Teaching English in FranceBack to Tefl World

A taste of la belle vie

France is more than wine, cheese and picture‑perfect châteaux — it’s a place where people value education and appreciate those who bring language skills into their communities. English teaching positions are available in bustling cities like Paris and Lyon, coastal towns in the south, or small villages nestled among vineyards and mountains. Teachers often comment that students come with solid basic English; your role is to build confidence and fluency. Living in France also means learning to slow down: long lunches with colleagues, chats at the boulangerie and weekend markets are part of daily life. Whether you plan to stay for a few months or build a longer career, France offers a supportive environment and a high standard of living.

Requirements and qualifications

Education & certification – Most schools prefer teachers with a bachelor’s degree. A recognised 120‑hour TEFL certification will improve your chances, and some positions (such as university courses) require advanced degrees. Experience isn’t always essential, but those with classroom experience or a degree in education may command higher salaries. Non‑native speakers are welcome as long as they demonstrate a high level of English proficiency.
 

Language skills – You’ll need at least basic French for day‑to‑day life. Programmes like TAPIF require B1 level French. Even when not mandatory, conversational French will make your job search and integration smoother.
 

Visas & work permits – EU citizens can live and work freely in France. Non‑EU/EEA citizens usually have three options:
 

Student visa – The most common route. You must enrol in a recognised French course for at least 20 hours per week, then apply through Campus France. The process involves registering with a school, paying tuition, submitting documents to Campus France, then completing a consulate application in your home country. Student visas cannot be processed more than three months before arrival and typically take up to four weeks to issue.
 

TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France) – A government scheme that places English speakers in French public schools as language assistants. Applications open in autumn and close in January; positions run from October to April/May. It’s competitive but provides a stipend, medical coverage and a straightforward work authorisation.
 

Working holiday visa – Available to citizens of certain countries (including Canada) under bilateral agreements. This allows limited paid work while travelling.

When to apply

French schools operate on an academic year starting in September. Employers often advertise months in advance, so aim to submit applications in May or June when listings peak. Public schools may advertise as early as January or February, giving time for visa paperwork. TAPIF’s deadline is usually in January with decisions announced around April. Language academies and corporate tutoring hire year‑round, so it’s possible to find positions outside the main season.

Where you could teach

Paris

The capital offers countless public and private schools, language institutes and corporate clients. Salaries are on the higher side to balance the cost of living. You’ll never run out of museums, cafés or day trips to the countryside.

Lyon

France’s culinary heart and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Demand for teachers spans schools and universities, and the cost of living is lower than Paris.

Bordeaux & southwest

Known for vineyards and Atlantic beaches, Bordeaux’s growing economy has increased demand for English teachers. Ideal for wine lovers and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Toulouse

A university city and aerospace hub near the Pyrenees. Teachers enjoy a mix of classroom and corporate work.

Other regions

Cities like Marseille, Nice and Nantes offer diverse opportunities; rural areas often need teachers for smaller schools or community centres.

Types of teaching jobs & typical salaries

Public schools

Work as a classroom teacher or assistant; larger class sizes; positions often secured through TAPIF or local education authorities.

€1,700–€2,500 per month

Private schools

Smaller class sizes; often offer health insurance and paid holidays.

€1,800–€3,000 per month

Language schools

Flexible schedules; evening and weekend classes; pay may be hourly.

€1,200–€2,000 per month

International schools

Require teaching qualifications and experience; salaries include benefits such as housing or insurance.

€2,500–€4,000 per month

Universities

Part‑time or adjunct positions; often need a master’s degree; research duties may be included.

€2,000–€3,500 per month

Private tutoring

Teach individuals or small groups; set your own rates and schedule; ideal for supplementing income.

€15–€30 per hour

Cost of living

Living expenses vary widely between Paris and smaller towns. Here are average monthly costs (excluding rent) based on recent Numbeo data:

Rent – One‑bedroom apartment: ~€768 in city centres and ~€599 outside; three‑bedroom apartments cost ~€1,409 in central areas. TAPIF assistants sometimes share housing to reduce costs.
 

Utilities – Around €185 per month (electricity, heating, water); internet packages average €29.64.
 

Food – Meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs ~€15; groceries are more affordable if you buy local produce.
 

Transport – A single bus or metro ticket is roughly €1.80; monthly passes range from €35 to €86 depending on the city.
 

Leisure – A gym membership averages €32.97; occasional cinema or museum visits are similar to other European capitals. Overall, a single person might spend around €951 per month before rent, while a family of four could spend about €3,383.
 

Classroom & cultural tips

Polished professionalism – French schools value punctuality and preparedness. Dress smartly and arrive early.
 

Encourage participation – Students often have strong grammar knowledge but may be shy to speak. Use role‑plays and debates to build confidence.
 

Use French strategically – While your aim is immersion in English, occasional clarification in French helps beginners. However, always encourage students to express themselves in English first.
 

Work–life balance – Schools may expect participation in extracurricular activities. Be ready to help with field trips or language clubs.
 

Cultural etiquette – A handshake and eye contact are important when greeting colleagues. In rural areas, a cheek kiss (la bise) may be customary. Accept invitations to staff meals — they’re a great way to integrate and practice French.