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Job Search Assistance for…

…Egypt

All the advice and assistance you need for searching for a TEFL job in Egypt!

The following information has been compiled by the staff at our Alexandria course centre.
How best to find an ESL job
 
Q: Are there any particular websites or publications that are recommended?
 
Yes!  
 
Cultural considerations
 
Q: Are there any cultural factors I should take into consideration?
 
Egypt

has a very old culture, based on an Islamic code.  This doesn't mean you need to walk around wearing a "galabeya" (traditional dress) during your stay!  However, there are a few cultural issues to be aware of. Below is a description of the dress code expected of teachers in Egypt and some cultural Dos and Don’ts:
For the Ladies:
  • Comfortable low to medium heel sandals with a support strap at the back or over the foot, in neutral colors like tan, black, brown, navy or cream. No slippers, flip flops, or toe sandals are acceptable.
  • Cotton/linen skirts at full length in basic colors like the above or pastels, not white, sheer or see through.
  • Light trousers in basic colors not sheer or see through.
  • Tops/blouses are to be ¾ or full sleeves and are not to have any symbols, prints or writing on them.  Please note that low cut shirts and tops are unacceptable.
  • No undergarment, midriffs (torso), knees or thighs are to be exposed.
  • Be careful that clothing is not too tight and revealing but is more relaxed and comfortable.
  • Keep hairstyles/colors to natural and jewellery conservative with one pair of earrings, no nose rings or multiple piercings.
For the Gentlemen:
  • Comfortable shoes in neutral colors like tan, black, navy or brown.
  • Cotton pants in basic colors.
  • Shirts must be tucked in.
  • Ties are preferable.
  • No facial piercings or visible tattoos.
  • Refrain from extreme hairstyles and colors and keep your jewellery to a watch only.
Cultural Do’s and Don’ts:
  • Avoid public displays of affection.  Holding hands is ok, but remember that most Egyptians won't even do that before marriage!
  • Say "Salamu Aleikum" when you meet someone.  This is a traditional greeting meaning "Peace upon you", and can be replied to by "W Aleikum Is-salam".
  • When you are not teaching, you may want to stay close to the dress code described above. This means (for women) not showing belly, back, shoulders or anything above the calves (generally staying fairly well-covered), and for men, sticking to smart-casual wear for the most part.  This will help you avoid unnecessary attention.
  • Be aware of topics of conversation.  Be very careful about discussing religion, sex or politics, even in a lighthearted manner, as people are likely to take offence about these issues.
Qualifications needed
 
Q: What qualifications are needed to find an ESL job in Thailand?
 
Ideally, schools require teachers with a university degree and a TESOL Certificate. Some schools may be happy with less, in case of native speakers, but the more the qualifications, the higher the salary and benefits
 
Documents required for visa/work permit
 
Q: What documents are required for obtaining a visa and/or work permit?
 
Please note that getting a work permit for foreigners in Egypt is a long complicated process. So, most teachers, especially the ones who do not want to commit to long term contracts, enter the country with a tourist visa and then renew it later. Although this is not the best legal course of action, most teachers find it convenient since it is easier and cheaper.
 
Hotspot areas
 
Q: Are there are cities or regions where it is easier to find a job?
 
Most jobs can be found in Cairo. Alexandria is the second largest city, and there can be many job opportunities available there too.
 
Types of jobs available
 
Q: What kinds of teaching jobs am I likely to find?
 
The majority of the jobs are available at private schools. International private schools are growing in number and generally pay more. Work at language centers is less hectic and generally more fun, but the pay is less and the jobs are offered less frequently.  Many teachers depend on private tutoring for more income. This requires networking
 
Good times of year
 
Q: Are there any particular times of year it is better, or easier, to look for a teaching job?
 
The academic year in Egypt starts in September. The second term begins in February. The best time to apply for jobs would be July to early September and January.

Contract lengths
 
Q: What is the average contract length for a teaching job?
 
An average contract is normally for a year. With language centers you may be working per course. This normally lasts from one to two months.

Average salary
 
Q: What is the average salary?
 
The salary would differ greatly depending on the school. It will range somewhere between L.E. 1500 to L.E. 15000! The hour rate at language centers will range from L.E. 20 to 50. In Average private tutoring is about L.E. 50.

Average teaching hours per week
 
Q: On average how many teaching hours would I work per week?
 
You should expect an average teaching hours of 25. You may want to pick up more if you are working per hour in language centers. In this case the good news is that you will need less preparation time and admin work load.

Housing
 
Q: Would I be expected to find my own housing, or would it be provided by the school?
 
Housing is normally a negotiable thing with employers, but is seldom provided. It will not be difficult to find your own accommodation. You can rent an apartment starting from L.E. 1000 per month. This is normally a two bedroom apartment. The price will up to L.E. 10000 depending on the neighborhood, furniture, etc.
Additionally...
A very useful tool for job finding is AL Waseet. This is a weekly classified ad magazine. Most schools would advertise their job vacancies there. You can also advertise there. There is an issue for Cairo and another one for Alexandria. You can find it online here: http://www.ewaseet.com/index.php?country_id=EG
CV writing

One of the main concerns for employers is the cultural adaptability for the potential teachers. It will help if the teacher includes a reassuring line here or there. For example, in the interests’ part, the teacher can mention his interest in different cultures.
Although it may not be a good idea to mention the age, sex and nationality in many parts of the world, in Egypt the employers may be interested in this information. They tend, for example, to hire female teachers for very young learners.

Job Interviews

You may want to pay extra attention to the dress code in the interview. This will help build a better image on the employer’s part, and show that you are already aware of the cultural issues.
Try not to focus much on jobs you had that do not have to do with teaching, for example babysitting or waitressing.
Egypt

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