teach and travel in china

Teaching English in China

Home to one of the world’s largest economies, China has grown increasingly popular with ESL teachers and licensed teachers alike looking to experience first-hand the phenomenon of a society undergoing an exciting transformation.

Looking to teach English abroad? Get hired with a TEFL certification

Top English teaching jobs in China

Primary School Math Teacher

Humanities Teacher - Primary School - Hangzhou

Early childhood teacher - pre-k - nanjing, experience the phenomenon: teach english in china, borders in china have reopened, schools hiring across mainland china, requirements to teach english in china, private language schools, international schools.

Why Choose China For Your Teaching Career?

Some blog posts to check out about teaching English in China

• 11 awesome cities where you can teach English in China
• How much you can save teaching English in China
• What it’s really like teaching English in China
• Teaching in China with a family: 6 questions to ask before accepting the job offer

Teaching English in Private Language Schools

International Schools: The Apex of Teaching English in China

If you’re unsure about living and teaching English in China, why not explore our quick guides to get a feel for what life in this country might be like:

• Teaching English in China: Tianjin City Guide
• Teaching English in China: Hangzhou City Guide
• Teaching English in China: Nanjing City Guide
• One Week Traveling in China – The Scenic Route
• One Week Traveling in China – Beijing and Shanghai

Teach English Online: A Convenient Alternative

If a flexible, part-time teaching job appeals to you, China’s booming demand for online English education offers an excellent opportunity. Armed with the necessary skills and experience, you can now teach English online to Chinese students right from your home.

For more information about teaching English online to Chinese students, check out these resources:

• Q&A: Everything you need to know about teaching English to adults online
• The certification you’ll need to land an online English teaching job
• Where to find honest reviews for online English teaching companies

These resources cover all the requirements (and exceptions to those requirements) to teach English in China:

• Requirements for teaching English in China [Video]
• Teaching in China on a tourist visa: Can it be done?
• Do I need to speak Mandarin to teach English in China?
• You can teach English in China without a degree (and 3 other myths people think are true)

Perks and Benefits of Teaching English in China

In addition to an attractive monthly salary, private language schools often offer a comprehensive benefits package, including free flights and housing, contract completion bonuses, health insurance, and ongoing professional development opportunities. Furthermore, free Mandarin lessons provide teachers with an exciting chance to learn one of the world’s most in-demand languages.

Recommended reading:

• What’s the average salary for a teacher in China?

China teaching salary calculator

Visa requirements for teaching in china.

Securing a teaching job in China requires a Z Visa , which your employer will assist you in obtaining. Be prepared to provide evidence of a Bachelor’s degree, a passport from a native English-speaking country, and ideally a TEFL certificate and some teaching experience.

Please contact a Chinese embassy or consulate near you for more information.

• Visa information for Americans
• Visa information for Canadians

Experience Life in China

Living in China is about more than just work; it’s about experiencing an ancient culture, rich in history and diversity. The cost of living is substantially cheaper compared to western countries, ensuring your income stretches further for weekend activities, travel, and savings. From the charm of ancient history to the allure of high-tech cities, China offers an unrivaled experience for expat teachers.

The clock is ticking, and your perfect teaching job in China awaits. Seize this opportunity and embark on an unforgettable journey that promises growth, adventure, and a rich cultural experience. Start your China adventure now!

Your new teaching adventure is waiting

Apply now to teach English in China with Teach Away.

China at a glance

Country information.

Capital: Beijing, China

Language: Standard Mandarin

Population: 1,387,720,133

Currency: Renminbi (yuan) (¥)

Major religion: Buddhism, Taoism

Climate: Varied: wet/dry seasons

Size: Land area - 3.7 million sq. miles (9.6 million sq. km)

Quick facts

As China has a single time zone, people in parts of the country experience sunset at midnight during the summer and sunrise at 10 am in the winter.

Want to teach English in China?

Start your journey with a TEFL Certification.

Apply to teach in China

Teaching jobs in China open regularly, with start dates throughout the year.

Want to become a licensed teacher?

Earn a US teaching license with our Teacher Certification Program (TCP).

Popular Destinations

Countries Nearby

Related Articles

Useful Links

Schools in China

• January 6, 2024
• Teach Abroad

Teach English in China: A How-To Guide 2024

Why should you teach English in China? Well, few countries have the high salaries, ultra-modern mega cities, and relatively convenient lifestyle that you can expect living in China. And for those trying to brush up on their Mandarin skills, this is just icing on the cake!

So let’s break down some of the requirements to teach in China as well as what types of teaching jobs this country has to offer and hear from a real teacher in China on some of his tips on landing a job in China and negotiating a raise.

Table of Contents

About teaching english in china.

Guiyang, China Skyline

Teaching English in China can be an extremely lucrative job (or career, depending on your aspirations). The demand for English teachers in China is consistently high everywhere, with every parent wanting their child to take English from a very young age to stay competitive in its crazy job market. 

China pays among the highest salaries for English teachers. You can see the full list of Asian countries to teach and salaries here .

The country is teeming with ESL jobs that range from public schools, bilingual and international schools, kindergartens, training centers, tutoring, and more, which we’ll get into later in this guide. Because of the entrepreneurial spirit in China, there always seems to be a side hustle or tutoring job available for those looking to pad their salary with an extra 2000RMB -10,000 RMB ($280 – $1,400 USD). 

What are the Requirements to Teach English in China 

Now that I’ve enticed you with this rich ESL job market and the myriad ways that you can earn a living teaching English in China, you may be wondering what the catch is. Well, the requirements to teach in China are numerous and often changing. In the efforts to keep this simple, let’s first start with the basic requirements to teach English in China:

• Passport from a native English speaking country
• Between the ages of 18-60 (men) 18-55 (women)
• A Bachelor’s degree
• A 120 hour TEFL (or 2-years experience)
• Criminal background check
• Good health

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Passport from a native English speaking country: 

The native English countries, as defined by the Chinese government for teaching positions include: UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. 

Note that there are companies (especially training centers or other less regulated companies) that will advertise hiring non-native English speakers. This is technically illegal, as they cannot get you the legal teaching visa required for an ESL job. If the police show up at your employer (which they often do), then you run the risk of being fined or deported if caught. 

We will speak more about visas for work later in this article. 

Between the ages of 18-60 (men) and 18-55 (women)

The retirement age for men in China is 60 years and for women it’s 55 years. China sticks to those ages as the cutoff for teachers who are coming to teach in China. 

A Bachelor’s Degree

You must have a bachelor’s degree from you home country. The type of degree is not significant, but having one is imperative. 

The bachelor’s degree must be notarized and authenticated according to your home country’s standards and also legalized by your local Chinese Embassy/Consulate. 

120 Hour TEFL Certificate

To teach, you must have a minimum of 120 hour TEFL certificate. You can have more than 120 hours (like 180 hour, etc) but the minimum is 120 hours. That means a 40-hour or 60-hour TEFL, while super helpful to learn the basics of teaching English in a foreign language, are not going to suffice. 

The TEFL certificate must be accredited, meaning that it has been reviewed and approved by a recognized, independent organization. 

In lieu of a TEFL, you can prove that you have at least 2 years of experience teaching . Proving the 2 years of teaching experience often requires you to have some sort of official letter on school letterhead stating the time period you worked, your role as a teacher, and signature from your superior. 

Like your bachelor’s degree, your 120 hour TEFL certificate will need to be authenticated and legalized in the country of origin.

A Note on Authenticating Your TEFL Hero TEFL Certificate

If you choose to get certified with TEFL Hero’s 120 or 180-hour TEFL certificate, you may need to get your TEFL authenticated in the USA. We have partnered with Teaching Nomad for those looking to authenticate their TEFL before moving to China. (For Americans, you can authenticate your bachelor’s degree and state-level background check as well). This can take a lot of the guesswork and hassle out of the process and I, personally, have used them for this service when I was applying for my visa to teach ESL in China.

Because we cannot cover all nationalities and current processes in one post, we suggest a quick google search to find an agent to walk you through the current process for your home country for remaining documents necessary for your visa.

Criminal Background Check

Depending on your country of origin, you will need to either get an FBI background check or a criminal background check from your home country. It should be less than 6 months old from the date of applying for your visa and also be notarized, authenticated, and legalized. 

Good Health

To obtain your residence permit to teach English in China, you will need to go through a full medical exam in China (and perhaps one in your home country as well). The medical exam in China generally involves a chest X-ray, ECG, urine sample, blood sample, etc. If you test positive for certain viruses or diseases such as HIV, hepatits, or tuberculosis, then you will likely be denied your work permit. 

As of now, medical checks do not test for illicit drugs, but drug testing in China at bars or restaurants frequented with foreigners is not uncommon.

Teaching English in China Salary 

China pays teachers in renminbi, which can be pronouned as “RMB” or “yuan”

Now that you know whether or not you can meet the requirements to teach English in China, let’s talk about the different types of salaries you may expect to make in China. Overall, a teacher in China can expect to make between 12,000 – 45,000+ RMB ($1,600 – $6,300USD) in China depending on what kind of school you are working in as well as how long you have been teaching in China. 

A note here is that salaries can vary widely depending on how many hours you want to work, what city you are working, as well as your qualifications to teach and ability to negotiate in China. We are providing a ballpark of what you can expect, including once you are actually living in China and can leverage your immediate availability in the country for higher pay. I’ll also be providing some tips on negotiating your salary or other benefits before accepting a job offer. 

Training Center Salary: 

Salary Range: 15,000-25,000RMB

Smaller class sizes and more freedom in classroom activities make training centers a fun teaching job

Training centers have been hit by China’s “double reduction policy” that has attempted to make it cheaper for average families to raise children. This means that many training centers have been shut down due to the policy. 

If you are still able to find a training center job, you can expect to work weeknights and weekends teaching kids pretty much during any hours they aren’t in school. These hours can be great for people who want to sleep in during the day or who have late night hobbies such as playing in bands, acting, stand up, etc. These hours can be seen as a positive or negative, depending on your priorities and preferred sleeping schedule. 

Training center teaching hours often fall between 15-25 hours per week and many employers will ask you to also add office hours so that you are still “working” 40 hours per week. There is usually not much to grade outside of class at training centers, so these office hours are usually spent by many teachers watching Youtube or playing video games. If being mandated to sit around for an extra 15-20 hours bothers you like it did for me, then I suggest trying to negotiate office hours from your contract . 

Kindergarten Salary:

Salary Range: 25,000-35,000

Kindergartens can be a very lucrative job, as you can see by the salary. Oftentimes, you can opt for a lower salary 25,000 RMB to just work mornings (7AM-12PM) Monday-Friday or full salary of about 35,000+ RMB if you want to work full school days 7AM-4PM with about an hour or so lunch break in-between.

I personally have known teachers who worked these half-day schedules and absolutely loved having the rest of the day to pursue their own hobbies.

Public School Salary:

Salary Range: 12,000-22,000

A public school class size can have up to 50 students

Public schools are often lower paying than other teaching jobs, but have the huge benefit of an extremely light workload and working hours that still fit during the typical school day. You can expect to work anywhere from 12-18 teaching hours at a public school and be off during your weekday evenings and weekends. Public school jobs are much less stressful than other jobs , but the tradeoff is a much lower salary. 

Public school teachers also often enjoy long public holidays (up to 5-7 weeks) that are paid during the school year (but they are likely not paid for summer holidays). 

Some public schools will include office hours (meaning when you are not teaching from 8AM-4PM, you are in the office grading, lesson planning, or, oftentimes, just sitting around). When negotiating an offer, it may be worth trying to reduce those office hours, as oftentimes these sorts of jobs don’t include any written work to grade. 

You may also be able to negotiate your schedule to have classes back-to-back so that you can essentially teach half-days. Again, these negotiations tend to be easier once you are in-country and have more sway as a candidate who is already within China and ready to work.

Some public school jobs can include free on-campus housing (which is often quite basic)

The above studio is where I lived my third year teaching English in Shenzhen. As far as amenities go, it was quite lacking, but it was provided to me for free and I wasn’t about to complain!

Bilingual School Salary

Salary Range: 24,000-32,000RMB

Class sizes can still range in the 30’s for bilingual schools

Bilingual schools in China walk a fine line between public school and international school. Oftentimes, they do not meet the requirements for being an “international school,” but they still can charge a premium to parents who do not want their children to go through the public school system. 

Bilingual schools often teach classes in both Chinese and English and will employ native speakers to teach subjects outside of English as well. 

You can expect to work from 7AM-5PM Monday to Friday and teach 12-22 teaching hours per week. These teaching hours may seem relatively light compared to training centers, but bear in mind that much of your spare time during the workweek will be spent grading. Classes in bilingual schools can range from 30-50 kids per class, and grading work is often part of the requirements of the education system in China.

International School Salary

Salary Range: 24,000-45,000+ RMB

Expect to participate in school-wide activities at international schools, such as dressing up for Halloween

International schools often share a lot of similar qualities to bilingual schools with the exception that they are categorized as international, meaning the students are technically required to have foreign passports (not Chinese) to attend classes. 

Getting jobs at international schools becomes more competitive than bilingual and public schools and often, more prestigious international schools will require at least a teaching certification (and some would prefer a masters in education as well). 

If you are a certified teacher, you can certainly command a much higher wage, especially if you have some experience teaching in China prior to applying.

Teaching at an international school, you can expect to have a greater set of responsibilities in the classroom and at the school. On top of teaching 12-20 hours per week, you will be expected to engage in the academic community and participate in professional development. As with the bilingual schools, international schools will require you to grade each student’s work.

Of all the places you can teach English in China, working at an international school is the most prestigious and highest paying. However, with great power (or pay) comes great responsibility. You will be expected to dress professionally daily, have regular communication with parents and staff, and be an active member in the school community.

“Santa” coming to visit my students in a Shanghai international school

Is it easy to save money while teaching in China? 

I have taught English in Shenzhen as well as in Shanghai, China across various types of schools (public school, international school, and training center) and know teachers from all of these schools who have been able to save at least several thousand USD per year.

