
Fransisca Vermeulen
Wanderlust Exchange
AlumniAs soon as I saw the advertisement: "Teach English in China," it immediately caught my attention. I thought about it and realised that I had always wa...
Read Full Interview

with International TEFL Academy


International TEFL Academy
24
Do you want to broaden your horizons and get paid to live in the heart of Asia? International TEFL Academy is the world leader in TEFL certificat...
See All 2 Programs

MEF World (MEF English)
5
MEF World was established in Japan over 20 years ago and expanded to China a few of years ago. We offer one of the best training systems, along w...


Premier TEFL
0
China offers some of the highest demand for English teachers in the world—making it one of the best places to start your TEFL career. With an ac...
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
2
Experience life in Guangxi while making a difference! Set in charming rural villages surrounded by lush landscapes, this placement offers a meaningful way to engage with local communities and support education where it’s most needed. As a volunteer you will teach English or other basic skills at un
See All 3 ProgramsSIE - Succeed in Education
5
Embark on an unforgettable teaching adventure in some of China's most vibrant cities—including Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and more! With positions available throughout the year in private, bilingual, and international schools, you'll have the opportunity to teach high school students
See All 3 ProgramsLoPair Cultural Exchange
5
Nǐ hǎo! 你好! Want more than just a trip to China? Experience true cultural immersion by becoming part of a local family with LoPair, China's award-winning cultural exchange agency. Our acclaimed cultural exchange program offers a 3–12 month placement in a major Chinese city. You'll live with a care
The TEFL Institute Group
0
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 Ofqua
World Unite!
0
We arrange paid teaching jobs in China at an international school with two campuses (Beijing and Great Wall), looking for English language and subject (Mathematics, Science, and Sports) teachers. A BA degree completed at least two years ago is required for subject teachers, particularly in a relate
Weihai Chuanyue Cultural Exchange Co., Ltd.
0
Come to China and gain valuable experience teaching English! We are seeking enthusiastic native English speakers from the UK, US, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, and Australia to join our exciting ESL teaching program in China's vibrant major cities. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on y
OnTESOL
0
There’s no better way to earn income, make an impact on others, and discover the world than by teaching English abroad! This is exactly what we offer at OnTESOL—the opportunity to take on a teaching job at your desired location in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Travel
Gotoco
387
Looking for an affordable, short-term global TEFL adventure? Join Gotoco for a unique experience that blends teaching, cultural exchange, and travel! Our programmes help you grow, explore new cultures, and make a positive impact—all while earning a TESOL qualification. No teaching experience? No pr
Masons Aupair
19
Discover China while living with a local family through our Au Pair Cultural Exchange Program. This program offers young people the opportunity to experience authentic Chinese life, improve cross-cultural communication skills, and create meaningful connections with host families. As an au pair, you
TravelGrad
16
Your safe and supported route to teaching in China! See it with your own eyes and jump-start your post-uni life alongside a group of adventurous grads through our 10-month China Teaching Experience program. China is an obvious choice for adventure-seeking grads looking for something truly di
Flying English Shanghai
12
Flying English offers ideal opportunities for enthusiastic and bubbly candidates! Join our Teaching in China program as an English Second-Language Teacher, starting in late 2026. This opportunity allows you to engage with young learners aged 3 to 12 in the vibrant Huangpu District of Shanghai, conv
The International Educator
10
Land an amazing job at an American/international school through The International Educator (TIE)! Participants can work at international schools around the world, including U.S. K-12 schools. Teachers must be able to teach their subject in English and should have 2 years of experience to take advan
Stepping Stones
20
Volunteers are needed to teach fun activities to underserved children and youth in rural China. Each class has about 15–30 children in community centres and about 35 students in schools. Time commitment: A minimum of 3 full weeks during school term (September-December, February-June) or winter/summ
Star Exchange
2
The Au Pair Program is an educational and cultural exchange that includes child care. You can stay in China for 3 to 12 months, with placements in major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Chongqing. As a language tutor in a host family setting, you'll work with children, communicating in
Teach Away
1
