China Is Calling. Are You TEFL-Ready?
Program Overview
Ancient temples. Futuristic skylines. A salary that lets you actually save. China is the world's biggest English teaching market and it's waiting for you. From the electric buzz of Shanghai to the lantern-lit streets of Chengdu, teaching here isn't just a job. It's a full-on life upgrade.
Our Ofqual Regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma is 100% online, self-paced, and built to get you classroom-ready fast. It meets China's Z-Visa certification requirement, a mandatory credential for any foreign national seeking a legal teaching position in China. It's accepted across public schools, bilingual campuses, kindergartens, and private language centres nationwide. The Level 5 qualification goes beyond basic certification.
Qualified teachers in China earn ¥14,000–¥45,000/month - often with flights and housing included. Outside Tier 1 cities, the cost of living is low enough that saving money isn't a goal, it's just what happens.
The TEFL Institute's 50,000+ graduates don't just get certified. They get placed, supported, and set up for a career that actually goes somewhere. With job coaching and a global alumni network behind you every step of the way.
Your China chapter starts here.
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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 1 Year
- 3-6 Months
- Long Term
- Short Term
- Summer
Updated Jun 16, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Online
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Education
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 1 Year
- 3-6 Months
- Long Term
- Short Term
- Summer
Starts At
- 6 Months: $365
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about The TEFL Institute.
Do I need a specific TEFL qualification to teach English legally in Ch
Yes. China's Z-Visa requires a minimum 120-hour accredited TEFL certificate from a recognised provider. The TEFL Institute's Ofqual Regulated Level 5 Diploma meets and exceeds this — and gives you a significant edge over basic certificate holders when applying to international schools and bilingual campuses in cities like Shanghai and Beijing.
What can I realistically earn teaching English in China?
Salaries range from ¥14,000 to ¥45,000/month depending on city and school type. Most packages include accommodation, flights, and health insurance. Tier 2 cities like Chengdu and Xi'an offer lower salaries but much lower living costs meaning your actual savings can be higher than in Shanghai or Beijing.
How does The TEFL Institute help me find a job in China?
The TEFL Institute's job support goes well beyond certification. Graduates get access to a live job board with vacancies updated regularly, monthly group job coaching webinars, weekly tutor support sessions, CV guidance, and interview preparation.
What is TEFL.ai and how does it help me?
TEFL.ai is your AI-powered teaching assistant included free with your qualification. Use it to build lesson plans, write your CV, draft cover letters, and prepare for interviews. For teachers applying to competitive schools in China, it's a practical edge that saves time and helps you present yourself professionally from day one.
When should I start my TEFL course if I want to teach in China?
Start at least 4 to 6 months before your target departure date. The Z-Visa process alone takes 8 to 16 weeks after a contract is signed - and your certificate must be in place before that can begin. If you're targeting September, China's main hiring window, starting your course in early spring keeps you well ahead of the timeline.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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