One teacher from my public school teaching days in Shenzhen was able to save nearly $10,000USD from a $15,000USD/year salary after one year because her school provided her a free living accommodation on campus and she lived a very modest lifestyle. She likely was also cushioning her earnings with part-time tutoring gigs on the side. Although it’s not legal to work outside of the job that provides you with a visa, tutoring in student’s homes is a very common side business that pays well.

So, after seeing how much is possible to save off a low salary at a public school, imagine how much you can save If you’re pulling an international school salary of 32,000RMB per month ($4,500USD). If you are careful with your money, you should be able to save way more, depending on your spending style. 

For many teachers hoping to earn a bit more, they can often make up to 500 RMB ($70USD) per hour tutoring and up to 2,000 RMB ($280USD) per day working at camps over the summer and winter holidays . Keep in mind, working any jobs outside of the one that provided you your visa is technically illegal. If the summer or winter camp you are working at over your breaks get raided by police (which is not uncommon), you still could face fines or deportation.

It’s all fun and games tutoring young learners

Tips on negotiating a higher salary in China

1. Always aim for the higher level of the salary range listed for the job

This seems hard to do, especially if you are new to teaching and not in the country yet, but you should try your best to make the case as to why you deserve the higher range of the salary advertised. Most companies are hiring new teachers to China at extremely low pay, knowing there will be high turnover once you arrive to China and see the wages you can demand once in-country. 

2. Play up any past experience working with kids or people

You don’t need to have “teaching” experience, per se, but you should definitely talk about times you have worked with kids or taught adults and about the passion you had from that experience.

3. Negotiate on your contract bonus

Oftentimes, a school may push back on your insistence on a higher salary. Hiring managers tend to have a certain budget for the year and try to stay within that. The contract bonus, however, seems to be a bit more flexible, given that there is a chance you will not complete your contract and, hence, they won’t owe you this money. 

Your end of contract bonus could be more than a month or two months of take-home pay, so it’s definitely worth it to push for as much as you can get.

Other work benefits:

When looking at salaries, it’s important to keep in mind that often there are plenty of additional benefits to teaching in China beyond the base salary. All workers are legally entitled to health insurance (whether or not it’s good is up to your employer) and most companies will entice teachers with other benefits such as:

Health Insurance: 

Health insurance for teachers in China often covers high-quality international wings of hospitals ( source )

Chinese citizens have free public healthcare from their social insurance, but foreigners coming to work in China are legally entitled to company-sponsored health insurance. If you are working for a good international school or bilingual school, then you will probably have a very comprehensive international health insurance plan that covers private, international hospitals and clinics as well as has benefits such as dental. 

Although nice, international hospitals in China are affordable by US standards, they can still get pricey if you have a procedure or surgery. This is why reading up on your health insurance plan provided by your company is super important. 

That said, there are a lot of health insurance plans that are quite clearly chosen for their affordability from the employer and are not very robust.

“I’ve worked for a training center in Shanghai had a health insurance plan that only covered the first 1000 RMB per visit ($140USD). That covers a quick visit to the doctor or maybe some quick bloodwork, but if I had gotten into a bad accident, I would have been looking at a pretty steep healthcare bill. With this in mind, I ended up buying my own private health insurance plan to add on top of this current plan just to make sure I didn’t find myself racking up hospital bills due to some unexpected emergency.”

Housing Stipend: 

This may be the first time you’ve encountered a housing stipend and you may find yourself wondering “why would they offer me a base salary + housing stipend?” rather than just a larger salary. Well, the housing stipend is a chance for your employer to pay you money without it being taxed. That can save you close to 10% of your salary from being taxed. Generally, your housing stipend can only be up to a certain amount of your salary, but you will receive this every month with your monthly paycheck. 

If low-cost or free housing sounds good, you may also want to consider teaching in Saudi Arabia . Nearly all schools offer free, modern apartments as part of their compensation packages!

Lower Tax Rate

In many parts of China, there is a fapiao system that allows foreign workers to submit certain expenses to their HR in the form of official receipts that allow for you to reduce your taxable income. With the fapiao system, you benefit from an extremely low tax rate ( could be as low as ~10% depending on your teaching income ). 

Contract Bonus 

Most schools will offer a bonus for completing your contract, which is usually a one or two-year contract. These contracts are often large enough to encourage teachers to stay and not quit their job in the middle of the school year. 

Free Lunch 

Most teachers receive free lunch on campus

Most schools have on-campus dining with Chinese and Western options and teachers are often entitled to a meal either for free or at a pretty reduced cost (like 10 RMB / $1.40 USD). 

Where Should I Live in China? 

A Chinese “village” can consist of several million people. There are too many cities in China to discuss here, and I just want to focus on what I’d consider the most livable cities in China – the Tier 1 cities. If you’re interested in Tier 2-4 cities, you can see this list .

What’s a Tier 1 City? 

China’s cities are often broken out into unofficial tiers, or levels, based on development. Tier 1 is the most highly developed and economically vibrant. Tier 4 is the lowest level of city. I’m only going to discuss Tier 1 cities (original and new Tier 1 cities)

Original Tier 1 Cities

Includes: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing

I have personally lived in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. I would consider all Tier 1 cities to have a quality of life I’d expect in any international city in the world, with many who speak English, food and shopping I could get in any big city, and lots of other international travelers or workers. Here are my recommendations for who would thrive in each: 

Shanghai Skyline on a blue sky day

Most people who have spent time around China would agree with me when I say that Shanghai is by far the coolest and trendiest city in China. It has a huge international scene and is known as the “Paris of the East” due to its heavy French influence as well as other foreign influences in this major port city. 

Shanghai is a gigantic city with several provinces, the most innermost provinces where most foreigners reside being Xuhui, Jing’An, Huangpu, and Changning. This is where you will find streets lined with hip, instagrammable cafes, bars and restaurants, and boutique shops and galleries. The downside to these provinces is that rent can be quite expensive. Rent for a decent one bedroom apartment in Jing’An will likely run you 10,000 RMB ($1,400 USD).

Of course, if you are budgeting, you can find a studio for less or even find roommates.  

After Shanghai, I’d recommend Beijing as the other top international city in China that offers enough western conveniences that you likely won’t miss for home too much. 

Beijing, as China’s capital, has more historic places to visit and has an overall different vibe from the swanky, cosmopolitan Shanghai. Beijing has a much more historical and old-school presence and is missing the sexy Shanghai skyline and European essence. 

I have not lived in Beijing, but would expect rental to be comparable to Shanghai when living in the cooler neighborhoods catered to westerners and international Chinese. 

For those who enjoy four seasons, however, Beijing is likely going to be the only international city in China that has cool enough weather to qualify as a true winter. Shanghai, being on the Eastern coast of China, has a very temperate climate, with very mild winters and extremely hot and humid summers. 

Guanghzou, in some regards, may be the most “authentic” of the Tier 1 cities. From the cuisine to the people, it felt much more local than Beijing and Shanghai. 

With less of an international influence, you’re going to come face-to-face with more Chinese culture. This is probably a very good Tier 1 destination for teachers who also want to improve their Chinese and be a bit more immersed in Chinese culture. Rent in areas of Guangzhou are more affordable than other Tier 1 cities.

View from apartment in Shenzhen’s Futian district

The new kid on the block, Shenzhen is a newer city in China (designated a Special Economic Zone) that China has poured resources into for growth and industry. Known as the Silicon Valley of China, young entrepreneurs from around China flood into Shenzhen to start their buzzy tech businesses and amass their riches.

Because Shenzhen is so new, you will enjoy newer buildings, a great, well-laid out city with numerous parks and greenery, an advanced public transportation system.

Sharing a border with Hong Kong, you can simply take a bus or ferry and be in the center of Hong Kong in a few hours.

Lastly, and probably just as important as any other reason to move to a city in China, is that the air here is significantly better than most other cities in China. Rarely reaching levels known to cause adverse health effects, you can enjoy fresh air and nature in this gem in the China’s Guangdong district. 

New Tier 1 Cities 

Includes: Chengdu, Hangzhou, Chongqing, Wuhan, Nanjing, Xi’An, Suzhou, Tianjin, Changsha, Zhenghou, Dongguan, Qingdao, Shenyang, Hefei, Foshan

Hangzhou, China – a short hour-long high speed train from Shanghai, Hangzhou is a very livable city known for its tourism.

I’ve not personally lived in these new tier 1 cities but have visited several. What you should expect from these types of cities is more Chinese culture and history, fewer (but still plentiful) western amenities, fewer people who can speak English, and probably a bit more stares from locals. 

These can be fantastic choices for teachers who want to learn Chinese, aren’t looking for western luxuries that you may expect from home, and who don’t mind not having as much of an “international” feel in terms of community from expats and other teachers.

Tips for moving to China

Research areas of the city.

As with moving into any city, it’s helpful to consider areas of the city that you may want to live in. I’ve made the mistake of taking a job in the “suburbs” of Shanghai (Songjiang district), thinking it would be nicer and have better air than inner city. It wasn’t. I don’t like commuting, so I finished the school contract living in an area of the city with few other foreigners and no real culture. 

Consider your commute 

Often, international schools are located in the outer edges of cities. For example, most international schools in Shanghai are located in the Pudong district. Most teachers would not choose to live in this district because it is far from the cool restaurants and things to do in the city. If that sounds like you, then you will likely have to commute to some degree. 

If you want to live where the action is, but it looks like an hour long commute on the metro to get to work, this should be something that you heavily consider when taking a new job. I know many friends who commuted an hour each way for work, often leaving for work at 6:30 in the morning to be at school when their students arrived. 

Have at least a few thousand USD saved before arriving

This is something that most schools fail to mention when you are moving to China for the first time. 

Most Chinese nationals have an extremely high savings rate, close to 36% of net household income , so shelling out the entire amount upfront for subscription-type services for the year is quite normalized.

You may need to pay for upfront for your internet or cell-phone plan, your gym membership, and even a portion (3 months) of your year’s rent. 

When you sign a contract for an apartment, your landlord will ask for the first month rent as a safety deposit as well as two additional months upfront. For an apartment that costs 10,000 rmb/month ($1,400), this can be nearly $4,200 USD paid upfront. 

Your employer may be able to give you a cash advance on your first month of work, but this is not a guarantee. I advise all newcomers to China to have at least $4,000-$5,000 in savings in USD before moving.

How to find jobs teaching English in China

It’s not hard to find a job teaching English in China while living outside of the mainland. The problem is, many jobs to teach English aren’t advertised on job boards and are often recruited for within the country. 

With that in mind, it’s best to consider your first gig teaching English in China as your launch off point to a slew of options that will present themselves once you are living in China, meeting other teachers, and have access to more recruiters and schools. 

Here is where you should start if you’re looking for a job outside of China: 

Recruiters: 

Teaching nomad.

Using recruiters is often one of the fastest ways to get your CV in front of several schools and get a job teaching English in China fast. When you work with Teaching Nomad, you’ll get paired with a rep who will help walk you through your interview and negotiations.

We are not affiliated with Teaching Nomad, but I did get an international school job in Shanghai with Teaching Nomad in 2018, so I have personally utilized their services and was happy enough with the process. 

eChinacities

eChinacities is a great job board for all types of jobs in China for foreigners, and you can filter through for teaching jobs in cities that you are interested in. It is teeming with recruiters, so chances are, once you upload your CV to your profile, you will be contacted via email by recruiters with jobs that you didn’t even apply for.

Jooble has quite a few job postings for teaching English in China ranging from Kindergarten up to high school ESL positions.

LinkedIn 

You can find jobs on LinkedIn and plenty of recruiters also lurk on this social media. 

How to Get Hired Teaching English in China

Get your cv up to date.

First and foremost, make sure your CV is up to date with your education, past experience, and with a photo on your CV. This one can be important, as it shows the school or employer what you look like. For better or worse, what you look like still goes into consideration at many schools looking to hire foreigners. 

Practice your interviewing skills

Schools look for teachers who seem upbeat, passionate, and excited about teaching English. Many schools for kids (like training centers, primary schools, and kindergartens) are seeking a “type” of teacher that is going to be happy, smiling in photos with kids, and who is engaging for parents. 

Don’t be afraid to negotiate

I used to think negotiating on a job offer would make you seem ungrateful for the opportunity. But, with teaching in China, negotiation is expected as part of the hiring process. When you land a job, you can share your offer letter with your recruiter, with a friend who has worked overseas, etc. to see where there may be wiggle room for negotiation.

What visa do you need to teach English in China? 

When you receive your offer to teach English in China, your employer will apply for your work permit application and issue you a Notification of Foreign Working Permit letter. You will use this to then apply for the work visa (Z-visa) in your home country to enter China. 

Once you are in China, the HR at your school will take you through the necessary steps to receive your residence permit, which allows you to live and work legally in China for the duration of your contract. 

What’s it like living in China? 

I found living and teaching English in China to be an adventure, in every sense of the word. From metropolises like Shanghai to the lush, green hills of Guilin, there’s an endless amount of things to do and experience. 

In addition, technology has made navigating and living in China easier than ever. Communication apps like wechat are the backbone of your day-to-day, where you can access everything from group chats with friends, ordering food, reserving train tickets, or buying a bottle of water on the side of the road. 

Because of the ubiquity of wechat in your daily life, you could walk out of your home with nothing but your phone and an external charger and never need to use a card or cash again. This feature of life in China makes day-to-day feel quite convenient, yet tethered to tech. 

China continues to attract foreigners looking for adventure, to learn Mandarin, or simply looking to further their careers and enjoy doing so. Expat communities in cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen make China feel smaller and more like home. 

How does teaching in China compare to other Asian countries?

Plenty of teachers choose to teach in Southeast Asia, most notably in Thailand and Vietnam. The salaries in both of these countries will likely be lower than teaching in China, but cost of living is significantly lower in these countries as well.

The difference tends to lie in what you are looking for with teaching abroad. If you are seeking a high salary in a big city and the chance to punch above your weight in terms of the types of international schools you can work at, then China is the best option for you. However, if you’re seeking an adventurous experience, are not concerned about saving a lot, and are not as concerned about working at international schools, then teaching in Thailand or Vietnam may be a better choice with a higher quality of life for you.

