Earning as a Filipino English Teacher in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide
Working in Vietnam as a Filipino English teacher can offer both financial and cultural rewards. However, the salary range, additional benefits, and cost of living make it important for teachers to consider several factors before relocating. This guide provides an overview of the earning potential for Filipino teachers in Vietnam and how local and international factors influence their compenstation.
Salary Expectations
The salary for a Filipino English teacher in Vietnam can vary widely depending on several key factors such as experience, qualifications, the type of institution (private language schools, public schools, or universities), and the city where they work. As of 2023, here are some general salary ranges to give you an idea:
Private Language Schools
Monthly Earnings: 1200 to 2500 VND (Vietnamese Dong) Walking in the higher end: Teachers with extensive experience or specialized qualifications can earn up to 2500 VND per month.Public Schools
Monthly Earnings: 800 to 1500 VND Working hours: Public school positions may have less flexible working hours compared to private institutions.Universities
Monthly Earnings: 1500 to 3000 VND Additional opportunities: University positions may be more favorable for teachers with advanced degrees or extensive teaching experience.Cost of Living in Vietnam
One of the significant advantages of teaching as a Filipino English teacher in Vietnam is the lower cost of living compared to many Western countries. This makes the income more attractive and often allows for a comfortable lifestyle. While exact figures can vary, here are some general cost estimates based on a 2500 VND monthly salary:
Accommodation: Budget: 700 to 1000 VND, Average: 900 to 1200 VND Food: Budget: 500 to 800 VND, Average: 700 to 1000 VND Transportation: A budget of 200 to 400 VND will suffice for most needs. Entertainment and other expenses: 300 to 600 VND per month.This budget should cover the essentials, leaving some room for leisure activities or unexpected expenses.
Additional Benefits
Many employers provide additional benefits to enhance overall compensation. These benefits can include:
Housing Allowances: To ensure teachers have suitable accommodation. Flight Reimbursements: To help teachers cover the cost of moving to Vietnam. Health Insurance: For peace of mind and medical coverage during their stay. Paid Holidays: To enjoy cultural and personal festivities.These benefits can significantly improve the value of the salary package, making the overall experience more rewarding.
Challenges and Preferences
While the salary range offers some flexibility, Filipino teachers face several challenges when entering the Vietnamese job market. Preferences among Vietnamese parents and school administrators often favor younger, female, Caucasian teachers. Being Asian or older can put Filipino teachers at a disadvantage in landing their first ESL teaching job in Vietnam. However, it is not impossible to overcome these biases, especially with the support of experienced colleagues and a strong teaching portfolio.
Personal Experience
Personal anecdotes from colleagues can offer valuable insights. For example, my Filipina friend Menchy works at an English center in Ho Chi Minh City, teaching children's classes for 290,000 VND per hour and slightly less at a kindergarten. This firsthand experience underscores the real earnings and working conditions faced by Filipino teachers in Vietnam.
For those considering a career as a Filipino English teacher in Vietnam, understanding the salary ranges, cost of living, and available benefits is crucial. The combination of a potentially lower salary and the cultural and financial advantages offers a unique opportunity to enhance one's professional and personal life.
Conclusion: While the salary may not match the standards set by American or European standards, the financial and cultural rewards from working in Vietnam outweigh the drawbacks for many Filipino teachers. Those who are willing to adapt and seek out the right opportunities can find a rewarding and exciting career.