Why 80% of International Teachers Struggle Financially—and How You Can Get Ahead?

One of the biggest financial challenges facing international teachers is a mindset issue. Many accept overseas postings for two or three years, assuming they’ll return home soon—perhaps to the UK—and resume contributing to a pension or retirement plan. Because they're young and enjoying life abroad, financial planning often takes a back seat.

However, what often happens is they take another post—perhaps in Dubai, then Qatar—and before they realize it, 10 years have passed. They’ve had a fantastic experience, but they haven’t consistently contributed to a pension or built significant savings. Meanwhile, their peers back home have been steadily building their retirement funds. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be one or the other—you can enjoy the expat lifestyle and build financial security at the same time.

With a disciplined approach, even modest savings can grow significantly over time. For example, setting aside the equivalent of what you'd be paying in taxes back home can be a simple yet powerful strategy.

There are several effective options available for international educators. A low-cost S&P 500 tracker ETF, for example, is a smart, long-term investment. We also offer professionally managed, diversified portfolios with competitive fees, typically ranging from 1% to 1.5%—inclusive of management fees.

The key is to take action. Those who do often end up retiring comfortably, thanks to the power of compound growth.

Ultimately, what you save is often more important than what you earn. It’s not uncommon to see high earners with little to show for it. Start now, and future you will thank you.