See more of our guides on teaching in Southeast Asia:

• Teaching English in Thailand
• Teaching English in Vietnam

Perhaps living in hot, tropical southeast Asia doesn’t strike your fancy and you are considering teaching in Eastern Asia. Teaching English in Korea and Japan are great alternatives to China, especially if you are seeking an easier-to-navigate country with fewer restrictions in terms of internet or speech.

Oftentimes, there is more regulation in terms of what kind of schools you can teach at in South Korea and Japan, so you will need to be a certified teacher if you intend on working at a bilingual or international school.

See more of our guides on teaching in Eastern Asia:

• Teaching English in South Korea
• Teach English in Japan
• Teaching English in Taiwan

An Interview With a Real Teacher in China

To get a taste of what it really is like being a teacher in China, we interviewed Ryan Krebiehl , a 4th grade teacher at an international school in Shanghai.

1. How does teaching in China compare to other Asian countries?

Teaching in China is a bittersweet gig. While you may have a lot of opportunities to save money due to the higher salaries and lower cost of living compared to other Asian countries, there are far more regulations and bureaucratic redundancies to deal with. Since COVID, most of the foreign nationals have left the country for better stability elsewhere, so even the top tier international school are primarily populated with local students which leads to fundamental issues of Chinese censorship culture.

2. How did you find your teaching job in China?

I found my first job teaching in China through contacting recruiters who hired for lower tiered schools since I wasn’t a certified teacher at the time. Now that I have more credentials, Search Associates is by far the best way to search and apply for middle and top tier schools.

3. Do you have any tips on negotiating a higher salary for your first job?

While many salaries are negotiated through brackets, you may not have much wiggle room in negotiating more net salary. However, you may have flexibility in negotiating professional development stipends if you are seeking certain certifications, moving allowances, or other non-salaried options in the package.

4. Is it easy to save money while teaching in China?

Depends on your lifestyle, but it is relatively easy to save. Rent, transportation, Chinese food, and other local products are extremely cheap in China. However, if you are hankering for some western comfort you may find yourself spending 10 USD on a cocktail or imported IPA. That being said, even treating yourself a couple times per week is still affordable on a Chinese teaching salary.

FAQs about teaching English in China

Is teaching english in china hard .

Generally speaking, teaching English in China can be hard but rewarding work. Most teachers spend 40 hours per week at school, but only a fraction of that time teaching. 

Do I need a degree to teach English in China? 

Yes, you’ll need a degree to teach English in China. Your major or type of degree is often of no significance.

Is teaching English in China worth it? 

Yes! Teaching in China is a great way to have an adventure, learn a new culture, and get paid a pretty good salary that allows you to live a good life and even save some money doing so!

Are English teachers in demand in China?

There is a high demand for English teachers in China. Most children in China will have English classes in school, so schools and training centers are always hiring. 

What is the age limit for teachers in China?

The age limit to teach in China is 18-60 for men and 18-55 for women. This is due to retirement age in China. 

Kristine Thorndyke

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Requirements to teach in China

We guide you through the confusing puzzle that is ‘teaching eligibility for China’, simplifying the rules and pointing out the most popular exceptions

The requirements for teaching English in China in 2024 are pretty straightforward. Except when they aren’t . The eligibility criteria for foreign teachers can sometimes be a maze of exceptions and special cases, leading to understandable confusion. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through every step of the way, ensuring you’re well-prepared for whatever surprises may arise.

The key requirement to teach English in China in 2024?

A VALID WORKING VISA!

Getting a working   Z-Visa is the essential step to teaching English in China legally. It’s the only visa type that allows you to work in the country, which means that the visa requirements dictate those to teach English in China.

In this sense, being allowed to teach in China is deceptively simple. If you can get a Z Visa, then you can teach. Easy enough. But getting this visa? Well, that’s where things can get tricky.

Eligibility Requirements to Teach English in China

To get a Z visa, you must satisfy certain criteria—from nationality and age to qualifications and a few other pivotal bits and bobs. It’s important to know that there are  exceptions to many of the below-detailed rules. For clarity and ease of information sharing, we’ll detail all those at the end of the guide.

Here are the primary Z Visa requirements:

1. Your Nationality

You must be from one of seven approved countries – UK, Ireland, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand & South Africa

Officially, China only accepts teaching applicants from the seven English-speaking countries mentioned above.

However, due to a high demand for English teachers in 2024, they’ve added a few more countries to the list of accepted nationalities. Think places like Jamaica and Kenya, where English is an official language. But here’s the kicker: not every province has caught up with these changes. And even if they have, some school recruiters might not be in the loop yet, so they could still turn you down.

Staying informed about regional variations becomes crucial for navigating the teaching landscape in China!

2. You must be a native-English speaker

This is an extension of the first prerequisite, and it kinda makes sense, right? If you want to teach English to Chinese students, you’d better have an excellent grasp of the language.

There is scant evidence to suggest that teachers from French-speaking Canada or South Africa who speak English as a second language have problems getting a working visa. Sometimes, rule #1 still trumps rule #2. Go figure!

3. You must hold a Bachelor’s Degree

China’s stance on foreign teachers is clear: They require a Bachelor’s Degree .

The good news, though, is that it can be in any field, not necessarily teaching or English-related. It also doesn’t need to be from your home country—it doesn’t matter where you gained your degree as long as you have one.However, there’s a catch: a higher diploma could be accepted if it’s deemed equivalent to a bachelor’s degree based on your country’s qualifications framework. So, while a degree is a must, what you studied isn’t as important as having that diploma in hand.

Got a Bachelor’s Degree in Making Animals out of Inflatable Balloons? Fun!

If the degree is legit in  your country, you can teach English in China!

4. You must have recognized and accredited TEFL certification (Teach English as a Foreign Language)

Having a TEFL certificate* is a must for teaching English in China. The good news is you can easily get certified online through reputable agencies offering top-notch courses. Plus, it’s pretty affordable! Getting TEFL certified is your ticket to kickstarting a fantastic teaching journey, not just in China but anywhere around the globe. It’s the perfect first step toward an exciting career in education.

*TEFL certificates: If you don’t have this certificate, you must get it before applying for a teaching job. In your research, you will come across three varieties of English-teaching courses: TEFL, TESOL and CELTA.

First up, this is what they stand for:

TEFL  – Teach English as a Foreign Language

TESOL – Teach English to Speakers of a Second Language ( obtaining both TEFL and  TESOL certification from the same provider is possible.)

CELTA – Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (we guess TESOL was too hard to pronounce!)

Even though they may all seem similar, there are a couple of significant differences:

TEFL courses allow you to teach English to non-native speakers abroad, and this is what you need if you wish to teach in China. TEFL jobs are in foreign countries .

A TESOL certificate  allows you to teach English abroad and to foreigners in your own home country (say, to brand-new immigrants). Yes, you can also apply for a Z Visa with a TESOL certificate.

Cambridge University (UK) offers the CELTA certificate. This thorough course includes plenty of theory and practice. Cambridge customizes CELTA primarily for teaching adults, so it’s not nearly as popular with those who want to teach English abroad.

In China, you’ll want to have as many options as possible, so it’s better to have a TEFL, which trains you to teach people of all ages.

Regarding the requirements for teaching English in China in 2024, remember you must have a  120-hour certificate . This means you complete the course over 120 class hours.

5. You must have a CLEAR Criminal Background Check from your home country

China takes a firm stance on foreign teachers’ backgrounds, and understandably so. To apply for a Z Visa, you must provide a clean Criminal Record (also called a Police Check), proving you have no prior convictions. Any blemish on your record could jeopardize your teaching prospects in China.

Technically, you must submit background checks from both your home country and any country where you’ve resided for six months within the last five years. However, employers typically only request the check from your home country. But remember that it must be squeaky clean, or your visa application will be rejected.

Find out how to obtain a Criminal Record Check in your home country.

Remember that once you have all your documents, you must notarised for the visa application.  

6. You must be between 18 and 60 years of age (men) and 55 (women)

Chinese schools typically consider a specific age range when hiring foreign teachers, mirroring the criteria for their local counterparts. They often prefer teachers between 25 and 45 years old, seeking a balance of experience and energy. For kindergarten positions, the age preference might skew even younger to match the dynamic nature of working with young children.

If you fall outside this age bracket, you should inquire about a school’s age requirement early on. Schools with rigid age restrictions might not fully appreciate the value that older, experienced teachers bring to the table. If an institution overlooks this, it may signal a lack of understanding of the teaching profession.

In such cases, you’re better off exploring other job opportunities. After all, age is just a number, and seasoned educators have a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer.  Find a school that understands and appreciates your experience.

7. You must pass two Medical Checks

China prioritizes the health and well-being of its foreign teachers, aiming to prevent the spread of illnesses into the country. As part of the application process for a Z Visa, you’ll undergo a comprehensive medical examination conducted by an authorized medical facility as soon as you arrive in China . This check screens for general health and specific conditions like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.

Your employer, however, might also ask you to have a medical check done in your home country before you leave for China. This medical check requested by the school is primarily to ensure that you’re fit to start work immediately and don’t have any infectious diseases that could hinder you from obtaining a valid work permit. While some jobs may insist on this check, it’s usually not for official visa purposes.

Either way, your employer will help you through the process, so don’t worry!

• You must have a valid visa and work permit

Having the correct visa and work permit is a must to work in China legally and safely. Working without proper documentation is risky, as authorities are cracking down, particularly in major cities. While it used to be common to work on business visas, this practice is becoming less acceptable, although it’s still somewhat prevalent in smaller cities.

Ensuring you have the proper paperwork is essential to avoid legal trouble and ensure a hassle-free work experience in China.

Eligibility Exceptions

Remember what we said about exceptions to the standard requirements? It’s true!

What if you are not originally from one of the seven approved countries but studied and gained your Bachelor’s Degree from one of the approved countries? Well, this is an exception in some provinces like Shandong but not in others. 

Here are some of the most common exceptions:

• If your Bachelor’s Degree is in English literacy but you don’t have TEFL certification, you can apply for an exemption.
• If you don’t have a lot of practical hours under your belt but found a job that doesn’t require it (say, a  kindergarten ), you can apply for an exemption to #5. The ‘practical’ requirement is subjective to each job offer so peruse them carefully. For the most part you can get a job with a degree and TEFL, even if you have no experience.  
• If you are qualified to teach in your home country, have a Bachelor’s Degree and at least two years experience, you can apply for an exemption. This means that non-native speakers can teach in China. You will find qualified teachers in this situation working for top international schools
• Also, you won’t need to have TEFL certification to teach a subject OTHER than English, so you can also apply for an exemption here too.

Attributes to find a great teaching job in China

The above are the essential eligibility requirements for a Z Visa, and this working visa is the crucial requirement for teaching English in China in 2024.

Yet, a few more attributes can help you find a great  and  well-paid  teaching job in China. Attributes that relate more to your personality and attitude rather than qualifications.

Here are a few we think are also essential:

1. A go-getter attitude

 proactive teachers with proven track records for being creative and sociable in the workplace do better at finding fantastic teaching jobs in China .

China is not a country that rewards timid, shrinking violets. The culture is well-suited to affirmative people who know what they want and make plans to achieve their goals

2. Finding the right match

China has certainly come a long way in the last decade, but you will still find job applications demanding a certain gender and race. Age-old notions still exist, unfortunately, but you need not let this get you down. Contact us and we’ll help you find the right teaching job for you no matter your sex and/or race.

There are PLENTY of jobs out there and your aim should be to find with a school and employer who truly values your skills, experience and input

3. Commitment to make it work 

Chinese schools recruiting foreign teachers will typically ask for a time commitment of between 10 and 12 months, as a minimum. After all, finding foreign teachers takes time, effort, and money. Make sure you understand the commitment you’ll make when you sign a teaching contract.

4. Financial backup

Sure, you want to teach English in China because it’s a financially rewarding thing to do. But you need to spend at least USD 5,000, out of your pocket, initially. You should negotiate your teaching contract to include reimbursement of your expenses (like flights, visa application fees and moving costs) BUT you won’t see these funds until months after you’ve arrived.

Find out what moving to China to teach English will likely cost you

China Teaching and Visa Restrictions Update –2024

It’s now easier to get visas and many of the heavy restrictions for travelling to China have been removed. 

Do your research, talk to your employer or reach out to us if you have questions.

Things are about to get a lot more interesting!

Here are some more pages we think you’ll find useful:

• How to Get a Z Visa for China
• Teaching Destinations
• Preparing to Teach in China
• Who We Are  

Teach English in China

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Teach in China

Do you dream of seeing the world?

Being a part of something bigger than yourself?

Leaving your mark on the people and places you visit.

Changing Lives Through Meaningful Travel

Your Opportunities

Teaching English in China offers a unique chance to broaden your horizons. By sharing your knowledge, you'll simultaneously immerse yourself in a new country, culture, and community, expanding your appreciation of the world.

Discover one of the world's most incredible locations, improve access to education, and help children learn English. Develop essential cross-cultural communication skills and gain valuable teaching experience. Immerse yourself in the richness of Chinese culture, from captivating music to various traditional art forms and delightful cuisine or explore the fascinating details of China's 5000-year-old history.

Embrace stunning city scenes alternatively if you're a nature enthusiast, venture to China's breathtaking natural scenic destinations. Whatever your passion, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Embark on a journey that not only takes you to new places but transforms the way you see the world and connect with others. Join us in creating meaningful connections and fostering a global community that celebrates diversity. Explore more and start your application today!

Personal and Professional  Growth

Teaching overseas is a gratifying and unique way to travel while building up your general understanding

of the world and gaining invaluable skills to aid your occupational pursuits. 

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Personal and Professional Growth

Educating and Empowering Children

At our core, we are driven by a mission: to provide children with a premium education in a secure, supportive, and academically enriching environment.

Our commitment is to inspire young learners and foster a love for learning through engaging experiences, igniting their curiosity and passion for knowledge.

We are dedicated to contributing to the linguistic development of each child. Language is a powerful tool, and we believe in equipping children with the skills they need to express themselves confidently and navigate the world with ease.

