Everything You Need to Teach English in Turkey

Teaching English in Turkey should be your next move—here's why (and how!). ☆ As I sipped an oven-baked Turkish coffee out of a dainty porcelain cup, I watched the blur of people bobbing along the winding cobblestone streets of the 17th century Kemeralti bazaar. I huddled on an outside bench covered in a red carpet-like material with an ethnic-looking green, black, and white pattern. The winter days were chilly in Izmir, but the mini electric table heater warmed my face and hands. The neighboring mosque started blasting the “Call to Prayer”, blocking out the chatter of nearby tables. I chewed the last cube of Turkish Delight, paid my bill ($1USD) and eased my way back into the flow of people. If you teach English in Turkey, this is one of the many authentic scenes you’ll experience.

Teaching English in Turkey will be a magical experience. Read on to learn all the deets!

Turkey’s culture is strong and unwavering. While this is something to be admired, it’s also a hurdle to clear as you attempt to adjust to this country. To say teaching English in Turkey was a walk in the park or a dream come true would be sugar-coating a challenging situation. That is the honest truth. However, my experience teaching didn’t take away from all the incredible cultural experiences, nor did it taint Turkey’s undeniable beauty. Witnessing the famous Turkish hospitality, enjoying a Turkish coffee, strolling through traditional bazaars, and discovering the remains of ancient civilizations are experiences I’ll never forget. In this way, Turkey is heads above the competition. 

Falling for Turkey’s charms is easy. But teaching English in Turkey is a test that—once passed—can propel your teaching skills to a new level. The bureaucracy, students, teaching methods, resources, and even the temperament of your co-workers will present challenges. But once you adjust to life in this new land and an alternative way of doing things, Turkey and all its glory will slowly bloom, much like its native tulips, before you.

FAQs on teaching in Turkey

Why teach English in Turkey? What are the benefits?

Why choose being teaching abroad in Europe or teaching abroad in Asia? Teach in both!

If an authentic experience is what you’re after, look no further than Turkey. There is no separation between foreigner teachers and local teachers—you’re thrown right into the mix in a way that makes you feel like part of the team from the get-go. This country holds nothing back, nor does it disguise its cultural tendencies in the workplace. Emotions run high (in a mostly good, but sometimes over-the-top way) and there’s no lack of support from co-workers. Everyone is out to accomplish the same goal and the feeling of unity between teachers is strong. 

More benefits of working in Turkey are the ability to work while you travel, the chance to get to know a really unique and interesting culture at a deeper level, the opportunity to improve your professional skills and make your resume pop, and of course, increased access to baklava. ;-)

What is the average teaching English in Turkey salary?

The teaching English in Turkey salary varies quite a bit between cities and schools. It’s not uncommon for native-English speaking teachers to earn more than Turkish English teachers. In Izmir, the native English teacher salary ranges anywhere between 3,000 TL ($570) to 5,000 TL ($950). In bigger, more expensive cities like Ankara and Istanbul, expect a salary starting around 5,000 TL ($950) ranging to 7,000 TL ($1,300). Your salary may vary depending on experience, training, and what’s provided by the school (i.e. housing, meals)

Some schools may pay your salary in U.S. dollars (which is great for you because of the conversion rate between the two currencies), but this isn’t always the case. If you plan to teach English in Istanbul, expect a higher salary as the cost of living there is more expensive than Izmir.

What are the requirements for teaching in Turkey?

Good news! Requirements are relatively slack. You must be a native-English speaker and possess a high school diploma. You do not need any formal educational/teacher training from a post-secondary school. A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL, or CELTA certificate is not always required, but it definitely makes you more desirable. If you haven’t got a post-secondary degree, I would strongly consider a some sort of TEFL training. It will bump you closer to the top of the list. Even if you have got a degree, a TEFL training offers invaluable perspective, tools, and resources on teaching young ESL learners in a foreign setting. 

Hone in on your communication and time management skills—both transferable to any career you choose.

Keep in mind: Regardless of your education or experience, schools are willing to train new employees because they know the importance of their students being taught by a native speaker. I personally know several foreign teachers working in private schools that never went to university or college—it happens, so don’t be discouraged!

Can you teach English in Turkey without a degree?

Officially, no. Unofficially, yes. Some schools may be willing to overlook the absence of a degree. However, having one broadens your job prospects. Remember, you are already highly valuable as a native English speaker. Don’t let the lack of a degree stop you from pursuing a teaching job in Turkey. Chances are you’ll find an institution willing to be flexible with their English teaching requirements. 

What are the types of teaching opportunities in Turkey?

