Why teach English in Munich? The city has an industrious culture that seeks innovation and freedom. As a teacher, it's one of the best places to set your own curriculum and work out your own schedule. As an expat, Munich offers fascinating urban amenities and the ability to move quickly and easily without a car. English teaching jobs in Munich pay well and are easy to get, especially for US or Canadian citizens — and many people come to complete a university degree at a fraction of the North American cost, teaching English to make a good living in the meantime.
Getting around Munich
Munich is easy to get around, with extensive public transit and many fare options — a monthly pass for work, a day pass for sightseeing, or single-ride tickets. If you'd rather be above ground, buy a bike: many teachers love spending Saturdays touring the Altstadt (Munich's historical city centre) on two wheels. Just be warned you can't bring a bicycle on the tram during rush hour. The big-city, small-town feel is one of the real charms of teaching English here.
Finding accommodation in Munich
Like many major cities, finding an apartment in Munich is no easy task — demand outstrips supply. Still, many ESL teachers tap into local resources and find comfortable apartments at a fair cost. Check the local newspaper classifieds or a rental site like The Local (which has a phone app), or use a rental agency — expect to pay a fee once you secure a place. Young expats often flock to Schwabing, the bohemian, student-friendly area, though it's pricier. The Bogenhausen area offers more affordable options, and if you're really struggling, consider living slightly outside the centre. Many Germans share a flat with roommates to cut costs — often the best option for a freelance teacher starting out.
The TEFL certification German employers ask for
Germany requires a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL — no Practicum needed. OnTESOL's 120-hr course is TESL Canada recognized and ACCET accredited, and the credential helps secure your work visa. Given Munich's industry-heavy economy (BMW, Siemens, and more), pair it with the Business English specialist for corporate clients, or the TEYL specialist for the kids' market.
View TEFL Course →Having fun in Munich
Munich is the city of festivals, and a few are must-sees — especially for music lovers. In mid-July, check out Classical Music on Odeonsplatz, an annual open-air festival; even if you're not a classical fan, there's something special about being in the country where the genre took root. Another highlight is the Tollwood Festival, held twice a year (summer and winter), which champions sustainability and treats attendees to organic, "slow-food" fare. And of course, Oktoberfest is not to be missed: from mid-September to early October, Munich hosts the world's biggest beer festival, filling the city with people from all over the world.
The TESOL community in Munich
There are thousands of expats teaching English in Munich. To meet other teachers and pursue professional development, check out the Munich English Language Teachers Association (MELTA) — a well-established network offering workshops, events, and a ready-made community for new arrivals.