Education is more than a process; it's a catalyst for creating better, brighter futures. We recognize the transformative power of quality education in shaping not only the individual but also the communities they belong to.

Beyond academics, education plays a crucial role in improving the overall quality of life. Empowered with knowledge and skills, children become architects of positive change.

Join us in our mission to provide not just education, but a foundation for a lifetime of success. Together, let's empower the next generation to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the world.

Bettering Your Understanding Of The World And People

Travel is a profound exploration that allows you to attain new perspectives about the world around you.  

Encounter diverse cultures, histories, and traditions, immersing yourself in a tapestry of experiences. From cultural customs to local traditions, every encounter enriches your understanding of the world.

The people you meet become storytellers, sharing narratives that resonate with the essence of their lives. Each encounter is a unique chapter, contributing to the mosaic of your own narrative.

Traveling transcends borders, it's not just about seeing new places it's a bridge between worlds, connecting you with others in ways that surpass cultural divides and create connections based on shared humanity. Every adventure, every story, and every piece of information learned contributes to a broader, more empathetic understanding of those who call these places home. It is a truly

eye-opening experience that completely redefines affinity.

The Impact You Make On Yourself And Others

Teaching abroad is a wonderful way to contribute to the sustainability of our global society. By sharing knowledge and imparting essential skills to the younger generation, you play a pivotal role in shaping brighter futures.

Equip students with skills that go beyond the classroom, providing them with a significant advantage as they navigate life's challenges. Your impact extends far beyond the academic realm, preparing them for the real world.

Non-domiciled teaching offers a sense of community, purpose and adventure. Experience the deep satisfaction and lasting sense of achievement that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. Your vocation becomes a source of personal fulfillment, leaving a positive and enduring impact on the communities you serve.

If making a real difference aligns with your aspirations, this opportunity is tailor-made for you. Help us in the pursuit of knowledge, connection, and meaningful contributions to society.

Helping Your Future Career Endeavours

Working abroad is not just a life-changing experience; it's a strategic move for your professional journey. Adding international experience to your resume is a compelling asset that sets you apart in a competitive job market.

Demonstrate your exceptional communication skills and ability to adapt to new environments. Working abroad is a testament to your capacity to navigate diverse cultural landscapes and communicate effectively in different contexts.

Show that you thrive on challenges and are willing to step out of your comfort zone. Employers value individuals who seek growth and embrace new experiences, traits that are essential in an

ever-evolving professional landscape.

Highlight your leadership skills by showcasing your ability to lead and collaborate with people from various backgrounds. Working across language barriers and cultural differences underscores your adaptability and capacity to build cohesive, effective teams.

In a rapidly evolving market, employers seek individuals with a global perspective. Your experience working abroad not only reflects your personal growth but also positions you as a candidate with the sought-after qualities needed to navigate the complexities of today's globalized business environment.

Elevate your career by bringing a wealth of international experience to the table. Make your resume shine with the diverse skills and perspectives gained from your journey. Pursue professional excellence and make a global impact.

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Teach Travel China

Get paid to teach. travel china., no prior teaching experience necessary., get tefl qualified to become globally employable., program snapshot.

Teach & Travel China Overview

Teach & travel china combines a 120 hour online tefl certification, 2 weeks training and orientation in china, and a 4.5-month teaching placement in a chinese school., online tefl course, training & orientation, teaching internship, online modules, personal tutor, 24/7 access.

Access your modules at any time of the day from your tablet, laptop or phone.

Beijing Arrival

Training in harbin, cultural activities, teach english, online tefl certification, in country tefl training, teach for a semester, five killer reasons to teach in china.

• Trial your new career before you commit to it long-term
• Test-drive your knowledge and skills in a challenging, international environment
• Enhance your CV in China, a market all multinationals have a keen interest in
• Build your professional network in a place that is encouraging innovation, research and entrepreneurship
• Exposure to the Chinese business environment, business customs and culture will help with future job searches

Program Highlights

Guaranteed Internship

TEFL Training

Chinese Lessons

Arrival & Orientation

Social Activities

Pre-Departure & Visas

Housing & Meals

On Site Staff

Prices & dates.

The following table outlines current prices for our Teach & Travel China Program, excluding flights and insurance.

We take payment online through secure online gateways. Start dates are available twice per year.

• Pricing in USD
• Program Dates

Meet the Team

Ben Bray, Program Manager

Matt Piechocki, Application Specialist

Lorcan O'Hara, Program Coordinator

Lorcan first came to China in 2014 to take part in ImmerQi’s Teach & Travel China Program. He is from Tipperary, Ireland and has a keen interest in photography and travel. He has taught TEFL to kindergarten and primary school students in Guangzhou and Taipei.

Get started today

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Teach English in China

China offers high salaries, a low cost of living, and great travel opportunities!

Salary and benefits while teaching in China

China offers a diverse array of school options for prospective teachers, making it essential to conduct research to identify the best fit for your lifestyle, salary expectations, and time-off preferences. Each type of school comes with its own set of trade-offs to consider. For instance, if a higher salary is a priority, you might explore opportunities in international schools, albeit with potentially longer working hours. On the other hand, if a better work-life balance is your preference, universities with fewer working hours and lower salaries could be a suitable choice.

China offers some of the highest-paid overseas teaching jobs in the world. This coupled with a low cost of living, gives you the chance to live comfortably while saving money every month!

High paying jobs in China

Here’s how experience & qualifications can affect your earning potential:

Bachelor’s degree:.

This is the minimum requirement for teachers in China to qualify for a Z-visa. Possessing this should set your starting salary at no less than 8,000 RMB/month + housing but usually 13,000 RMB/month or more for full-time work.

TEFL/TESOL Certification or 2-years teaching experience:

This is the minimum requirement for Teaching Nomad and to qualify for a work permit in China.  If you need to complete a TEFL certification, click here for information about self-paced and instructor-led TEFL courses.

Teaching license and/or degree in education:

If you are licensed to teach in your own country, the sky is the limit in China! Licensed teachers are in high demand at international schools as well as English medium schools for local students. Salaries typically start at 18,000 RMB and can go up all the way to 40,000 RMB a month or more.

Post-graduate degree:

If you’re working in K-12 schools, an M.Ed or PGCE will likely earn you higher pay and more advancement opportunities. Learn about M.Ed programs you can complete while overseas.

Chinese cities are usually divided into different tiers. The pay and living expenses are generally much higher in tier 1 cities like Shanghai and Beijing than in tier 2 or 3 cities.

As you can imagine, the number of hours you work will affect your salary. Training schools generally require you to teach 20 hours, and typically pay between 12,000-25,000 RMB. At kindergartens and preschools, you can expect a similar number of teaching hours. Though the teaching hours at public and international schools are not much different, they require more class preparation time and are stricter on office hours.

Many schools provide teachers with housing and reimburse for airfare. In first-tier cities, some schools provide a stipend instead or simply pay a higher salary. Health & accident insurance is always included, though the terms might vary by school. Employers that require you to live on campus—some international and public schools—will provide meals in addition to free housing.

Why teach abroad in China?

China presents abundant opportunities for native English-speaking teachers. Whether you opt for teaching English in a private language training school or various subjects in a public school, international school, or university, the options are diverse.

Teaching in China not only opens up a range of opportunities but also provides extra income for your travel or other endeavors. The initial challenge lies in getting to China from your home country; however, once you’re there, seamless travel to neighboring countries like Cambodia, Thailand, and Japan becomes readily accessible.

Considered among the best in the global ESL market, teaching English in China offers attractive features such as high wages, a low cost of living, and substantial demand for foreign teachers. Comparable to the opportunities that existed in South Korea years ago, China has now emerged as the epicenter for teaching abroad.

Teaching jobs in China

Requirements to teach in China:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree
• 2+ years of teaching experience for K-12
• No experience required for training schools
• Native English speaker

Average monthly salary in China:

7,000 – 40,000 RMB / month

This varies based on experience, hours worked, city, and the type of school that you work in.

Cost of living per month in China:

2,250 – 15,000 RMB / month

This varies by lifestyle and city that you choose to live in.

Growth of the education sector

Chinese parents highly prioritize their children’s education, leading to a surge in demand within both the public and private education sectors. Fueled by the increasing spending power of the rising middle class, millions of families can now afford to enroll their children in schools with native English-speaking teachers. This demand extends across the entire country, including lesser-known cities, creating a substantial need for teachers, particularly ESL teachers.

It’s essential to recognize that teaching is a service, and China’s growing economy places an ever-expanding demand on the service sector. For teachers, this translates to a continuous rise in demand, outpacing the growth in supply. Consequently, teachers who choose to work in China can expect to earn a lucrative income.

Presently, the fastest-growing segment of education jobs in China is at the professional level. There is a rising demand for instructors experienced in various curriculums such as U.S./AP, local, British National, and internationally accredited programs like International Baccalaureate (IB). This demand continues to escalate each year. On the flip side, the demand for recent university graduates and less experienced ESL teachers consistently surpasses the available supply.

Whether you’re a beginner teacher or a seasoned professional, Teaching Nomad is dedicated to finding a position that aligns with your needs.

Jobs in China

Curriculum used in China

There are many different types of schools in China, and they use a variety of different curriculums. It’s important to know a little bit about each curriculum so you can choose the one that you’re most comfortable teaching and search for an overseas teaching job based on your preference. Even if you don’t have a preference, it’s helpful to understand which curriculums you may run into while teaching in another country. Some of the most common curriculums taught in China are IB, U.S./AP, local, and British National.

Learn more about other curriculums taught all over the globe.

• National Curriculum for England

Teaching IB in China

As of 2023, there are 267 schools in China that use the IB curriculum. This equates to thousands of IB teaching positions, many of which are available to foreign teachers. Learn more about teaching IB in China , and check out the history and an overview of teaching IB abroad in our blog .

Teaching U.S./AP in China

Numerous schools in China provide AP courses for students. To offer these courses, schools must submit their curriculum to the AP program, ensuring compliance with established standards. Teachers play a crucial role in preparing students for the AP exams, typically scheduled in the first two weeks of May.

Teaching the local curriculum in China

The Chinese national school curriculum encompasses familiar subjects like math, science, social studies, fine arts, and PE, aligning with global standards. In addition, it incorporates elements of morality, ethics, and, prominently, the Chinese language. Traditionally, Chinese instruction has followed a lecture and testing-oriented approach. While some schools are transitioning to more student-centered instruction, testing remains a primary focus. This emphasis is particularly evident in the notorious GaoKao 高考, a crucial examination determining entrance into higher education institutes.

Teaching the National Curriculum of England in China

 The National Curriculum of England serves as the established set of standards applied throughout England & Wales, ensuring a uniform learning experience for all students as they progress through schooling. Structured into four mandatory key stages spanning ages 5 to 16, with an optional key stage 5 for ages 17 & 18 (years/grades 12 & 13), often referred to as college in the British context, this curriculum is commonly adopted by international schools.

Defining the foundational elements of learning, the curriculum outlines the subjects, knowledge, skills, and developmental milestones associated with each subject. It also establishes the expected proficiency levels for students in each subject and outlines the assessment methods. Within this framework, schools have the flexibility to plan and organize lessons according to their discretion.

Accreditation for the National Curriculum of England is directly granted by the UK Department of Education. Overseas schools follow a scheme called BSOs (British Schools Overseas) to ensure they meet the standards equivalent to those of UK schools.

Why consider teaching in China?

China stretches over 1,700 miles from Harbin in Heilongjiang province, home to the renowned Harbin ice festival, to the humid subtropical climate of Hong Kong. Each city boasts distinct character, and the local residents take pride in the rich diversity across the country.

The opportunities to teach English in China mirror the country’s diversity. Different schools and regions offer unique experiences, with a business English instructor in bustling Shanghai having a markedly different experience than a kindergarten teacher in Chengdu. City attractions, local culture, and language vary, allowing your placement consultant to tailor your experience to your preferences.

Teaching opportunities in China span preschools, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, universities, and adult training schools. Freelance and hourly lessons, along with the growing trend of online teaching, provide additional flexibility. Working with Teaching Nomad ensures well-compensated positions, even for beginners, based on individual experience and qualifications.

Teaching contracts typically range from 1 to 2 years, reflecting the maturing education market and rising salaries. Schools seek committed teachers, discouraging short-term commitments to provide continuity for students. While beginners are welcome, a serious approach and adherence to contractual obligations are essential. Regardless of your desired location, numerous teaching positions are available for you to choose from.

Learn more about living in China

Where in China can I teach?

Cities in China are informally grouped into 3 tiers to give a broad reference to their stage in development. As China is a “developing nation”, the development status of these three tiers varies greatly! A few examples of tier 1, 2, and 3 cities :

Include Tianjin, Chongqing, Chengdu, Suzhou, Hanzghou, Xiamen, Fuzhou, Wuxi, Hefei , Kunming, Wuhan, Nanjing, Xi’an, 

Include Dongguan, Ganzhou, Huizhou, Zhuhai, Weifang, Baoding, Zhenjiang, Yangzhou, Guilin, Tangshan, Sanya, Huzhou, Hohhot

Certain areas within tier 1 cities might easily be mistaken for Western cities. With over 145 cities in China boasting populations of 1 million or more, dozens fall under the tier 2 status, often featuring an underground metro system, airport, high-speed train station, and popular franchises like KFC and Starbucks. While Shanghai attracts many due to its international reputation, teaching in tier 3 cities offers a more off-the-grid adventure, providing a full immersion experience with limited access to imported goods and fewer English speakers.

Teaching Nomad presents opportunities in all three city types, spanning from Harbin in the north near the Russian border to Hainan island in the South China Sea and Chengdu in Sichuan province to the west. Although the majority of our schools are in tier 1 and tier 2 cities, we also offer exciting opportunities in tier 3 cities for those seeking a real adventure.

Shanghai , as the most international city in China, boasts numerous teaching jobs. It’s important to note that while salaries in Shanghai may surpass those in many tier 2 or 3 cities, the cost of living is considerably higher than in most mainland China locations.

