USD per month. The hourly rate translates to approximately 27-76 BOB (Bolivian Bolivianos) or $4 to $11 USD. It's worth noting that wages in this field are modest, and you won't accumulate significant wealth. However, the low cost of living in Bolivia means that your earnings will stretch further.

Cost of Living

Cochabamba boasts a low cost of living, allowing your salary to go a long way. Here are some examples of common expenses to provide a better understanding of the local costs:

• Basic dinner for two: Around $9 USD
• Cappuccino in an expatriate area: Approximately $3.47 USD
• Beer in a pub: About $2.55 USD
• One litre of milk: Roughly $0.92 USD
• Two litres of Coca-Cola: Around $1.53 USD

Additionally, accommodation costs can vary, with rentals ranging from $477 to $598 USD per month.

Supplemental Income

It's worth noting that some teachers in Bolivia supplement their income by teaching English online or offering private language lessons. Online teaching can be a viable option, but finding a stable internet connection in the country may pose a challenge. Private tutoring can also boost your earnings, with rates averaging between $10 and $15 USD per hour.

Overall Outlook

While teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia, may not lead to substantial financial savings, it can provide a comfortable lifestyle. Your salary will cover your essential expenses, allowing you to live and work while also exploring the local culture and attractions. If you're seeking significant financial gains, you may need to consider additional income streams or explore opportunities in other countries with higher earning potential.

Visas: You'll need a Specific Purpose Visa to teach in Bolivia

To teach English in Bolivia, you'll generally need to enter the country on a Specific Purpose Visa, also known as a "visa de objeto determinado" in Spanish. This visa is required if you plan to live, work, volunteer, or do business in Bolivia. It's important to note that this visa is only valid for 30 days upon entry into the country, and you must complete your work permit application within this time frame. US citizens must apply for this visa from their home state, while citizens of other countries may be able to apply at a Bolivian consulate in their region.

The Specific Purpose Visa application process typically involves submitting several documents to the Bolivian consulate, including:

• A completed application form.
• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
• A recent passport-size photograph.
• An application fee (varying by region).
• A letter of introduction explaining your purpose for seeking residency in Bolivia.
• A photocopy of your plane ticket or itinerary.
• Bank statements demonstrating economic solvency.
• A certificate of good conduct or a police record.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if travelling to tropical areas.

It's worth noting that the Specific Purpose Visa is not always easy to obtain, and there can be a lot of paperwork and complications involved. Additionally, most schools in Bolivia prefer to recruit locally, which can create a catch-22 situation. To obtain the Specific Purpose Visa, you need a letter of invitation from the language school, but schools often prefer to see you in person before offering employment.

Some teachers choose to enter Bolivia on a standard 30-day Tourist Visa, secure a job within that time, and then leave the country to apply for the Specific Purpose Visa at a Bolivian consulate. However, this approach may not be feasible for US citizens who must apply for the Specific Purpose Visa from their home state. Teaching English in Bolivia without the proper visa is illegal and should be avoided.

Jobs: Language schools, universities, private tutoring and international schools are all options

There are several options for teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia, each with its own unique advantages and considerations. Here are some detailed paragraphs on the various opportunities available:

Language Schools

Language schools in Bolivia are a popular choice for students and adults who want to improve their English skills. These schools often offer classes in the evenings or on weekends to accommodate students' work or study commitments. Salaries at language schools typically range from 2,000 to 4,000 BOB ($290 to $580) per month for full-time positions. Some language schools may also offer part-time teaching positions and pay by the hour. While some language schools may post job vacancies online, it is also worth reaching out directly to schools in Cochabamba to inquire about potential opportunities.

Universities

Teaching English at a university in Bolivia can be a prestigious and respected position. University professors in Bolivia typically have more flexibility than school teachers, as they are only required to be present during their classes. The salary for university English teachers generally ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 BOB ($430 to $870) per month, depending on the number of classes taught and the university's location. To teach English at a university in Cochabamba, consider contacting the Bolivian Private University, which offers courses in Language & Cultural studies.

Private Tutoring

Private tutoring is a common way for English teachers in Bolivia to supplement their income. Many students seek private tutors to help them improve their conversational English or prepare for exams. Private tutors can set their rates and enjoy greater flexibility in their work. In Bolivia, tutors typically charge between 50 to 150 BOB ($7 to $22) per hour, depending on their experience and the student's needs. To find private tutoring opportunities in Cochabamba, consider advertising your services through social media, community boards, or by partnering with local language schools.

International Schools

International schools in Bolivia are primarily located in larger cities and cater to expatriate families and wealthy Bolivian families. These schools often follow Western curricula and offer high academic standards. English teachers at international schools generally require a higher level of qualifications and experience. Salaries at international schools range from 7,000 to 15,000 BOB ($1,000 to $2,170) per month, and positions typically come with additional benefits like health insurance, housing allowances, and even flights to and from Bolivia. The American International School of Bolivia in Cochabamba is one such example, offering an American-style curriculum and the option of an American diploma.

Each of these options presents a unique set of advantages and considerations for teaching English in Cochabamba, Bolivia. It is important to research and reach out to potential employers to confirm their specific requirements and opportunities.

Cost of living: Bolivia is very affordable, with low costs for rent, food and transport

Bolivia is known for its low cost of living, and Cochabamba is no exception. With a budget of $1,200 to $1,800 per month, a couple can live comfortably in Cochabamba. This amount will cover rent, utilities, transportation, dining out, entertainment, medical expenses, and other miscellaneous costs.

For example, a nice three-bedroom, unfurnished apartment with city views costs around $350 a month. If you want access to a pool and patio for entertaining, the same size apartment will cost $450 per month. For those who prefer a more rural lifestyle, there are small towns just outside the city, such as Tiquipaya, where a three-bedroom house rents for $200 per month.

Dining out is also very affordable. A meal of high-grade sushi and a cocktail for two can cost under $25, and a basic dinner for two in a neighbourhood pub costs around $9. A night out, including dinner and a movie, can easily cost less than $50.

Transportation is also inexpensive. A monthly ticket for public transportation costs around $21, and a taxi trip on a business day costs around $2.55.

Other costs, such as utilities, healthcare, and groceries, are also relatively low. For example, a visit to a doctor will cost around $29, and a litre of milk costs under $1.

Overall, the low cost of living in Cochabamba means that your money will go further, allowing you to live comfortably and enjoy the local culture and attractions.

Frequently asked questions