As of the end of 2020, 158 out of 195 countries in the world offer IB programs within some of their schools. There are approximately 5,284 different schools worldwide that offer IB programs. Luckily for educators looking to go teach IB abroad, this number presents tons of opportunities in virtually any country.
The number of IB schools and programs found abroad increases by hundreds every year, so it can be expected that teachers who specialize in teaching the IB curriculum will increasingly choose to teach abroad.
Teaching IB abroad can be quite lucrative, as IB schools typically pay well. Some schools require prior IB teaching experience, but others allow teachers that are not familiar with the IB curriculum to teach it. The schools that fall into the latter category will provide IB training to help teachers get familiar with the curriculum.
History of IB Abroad
Teaching IB Abroad – China
The first IB school in China was established in 1991, and there are now 164 + schools in China that offer one or more of the four IB programs. Universities in China officially recognize the IB programs and admit students accordingly.
Teaching IB Abroad – UAE
The first IB school in the UAE was established shortly after the first one in China, in 1992, and there are now 48 + schools in the UAE that offer one or more of the four IB programs. Universities in the UAE officially recognize the IB programs and admit students accordingly.
Teaching IB Abroad – Saudi Arabia
The first IB school in Saudi Arabia was established in 1999, and there are now 19 + schools in Saudi Arabia that offer one or more of the four IB programs. Universities in Saudi Arabia officially recognize the IB programs and admit students accordingly.
Teaching IB Abroad – Thailand
The first IB school in Thailand was established in 1984, which is quite a bit earlier than some of the others listed here. There are now 25 + schools in Thailand that offer one or more of the four IB programs. Universities in Thailand officially recognize the IB programs and admit students accordingly.
There are IB schools in every country that we have jobs in, the ones listed here are just examples. Check out our job board to see all of the countries that we have teaching positions in, and tell your placement consultant that you’re looking for an IB teaching position. They’ll be able to help narrow down your job search and find the perfect IB teaching position for you!
Not sure if you want to teach IB abroad? Check out the other curriculums that are used overseas!
