Common Questions for Teaching Candidates

Although we do have a steady stream of candidates who apply and find positions throughout the year and jobs are added year round, please note that international schools typically begin recruiting for positions one full year in advance – which is why a new recruiting season starts September 1st. This also means that there will be the greatest number of jobs in our system during the fall and winter months, with the months of October, November, December, January and February being particularly busy. This is also the time when we host our International Recruitment Conferences (IRCs), where many international schools fill positions.

It is also important to remember that every new ISS candidate must go through a review process, and this can take time, especially if a candidate is waiting for crucial documents like returned confidential references. In order to take all of this into account, we recommend that our candidates apply with us in the summer and early fall. These candidates have the benefit of getting “ahead of the game” by acquiring what is needed for an active profile, polishing their professional dossier, and making sure everything is perfect – and when September 1st comes along, they’re the first candidates our recruiters can look at!

Yes, you will need a passport to travel internationally and to assume your role at your school. Passport processing time can vary from 3 to 6 weeks. For more information and to apply for, or renew, your passport visit the United States government’s passport page.

The simple answer is yes. You will likely have a higher quality of living than you currently experience. Your salary will vary based on the school, country, your experience, and the school’s region. Yet with all factors considered, the pay at international schools is often better than what teachers are paid in public schools in America. International schools know the cost of living of their particular region and pay accordingly. Affordability, however, is a very individual issue, and everyone’s personal financial situation is different. When working with ISS, we provide you with detailed salary and benefit reports for each school and job, giving you all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Ultimately, this is a question that you have to answer. But, in short, if you are interested in other cultures and countries, seek adventure, thrive in challenging situations, are flexible and adaptable to change, and have a natural curiosity about the world, this may be a great career choice for you. Of course, that’s in addition to the assumption that you are a passionate educator who wants to make a difference in the lives of children! It’s worth noting, however, that it’s not for everyone and/or might not be the right time for you to make “the jump.” Visit our Global Educators in Action section in our Overseas Resource Center, where you can see and hear people who are actually living this lifestyle and from whose stories you can gain more insight.