At a Glance: Teaching English in Finland

ESL teachers looking for a place to experience the outdoors to its fullest should teach in Finland. With 80% of the country made up of forests, water, and national parks, Finland is paradise for hikers, skiers, fishermen, and every other outdoor enthusiast.

Monthly Salary*: 800 - 1,100 EUR
Accommodations: Sometimes included or allowance may be given
Airfare: Rarely included
Health Care: Usually included
Holidays: Sometimes paid
Teaching Hours per Week: 10 - 30
Typical Contract Length: One year or less
Typical Start Month(s): September or January
Application Timeline: 1 - 4 months
Private Tutoring per Hour: 10 - 30 EUR
Income Tax††: 0 - 35%
Cost of Living**: Cost of a Big Mac = 3.75 EUR
Exchange Rate: As of 06-19-2013
1.00 CAD = 0.73 EUR
1.00 EUR = 1.37 CAD
Ability to Save: Moderate
Visa: EU citizenship preferred
Minimum Requirements: Oxford Seminars TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate and Bachelor's Degree; Master's Degree preferred
Additional Notes: Freelance work common

Other Western Europe Countries:

Austria ~ Belgium ~ Finland ~ France ~ Germany ~ Greece ~ Italy ~ Portugal ~ Spain ~ Sweden ~ Switzerland ~ The Netherlands

Travelling is relatively expensive because of the size of the country, but a visit to the north for the Midnight Sun (when the sun never sets) and Arctic Night (when the sun never rises) each year is definitely worthwhile. Travelling to Finland first before searching for a job is the best option for any ESL teaching opportunities there.

The combination of Oxford Seminars' internationally recognized TESOL/TESL Certification and our Graduate Placement Service included with the course makes teaching English abroad a reality. Learn more about teaching English in Finland and other opportunities teaching English abroad by calling 1-800-269-6719, or by attending an upcoming free Information Session in your area.

* Wages vary depending on the economy of the country.
** The Big Mac Index is a credible, reliable, third-party cost-of-living index created by The Economist. For comparison purposes, it lists the cost of a Canadian Big Mac at $4.73.
Exchange rates are subject to change. Check www.xe.com for current rates.
†† Income tax rate is based on the amount of yearly income. Most TESOL/TESL instructors will be charged no more than the minimum percentage.

Oxford Seminars makes every effort to keep our information as up-to-date and accurate as possible. However, individual teaching positions and experiences may vary with job market conditions. Specific information listed cannot be guaranteed to be applicable when you are seeking employment teaching ESL in a specific country.

Note that certain positions require additional qualifications and credentials that are not negotiable due to specific country legislation.