Teaching Jobs in Colombia

Prepare to Teach Abroad

Set goals

Defining your goals will help you choose the best teaching opportunity in Colombia that aligns with your values and professional interests.

• Define your teaching level—beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Knowing your comfort zone helps match you with the right students and teaching environments in Colombia.
• Set a goal for cultural or language immersion. Teaching in Colombia gives you daily opportunities to improve your Spanish and connect deeply with local communities.
• Clarify how much structure or freedom you want in your schedule. Language institutes may have flexible hours, while schools follow a fixed academic calendar.

Understand the benefits

Teaching in Colombia is an exciting opportunity to grow professionally while experiencing the warmth and diversity of South American life.

• Earn a competitive salary while enjoying Colombia’s low cost of living. Many teachers can save money or enjoy extensive travel around the country.
• Gain global experience and build a stand-out resume. International teaching experience shows adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Learn Spanish in real-life settings while engaging with local communities. Living and working in Colombia offers immersive language learning every day.

Things to know

Understanding key logistics before you teach abroad in Colombia ensures a smoother transition and a rewarding experience.

• Colombia’s school calendar may differ from what you're used to. Most schools operate from January to November, so plan your arrival accordingly.
• The M-5 visa is typically required for legal teaching positions. Prepare documents early, including a job offer, bank statements, and passport copies.
• Teaching materials and resources may be limited in some schools. Consider bringing your supplies, digital resources, or printables to support your lessons.
• Spanish is commonly spoken in daily life, even in teaching roles. Learning basic Spanish will make daily interactions, shopping, and navigating much easier.

Choose a Location

Colombia offers vibrant cities across a range of climates and geographies, giving teachers unique options for where to live and work.

Bogotá

The capital city is Colombia’s educational and cultural heart, offering abundant teaching opportunities in schools and universities. Its colonial charm and urban energy make it a rewarding place to teach English and explore Latin American life.

Barranquilla

This Caribbean port city is known for its vibrant traditions, coastal vibes, and famous Carnival. With a laid-back atmosphere and variety of programs, Barranquilla is perfect for teachers wanting a sunny and festive lifestyle.

Medellín

Famous for its “eternal spring” climate, Medellín is a modern, innovative city filled with teaching opportunities in language centers, schools, and universities. Teachers enjoy its cultural events, welcoming locals, and scenic mountain views.

Tips & Advice

Ready to begin your teaching journey in Colombia? Follow these simple steps to get matched, apply, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

1. Get matched

Use the Online Advisor to find teaching programs in Colombia that fit your background, timeline, and goals.

2. Choose a program

Sign up for MyGoAbroad to compare teaching programs side-by-side and find the best fit for your teaching journey in Colombia.

3. Choose how long to stay

Colombia offers flexible timelines for teachers of all levels and backgrounds.

• Short Term (1–3 months): Best for volunteering or trying out teaching abroad. These programs offer cultural immersion and are perfect for beginners.
• Semester (4–6 months): Ideal for government programs and language schools. Offers enough time to gain real classroom experience without a long-term commitment.
• Academic Year (7–10 months): Preferred by public and international schools. A full school year provides deeper connections and professional growth.
• Long Term (1 year+): Best for certified teachers in competitive schools. These roles offer higher pay, housing, and full immersion in local life.

4. Funding & scholarships

Fill out our scholarship and deals application to get instantly matched with funding opportunities for teaching programs in Colombia!

5. Apply

To apply, go to your chosen program’s page and click “Inquire Here” or “Apply Now.” Complete the application form and wait for a coordinator to contact you with the next steps.

6. Get your essentials

Check your visa and passport requirements, book your flights, get travel insurance, and secure your accommodation before departure.