Understanding International School Contracts: What to Look for Beyond Salary

When it comes to international school contracts, it’s tempting to focus on your salary. But your take-home pay is only one piece of the puzzle regarding international schools. A well-structured contract should support your work and life abroad, especially if you relocate with a partner or family.

From housing benefits to tuition waivers and relocation support, international schools vary widely in what they offer. Some teacher benefits can significantly increase the value of your overall package, while others might hide unexpected gaps or costs.

This guide breaks down the key components of international school contracts for international teachers. So you can ask the right questions, avoid common pitfalls, and feel confident about your next move.

1. Salary (and the Bigger Financial Picture)

Salary will always catch your eye first, but don’t look at it in isolation. Be sure to ask:

• Is the salary tax-free or taxed at the local rate? What is the local rate?
• What are the living costs in that country or city?
• Is the salary enough to save, travel, or support dependents?
• How does this compare to other international schools in the area?

Sometimes a lower salary is offset by generous benefits, but sometimes, it’s not.

2. Accommodation Details

Housing support is one of the biggest variables in international teaching packages. You might be offered:

• A school-provided apartment
• A monthly housing allowance
• A choice between the two

Good questions to ask:

• What kind of housing is it – in terms of size, location, condition?
• Is furniture included?
• Who pays utilities?
• Can I choose my own place?
• Will I live near other staff or school families?

If you’re moving with a partner or children, check whether the accommodation suits your situation. Some schools only provide single-occupancy spaces unless you negotiate.

When we moved into school housing we arrived late at night and we were all exhausted. Even though the school knew we had three kids – they didn’t have enough beds for our family. Worse still, it was during COVID and we were in quarantine. So they couldn’t deliver another bed to us for 2 weeks. It wasn’t a great first impression.

ex trailing spouse with three kids in arrival to a new school in asia

3. Flights and Relocation Support

Most international school contracts offer a flight allowance or book your flights for you. Things to check:

• Are return flights included every year? Many countries, especially in regions like Latin America, only offer flights at beginning and end of contract.
• Do flights cover all your family members or are they capped for a set number of dependents?
• Is luggage reimbursement or international shipping included?
• Do they cover relocation costs for dependents?

Some schools will reimburse excess baggage or give you a one-time relocation allowance, while others leave you to figure it out yourself. Always ask!

We’ve had a few different flight benefits in recent years. Our first international teaching contract covered all dependents at beginning and end of contract only. Our second school offered annual flights but only up to two dependents. And our third school covers flights for the whole family but again, only every two years.

kelly quinn, founder and editor at international teaching families

4. Tuition for Children

This one’s huge for teaching parents. Many schools offer free or heavily discounted tuition for staff children, but the policies vary wildly between schools.

Be sure to ask:

• Is tuition fully covered?
• Are there any hidden costs (enrolment costs, tech, resources)?
• Is it available for all your children, or just one?
• What about early years or pre-K?

Some schools only offer tuition for one child or offer a percentage discount. If you plan to stay long-term, make sure this part of the package works for your whole family. And if your kids are at secondary school, consider whether the school covers costs for external assessment (like individual IB exams).

5. Health Insurance

You should be covered by international or local health insurance as part of your package. But again, international school contracts vary A LOT, so it’s definitely worth considering what your insurance coverage includes.

Ask:

• What’s the coverage limit?
• Is dental included?
• Can I choose my own provider or clinic?
• Does it cover dependents?

Also, check whether you’ll need to pay upfront and claim later, or if certain clinics offer cashless payment.

6. Professional Development

A high-quality international school should invest in your professional development. Look for:

• A PD budget (and how it can be used)
• Access to conferences, training, or online courses (e.g. IB training)
• Opportunities for career progression

If professional development is not mentioned (or the school is very noncommittal), it could be a red flag. It could be worth looking elsewhere if you’re looking to grow in your role or move into leadership.

7. Contract Length and Renewal Terms

Most international school contracts are two years, with a chance to renew. However, some schools have started introducing longer contracts (typically three years) for senior leadership roles.

Before you sign any international school contracts, check for:

• Whether or not there’s a probation period?
• What’s the notice period for resignation? And if there are any implications for resigning early.
• What are the conditions for renewal?

Some schools have fair, clear policies. Others are vague or overly strict. Always read the fine print carefully, and ask current staff if you can.

Top tip: Research employment law in the country you’re considering. Many schools still have strict rules in their contracts that don’t necessarily match country employment laws (e.g. 12 months’ notice when the country sets a standard four weeks). If it all goes pear-shaped after you sign your contract and arrive in the country, you may want to engage a local employment lawyer to help you.

8. Extras That Add Up

Some perks can make life smoother:

• Free lunches at school
• Free transport to and from school
• Wellbeing programs or gym memberships
• Language classes or cultural orientation

None of these are essential, but they can make a good offer even better, or help tip the scales when choosing between similar schools.

Red Flags to Watch For in International School Contracts

Some warning signs to look out for if you’re about to sign any international school teaching contracts:

• No clear salary breakdown (even when you ask for one)
• Housing or tuition listed as “to be discussed later”
• No relocation assistance
• No mention of health insurance
• No contact with current staff before accepting

Top tip: Trust your gut. If an international school is vague, slow to reply, or pushes you to sign quickly without offering the details you need – proceed with caution.

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Final Thoughts on International School Contracts

Many teachers jump into jobs overseas for the adventure, but your contract is your safety net. Knowing what to expect (and what to ask for) can make the difference between a great experience and a stressful one.

Don’t feel pressured to respond too quickly. Be sure to take your time, ask questions, and get everything in writing so you can make the right decision for you and your family.