Teaching jobs in the UK for Indian teachers are among the most in-demand jobs, especially in STEM and Special Education. The UK offers competitive salaries starting at £32,916 (₹3.45L/month), visa sponsorship, and structured career growth. With thousands of vacancies and government-backed recruitment, Indian educators have a clear pathway to work abroad.
In this guide, you will read more about what teaching jobs are available, who is eligible, which visa you need, how to apply, and how much Indian teachers earn and how do they manage the cost of living in UK. Each section provides verified details, practical steps, and salary insights to help you plan your move confidently.
Explore more in-demand career opportunities in UK across industries in our detailed guide on jobs in the UK.
What Teaching Jobs Are Available in UK for Indian Teachers?
The United Kingdom offers a wide range of teaching opportunities for qualified Indian educators, especially in subjects facing acute shortages. With the UK government actively recruiting overseas teachers to fill gaps in the education system of UK, Indian teachers have a strong chance of securing rewarding roles across primary, secondary, and special education sectors.
Types of Teaching Roles Available
Indian teachers can apply for various roles depending on their qualifications and experience:
Note: STEM and SEN roles are currently on the UK’s shortage occupation list, making them more accessible for overseas applicants with visa sponsorship.
UK Teacher Shortage by Subject and Region:
Subjects in High Demand
The UK government has identified several subjects where teacher shortages are critical. Indian teachers with expertise in these areas are especially encouraged to apply:
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Computer Science
Biology
Special Education Needs (SEN)
Design & Technology
These subjects are prioritized for visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, making it easier for Indian teachers to secure employment.
Types of Schools Hiring Indian Teachers
Indian educators can find opportunities across various types of institutions:
State-funded Schools: These include academies and maintained schools. Most require QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).
Independent (Private) Schools: May offer more flexibility in hiring and may not always require QTS.
International Schools: Often prefer teachers with global experience and may offer competitive packages.
Special Schools: Focused on SEN students, these schools are actively hiring trained professionals.
Remote and Hybrid Teaching Roles
Post-pandemic, some UK schools and education platforms offer online or hybrid teaching roles, especially in tutoring or supplementary education. While these may not always qualify for visa sponsorship, they can be a good starting point for gaining UK teaching experience remotely.
Where to Find These Jobs
Indian teachers can explore job listings on platforms such as:
Get Into Teaching
TES Jobs
Gov.uk Teaching Vacancies
Indeed UK
Education Week Job
Always check if the school is a licensed visa sponsor before applying.
Planning to upgrade your skills before applying? Explore upGrad’s Master’s in Teaching in the UK programs designed for international educators.
Who Is Eligible for Teaching Jobs in the UK for Indian Teachers?
Teaching in the UK as an Indian educator requires meeting specific eligibility criteria related to academic qualifications, professional experience, language proficiency, and legal status. The UK government has streamlined the process for overseas teachers, especially in shortage subjects, but candidates must still meet baseline standards to be considered for employment and visa sponsorship.
Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks
Reference verification from previous employers
Health and character assessments (as part of visa and school onboarding)
Which Visa Do Indian Teachers Need to Work in the UK?
Indian teachers who wish to work in the UK must apply for a visa that allows them to live and teach legally. The most common and suitable route is the Skilled Worker Visa, which is designed for professionals filling roles on the UK’s shortage occupation list, including many teaching positions. Understanding the visa types, sponsorship requirements, and eligibility criteria is crucial for a successful relocation.
Skilled Worker Visa Explained
The Skilled Worker Visa is the primary visa route for Indian teachers. It allows qualified professionals to work in the UK for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extension or settlement.
Key Features:
Feature
Details
Validity
Up to 5 years
Sponsorship Required
Yes – from a licensed UK school or institution
Minimum Salary Requirement
£30,960/year or £15.88/hour (lower for shortage subjects)
Occupation List Inclusion
Yes – STEM and SEN subjects are prioritized
Path to Settlement
Eligible after 5 years of continuous residence
Teachers in subjects that have a shortage like Maths,, Physics, and Computer Science, benefit from reduced salary thresholds and faster processing.
Visa Sponsorship by UK Schools
To apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, Indian teachers must first secure a job offer from a UK school that holds a sponsor licence.
Steps to Sponsorship:
Apply to schools listed on the UK Visa Sponsorship Register.
Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
Use the CoS to apply for the Skilled Worker Visa online.
Salary Threshold and Conditions
The UK government has set salary thresholds for visa eligibility. However, teachers in shortage subjects benefit from lower thresholds:
Role
Minimum Salary
General Teaching Roles
£30,960/year
Shortage Subject Teachers
£26,200/year (approx.)