• Private schools are the best bet for foreign teachers in Turkey. The school resources are much better and the salary is typically higher. Compared to public schools, private schools are becoming increasingly popular throughout Turkey because parents are willing to pay for their child’s education. Private school administrators and the parents place a strong emphasis on learning English. Therefore, students’ English progress is monitored closely. Necessary requirements vary, but it’s possible to find employment in private schools without a TEFL certificate or post-secondary degree. In this type of institution, you are expected to put in a full day’s work, i.e. 40 hours a week. 
• Language schools offer more flexibility in terms of schedule but lack the security and comfort of a full-time job. Consider a language school if small class sizes, adult learners, and a fluctuating schedule are your priorities. These schools pay an hourly wage and you’ll typically earn a little less than you would by working in a private school. Also, these institutions don’t require any TEFL, formal training, or prior experience.  
• Public schools in Turkey are not options for foreign teachers. Public schools can only hire Turkish citizens as the employee is classified as a government worker. Keep your search limited to private schools and language schools.
• Private tutoring is a means to make extra money on the side. It nicely compliments a language school job, for example. However, trying to make ends meet on private tutoring gigs may be tough, especially during your first year in Turkey. Once you’re established as a teacher and make connections through an educational institution, you’ll find it’s much easier to branch out and incorporate private tutoring into your schedule. 

Where in Turkey should I teach abroad?

Spend your weekends discovering Turkey beyond the classroom.

The best places to teach abroad in Turkey are Istanbul, Izmir, Bodhum, Ankara, and Fethiye. More on each city below! 

The options for teaching English in Turkey are abundant. We generally recommend living and working in western Turkey as opposed to the eastern regions. East Turkey tends to be more conservative and could present obstacles for a newbie-foreigner. Additionally, English is more widely spoken in the bigger metropolitan cities in the west as opposed to the east. That being said, communication can still a challenge in western Turkey; don’t expect English to be common knowledge. 

Additionally, an urban setting equals an easier way of life in terms of social life, amenities, and transportation options. Rural settings in Turkey are spattered with farms, wide open spaces, and a population less likely to speak English. This can quickly create an isolating situation for a foreigner.

SO, where should you teach? Cities along the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea and in proximity to Istanbul are likely the safest and most comfortable choices. These are a few of the most popular cities to teach English in Turkey:

• Istanbul (Turkey’s largest city) is an excellent choice. Istanbul is hectic and crowded, but the immense amount of culture and historic sites make up for the chaos. It’s also crawling with ex-pats. If making new friends and being around other foreigners is important, Istanbul is your top location choice. If you’re looking for a vibrant social life, nightlife options, and endless ways to spend days around the city, look no further than Istanbul.
• Izmir is a better choice if you shy away from huge cities. Roughly 500 kilometers south on the Aegean Sea, Izmir is a more laid-back version of Istanbul. Here you’ll find a warm, welcoming, sea-faring culture and plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shopping. Although Izmir is a modern city, age-old gems like the Kemeralti bazaar and Agora Open Air Museum (the ancient city’s remains) retain Izmir’s historic charm. Epic day trips from Izmir include the world-famous Ephesus ruins, the often-overlooked but just as impressive Bergama ruins, and the whimsical wine village of Sirince. Be aware that foreigners are scarce in Izmir, making it difficult to meet other English-speakers outside of work. 
• Bodrum and Fethiye, two popular summer holiday destinations south of Izmir, present the most westernized city options for foreigners. These two cities are frequented by foreign tourists during the summer. There are also plenty of ex-pats who have permanently re-settled in these coastal Turkish Riviera cities. If your priorities include being amongst a heavy ex-pat population, working in a touristy place, and being surrounded by locals who can speak English well, Bodrum or Fethiye may be good choices. 
• Turkey’s capital city, Ankara, is another major Turkish city in need of native English speakers. There are plenty of jobs available here and because of the demand, this city is a good option for those without a post-secondary degree. Be aware that the city’s inland position makes it colder than both Izmir and Istanbul in the winter.

What Ankara lacks in character and natural beauty it makes up for in amenities. The city is modern, and full restaurants, cafes, malls, cinemas, and plenty of other expats. Just keep in mind that as the seat of the Turkish government, it also tends to be more conservative than the aforementioned cities. For a first-timer in Turkey, I’d recommend sticking to the more coastal cities.

Where can I find ESL jobs in Turkey? 

If you’ve never entered a mosque before, prepare for *head blown emoji*

GoAbroad offers an easy-to-use service connecting you to with a TEFL training provider. These programs offer TEFL training online or in the country (or both) and help provide a smooth transition into the world of teaching English in Turkey. If you already have your TEFL certificate, then you can bypass this step and start searching directly for English teaching jobs in Turkey.

With GoAbroad’s resources, you can pinpoint the exact program, TEFL training, and environment that works best for you. Learning the skills you need for your new teaching gig within Turkey is an immensely beneficial way to adjust to a new country. If you choose to get TEFL certified in Turkey, too, you’ll be exposed to the local students during your training. This fully prepares you for your first real day on the job. Lastly, these programs remove the stress of finding a job on your own. The guaranteed job placement promise upon training completion puts many new English teachers in Turkey at ease. 

Need a little extra help zeroing in on the right opportunity? Get matched with teaching jobs in Turkey that fit your goals and preferences, or use MyGoAbroad to start bookmarking programs that catch your eye on your own. #independent(wo)man

Is it safe to teach abroad in Turkey?

Speaking from my personal experience living and working in Izmir, I give a wholehearted YES, it is safe to teach English in Turkey.

