5 Questions to Ask About Housing Support Before Signing Your Contract
Housing support is one of the biggest factors international teaching families need to consider to help decide if a job offer is competitive (and realistic!).
A free apartment or generous housing allowance can make life abroad affordable for families. Whereas unclear housing terms can leave you facing unexpected costs and stress.
Before signing your teaching contract, here are five key questions to ask.
1. Is Housing Provided or Is There a Stipend?
Some schools provide fully furnished housing, while others give teachers a monthly allowance to find their own accommodation. Each option has pros and cons to weigh up.
Provided housing means less hassle when you first arrive, and can be much easier for families. But you’ll have less choice and the space might not be suitable for your family’s needs. Having a housing stipend gives you more flexibility, but in some cities, it may not actually cover the rent.
Example: In Dubai, one teacher family discovered their stipend only covered half the cost of a three-bedroom apartment.
2. What Housing Support Is Included?
When it comes to housing support, make sure you ask whether utilities, internet, and maintenance are also included.
A “fully covered” apartment in one country may come with hidden costs (like paying for water, air conditioning, or even security), which can add up quickly.
Example: A teaching family in Malaysia had accommodation provided but didn’t factor in utilities. With year-round air conditioning, the monthly bill was higher than expected.
3. How Close Is Housing to the School?
A 10-minute walk versus a 45-minute commute can drastically affect your quality of life. If housing is provided, check its location and transport options. Some schools will offer free transport to and from school if school housing is provided, which can save you a lot (and make life a whole lot easier).
If you’re given a stipend, ask what neighbourhoods teachers typically live in and how safe and convenient they are.
Example: In Indonesia, many teachers live in beautiful school-provided housing, but it’s a long way from the school (e.g. 40 minute bus ride in busy Jakarta traffic), so not always convenient for families.
4. What Happens During Holidays or Contract Changes?
During school holidays, most schools will let you stay in school provided accommodation but it’s always worth checking to make sure!
Clarify whether you can stay in your accommodation year-round and what happens if you leave the school mid-contract.
Example: A teacher in Vietnam who lived in boarding had to pack up and store belongings every summer because their school used apartments for summer camps.
5. Are There Family-Friendly Options?
If you’re moving with a spouse or kids, ask whether family housing is available. Some schools only offer single apartments, leaving teachers scrambling to upgrade at their own expense.
Example: In Qatar, a teacher with two children was placed in a one-bedroom flat and had to pay extra to move into larger accommodation.
Final Tip for Housing Support
Where you can, always try to talk to current teachers at the school to find out what’s included and average costs of renting to see if stipends are adequate.
Housing benefits can be one of the biggest perks, or pitfalls, of an international teaching contract. Do your homework to make sure you know what you’re getting your family into!
