The International Schools Review Forum

One more question, is it true that QSI has a set salary and it is not negotiated? Also, it looks like the most you can make with them is 35K (as a new hire). I understand that you get steps when you work for them, but as a 1st year teacher is it pretty set straightforward? Am I correct? I am registered for Cambridge fair, but it looks like QSI will be offering me the job before. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance.

Yes- QSI has a set salary schedule and it is not negotiable... they pay a set salary based on how many years you've taught plus an end of the year bonus and an overseas allowance. If you sign for a second year, you will get a second bonus the following October. They pay for housing and shipping allowance and all visa fees and global/local healthcare. You set it up when you arrive as to what will go to your US account and what you will keep in local account. Its fairly straightforward and transparent. If you have an MA you get 1000 extra per year. Its definitely not the most amount of money but its decent- in many locations you can still save, travel, and pay US bills and live comfortably locally. ...At least that is my experience in my school and as a single person.

Thank you Koda,

so can they negotiate how many steps they give you? I have taught for 10 years, but they so far give me 7 years of teaching only in salary terms. Thank you tons.

Hi.... Uhm, I think I read in the handbook that they only credit up to 7 years of teaching outside of QSI. I know its common in districts in the US to only credit 5-10 years of teaching outside the district too. You might lose some years in the transition it looks like.

Yeah QSI has an open salary schedule. You can negotiate for a higher step increase, but they typically have a cap. You could make an argument if your a very valuable/hard to place teaching position for an extra step or two. If youve already accepted the contract though thats not likely to happen. If the money is an issue though sometimes you need to be willing to walk away?

PsyGuy, it is so nice you are back. Thanks for all your responses!!!!!!