Types of schools in China

There are many different types of schools to choose to work at in China, so you’ll want to do a little research on each one to figure out which type will best suit your lifestyle, salary, and time-off needs. There are often trade-offs that you will need to consider with each type of school. For example, if you want a higher salary, you’ll need to work more hours, so maybe you should consider an international school. However, if you want more time off, you may want to work at a university where you’ll have less working hours and a lower salary.

• Training centers
• Preschools/kindergartens
• International schools
• Public schools
• Universities

Training centers in China

These schools are attended by kids or adults in the evenings and weekends specifically for English language instruction.

Positions at training centers are often easiest to secure as there is a high demand for these classes, and they hire year round. Schools in this category include many large chains like English First. Each center has its own specialized curriculum, teaching and training materials which means planning and preparation are at a minimum.

The higher-paying jobs generally do not include housing. If you’re willing to teach up to 40 hours a week, you can make around 25,000rmb/month.

Required teaching experience

Schedule & hours, preschools and kindergartens in china.

The institutions cater to children aged 18 months to 6 years, offering abundant opportunities for teaching English in kindergartens and preschools. This role is particularly prevalent in China’s prominent cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Teachers can anticipate a welcoming work environment with the support of one to three Chinese teaching assistants per classroom. Ample engaging teaching materials are provided, minimizing preparation time. Classes typically consist of 8-20 young learners and run for 20-40 minutes, ensuring a dynamic and efficient teaching experience.

International schools in China

These educational institutions attract professional expatriates and affluent local families who prioritize quality education for their children. With high tuition fees and intense competition for enrollment, teacher compensation is notably lucrative, especially for those with children. However, these sought-after positions typically demand a teaching license and graduate degree.

Following a traditional two-semester schedule, classes are predominantly conducted in English. Prospective teachers should be prepared for a 2-year commitment to these schools. Preference is often given to educators with experience and familiarity with either the International Baccalaureate (IB) or other foreign curricula such as A-levels/AP.

Public schools in China

Public schools (particularly in bigger cities) score well on all fronts. Decent salary & benefits, reasonable teaching load, and more paid vacation days. Since Chinese public school education is notoriously competitive, your students will be diligent, well-behaved, and smart but you will sometimes have up to 60 of them in your classroom! Jobs in this category will sometimes require a graduate degree and/or a teaching license. 

Universities in China

There is a lot of variety within these jobs. Positions at smaller universities usually hire foreign teachers to teach required English classes, some universities are less selective when it comes to hiring foreign teachers. Even if the university originally hired you to teach a specific subject, entry-level teachers will rarely be teaching anything other than oral English. Salaries are usually between 7,000-30,000 RMB/ month (dependent on location, experience, and hours worked), but teachers are paid during the summer and winter breaks and never have to teach more than 20 periods a week. Jobs at universities are therefore more competitive than English training centers. The university curriculum is flexible and the foreign teacher is responsible for creating teaching materials. 

High-ranking public universities, especially in big cities, are a different story. Salary and benefits will be much higher but you may be expected to possess an advanced degree and considerable relevant teaching experience.

Schedule and start dates

Fall starts in August/September

Spring starts in February/March

Training Schools

Rolling start dates year-round

Start anytime!

Both K-12 schools and universities in China align with the scheduling patterns of western countries. The fall semester typically commences in late August or early September, while the spring semester begins post the Chinese New Year, following the lunar calendar. To secure fall positions, we recommend applying 4-5 months ahead, and for spring positions, 2-3 months in advance. Beyond traditional academic institutions, China boasts a significant number of training schools that actively recruit new teachers on a monthly basis. Regardless of your schedule, we are well-equipped to assist you in discovering the finest teaching opportunities available.

Open positions in China

China Document Apostille

To obtain a work permit for China, you’ll need to apostille your university degree and recent background check. This can be a difficult process on your own, so we offer a service that gets it done for you, hassle-free!

FAQ’s

What are the differences between esl, efl, tefl, tesl, tesol, and toefl.

English as a Second Language (ESL) implies the teaching and learning of English in an English-speaking region.

Example – A child moves to the United States from Mexico, and they begin learning English in an ESL class.

English as a Foreign Language (EFL) implies the teaching and learning of English in non-English speaking regions.

Example – A child in Russia is taking an EFL class in school.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is the term used for teaching English in a country where it is not the primary language.

Example – A United Kingdom native going abroad and teaching English in China.

Need a TEFL certificate still? Check out our in-class  and online options. Also check out our TEFL Course Live that combines the fantastic curriculum of our Shanghai in-class TEFL course with online learning – get the benefits of the in-class course without having to leave your home!

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is the term used for teaching English to non-native speakers that are located in an English speaking country.

Example – An Australian teaching English to students that have moved from Japan to Australia.

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) incorporates both TEFL and TESL practices. A TESOL certification is known for having rigorous standards for teachers, a prescribed curriculum, and a minimum of six hours of supervised practice teaching in an actual student-classroom environment. A TESOL certificate is widely recognized by EFL teaching schools and programs as the mark of a well trained, highly qualified EFL teacher.

On the student side, the Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a widely recognized test of proficiency in the English language. At most U.S. and U.K. colleges and universities, a verifiable passing mark on the TOEFL exam is a requirement to matriculate for all students from non-English-speaking countries.

Do I need to speak another language?

No, as a matter of fact, the schools do not want you to speak Chinese in the classroom. In many cases, you will work with a local Chinese teacher in the classroom that can translate if needed. Assuming you would like to learn Mandarin, you can search for classes online, find a private tutor, or sign up for group classes.

What will my travel expenses be?

First, you will need to need to  prepare and apostille your documents, get your work permit from your school, and get your Z-Visa . 

After that,  your two main expenses will be airfare and hotel stay upon arrival. All of the teaching jobs that we offer provide some form of compensation for these expenses. In some cases, the school will pay for the airfare and hotel upfront. However, other times you will need to pay for it, and the school will reimburse you afterward. It is crucial to have savings to cover your initial month’s expenses until your first paycheck is received.

Do I need any kind of teaching certification or experience?

At this time, all of the teaching positions we offer require either 1 year of teaching experience  or  an internationally recognized TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certification. Candidates with experience  and  a teaching certification will be first in line for the higher paying positions, but it is not necessary to have both. To assist our teachers with this, we offer   online courses and   in-class courses.

Do I need a university degree?

The teaching positions that we have available in China will require proof of completion of a Bachelors’s degree or above.

What are the best teaching jobs in China?

The answer to this question really depends on what you are trying to accomplish while you are here. Are you looking for experience to help build a teaching career? Is money a big concern? Do you want as much time to travel as possible? Knowing what you prioritze will in-turn help you deicde which roles are best for you.

Take a look at the jobs that we have on our job board!

How much will I get paid?

Salaries and bonuses  will vary greatly by region and by the type of school that you work at. Some parts of China have a considerably higher cost of living than others. On average, full-time teachers will make between 7,000-40,000 RMB per month. Keep in mind that with the cost of living in China, an amount in this range will allow you to have your own apartment, a housekeeper, and a healthy savings account! Compensation can also include free airfare, a starting bonus, a housing stipend, and a contract completion bonus. 

To view our specific job openings and the salaries that are offered for each position, visit our job board.

How to write your teach abroad resume/CV

Your resume or CV (Curriculum Vitae) will probably follow a similar outline to what is used in your home country but there are some things you can add to make it stand out from the crowd.

Basic information:

You probably wouldn’t have this information on a CV in your home country but work visa regulations have rules on age and nationality so you will want to add that.

Always include a photo. A passport-style “headshot” is perfect. The schools want to know what you look like, and after you’re hired, this photo will be submitted with your other documents to secure your work visa.

Additional suggestions:

When listing work experience there is no need to write a paragraph about each job. A basic explanation along with some bullet points is perfect. Be sure to clearly list the dates of employment and if you really want to stand out, add the name and contact information to a reference at the company! 

Check out our blog post about how to write your teach abroad resume/CV.

Does Teaching Nomad have fees?

Teaching Nomad’s services are completely  free  for teachers! We will help you through the entire process, whether it’s interviewing with schools, looking over a contract, or ensuring your safe arrival in China. We make money by charging a fee to the schools that hire our teachers. In addition, using our services will not affect your monthly pay whatsoever; we’re here to support you!

How do I get a work permit, work visa, and a residence permit?

To legally work in China as a teacher, your school will need to assist you in obtaining a work permit and a residence permit from the Chinese government. Only legal, licensed schools can actually hire foreigners which is one of the reasons that Teaching Nomad exists. We only work with schools that are trustworthy and reliable.

Here’s how the process works:

1. You have to get your documents apostilled (usually your bachelor’s degree and a background check).

2. You send scans of the documents to your school, and they will request your work permit from the Chinese government.

3. The work permit along with an invitation letter will be sent directly to you.

4. Once you receive those, you will need to submit this paperwork along with your passport and visa application either directly to the Chinese embassy in your home country or to a visa agent like us. There will be a fee to pay which varies by country. Within 3-7 days, you will get your passport back in the mail with a temporary Z-Visa inside. This temporary visa is good for 30 days and is designed for you to enter China.

5. Once you’re in China, your school will assist you in converting this temporary visa into a residence permit. This process could take 2-6 weeks during which you will not have your passport. We do suggest you make a copy of it before it’s out of your possession. The government also requires you to have a physical exam done. It’s pretty basic and is usually completed in China. In some cases, your school may send you a medical exam form that you can use to have the exam completed in your home country.

What our teachers are saying

My recruiter/consultant was Jayne Donabie and she was so helpful and patient from start to finish. She was always available to answer my questions, whether via email or a Skype call. She is knowledgeable about each of the schools that she represents and can offer great insight into living in China as an expat. She made what could have been an overwhelming and complicated process really straightforward and stress-free. She made me feel confident in my decision to move forward with my applications and to move to China.

After a friend recommended Lauren Klein at Teaching Nomad to me, I decided to chat with her about teaching opportunities in China. She asked me a number of really helpful questions to assist me in figuring out the kind of position that would be best for me. She answered all questions I had within a day and was incredibly accommodating when my school preferences changed during the recruitment process. Lauren got me three interviews with great schools, and I’m sure I could have had as many as I wanted if I didn’t like one of those three. In the end, I found a great job, and I barely had to do a thing more than showing up to the interview. All in all, I highly recommend Lauren and Teaching Nomad.

I would highly recommend Teaching Nomad to anybody looking for teaching positions in China. My recruiter was Moira and she was professional, helpful, and patient from the very start. If anybody is looking for teaching positions overseas, definitely contact Teaching Nomad. I only have good things to say about them.

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HOW TO TEACH AND TRAVEL IN CHINA

One of the best reasons to start a job in China is that you can travel around a country that has over 5,000 years of history. Many of EF's teachers love to teach and travel in China. In this post, you'll learn some great tips on how you can make the most out of your holidays and days off to travel.

The "How To's" Of Teaching and Traveling in China

With the national holiday or “Golden Week” as the locals call it finally behind us, teachers seem to be settling back into their normal routines of lesson planning and teaching. But what about the rest of us who are travel addicts? When you are not planning your next lesson this down time is perfect for looking forward to the next upcoming holiday. Technically, the next major week-long holiday is not until the Chinese New Year, but don't let that discourage you! There is plenty of one and two-day trips you can take to escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai and you can definitely teach and travel while you're living in China.

Tips For Taking Quick Day Trips

Stay close:.

Anywhere that you can travel to by bus or train is perfect for a one or two-day trip. Any place you would need to fly to takes up too much time and money.

Teacher's Weekends

Most teachers have weekdays off which is ideal for travelling. Although China is known for overcrowded areas, travelling on the weekdays makes it a lot easier to beat some of these crowds.

Travel within the country on a national holiday

Tour Groups

No need to worry about language barriers, booking hotels, or transportation. Let someone else handle the hard work and just sit back and relax

Ask For Help

If you are not familiar with Chinese ask for help from a Chinese colleague in using a tour group. In my experience, they are always more than willing to help out if needed.

For your next quick trip check out Putuoshan Mountain or “Putuo Mountain.” The perfect two days and one-night adventure is only a 5-hour bus ride and a quick 15-minute ferry ride away from Shanghai on Zhoushan Island in the Zhejiang Province. For the holiday myself along with 6 of my friends decided to travel to the sacred Putuoshan Mountain. I personally do not advise travelling to any sacred areas; local temples included on holidays because it is extremely overcrowded. But when adventure calls I simply cannot say no. A perfect place for hiking, Putuo Mountain is a holy Buddhist mountain that is home to several sacred temples, small sacred caves, huge golden statues, and more.

With the help of two amazing local teachers who organized the trip with the tour group we were able to receive a special group rate that included the price of entering the island, entering the temples, a hotel, and free breakfast.

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Home » Asia » China » ULTIMATE Guide to Teaching English in China [2024]

ULTIMATE Guide to Teaching English in China [2024]

If you’re seriously considering taking up a career teaching abroad you’ve no doubt thought about or at least heard of teaching English in China.

China is an amazing country with a blend of incredible mega-cities, rural villages, and varied landscapes (did you know there’s even a desert in China?!).

With such a large population, this country has a huge demand for English teachers, making it a great option for those just starting out or seasoned teachers looking for something new. English is compulsory for all kids over the age of nine, but their growing economy means adults of all ages are wanting to learn or develop their skills in order to help with their businesses.

Sadly, there were regulations regarding teaching English in China enforced in July 2020, where foreign teachers can no longer tutor kids younger than 6 (in-person or online). In the past, China was known for being the easiest nation to teach English abroad as it had a lot of language centers (and therefore job opportunities) that catered to young children. Parents are also no longer allowed to enroll their children (elementary to high-school age) in extracurricular courses during national holidays, or summer and winter breaks.

While this makes teaching in China more competitive, there are still opportunities available, so fear not readers, as this EPIC guide will help you to learn how to beat the competition and hopefully score yourself a baller English teaching job in China!

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Why Teach English in China?

Where to get tefl certified, where to teach english in china, how to find a job in china, living in china, faqs on teaching english in china, final thoughts on teaching english in china.

