Mongolia, known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” is a vast and beautiful country offering TESOL teachers an opportunity of a lifetime. For those seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and the chance to make a difference, Mongolia presents a unique teaching experience in one of the most remote and captivating corners of the world. From the excitement of its rich traditions to the challenges of its rugged landscapes, teaching English in Mongolia is both rewarding and transformative.
Explore the Unique Wonders of Mongolia
Mongolia is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ancient traditions that continue to thrive today. As a TESOL teacher in Mongolia, you’ll not only be teaching but also immersing yourself in a world of history and tradition. Here are some fun and unique experiences you can enjoy while living and working in Mongolia:
1. Attend the Eagle Festival
One of the most exciting events in Mongolia is the annual Eagle Festival, held in the remote Altai Mountains. This ancient tradition showcases the unique bond between Kazakh hunters and their golden eagles as they work together to hunt prey. The festival features competitions that demonstrate the eagles’ skills in hunting, speed, and agility. As a TESOL teacher in Mongolia, you’ll have the chance to witness this remarkable spectacle of human-animal teamwork, an experience that is not only thrilling but also a window into Mongolia’s deep cultural roots.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Mongolia is home to some of the world’s last remaining eagle hunters? These hunters have trained their golden eagles for centuries, a practice passed down from generation to generation.
2. Explore the Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai
Mongolia is also rich in ancient history, and one of the most fascinating places to explore is the Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient rock carvings, dating back thousands of years, depict scenes of daily life, hunting, and rituals. The site is also home to ancient funerary monuments, offering insight into Mongolia’s prehistoric cultures. Exploring the petroglyphs gives TESOL teachers an opportunity to connect with Mongolia’s ancient past while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Fun Fact:
The Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai contain over 10,000 images, making it one of the richest collections of rock art in Central Asia.
Teaching English in Mongolia: What You Need to Know
Mongolia’s growing economy and increasing international engagement have created a demand for English teachers, particularly in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. However, Mongolia remains a predominantly nomadic society, and most of the teaching opportunities are concentrated in urban areas.
1. Teaching Opportunities in the Capital
While Mongolia is vast, the majority of teaching jobs are located in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. The city is the center of Mongolia’s education system and home to most universities, private schools, and language centers that require English teachers. As a TESOL-certified teacher, you can expect to find opportunities to teach in universities or private institutions, where students are eager to improve their English skills for business, academic, or travel purposes.
Teaching in Ulaanbaatar offers the chance to work with a wide range of students, from children to adults, in both formal classroom settings and private tutoring roles. The city is rapidly modernizing, but it still retains a strong connection to Mongolia’s nomadic traditions, giving teachers the chance to experience both the old and new Mongolia.
Fun Fact:
Ulaanbaatar is the coldest capital city in the world, with winter temperatures often dropping to -20°C (-4°F). Be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes!
2. Limited Opportunities in Rural Areas
Outside of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia remains largely rural, with a significant portion of the population living a nomadic lifestyle. While this makes the country fascinating to explore, it also means there are fewer teaching opportunities outside the capital. Most nomadic families prioritize traditional skills over formal education, so English teaching jobs in rural areas are scarce. However, for the truly adventurous, there may be opportunities to teach in smaller towns or volunteer in community education projects.
3. TESOL Certification Requirements
To teach English in Mongolia, you will typically need a TESOL certificate or an equivalent qualification. Having this certification ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to speakers of other languages. It also increases your chances of landing a job in Mongolia’s competitive teaching market.
4. When to Start Your Job Search
The school year in Mongolia typically begins in August, so it’s best to start your job search a month or two in advance. June and July are good months to begin reaching out to schools and language centers, as many will be preparing for the upcoming academic year. By starting your search early, you’ll have more opportunities to secure a position that aligns with your teaching goals.
Embrace the Adventure of Living in Mongolia
Living in Mongolia offers teachers a unique opportunity to embrace both the challenges and beauty of life in a remote and rugged environment. Mongolia’s vast, open landscapes, friendly locals, and rich cultural traditions create an unforgettable experience for TESOL teachers. While Ulaanbaatar is becoming increasingly modern, much of the country remains untouched by the fast-paced changes of urban life, allowing teachers to experience a slower, more traditional way of living.
Fun Fact:
Mongolia is known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky” because it experiences over 250 sunny days a year. The endless sky and wide-open plains make for stunning views and excellent stargazing opportunities.
Conclusion: Teaching English in Mongolia – A Unique Opportunity
Teaching English in Mongolia is more than just a job—it’s an adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most fascinating cultures. From witnessing the Eagle Festival to exploring ancient petroglyphs, Mongolia offers an unparalleled experience for TESOL teachers who are ready to embrace the excitement of living and working in a truly unique environment.
Whether you’re teaching in the bustling capital of Ulaanbaatar or exploring Mongolia’s vast landscapes during your time off, this opportunity promises to be both professionally and personally enriching. If you’re a TESOL-certified teacher looking for an unforgettable adventure, Mongolia may just be the perfect destination.
Learn more about teaching English in Mongolia, and start your journey today!
