How to Teach English in Bali

Question of the day, how to teach English in Bali? English teachers are sought out across the world, especially in Bali. Since Bali is Indonesia’s top tourist destination, many expats learned how to live and work in Bali as English teachers.

Learn how to teach English in Bali to make this your backyard.

You can teach English in Bali without a degree by meeting the requirement to teach English in Indonesia with a TEFL or TESOL certificate, which is easy to obtain. However, the English teaching salary in Bali may be below average.

Before you book your flight and pack your bags, you should keep reading to learn more about living and working in Bali. Everything takes planning, and although teaching English sounds exciting, know that every experience has pros and cons. Once you determine those, you can elevate the pros and maneuver through any cons.

Can I teach English in Bali without a degree?

Although a degree is one of the requirements for teaching English in Indonesia—English teachers need at least a bachelor's degree to be eligible for a work visa to teach in Bali—there are some options for teaching English in Bali without a degree.

If you do not have a degree and choose not to go the work visa route, you may find a teaching opportunity at a language center, tutor privately, or simply teach online. Your salary to teach English in Bali may be lower, and the work may be less stable without a degree, but choosing to teach online can balance this out.

You can also consider volunteering as an English teacher, which may not require a degree. Volunteer opportunities may offer housing and other benefits. However, research any organization or school before committing to volunteering to ensure that it is a legitimate and ethical program.

Overall, teaching English in Bali without a degree is very possible. Without a degree, your salary for teaching English in Bali may be a little lower and you may work a little harder to find opportunities, but once you find your fit, doors will continue to open.

5 teaching English in Indonesia requirements

• Bachelor's degree: Indonesia requires that all English teachers hold at least a bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited university, though an English or education degree is likely to be favored. However, there are alternatives to this requirement.
• TEFL/TESOL certificate: A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate is not mandatory but highly recommended. The certification shows you're trained in teaching English as a foreign language. It can give you an advantage when applying for teaching positions.
• Teaching experience: This is also not a mandatory requirement. However, teaching experience can give you an advantage, especially when applying without a degree.
• Work visa: To work legally in Indonesia, you must have a work visa. The process for obtaining a work visa can be time-consuming and complex, but it can make achieving your teaching goal easier.
• Language proficiency: While not a requirement, proficiency in the Indonesian language can be an advantage when teaching English in Indonesia. It can help you communicate with your students and colleagues and navigate daily life in the country.

Although it's not a requirement, having a passion for teaching and a willingness to adapt to the cultural and educational differences you will experience in Bali is important.

How to teach English in Bali

Moving to Bali to teach English takes significant planning and preparation. Here are some steps you can take to make your dream of moving to Bali and teaching English a reality:

1. Get certified

While a teaching certificate is only sometimes required to teach English in Bali, having one can increase your chances of getting hired and improve your teaching skills. You can obtain a TEFL or TESOL certification online or in person. However, an online certification holds less credibility.

2. Gain teaching experience

Consider teaching in your home country or volunteering as a teacher to gain experience. Teaching experience can be an advantage when applying for teaching positions in Bali.

3. Check the visa requirements

Before legally teaching English in Bali, you'll need to ensure you have the appropriate visa. The Indonesian government offers several types of visas for foreigners, including a social/cultural visa, which may be suitable for language teachers.

4. Find a job

Online searches are your friend when you’re hunting for a teaching job in Bali.

There are many job opportunities for English teachers in Bali. Several language schools and private institutions in Bali hire English teachers. You can search for jobs online, network with other teachers or language schools, or check with local universities or language centers and connect with them directly.

READ: How to Apply for Teaching Jobs Abroad

5. Prepare your materials

Once you have a job, you must prepare lesson plans, activities, and class materials. You can find resources online or create your own materials based on the needs of your students. Several English teachers on TikTok share their experiences in lesson planning in a foreign country.

6. Build relationships with students

As a teacher, building positive relationships with your students is crucial. This includes being patient, encouraging, and respectful of their culture and learning styles.

7. Immerse yourself in the culture

To fully appreciate and understand the Balinese culture, immerse yourself in it. Attend cultural events, try local cuisine, learn the language, and explore the island.

Bali has a unique culture and way of life, and it’s essential to understand and respect local customs and traditions. Learning about the culture can help you integrate into the community and enjoy your experience in Bali.

Moving to Bali to teach English may require some previous experience before applying for jobs and obtaining a work visa. Once you have a job, you’ll also need to find accommodation and adapt to Bali’s cultural and educational differences. Careful planning will get you there.

What can I expect from an English teaching salary in Bali?

Your salary for teaching English in Bali can vary depending on several factors, such as your qualifications, experience, and the institution where you teach.

Typically, a teacher with a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification can expect to earn between IDR 10,000,000 to IDR 15,000,000 per month (approximately $700 to $1,000 USD) working at a language school or a private institution.

Your qualifications and where you teach will impact how much money you take home.

However, salaries can be higher at international schools or universities. In these institutions, a teacher with a master’s degree and several years of experience can earn up to IDR 20,000,000 or more per month (approximately $1,400 USD or more).

You can negotiate your rate as a private tutor, but you can also expect to make a little less if you do not have a degree or experience.

Note that the cost of living in Bali is relatively low compared to other parts of the world, so even a modest salary can go a long way. However, it's always a good idea to research the cost of living in Bali and to negotiate your salary based on your qualifications and experience.

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Teaching English is one of the best ways to live and work in Bali!

You’re ready to make your dream of living and working in Bali your new reality!

Teaching English in Bali can be a fulfilling experience, but being prepared and flexible is essential. Stay encouraged throughout the process regardless of how many requirements you meet. Some alternative ways to meet requirements will make teaching English in Bali possible. With careful planning and preparation, you can make your dream of living and teaching in Bali a reality.