A HUGE reason why many English teachers choose China as their new home is that having teaching experience in China is really a fantastic gateway to scoring jobs teaching English abroad in other countries. Not only does it add to your CV, but it also gives you a tonne of experience (I mean if you can handle a classroom of 70 kids you can handle anything!).

So if you’re looking to make a career out of teaching English abroad, this could really help you on your way.  Here are some other reasons why teaching English in China is very attractive:

Pros | Why you NEED to Teach in China

• Low Cost of Living: Unlike teaching in Japan , China has a relatively low cost of living. It is easy to live a good and comfortable life and still be well within your teacher’s salary. This IS city-dependent, and living in Beijing or Shanghai is more expensive than the rest of the country, but still cheaper than many western countries.  
• Range of Teaching Jobs : As I mentioned earlier, there are a wide range of age groups to teach in China, and a few different avenues to take. For more experienced teachers there are private and international schools, and for newbie teachers, there are public schools and kindergartens. Something for everyone!
• Year-round Hiring : Schools in China hire year-round (peak hiring season is in November for a February start), so it is possible to find a job and start within a month. 
• Recruiting Agencies : For many people moving to China is a big and possibly scary adventure. Luckily, several great recruiting agencies can help streamline the process for you and be a go-between you and your employer before you arrive. 
• Added Benefits: In China, it isn’t unusual for your employer to provide you with housing and reimburse your airfare . Some will even help with visa fees, provide Chinese lessons, and help you get a TEFL certification if you don’t have one already!
• Culture and History: China has a whopping 55 UNESCO heritage sites, including the world-famous Great Wall, Forbidden City, and the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. So on your weekends and holidays, there’s plenty of places to go backpacking around China . 

Cons | What to Consider before Teaching in China

• Culture Shock : This is a little subjective but China can be worlds away from the familiarity of home. Even that delicious-looking slice of pizza or hearty “English” breakfast won’t quite taste the same. You COULD try to recreate your mom’s famous mac and cheese but expect to pay top dollar for anything imported. 
• Degree/Experience Needed : You will need to have either a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate OR have at least two years of professional teaching experience to get a job.  
• Competitiveness: Because of the 2020 restrictions, there are fewer jobs available, especially in language centers. This means that more jobs are becoming competitive and some positions may not offer as many perks as they once did a few years ago.

Language Barrier in Rural Areas : This falls under pros AND cons. On the one hand, English isn’t wide-spoken in rural areas, on the other hand, a lot of jobs recognize this and will set you up with Mandarin lessons. This means you could end up speaking some Mandarin! How awesome would that be?

How Much can Teachers Expect to Make?

Salaries vary between the different types of teaching jobs, but on average, an English teaching job in China will bring in between 1,400 and 2,200 USD a month (8,900 – 14,000 RMB). If you really make it big and score a job at a private or international school expect a whopping 2,200 to 4,300 USD a month (14,000 – 27,300 RMB).

If this doesn’t already seem like the jackpot, English teachers in international schools in Beijing and Shanghai are reported to earn even more! Plus, it is common for international schools to provide accommodation or housing allowance, and you can even enjoy meals at the school, so you get to keep what you earn!

Public schools and kindergartens are the lowest paying jobs starting from about 1,200 USD to 1,800 USD for public schools and 2,000 USD for kindergartens. For the lower end of the salary, make sure your employer is giving you benefits of housing and airfare to sweeten the deal. 

Language centers are another popular option for teaching English in China. They have flexible work hours, give you the ability to teach adults, and you’ll get two days off a week. The downsides are that you will be working weekends (their busiest period) and lots of evenings. Their salary is typically around 1500 USD a month but with plenty of free time during the day. 

Working part-time in a university is also a more flexible work option with the possibility of earning extra money through private tutoring. This kind of job pays up to 1,500 USD a month and candidates with an educational bachelor’s degree are preferred. 

You can also teach English as a private tutor, this kind of teaching typically earns you around 20-25 USD an hour . It should be noted that private tutoring outside of your visa is illegal, but there are private tutoring centers you can work for. However, as I said earlier, increasing regulations are making private tutoring harder, and for those who want to tutor privately online, many websites in China are blocked and having a travel VPN is often needed.

Requirements for Teaching in China

• Fluent English Speaker: You do not need to be a Native-English speaker, but you will need to be able to prove fluency in English, but being a native English-speaker (from the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa) will give you an edge, especially if you’re applying to work for an international school.
• Bachelor’s Degree: You will need a bachelor’s degree, subject or length not specified. This is a requirement for getting your Z work visa which is the only way to teach English in China legally. 
• TEFL Certificate: You will need to have a 120+ hour TEFL certificate, if you do not have one, many employers will help you to arrange to study for one online or on arrival! 
• Valid passport
• Recent photo
• Completed application
• Bachelor’s degree
• Be over 18 years old
• Medical examination (stating you don’t have TB, HIV, or any drugs in your system)
• Criminal background check
• Invitation/work offer from employer (sent via post) 
• Start-up Money: If your employer isn’t providing you with housing, you’ll need to arrive in China with a substantial amount of start-up money. Even if your school is subsidizing your housing or providing a housing allowance each month, you may expect to pay up to three months’ rent up-front when renting a new place! So you’ll need that, your visa costs, flights (this may be paid for or reimbursed later), PLUS sufficient funds to live in your new home before your paycheck arrives. I’d suggest 3-4000 USD to cover all of this (just to be on the safe side).

This isn’t a requirement, but for those wishing to score big and get a job in a private or international school, having at least 2 years of teaching experience is the norm as their standards are higher (to match the salary) and they are extremely competitive job-wise, so candidates are expected to be better qualified. 

So clearly having a TEFL certification is kinda important in China. While you may be feeling disheartened at the thought of spending your hard-earned cash on a course, having a TEFL is so worth the money AND time. Trust me. It will not only open doors for you to teach English in China, but having this certification makes it easier for you to get English teaching jobs all over the world. Seems like a good investment to me!

Online TEFL Certificates 

There are  tons  of places to get TEFL certificates online. Some of them  are phoney . These are usually video-only courses where you don’t talk to someone or lesson prep on your own and they won’t help you teach English on the ground. 

Whatever you do, do NOT buy a TEFL certification without having completed a course. These companies are well-known by employers and you will not only damage your reputation but may end up blacklisted from many teaching jobs in China.

Aside from that, you will go into the classroom with no skills and have no idea what to do. It is standard that classrooms in China can have up to 70 students, so if you don’t know what you’re doing, it will be chaos. Teaching ESL is not just about being able to travel the world, it’s the livelihoods of others, so it’s best to invest in a TEFL course if you’re serious about teaching.

Here are some of our faves:

The MyTEFL 140-hour course is the gold standard of TEFL certificates. It is accepted by any country and prepares you for a career of teaching abroad. This is an ideal course for those wanting to teach English online as it comes with an additional 20 hours dedicated to purely online teaching.

The 140-hour course covers all the areas of the English language you’ll be expected to teach such as reading, speaking, listening, writing, and phonics, as well as going into the fundamental skills you need to be an English teacher. 

They also have a jobs board, so you can search for ESL teaching jobs anywhere in the world.

They also offer a 120-hour course for those that don’t think teaching English online is for you.

Let’s TEFL is the next best online TEFL certificate, and is the best for those needing a refresh of English rules themselves before hitting the classroom. If it’s been a long time since you’ve studied English at school, this course will help you brush up on your grammar and language skills.

It also covers classroom management and lesson planning, so you’ll be fully prepared to teach abroad and start your hunt for TEFL jobs.

It is a 120-hour course that will have you ready and raring to share some knowledge!

TEFL Pros isn’t the most hands-on certificate, but their course is usually the cheapest. Plus, they’ve got a free trial so you don’t need to drop money to see what this is all about!

TEFL Pros also offer a 120-hour course that covers the fundamentals of the English language and classroom management techniques. However, it is solely online. This is great for people who are already traveling, but if you want to gain in-classroom experience then this course isn’t for you. However, it will suffice to land you a job teaching English in China.

Getting Your TEFL in China

Like I said earlier, many employers might arrange to have you complete your TEFL online or in China once you arrive, but if you find yourself needing to arrange one on your own and you’d prefer to do in-person training for the hands-on factor and extra teaching experience, this is totally doable and affordable!  

If you really want to go a step further and look even more attractive to possible employers, getting a CELTA course is the way to go! CELTA qualifications are the most recognized English teaching certifications in the world and are often requested by employers.

Teaching Nomad – Teaching Nomad has four-week TEFL courses based in Shanghai with prices at 1490 USD plus 300 – 750 USD for housing. The course has 25 teaching days with weekends off to explore the city. Classes are small with 3-8 students meaning you’ll get the most from your teacher. By the end, you will have taken part in a minimum 6-hour teaching session giving you some real experience and getting you ready to launch your career teaching English in China!

TEFL in China – TEFL in China is a great budget and time-friendly way to get your TEFL qualification in China! They use a combination of a 40-hour intensive online course and a final 7-day in-person program to get you certified. You will get to take part in a “micro-teaching” event and have exams before you pass. The in-person course location varies between major cities, so where you are will depend on when you enroll for. The beauty of this course is that it comes to around 470 USD, not including accommodation, so is great for those with tight purse strings. 

CELTA in China – If you are interested in getting a CELTA qualification, this authorised center has 4-week courses running in Beijing and Shanghai (at the moment this course is offered online, but this may change). The courses are led by experienced teachers, give you hands-on teaching experience, and include written assignments. Courses cost around 2,100 USD, not including accommodation.

China is so full of teaching opportunities, you could have a hard time deciding where to go! The country divides its cities into an ever-evolving tier system based on population, infrastructure, business opportunities, and more. All of these could end up influencing your decision!

Teaching in Tier 1 Cities

Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen are tier 1 cities. They have a population of over 10 million people and plenty of job opportunities. Beijing and Shanghai are a little more competitive due to the large number of foreign teachers, and they also have the highest cost of living. They will however have the biggest availability of “creature comforts” so if you’re missing home, you’ll probably be able to find a nice pack of PG tips to make you feel better!

These larger cities will offer a large number of international, private, and public schools as well as plenty of language training centers! They have large foreign communities, high connectivity via high-speed rail to other major cities, and good public transportation. A drawback to consider is that these mega-cities can have high levels of pollution at certain times of the year, which could be a deal-breaker for some.  

Teaching in “New Tier 1” Cities

New tier 1 cities are provincial capitals and major metropolitan areas such as Chengdu, Hangzhou, Kunming, Nanjing, Tianjin, Suzhou, Xi’an. These are attractive options as they have a good balance between the salary, cost of living, sizable foreign communities, and quality work placements! 

Expect these kinds of cities to have fewer international schools, but still have a fair number of private and public schools. They are still highly connected with other major cities, most likely via high-speed rail connections or flights. Many people LOVE living in new tier 1 cities, as they offer a more relaxed lifestyle, but with modern conveniences. 

Teaching in Tier 2 Cities

Tier 2 cities are also a hugely popular place to live! They usually have less than 5 million people, but still have plenty of English teaching jobs, good salaries, and a relatively lower cost of living compared to tier 1 and new tier 1 cities. You will still also be able to find some western “luxuries” here, although on a much smaller scale than higher tiers.  

Foshan, Fuzhou, Harbin, Hefei, Jinan, Kunming, Wuxi, and Xiamen are classified as tier 2 cities. They are still modern, have a decent number of foreigners, and you will be able to get by with basic Mandarin. These cities may still have international schools, though their numbers will be limited. You will most likely find private and public teaching jobs here. 

Teaching in Tier 3, 4, and 5 Cities

Tier 3 cities like Qingdao and Dalian are just PERFECT for English teachers who have decided to work in China for the cultural experience. These cities are cultural hubs and are becoming more and more popular with foreigners! They are ideal for people who are a little wary of falling into an “ex-pat bubble” and are great places to practice your mandarin since you’ll find yourself in more situations where you’ll NEED to speak it! 

You can still live a great life there with plenty of schools to choose from! Just expect fewer western comforts and attractions, and get ready to live like a local.

Tier 4 and 5 cities are for veteran teachers (and explorers) who don’t mind being completely out of their comfort zone. These are less wealthy and smaller cities, where you’ll struggle to find a good offer, a foreign community, or western comforts. But HEY, if that’s what floats your boat, go for it!!!

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Living in China and Teaching Online

Some language centers will offer contacts for English teachers to teach online in China, however, since July 26, 2021, the Chinese government has cracked down on online lessons for kids to reduce their academic pressure. These regulations mean that lessons are limited to 30 minutes, cannot be taken after 9 pm, and aren’t allowed during weekends, holidays, or school breaks, with children under six not being allowed to take online classes altogether. 

This really reduces the market and makes living in China and teaching online a more difficult way to make a living as your workable hours and clientele are greatly decreased. That being said, there is a ban on hiring foreign teachers who work overseas, so foreigners living IN China will theoretically have more clients, and these regulations don’t apply to teaching English online to adults.

As I’ve been saying, finding a teaching job in China is super easy, there are agencies online you can go through, or you can find one yourself through specific search engines. There are options for days when it comes to agencies, so I’ll just recommend a couple, but feel free to do some shopping around! Be wary to read the fine print as I’ve seen some agencies that get you a teaching job as a volunteer with free room and board but no salary!! 

ChinaByTeaching

ChinaByTeaching is a consulting business set up by foreign teachers living in Beijing. They were you at one point in time, and that gives them the upper hand when it comes to knowing the kinds of questions new teachers will have, the kind of support they will need, and the best way to find them jobs. 

The process is straightforward, simply send them your CV and they will match your skill level and experience to a school and area of your choosing! Once that’s done they will arrange Skype interviews with the schools you have chosen.

After you accept an offer your work visa gets processed then you can begin! Best of all, the whole service is completely free and won’t cost you anything! They have jobs available in public, private, and international schools as well as language training centers. 

Teach English In China

Teach English in China is another agency run by former foreign English teachers. They have a load of different locations in China, so if you’re looking to work outside of tier 1 areas, these guys have PLENTY of options. 

