Teaching English in Finland: At a Glance

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 - 1,800 EUR
Accommodations:	Usually not included
Airfare:	Usually not included
Health Care:	Usually not included
Peak Hiring Season:	September, October
Cost of Living^:**	Cost of a Big Mac = 3.31 EUR
Teaching Hours per Week:	15 - 30
Typical Contract:	One year
Holidays:	Usually paid
Exchange Rate^†:	As of 09-09-2010 1.00 EUR = 1.26 USD 1.00 USD = 0.78 EUR
Income Tax^††:	9 - 32%
Visa:	Employer assisted; strict conditions apply
Requirements:	Bachelor`s Degree and Oxford Seminars` TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate
Additional Notes:	Difficult for non-EU citizens; employer must be willing to sponsor a work visa.

Other Western Europe Countries:

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

Traveling 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 worth it. Traveling to Finland first before searching for a job is the best option for any ESL teaching opportunities here.

The combination of Oxford Seminars' internationally recognized TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certification and the free Teacher 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 1-800-779-1779, 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 an American Big Mac at $3.54.
† 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/TEFL 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.