Teaching English in China
A strong salary, great benefits and a low cost of living make China a popular choice! With our Job Placement Service we don’t just send you a “list” of recent TEFL jobs in China like most TEFL providers do. We get you prioritized and connected directly to employers at professional and reputable schools. Skip the job hunting headaches and let us do the work for you.
About life in the rising dragon:
China has undergone tremendous social and economical changes over the past 25 years which have resulted in a hunger for new knowledge, exploration, discovery and wealth. Despite misconceptions, the Chinese people are open minded, friendly, full of humour, and always up for a good time. There is truly never a dull moment if you let yourself get swept into the whirlwind of activity that constitutes life in China. Become a part of that vital, driven economy, with a wonderful TEFL position that combines a terrific salary package along with a chance to explore China’s rich cultural heritage. Truly a win-win combination.
EMPLOYMENT PACKAGES
Teaching jobs in China are available throughout the year and come with a great perks. The average teaching packages start at around $1700 per month and will often include housing, airfare assistance and paid holidays. Thanks to low living costs and good salaries, most teachers save up quite a bit of money while working in China.
China PLACEMENT FAQS
TEFL job placements in China typically include positions in public schools, private language institutes, and international schools. These placements are available across various cities in China, offering a wide range of teaching environments and experiences.
TEFL teachers in China can expect starting salaries ranging from 12,500 to 25,000 RMB per month, depending on the location, type of school, and the teacher’s qualifications and experience. Additionally, many positions offer benefits such as housing allowances, flight reimbursements, and health insurance.
To teach English in China, you need a bachelor’s degree in any field, a TEFL certification, and a clean criminal record. Some positions may require previous teaching experience, while others are open to new teachers. Native English speakers are preferred, but non-native speakers with strong English proficiency are also considered.
The application process involves submitting an online application, which includes your resume, a copy of your degree, TEFL certificate, and a recent photo. After an initial screening, you may be invited for an interview via video call. Successful candidates will receive a job offer and assistance with the visa application process.
Extensive support is offered to TEFL teachers, including help with finding accommodation, orientation sessions, cultural training, and ongoing professional development. Assistance with legal paperwork, such as obtaining a work visa and residence permit, is also provided.
The typical contract length for TEFL positions in China is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on mutual agreement. Some schools may offer shorter-term contracts, but one-year contracts are the standard.
TEFL teachers in China can expect to work around 20-25 teaching hours per week, with additional time allocated for lesson planning and school activities. Working hours typically follow a standard school schedule from Monday to Friday, although some private language institutes may require evening and weekend classes.
Many TEFL positions in China offer free or subsidized accommodation, either in the form of a shared apartment or a housing allowance. The quality and type of accommodation can vary depending on the location and school, but all provided housing meets a basic standard of comfort and safety.
Teaching English in China can present challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and adjusting to a new education system. However, comprehensive support and training are provided to help teachers overcome these challenges and succeed in their roles.
To obtain a work visa for teaching in China, you will need to provide documents such as your passport, a copy of your degree, a TEFL certificate, a criminal background check, and a health check. The process involves applying for a Z visa, which allows you to work legally in China.
While it is not necessary to learn Mandarin to teach English in China, having some basic knowledge of the language can be beneficial for daily life and communication with colleagues and students. Many schools also offer Mandarin lessons to foreign teachers.
The age limit for teaching English in China generally ranges from 21 to 60 years old, although some schools may accept teachers older than 60 on a case-by-case basis.
Typical benefits for TEFL teachers in China include housing or a housing allowance, flight reimbursements, health insurance, paid holidays, and contract completion bonuses.
Yes, many teachers bring their families with them. It is important to discuss this with your employer beforehand to understand the support available, such as housing accommodations and schooling options for children.
China has a well-developed healthcare system, and many schools provide health insurance that covers basic medical needs. It is also possible to purchase additional private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage.
The cost of living in China varies by city, with major cities like Beijing and Shanghai being more expensive than smaller cities. Overall, the cost of living is relatively low, allowing teachers to save a portion of their salary.
Many schools offer professional development programs, workshops, and ongoing training to help teachers improve their teaching skills and advance their careers.
Yes, some schools look for teachers to teach subjects like math, science, and art, especially in international schools or bilingual programs. Having a background or certification in these subjects can be beneficial.
TEFL teachers in China typically have public holidays off, as well as vacation time during the summer and winter breaks. The specific amount of vacation time can vary depending on the school and contract.
Classroom environments in China can vary, but generally, they are respectful and disciplined. Class sizes can be large, especially in public schools, and teachers are expected to manage their classrooms effectively.
Yes, a bachelor’s degree in any field is typically required to teach English in China. This is a standard requirement for obtaining a work visa.
Yes, non-native speakers can teach English in China, provided they have strong English proficiency and meet other qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification.
Prior teaching experience is not required, but it can be an advantage.
A 120-hour TEFL certification from an accredited provider is required.
TEFL teachers in China may teach a range of age groups, including kindergarten, primary school, middle school, high school, or adults, depending on the placement.
Most schools provide health insurance as part of the employment package. Other benefits may include flight reimbursements, housing allowances, and contract completion bonuses.
The cost of living in China is generally lower than in many Western countries. TEFL salaries are sufficient to cover living expenses and allow for savings, especially in smaller cities.
Preferences for location can be expressed during the application process, but placements depend on availability and demand. Some flexibility may be required.
The placement process generally takes between 2 to 4 months.
Yes, many teachers choose to renew their contracts or extend their stay in China. Schools are often open to contract extensions if both parties are satisfied.
Yes, applicants need to hold a CA, US, UK, AU, NZ, SA or IRE passport.
Some programs and schools may accommodate placement requests for friends or couples, but this depends on availability. Flexibility on location is important.
It is advisable to bring enough money to cover initial expenses for the first month, including accommodation deposits, food, and transportation. Around $1,000 to $2,000 USD is a reasonable amount.
Yes, a medical check is usually required for the work visa application. This may include a physical examination, blood tests, and chest X-ray.
Yes, a criminal background check from your home country is required as part of the visa application process.
Placements can be in various locations across China, including major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, as well as smaller cities and rural areas.
Bringing a pet to China is possible but can be complicated due to quarantine regulations and import requirements. We do not recommend it.
Peak hiring times are generally in February/March for the spring semester and August/September for the fall semester. However, positions may be available year-round.
