How long do contracts usually run?
As with the other questions the answer to this one is ‘it depends’. In most western European countries, contracts are for an academic year (from September to June) whilst the academic year in South America and Japan begins in January. Some organisations (e.g. VSO) require a 2-year commitment. Although this may seem like a long time, remember that it often takes a few months to settle into a new country and the second year is usually when you begin to see the benefits of learning a new language and cultural rules. It is also possible to find short contracts (e.g. three to six months) and International House updates its vacancy list monthly to take account of these.