Teaching Assistants
Not eligible for sponsorship
Always confirm the salary offered meets visa requirements before accepting a job.
Other Visa Options (Less Common)
While the Skilled Worker Visa is the most relevant, other visa routes include:
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (for ages 18–30, limited countries)
Graduate Visa (for those who study in the UK)
Global Talent Visa (for highly accomplished educators or researchers)
These are less common and may not apply to most Indian teachers.
Documents Required for Visa Application
To apply for the Skilled Worker Visa, Indian teachers typically need:
Valid passport
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
UK ENIC comparability statement (if applicable)
Criminal record certificate
Tuberculosis test results (mandatory for Indian applicants)
How Can Indian Teachers Apply for Teaching Jobs in the UK?
Applying for teaching jobs in the UK from India involves a structured process that includes researching opportunities, preparing documents, meeting eligibility criteria, and securing visa sponsorship. With the UK actively recruiting overseas teachers, especially in shortage subjects, Indian educators have a clear pathway to employment—provided they follow the right steps.
Where to Find Teaching Jobs (Govt & Private Portals)
Indian teachers can explore job opportunities on several trusted platforms:
Platform
Type
Features
Get Into Teaching
Government Portal
Info on QTS, training, and job listings
TES Jobs
Private Job Board
Thousands of teaching vacancies across the UK
Gov.uk Teaching Vacancies
Official Govt Portal
Verified listings from UK schools
Indeed UK
Aggregator
Filter by visa sponsorship and subject
Education Week Jobs
Education-focused board
Roles in schools and colleges
Documents Required for Application
Before applying, Indian teachers should prepare the following documents:
Updated CV/resume tailored to UK standards
Cover letter highlighting teaching experience and subject expertise
Degree certificates and transcripts
UK ENIC comparability statement (if applicable)
IELTS/TOEFL scorecard
Letters of recommendation from previous schools
Teaching license or registration (if available)
Tips for CV and Cover Letter
UK schools expect concise, achievement-focused CVs. Here are some tips:
Keep CV to 2 pages max
Use reverse chronological format
Highlight student outcomes, classroom innovations, and subject expertise
Tailor the cover letter to each school, referencing their values and curriculum
Tip: Mention familiarity with UK curriculum frameworks like GCSE, A-levels, or EYFS if applicable.
Interview Preparation and Follow-Up
Once shortlisted, Indian teachers may be invited for:
Virtual interviews via Zoom or Teams
Demo lessons or teaching presentations
Panel interviews with school leadership
Preparation Tips:
Research the school’s ethos and curriculum
Prepare to discuss classroom management strategies
Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with UK standards
After the interview, send a thank-you email and express continued interest.
Securing Visa Sponsorship
Once offered a job, the school must issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Teachers can then apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Steps:
Accept the job offer
Receive CoS from the school
Apply for the visa online
Submit biometric and health documents
Wait for approval (usually 3–8 weeks)
How Much Do Indian Teachers Earn in the UK?
Teaching in the UK offers Indian educators not only international exposure but also competitive salaries and benefits. With recent pay scale updates and a 4% salary hike effective from September 2025, the UK government has made teaching roles more financially attractive, especially for overseas teachers in shortage subjects.
Average Salary for Indian Teachers in the UK (2025–26)
As of the 2025–26 academic year, here are the official salary bands for teachers in England:
Teaching Role
Salary Range (GBP/year)
Approx. Monthly Salary (INR)
Qualified Teacher (England)
£32,916 – £51,047
₹3.45L – ₹5.36L
Qualified Teacher (Inner London)
£40,317 – £62,496
₹4.23L – ₹6.56L
Headteacher (England)
£58,569 – £153,488
₹6.15L – ₹16.12L
Conversion based on current rate: £1 = ₹105. Salaries vary by location, experience, and school type.
Note: Salaries vary based on experience, location, and responsibilities. Inner London offers the highest pay due to higher living costs.
Additional Benefits for Indian Teachers
Beyond base salary, UK schools often offer:
Relocation allowance (up to £5,000 in some cases)
Visa sponsorship and legal support
Professional development funding
Pension contributions via the Teachers’ Pension Scheme
Paid holidays (typically 13 weeks/year including school breaks)
Cost of Living vs Salary
While UK salaries are attractive, it’s important to consider living expenses:
Expense
London (Monthly)
Non-London (Monthly)
Rent (1BHK in city centre)
£2,614 (₹2.74L)
£1,200–£1,500 (₹1.26L–₹1.58L)
Utilities + Internet
£150–£200 (₹15,750–₹21,000)
£100–£150 (₹10,500–₹15,750)
Food & Transport
£400–£600 (₹42,000–₹63,000)
£300–£450 (₹31,500–₹47,250)
Teachers in non-London regions enjoy lower living costs and decent salaries, making them ideal for savings.