This is another super streamlined process (phew) where you just fill out their application form and submit it alongside your absolutely killer CV and cover letter. You will then hopefully get a 30-minute phone interview from a member of their team. If you’re successful you’ll get an email and follow-up instructions about accepting your offer and enrolling in their program. 

What sets this agency apart is their members area which has a “lesson plan library” which is easy to navigate by age group and will give you tips, inspiration, and actual lesson plans used by previous teachers. They also have a community where you can ask questions to their alumni or other teachers. 

Finding Your Own Job

It’s also possible to find your own job, but I would recommend this more for people who aren’t first-time English teachers or new to living abroad as for newcomers the level of help and support provided by agencies can be invaluable. If you wanna do your own sleuthing, elscafe.com has a load of up-to-date vacancies! 

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It will come as no surprise to you that living and teaching English in China will give you an experience above and beyond simply living there. You’ll meet and make friends with locals, find the best places to eat, and probably visit some off-the-tourist-trail places too! 

China is generally safe to visit and extreme crimes against foreigners are very rare. Of course, you should always be cautious (like anywhere) and not do anything which could increase your chances of anything happening. This means steering clear of dark alleys, leaving drinks unattended, hiking alone, you get my drift… 

If you’re getting taxis, always make sure to avoid unmarked or unmetered taxis, and always make sure the meter is switched on and insist on paying the price on the meter. 

Keep hold of your stuff at all times and if you’re super unlucky and anything gets stolen from you, head to the nearest police station or Public Security Bureau to report a robbery. 

China is a one-party state and while they’re happy for foreigners to visit and live there, it’s best to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings against the government as you may risk arrest or deportation. 

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Monthly Budget

Your monthly budget is going to really vary throughout the country. Tier 1 cities like Beijing and Shanghai are considered expensive but more rural areas can be extremely cheap! I’ll give you the low-down on average costs of living in China so adjust accordingly. 

Money-Saving Tips

As you have discerned, living in China can be pretty economical! Especially on an English teacher’s salary. In fact, many teachers manage to save 10,000, to as much as 18,000 USD a year by being smart with spending habits and budgeting a little. These handy tips below will help you to squeeze the most out of your monthly salary and have (even MORE) money for all of our favorites past-times – traveling! 

Accommodation: This figure really depends on where you’ll be living, but if you wanna save big bucks on your rent, then either opt for tier 2 or 3 cities where you’ll be paying a lot less, or try to get a shared apartment in the more expensive cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Expat.com lists room shares on their website and could be a good start to finding somewhere. If your accommodation is free with your placement then congratulations, you’ve hit the jackpot! 

Food:  The best way to save on food in China is to eat like a local, which means heading to the market to buy produce and cooking using local ingredients! Eating out in China can be pretty cheap if you go to family-run or hole-in-the-wall places. In bigger cities a budget meal can be as cheap as 5 USD! (35 RMB) or even less than 3 USD (19 RMB) in smaller cities. Another good money-saving tip is to bring your favorite western sauces from home in your luggage. Otherwise, you could be paying top dollar for imported goods. 

Transport:  Even though taxis SEEM cheap, Chinese cities can be congested, ramping up your taxi bill! Traveling by bus or metro is a lot cheaper and sometimes quicker. Many Chinese cities now have branded street bikes (like Ofo or Mobike) which charge a small fee and can be unlocked using an app on your phone. 

Entertainment: This one really depends on you, if you don’t go out, you’ll save money. A great hack is to drink local beer instead of imported beers and spirits, and to visit public parks and temples for some free sightseeing! 

Speaking the Language

The good news is you do NOT have to be able to speak mandarin to work in China! Especially in bigger cities, you should have no trouble at all getting around using English. In tier 3 cities and more rural areas, speaking a little mandarin will definitely be useful and most likely essential in small villages to live a good quality of life. Luckily, some jobs offer Mandarin classes, which I would really recommend taking!

Is teaching English in China worth it?

Yes, it’s definitely worth it if you are new to teaching. Aside from learning the ropes, it is also your foot in the door for other opportunities in other countries.

Can foreigners still teach in China?

Yes, the regulations imposed in July 2020 only refer to the tutoring of children under the age of 6. There is still a need for English teachers.

What is the age limit to teach English in China?

The age limit relaxed in 2019, and now if you meet all the requirements there is no age limit. In tier 2 and 3 cities, you might not be able to find a position if you are over 65 years old.

How much do English teachers make in China?

On average, teachers can expect to earn between 1,400 and 2,200 USD a month (8,900 – 14,000 RMB). If you land an international school job, you can earn up to 4,300 USD per month.

China is a fantastic place to teach English abroad! Although the regulations in 2020 have made it more competitive, there’s a reason why teaching jobs in China are so popular! They are a great way to gain experience and make the transition to teaching in other countries. There are job opportunities to teach children as well as adults, and the salary is relatively high! 

A decent salary coupled with the low cost of living in most areas make living and teaching in China AND exploring the rest of Asia very affordable. As an added incentive, many jobs offer incentives such as housing assistance, reimbursing your airfare, and Mandarin lessons.

Another great thing about being an English teacher in China is that jobs are available in a range of cities, so whether you’re looking for a mega-city experience with a great ex-pat community and access to western luxuries, or for a more rural experience where you’ll be able to practice your Mandarin and really mingle with locals, there’s an opportunity out there! 

Hopefully, this helpful guide has told you all you need to know about getting a teaching job in China, and provide you with some handy tips that will give you a competitive edge. That’s all, for now, folks, I wish you all the success in the world!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

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Hi, I was wondering if I were to move to China with my daughter, would she be able to attend school for free if I got a job at an international school? If I got a job at any other institution, would they provide tuition, as I have read other industries do? Just trying to figure how to make this work as tuition at international schools is around $3,000 per month!

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Is Teaching in China Worth It? Pros and Cons

Meet  David De’ Ath , founder, editor, and writer at Wonderful World English. With his extensive background as an English teacher, David provides valuable insights and practical tips on ESL for students and teachers alike.

Deciding whether teaching in China is worth it is a complex decision that depends on individual goals and values.

China offers a vast and varied cultural landscape coupled with the potential for teachers to embark on a unique adventure.

The allure of immersing oneself in a different culture and gaining international experience is a significant draw for educators around the globe.

Furthermore, teaching in China can be a lucrative opportunity, with a competitive salary that often comes with additional benefits such as housing allowances.

On the flip side, one must consider the costs associated with living abroad and the adjustments to a new cultural environment.

While cities in China present modern amenities, the cost of living can vary greatly, and the experience can differ from region to region.

In addition to financial aspects, potential teachers should be prepared for the cultural nuances of the Chinese educational system and lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• Teaching in China offers a competitive salary and the chance for cultural immersion.
• Costs and lifestyle adjustments are important factors to assess when moving to China for teaching.
• The decision to teach in China should align with personal and professional objectives for it to be considered worthwhile.

Exploring the Educational Landscape

With the increasing globalization of education, China’s demand for foreign teachers has surged, reflecting the nation’s commitment to enhancing educational quality and language proficiency.

This section dives into the key aspects foreign educators need to consider when looking into the opportunities the Chinese education landscape presents.

Understanding China’s Demand for Foreign Teachers

In China, there is a significant demand for foreign teachers, especially for those able to teach English or subjects at  international schools .

The rapid economic growth and the desire to compete internationally have led to an increase in educational institutions seeking native English-speaking teachers.

Opportunities range from teaching English at public schools to specialized subjects in  international schools .

Qualifications and Documents Needed to Teach

Foreign teachers in China typically need to have:

• A Bachelor’s Degree  – in any field, but education or English are often preferred.
• TEFL Certificate  – or equivalent teaching qualifications; some positions may require candidates to be  certified teachers  from their home country.
• A  Z Visa  – the appropriate work visa for foreign teachers which requires a  health check ,  criminal background check , and authenticated documents.

Prior experience and proficiency in  Mandarin  can be advantageous, though not always required.

For more information on the documents required to obtain a z work visa, check out the link below!

Related: Documents to Teach in China: Essential Paperwork

Diversity of Teaching Jobs Available

China offers a broad spectrum of teaching jobs:

• Public Schools:  Generally feature larger  class sizes  and may follow a standard curriculum.
• International Schools:  Offer smaller classes and international curricula, often requiring teachers to have substantial experience or advanced certifications.
• Universities:  High-level teaching positions for subjects beyond  teaching English , typically requiring at least a master’s degree.
• Private Language Centers/Training Centers:  They often have smaller, more interactive classes aimed at various age groups for English language learning.

Foreign teachers should also consider the differences in tier 1 cities like Shanghai and Beijing, which have a plethora of  teaching jobs , higher salaries, but also higher living costs.

Costs and Benefits of Living and Teaching in China

Deciding to teach in China involves weighing financial incentives against living expenses and cultural challenges.

The outcome often depends on individual preferences, adaptability, and professional experience.

Salary Insights and Financial Advantages

Teaching in China presents lucrative opportunities, particularly for those who teach in major cities.

For example, in metropolises like Beijing and Shanghai, foreign teachers can negotiate high salaries, with offers ranging from  14,000 to 21,000 RMB  monthly.

More experienced educators working at prestigious institutions may earn between  22,000 to 32,000 RMB , reflecting the value placed on high-quality education.

These figures can rise substantially with added benefits such as housing allowances, health insurance, and paid holidays—crucial factors that contribute to a comfortable lifestyle and potential savings.

Lifestyle, Accommodation, and Travel Opportunities

Life in China extends beyond the classroom, presenting a blend of affordable living options and cultural exploration.

Accommodation varies greatly by location, from modern apartments in bustling districts to quieter, more affordable options in cities like Hangzhou or Guilin.

The cost of living can be lower compared to Western nations like the US, Canada, or Ireland, especially when it comes to food and local transportation.

This, coupled with a decent salary, allows for a comfortable lifestyle and the chance to save money.

Moreover, teachers can take advantage of holidays to travel both within China and to surrounding countries—a perk for those with a passion for travel and experiencing new cultures.

Challenges and Considerations

While the financial and lifestyle benefits are significant, potential teachers must also contend with several challenges.

The cost of living in metropolises like Beijing or Shanghai is higher, which can offset salary benefits without careful budgeting.

Cultural and communication barriers pose another substantial challenge, and navigating local systems for healthcare, transportation, or even restaurant menus can seem daunting.

Visas and legal documentation require attention to detail and patience.

Lastly, the transition to teaching within the Chinese education system, with its unique demands and structure, can be a stark change for those accustomed to Western pedagogical approaches.

Teaching English is the most commonly sought-after teaching position by some distance for foreign teachers.

For a complete guide on how to teach English in China, check out the link below!

Related: How to Teach English in China: Your Ultimate Guide

Evaluating whether teaching in China is worth it requires a holistic view of the professional, financial, and personal facets involved.

China’s educational sector offers lucrative teaching opportunities and a chance to immerse in a rich cultural tapestry.

However, the decision to embark on this journey should be informed by a thorough understanding of the living conditions, the educational environment, and the personal adjustments required to thrive in a distinctly different cultural setting.

Teachers considering China as a destination will find a competitive market with benefits that often include housing allowances and travel opportunities, enhancing the allure of the role.

Yet, the challenges, from navigating a new educational system to adapting to daily life in a foreign country, are substantial and require resilience and adaptability.

In sum, teaching in China can be a rewarding endeavor for those who align their career aspirations with the realities of living and working abroad, approaching the experience with an open mind and a readiness to embrace new challenges.

We hope you find value in this information; you can  contact us  if you require any support.

Have a wonderful day!

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Teach and Travel in China: When Traveling Overseas Teach ESL Or TEFL In China To Experience China While Living There Paperback – October 11, 2015

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Print length 48 pages
• Language English
• Publication date October 11, 2015
• Dimensions 5.98 x 0.1 x 9.02 inches
• ISBN-10 1514228343
• ISBN-13 978-1514228340
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About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (October 11, 2015)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 48 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1514228343
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1514228340
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.88 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.98 x 0.1 x 9.02 inches
• #2,461 in General China Travel Guides

About the author

Peter legrove.

When Peter LeGrove was at school he loved archaeology and cavemen. Now after spending his working life as an ‘English as a Second Language Teacher’ in many different countries he spends his time writing ‘Caveman Kids’ stories for children. Also after being inundated with doom and gloom news stories about Peak Oil, Global Warming and now pandemics he and his family try their hand at ‘Self-Sufficiency in Suburbia’ and ‘Living Cheap’ while using the internet to learn new skills.

Peter LeGrove started teaching English years ago in Mexico when he was learning Spanish at the University of Mexico City. Before that he did a course at the University of Minnesota about "Teaching Agricultural Extension in Developing Countries" and that opened his eyes to what you could teach with nothing except your voice and the chalkboard. Since then he has taught English mainly in Asia. He had a session in Indonesia before it went mad and then he left for China and Hong Kong.

Lately he has been in Vietnam teaching in Hanoi and volunteer teaching in poverty areas in North Vietnam. His whole life has been about teaching English in developing countries and now he spends six months teaching and the rest recovering in New Zealand to get away from the pollution and the crowded cities. In his spare time he writes books about his experiences in different countries and now he is trying his hand at illustrated children's books.

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Teach in China and Learn Chinese

Live, teach and study in a culturally rich and diverse country.

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Teach English in China

With the fastest growing economy in the world and an education system that encourages economic and cultural development, there is no shortage of opportunities to come to China to teach English. You don’t have to be studying to be a teacher or a qualified teacher to take advantage of this opportunity! High school students can come over and teach in their gap year between school and college, teachers looking for international experience can come, and new grads can use this as an opportunity to gain experience while traveling and enjoying a rich and diverse culture. Yes, you can get paid to teach English in China, while enjoying the traveling and learning opportunities we have to offer.

Coming to China to teach abroad is a fantastic opportunity. You’ll have a chance to make a difference for your students, learn the world’s most spoken language and experience all the wonders China has to offer. Depending on your stage in your studies and life, we have a number of opportunities you can choose from!

