Faculty Benefits

Living and Working in Mongolia

Mongolia's continental climate has long cold and dry winters with hot summers. Although there is not a lot of snow in Ulaanbaatar, temperatures can be severe, especially during the months of December and January. Despite the cold air, most days are sunny with blue skies. In fact, the blue sky is revered and even worshiped by Mongolians, who are friendly and hospitable.

Ulaanbaatar (UB), the city in which ASU is situated, is growing rapidly, has many modern amenities, and has stores and facilities where most consumer products and services can be easily found and bought. ASU campus is a ten minute ride to the center of the city. Transportation is relatively inexpensive; a taxi ride to the city center is about $4.00

Ulaanbaatar is the capital of Mongolia. There are 1.3 million people living in the city. The main language is Mongolian, although many people also speak Russian. Within the past few years, English has been adopted as Mongolia’s official second language and it is being spoken increasingly. Mongolia is rapidly becoming westernized and in many ways Ulaanbaatar is becoming a cosmopolitan city.

The campus is located in Zaisan, surrounded by high, rolling hills away from the congestion and industry that is found in the city center. A favored pursuit of many teachers is hiking the area surrounding the school, which includes a national park.

Teachers’ Salary and Employment Benefits

A standard contract is given to all newly hired teachers. The initial contract is for two years with an option to renew for a third year. The salary offered to a teacher is generated from a published grid. It reflects both the number of years of full time teaching experience and qualifications such as a second and higher degree. When considering a teaching position at ASU, one should evaluate purchasing power and attempt to calculate how much disposable monthly income one can enjoy. Many of the present staff has reported that they are able to save more than 30% of their net monthly income, having paid no more than 10% income tax.

A four story block of apartments has been constructed on the back campus of the 2 hectares site owned by the school. These apartments are furnished and equipped with what is needed for comfortable living, including Internet and basic cable television. Laundry facilities and a community recreation room are other notable features. Couples are given a larger apartment than single teachers.

ASU provides return airfare for teachers who are hired overseas, as well as general assistance in obtaining entry visas for Mongolia. Teachers are also provided with a fully funded group medical and health insurance plan.