Navigating Your First TEFL Contract: A Realistic Look at Hours, Pay, and Expectations

So, you’ve landed a job offer for your first teaching position abroad. The excitement is real, but so is the fine print. Let’s break down what a typical first contract might look like and how to assess if it’s the right move for your teaching journey.

Understanding the “Total Hours” Breakdown

Many contracts list a total weekly hour commitment. A figure like 35 hours is common, but it’s crucial to understand what that includes.

• Actual Teaching: This is the time you spend in the classroom with students. An offer of 15 teaching hours is a solid starting point.
• Office Hours: This is the other half of the equation. It covers:
  • Lesson planning and material preparation
  • Grading and giving student feedback
  • Attending training sessions and meetings
  • Participating in school activities or events

The key takeaway? Your job extends far beyond the classroom. A contract that clearly outlines this split is being transparent about the full scope of your responsibilities.

Decoding the Salary and Benefits Package

The financial offer is more than just a monthly number. You need to see the whole picture.

• Post-Tax Salary: A figure like 14,000 RMB after tax gives you a clear idea of your take-home pay. Always confirm if the salary quoted is before or after local taxes.
• The Housing Question: A contract offering no accommodation but a housing allowance (often paid later) means you’ll need to budget for upfront costs like a rental deposit and first month’s rent. This requires significant initial savings.
• Reimbursements vs. Upfront Support: Be mindful of benefits like flight reimbursement that occur at the end of your contract. This policy requires you to front the cost of your initial international flight.

Pro Tip: Create a detailed budget for your first month, factoring in all setup costs, to ensure you have a sufficient financial cushion.

The “Lucky to Have a Job” Narrative

You might hear that the market is competitive and that you’re fortunate to get an offer without extensive experience. While the TEFL landscape constantly evolves, this shouldn’t pressure you into accepting unfavorable terms.

Your credentials—a BA and a TEFL certificate—are the standard foundation for a legitimate teaching career. Combined with any tutoring experience, they make you a qualified candidate. View the market as selective, not impossible.

Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask

Before you sign, get clarity. Consider asking:

• Can you provide a more detailed breakdown of a typical week’s schedule?
• What is the exact amount of the housing allowance, and when is it paid?
• Is there any flexibility or advance possible for the initial flight cost?
• What kind of support and training is provided for new teachers?

Trust your instincts. A good offer balances fair compensation with clear, supportive terms. Your first contract is a stepping stone—make sure it’s stable enough to launch a rewarding experience.