Why Choose Go Abroad China Teach in China Program

Although you may like the options you see above; you may still be unsure if China is the destination for you. Here are a few reasons you should come to China to teach:

• The demand for English teachers is growing exponentially, and with no shortage of opportunities, you are guaranteed placement.
• China has a rich culture and diversity. Few other countries can offer the history, culture, and experiences that you’ll have in China. Better yet, you’ll get to experience it all like a local.
• Chinese students love learning. English classes may offer students a chance to relax a little, and you’ll get to have fun with them while teaching them the second most spoken language in the world.
• Acquire a new language that can open up opportunities, easily. Mandarin Chinese is the most spoken language in the world and is easier to learn when you are immersed in it. Your Teaching package will come with the opportunity to take lessons, to practice throughout your stay and to go home with impressive new language skills.
• There’s always someone looking after you. Whether it’s the Go Abroad China team or your teaching mentor, you’ll always have support while you are with us.

Transferring to an international university in another country can be a complicated process. Making sure you have everything sorted, from choosing the right place to study to transferring credits, organizing visas and getting around can do your head in. Go Abroad China is here to make the process as smooth as possible; we’ll handle all the details and ensure your stay in China is memorable for the right reasons! Go Abroad China  can make sure you get into your choice of university, organize all the details for you, help you with your visa and arrange the little extras that make the experience worthwhile! Go Abroad China arranges affordable, accredited and quality Chinese language programs. We’ve placed thousands of happy students and would love to do the same for you.

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Living and working in Beijing really opened my eyes. The people are extremely nice and helpful. During work, even though there is a huge language barrier, my colleagues do try to communicate with me and the manager was able to organise me to learn from different departments. I was able to make new friends and visit many places in Beijing. Everyone from GAC are very helpful and supportive. Overall I am satisfied with the program. Read More

Laura - USA Internship Program in Shanghai Go aboard China was the one of the best things to happen to me!!! I did the homestay program where I stayed with the cutest family they were so kind to me!!! Kinder then the family I have now lol I actually miss them and think of them often even though it's been a few months since I left the program. I also got to work in an amazing engineering firm Wison were I had the most loving and hilarious coworkers, I literally just fit right in ! GAC I would recommend to a friend or any one reading this. Even when i wasn't in the city of Shanghai , GAC still helped me, plan , get and make sure I was safe during my trip to Beijing. I love GAC!!! Read More

Chris - United Kingdom Internship Program in Beijing My time in China has been extremely rewarding. When I arrived, the culture shock was immense but I quickly settled into Chinese life, thanks to Gina and the GAC team. My internship was exactly what I was looking for, and it gave me the opportunity to work in a fantastically social co-working space in the heart of Sanlitun SOHO, a cosmopolitan and refined area. Read More

David - Australia Internship Program in Shanghai Overall I enjoyed my experience with GAC. I was pleased with the amount of knowledge I learned and the new experiences I went through during my internship as a financial analyst at a finance company which GAC found on my behalf. The internship made me realize how fast things move in the finance industry and I feel it has prepared me well for the transition from university to the work force. Read More

Program Highlights

Go Abroad China organizes tailored Chinese teaching and learning experiences based on your needs, goals, and interests. Your program will include:

• Language classes tailored to your level of Mandarin proficiency, from absolute beginner all the way through to advanced lessons and an intensive Mandarin program
• Free cultural or language-based electives to choose from
• A language exchange program with a native Chinese speaker - one of the best ways to grasp the Chinese language is to talk to Chinese people in everyday conversations
• A teaching placement, whether it’s for a gap year, full-time teaching abroad or a teaching internship in China.
• Free guided city tours, outings, and other acivities.
•  Accommodation in a private or shared apartment with a Chinese roommate, or homestay

Apply today for the opportunity to learn, teach and grow in an incredible setting.

• Spend your gap year abroad in China and combine paid work, with learning, adventure, travel, and fun! Come between high school and college, or when taking a break from your studies. Take the opportunity to expand your knowledge of the world, get to know yourself better and make friends from across the globe. Teaching abroad in China is a unique opportunity to work and travel in a culturally rich country while deciding on your future. While you are here, you’ll be able to take part in immersive Mandarin Chinese classes that will enable you to speak the most spoken language in the world; this is your chance to see and experience China as a local.Go Abroad China is here to help you arrange an incredible gap year in China, from your visa, accommodation, and travel to a paid placement. Join other gap year students in the opportunity of a lifetime, while working and traveling. Better yet, you’ll make new friends for life.

What’s Included?

Accelerate your fluency in Mandarin with our popular internationally recognized Summer Mandarin Language Programs. Our study abroad programs have been developed to include all the extras you need to have a comfortable, safe and enjoyable time in China, from day-to-day support through to visa help, accommodation, medical aid, cultural and sightseeing activities, and more (all included in our standard package at no additional cost).

Chinese Language Curriculum

Housing Accommodation

Welcome Pack & Orientation

24/7 Onsite Assistance

Professional Development

Workshops & course materials

Visa Support

Activities & Tours

Business Networking Events

Certificate and Credits

Get an internationally recognized credit for Mandarin

Learn chinese in a culturally immersive program that is internationally recognized, which will open doors for your future career. live, learn, laugh and experience chinese in this immersive cultural experience that will leave you feeling like a new person., price for  go abroad china teaching  program, please send us email to [email protected] or contact our friendly team for further information., photo gallery.

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Four Easy Steps to Teach  in China

Step one: apply online.

Before you apply, remember to do your research, so you have an idea about where, when and for how long you want to intern abroad. When you have an idea of what you’d like, complete our online application form to get the ball rolling.

Step two: Assessment

To make sure we know what you want from your internship experience – where you want to work, what you want to achieve, where and for how long you’d like to stay – we’ll organize a 15 minute Skype interview with you. From this, we can make sure we tailor the right Internship Package for you. We’ll also know if this is the right program for you. Within two to three days after the interview, the coordinator will be in touch by email to let you know if your application has been successful. If so, we’ll send you a formal offer.

Step three: Confirmation

To confirm your placement in our program, you’ll need to reply to our letter of offer and pay your agreed deposit. Once this has been done, we’ll send you all the documents you need: your contract with us, your employment contract and all the required documents for your visa application as well as your pre-departure package. The pre-departure package contains all the information you’ll need regarding your trip including where you’ll stay.

Step Four: Start your China Internship experience

Once your flights have been booked, let us know your arrival details (date and time, flight number) so that we can organize airport pick-up. We’ll be excited to welcome you to our program in person!

Our support doesn’t end when you arrive. We are as dedicated to ensuring you have around the clock support for the duration of your stay as we do in getting you here. Your journey will include your paid internship, accommodation, language courses, cultural experiences, tours, and networking.

Have a question?

See our FAQs or contact our friendly team for more information.

Come to China for your teach in China program

Have all your needs taken care of, broaden your horizons, be more independent, and make friends for life!

Promotions & Financial Aid

We want everyone to have the chance to live and study in China; to make this possible we have a range of financial options available to support students who cannot afford full fees. Contact us today to discuss promotions, full and partial sponsorship opportunities.

Our prices start from US$1,980, depending on your service components, accommodation and length of stay.

View Special Offers, Scholarship And Financial Aid

• Work Abroad
• Teach English Abroad

FAQs - Teach in China

Topics on This Page:

Application Process  | Job Placement |  Living and Working  | Travel and Arrival

Application Process

CIEE offers two Teach Abroad programs in China: 

Teach in China “Regular” . This program includes our online TEFL course and connects you with the full range of available locations and placements.

Teach in China “Basics” . If you already have an Education degree or TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certification, this is the program for you. It includes all the same placements and support that come with the “Regular” program, just without the included TEFL certification , and it has a lower program fee as a result.

Both programs include personal assistance and support from CIEE staff in the US and in China, and in-country orientation. If you’re not sure which one is right for you, schedule a call and we can advise you further!

Yes! To get a Chinese work visa, you’ll need to prepare two signed original recommendation letters. These actually aren’t important for the CIEE selection process or hiring decisions – they are only required for the visa process. You can submit your application and get a job without letters, but you’ll have to prepare them eventually. You can find more detailed instructions on your CIEE application .

Probably. On your application, you may use a letter from your academic advisor to confirm your anticipated graduation.

The bigger issue is, you can’t start working on your Chinese visa without an authenticated copy of your actual Bachelor’s degree. Visa officers just won’t accept transcripts or verification letters. Check with your school to see if your degree will be handed to you at graduation, or if it gets mailed out weeks afterward. The Chinese visa process is lengthy and inflexible - it takes about 10 weeks from the day you receive your degree to the day you get your visa back. For people who won’t receive their degree until June or July, this means a late arrival in September or maybe even October. Some schools can accommodate a late arrival, so this may be possible but it's not guaranteed.

To participate, you will need a passport that's valid at least six months beyond the END DATE of your desired Teach in China program. If your passport will expire before then, renew it right away! You can still apply to our program while waiting for it to arrive, just enter "000000000" as your passport number on the application, which will signal to us that a renewal is in progress.

Job Placement

No. It’s very difficult to “import” an animal into China, and then repeat the process to come back into the USA. Employers and landlords won’t let you have a pet in your small, high-rise apartment either. You’ll need to find someone back home for your pet to live with while you teach abroad.

We’ll gather your preferences about location, age group, and salary, and then show your application to employers we think are a good match until one requests an interview. We’ll show you a detailed School Profile at that time. If you have questions or concerns about a potential job, make sure to discuss them with us so we understand what you’re looking for.

We work hard to honor requests from our teachers to the extent possible, but we can't guarantee that we'll be able to follow all preferences. We don’t have jobs in every part of China, so be sure to check our program pages to see what locations are available. While you’re there, visit the Job Description section for more information on what types of employers are hiring.

There is HUGE demand for English teachers in China, and that’s good news for you! Some opportunities, like university positions, and private school jobs with the highest salaries, can be fairly competitive and may require prior teaching experience. For all candidates, it's important to smile and show enthusiasm in your application photos and video interviews. That said, there are large numbers of positions overall and we have an excellent track record with successfully placing our teachers. Don’t worry if you don’t have an education degree or much experience – lots of people just like you have landed great jobs in China.

Living and Working

Past teachers describe their housing as small but comfortable. Most teachers will have either a studio apartment to themselves, or a 2BR shared with another teacher of the same gender. Everyone will have a private bedroom! Housing is provided by your employer, so it varies a bit from placement to placement. Schools usually finalize housing just before you arrive in China, so don’t expect photos or details of your exact housing. Have faith that your school will take good care of you; we’ve selected our partners for exactly that reason.

So many answers to this question! On top of the great job benefits, we like… the never-ending flow of superb food… trips to China’s mountains, lakes, and national parks… gleaming high-speed trains… easy access to Asia’s travel destinations… and learning to play cards and Mahjong with retirees in city squares. Plus, you’re learning about one of the world’s most important countries firsthand!

Maybe. This is a bit tricky, since it’s very difficult to set up transfers from a Chinese bank to a US one, and services like Western Union charge a large fee for funds from China. Past teachers have had success linking an international PayPal account to a Chinese bank, and then transferring from there to a US PayPal account, but it takes a long time to set up. If you need to continue making regular payments, make sure you have at least 4 months’ worth of payments saved up before you go. You should also check with your loan servicer and see if it’s possible to pause payments using deferment or forbearance while teaching abroad.

In recent years, it has become easier to find familiar western grocery items like peanut butter, cheese, deodorant, and toothpaste in China. Prices might be a bit higher than you’re used to, but large cities will have options for malls and grocery stores that cater to foreigners. Anything you can’t find there, you can order online through Taobao, the Chinese equivalent of Amazon. 

China's air quality has been steadily improving since 2008. It does still vary depending on the day, and where in China you’re going. CIEE places teachers far away from heavily industrialized cities like Lanzhou and Zhengzhou, where the air quality is the worst. Air quality is often better in the summer, since fuel isn’t being burned for heat.

We asked our former teachers about this issue: 30% said that the air quality in their city made them uncomfortable to some degree. 85% said they had a good experience in spite of it, and only 15% said concerns about air quality would deter them from returning to China.

For most people, the air quality isn’t bad enough to prevent them from signing up to teach in China, but if your top priority is to live somewhere with really clean air, you might consider a different location.

Travel and Arrival

This is a great question, and we actually have a whole handout devoted to this topic! Click here to learn more.

In some ways, getting the "Z" work visa is the hardest part of teaching in China. There’s a long list of documents to prepare, and the sequence of different processes takes at least 2-3 months. Thankfully, CIEE has videos and detailed instructions to guide you step by step. When you have questions, you’ll get helpful, personalized advice from our experienced staff, based in the US and Shanghai. We can't do it for you, but we'll help you every step of the way!

Because the Chinese visa process can be lengthy and unpredictable, we ask participants not to buy flights until their visa approval is confirmed. In most cases, this doesn’t happen until 1-3 weeks before departure, which means you will probably be buying a flight on relatively short notice. For domestic flights in the US, that’s usually a recipe for a costly ticket, but in Asia everyone else is doing the same thing so it’s not quite as bad. And, if you sign up for a 2 semester duration, you’ll receive an airfare reimbursement bonus of at least 8,000 CNY on the successful completion of your contract!

Because of the Chinese visa process, it is not possible to plan other international travel in the two months before your program begins. Plan to be in your home country during that time. 

More Information

For eligibility requirements, compensation, program fees, and more visit our Teach in China Program Pages

See more  FAQs .

More Questions? Email us !

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100 episódios

Shining humour, love and light on Chinese life. For those living, working or travelling in China or interested in learning about Chinese culture, language, expat life and foreigners perceptions. Live, work, travel, teach, speak Chinese, do business and have fun in China! Join our international team for an inside look into Chinese life as foreigners living, working, crying and laughing in China with family, children and friends. A light hearted insight into all things good and bad with a little bit of extra wit added on top. With regular special guests from across China and creative educational games thrown in for fun, this podcast is a must for those interested in learning more about the middle kingdom or just wanting a good giggle. China Jedi is not a political movement or nationalistic front to spread the religion of the Jedi. It is for "normal" people, talking about "normal" things, answering "normal" questions to feel and be less "normal". Tune in, turn on and may the smile be with you!

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• © 2021 China Jedi Podcast Series

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