Salary Progression and Pay Scales
UK teachers progress through Main Pay Range (MPR) and Upper Pay Range (UPR) based on experience and performance. Promotions to leadership roles (e.g., department head, assistant principal) can significantly increase earnings.
Career Path Example:
Position
Typical Salary (GBP)
Approx. INR/month
Newly Qualified Teacher
£32,916
₹3.45L
Experienced Teacher
£45,000+
₹4.72L
Head of Department
£55,000+
₹5.78L
Assistant Headteacher
£65,000+
₹6.82L
Headteacher
£100,000+
₹10.5L+
Conclusion
Teaching in the UK presents a valuable opportunity for Indian educators to grow professionally while experiencing a new culture and education system. With rising demand in STEM and SEN subjects, competitive salaries, and structured career paths, the UK remains a top destination for skilled teachers from India. From eligibility and visa sponsorship to salary insights and support programs, this guide equips you with everything needed to start your journey confidently.
If you're ready to explore teaching opportunities in the UK, connect with upGrad’s experts for1:1 counselling. Get personalized guidance on job applications, visa processes, and career planning, your global teaching career starts here.
FAQs
Can Indian teachers work in the UK without Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)?
Indian teachers can work in UK schools without QTS for up to four years under the “4-year rule.” During this time, they can teach in most state-funded schools. However, QTS becomes mandatory for long-term employment and career advancement in the UK education system.
What is the minimum IELTS score required for Indian teachers to work in the UK?
Indian teachers must typically score at least 6.5 overall in IELTS, with no band below 6.0. This score satisfies both visa requirements and school expectations for English proficiency. Some schools may accept alternative qualifications, but IELTS remains the most widely accepted standard.
Are Indian teaching degrees valid in the UK?
Indian degrees such as B.Ed. or subject-specific bachelor's degrees are valid if they meet UK standards. Teachers must obtain a UK ENIC comparability statement to confirm equivalency. This ensures the degree aligns with UK academic and professional benchmarks for teaching roles.
What is the average monthly salary for Indian teachers in the UK?
Indian teachers in England earn between £32,916 and £51,047 annually, which equals approximately ₹3.45L to ₹5.36L per month. Salaries are higher in London and vary by experience, subject, and school type. Teachers in shortage subjects like STEM often earn more due to demand.
Which visa do Indian teachers need to work in the UK?
Indian teachers must apply for the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor. The role must meet salary thresholds and be on the eligible occupation list. The visa is valid for up to five years and can lead to permanent residency.
What challenges do Indian teachers face when moving to the UK?
Indian teachers may face challenges such as adapting to UK classroom culture, understanding curriculum differences, and managing higher living costs, especially in London. Navigating visa paperwork and securing sponsorship can also be complex without proper guidance or support from the hiring school.
Are there support programs for Indian teachers in the UK?
Yes, many UK schools offer induction programs, mentoring, and professional development for overseas teachers. Government platforms like “Get Into Teaching” also provide resources. Some schools offer relocation assistance, cultural orientation, and help with QTS registration to ease the transition.
Can Indian teachers apply for jobs in the UK without prior international experience?
Yes, prior international experience is not mandatory. Indian teachers with strong subject knowledge, relevant degrees, and classroom experience in Indian boards like CBSE or ICSE are eligible. Schools value teaching skills and adaptability more than international exposure.
Do UK schools sponsor visas for Indian teachers?
Many UK schools sponsor visas for Indian teachers, especially for roles in shortage subjects like Maths, Physics, and Computer Science. Applicants must ensure the school is listed on the UK’s official register of licensed sponsors before applying for a position.
Is teaching experience in India accepted by UK schools?
Indian teachers on a Skilled Worker Visa can apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous employment in the UK. They must meet salary and residency requirements and pass a Life in the UK test. This pathway allows for long-term settlement and family sponsorship.
What subjects are most in demand for Indian teachers in the UK?
Subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Special Education Needs (SEN) are in high demand. These are listed on the UK’s shortage occupation list, making it easier for Indian teachers to secure jobs and visa sponsorship in these areas.
Do Indian teachers require school sponsorship for a UK visa?
Yes, sponsorship from a UKVI-approved school, academy, or trust is mandatory to obtain a Skilled Worker visa. Without sponsorship, teachers cannot legally work in UK schools.
Neha Uppal is a passionate content creator and editor. She carries 7.5+ years of experience working with leading edutech companies where she worked as a Faculty, Community Manager, and Content Markete...
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