Turkey is sometimes portrayed in the media as a dangerous and unstable country. However, daily life in Izmir (and most of western Turkey) does not feel the heavy effects from the war-torn neighboring countries or conservative government policies.

While there are plenty of immigrants and refugees from Syria and Iran who now call Izmir home, this fact does not make Turkey unsafe. The only thing I’ve experienced as a blonde woman living in Izmir is people staring at me a little longer than usual. There are not many young westerns living in Izmir, so seeing one naturally makes people curious. While it can be bothersome sometimes, I’ve yet to be in a situation where I feel unsafe or uncomfortable. 

Note: This statement is more accurately true for Western Turkey. Eastern Turkey may pose more risk or present more uncomfortable situations as the culture there is more conservative and far fewer foreigners live in the East.

Do I need to know Turkish before teaching abroad in Turkey?

Making a difference in people’s lives by day, exploring an ancient culture by night.

You don’t need to speak Turkish to teach English in Turkey. Anyone working in your school’s English department will speak English. Don’t be surprised, however, at the lack of English of the staff outside the English department—expect some general meetings to be held in Turkish. (You may have to sit through them while a co-worker translates!). Sometimes you may be excused completely and be filled in later. 

In the end, it’s always good to know a little of the local language to help get you by. We suggest using a smartphone app to learn a few basics, or hiring a tutor of your own!

What are the best jobs and programs for teaching in Turkey?

1. American Collegiate Institute

One of the best-paying and most reputable schools in Izmir, American Collegiate provides benefits and perks many other schools don’t. American Collegiate offers competitive salaries (paid in paid in U.S. dollars), round-trip flight reimbursement, work permit, and a fully-furnished apartment paid for by the school. 

• Where? Izmir, Turkey
• When? Year-round (summer break from June-August)
• Insight: As one of the most prestigious schools in Izmir and even in Turkey, employment requirements are a bit higher than the norm. The English program here aims to produce students who, upon graduation, have the ability to complete post-secondary education in English. 

2. International TEFL Academy

The International TEFL Academy will hook you up with a TEFL certificate in advance of helping you secure well-paid English teaching jobs in Turkey. As one of the most trusted providers of English language teaching experiences around the globe, you can feel confident in ITA.

• Where? All over
• When? Year round
• Insight: ITA excels at placing their TEFL program alumni at English language institutes and academies more than colleges or other tertiary education institutions. If you want to work with children or become a tutor, check them out.

3. Doga College (Doğa Koleji)

This school has dozens of campuses scattered across Turkey and frequently hires new teachers. Their schools include kindergarten, primary, secondary, and high school. Doga College offers an internationally-charged campus with multiple abroad competitions and a strong emphasis on learning and incorporating English into everyday life. 

• Where? Cities all around Turkey including Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara
• When? Year-round (summer break June- August)
• Insight: The perks for foreign teachers include a full-year salary (even in the summer break months), two meals per day at school, free shuttle service to and from school (this is actually very common in Turkey and all private schools usually provide this), a work permit, and free accommodation for its Istanbul campuses. 

4. Gelisim College (Gelişim Koleji)

This private school caters to wealthy families in Izmir however they also provide scholarships for some students. The English department is a large, cohesive team made up of international teachers and local Turkish teachers. English is a top priority at the school and expectations are high yet attainable. The supportive environment of Gelisim College and team-teaching system create a comfortable way for new teachers to ease into their first gig teaching English in Turkey.  

• Where? Izmir – Menemen district 
• When? Year-round (summer break June-August) 
• Insight: The campus is a real highlight with wild peacocks, ducks, and rabbits enjoying the wide-open green spaces and small pond. Every classroom – from primary school to high school – is equipped with a smart board loaded with that specific grade level’s curriculum. Resources are abundant – from experienced coworkers to last year’s lesson plans, to online games. Planning an engaging lesson is simple with all this at your disposal. 

5. LanguageCorps

Spend four glorious weeks earning your TESOL certificate while living in Istanbul! LanguageCorps provides more than 20 hours of in-class experience for all participants, meaning as soon as you have your certificate, you're ready to jump right into your own classroom. An average salary is $700-$1500, giving you the chance to save a little money for more adventures.

• Where? Istanbul
• When? May, July, August, November
• Insight: LanguageCorps partners with schools in Turkey that might reimburse ESL teachers for accommodation expenses and even airfare. Awesome!

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Now’s your chance to find teaching jobs in Turkey!

*Finds teaching jobs in Istanbul, never leaves*

The flexibility of educational institutions, the decent salaries for foreigners, and impressive resources make teaching English in Turkey easier than you may initially think. Combine this with the mysterious east-meets-west culture and living in Turkey transforms into a rewarding experience not found anywhere else.

In Turkey, you can coexist alongside some of the world’s most significant history, experience an intensely fascinating culture, and fall in love with all of Turkey’s earthly beauties. From the mountains to the beaches, to the ancient civilizations, hospitable culture, and irresistible food – Turkey is calling for those seeking a great adventure. 

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