Whether you are an ESL teacher or a licensed educator, a job awaits you in China! With around 300 million students desiring to learn English, the country is a lucrative job market. Current estimates show a shortfall of 100,000 English teachers, a figure that is expected to increase in the coming yea
CamTalk Solutions
0
CamTalk Solutions' China Teacher Placement Program connects qualified native English speakers with full-time teaching positions at training centers and kindergartens across China — completely free of charge. We partner with licensed Chinese placement agencies that are actively hiring. Our team hand
Teach & Play
0
Don’t get trapped! Did you know that 80% of teaching jobs in China require evening and weekend work? Not us! For Teach & Play, football (soccer), a fantastic social life, and incredible memories come first. All our jobs are football-friendly, meaning you’ll never work on weekends or in the evenings
To teach English in China, you'll need to meet China's national work and visa requirements, along with any additional qualifications required by the school or program. Requirements can vary by employer and location, so always check the details of each program before applying.
1. Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in any subject is required for most legal teaching positions.
2. TEFL/TESOL/CELTA: A 120-hour or higher accredited certificate is required unless you have 2+ years of full-time teaching experience or a recognized teaching license. If you don't have one yet, some programs include certification in the package.
3. Criminal Record Check: You need a clean background check from your home country, authenticated through an apostille or consular legalization process.
4. Passport & Nationality: English teaching roles commonly recruit citizens from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa. Requirements for other nationalities depend on the employer and location.
5. Age Limits: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Work permit guidelines generally set the upper age limit at under 60 for men and under 55 for women.
6. Valid Passport: Your passport needs enough remaining validity to complete the visa and residence permit process.
7. Z Visa: You need a Z visa to legally work in China, with sponsorship from the school or program you join.
8. Health Check: A standard medical examination is part of the visa and residence permit process, completed either before final visa issuance or after arrival.
Chinese language skills are not required for most teaching roles on this page, and plenty of programs welcome first-time teachers with no classroom experience. Teaching subjects such as maths, science, or humanities may also have different qualification requirements from English teaching roles.
Before applying, check how much time you'll need to prepare your documents. Degree certificates and background checks may need to be authenticated through an apostille or consular legalization process, depending on your country. Allow 3 to 6 weeks, as document authentication is often the slowest part of the process.
Teaching jobs in China range from entry-level language teaching positions to licensed roles at international schools and universities. School type affects your salary, schedule, qualifications, and the type of students you'll teach.
Teach children aged 2 to 5 in classes of around 20 students on a standard weekday schedule. These roles can offer strong entry-level pay, while established schools often require prior experience and an in-person teaching certificate.
Teach children and teenagers outside regular school hours, with afternoon, evening, and weekend schedules and two weekdays off. Teaching hours are often lighter than a conventional school schedule, usually around 18 to 25 hours per week, making these roles more accessible to first-time teachers.
Teach larger classes, often with 30 to 50 students, following a set curriculum on a standard weekday schedule. Salaries are often lower than at private or international schools, and teachers may also help with activities beyond English lessons.
These roles offer some of the highest salaries but also have stricter qualification requirements. Schools often require a teaching license, subject-relevant degree, or several years of classroom experience. Teaching loads can be around 18 hours per week or fewer, with several weeks of winter and summer vacation.
International and bilingual schools also hire teachers for subjects such as maths, science, literature, and humanities. These positions often have different qualification requirements from English teaching roles and may not require TEFL certification.
Teach young adults through seminars, lectures, and smaller discussion-based classes. University roles often offer fewer contact hours and more flexibility in lesson planning, but usually require prior teaching experience, advanced qualifications, or a teaching license.
Structured placements for recent graduates, often lasting 10 to 12 months. Many include certification, orientation, and in-country support, although salaries can be lower than direct employment with a school.
Live with a Chinese host family and tutor children in English in exchange for accommodation, meals, and pocket money rather than a full teaching salary. Requirements are often lighter than for salaried teaching roles.
Unpaid placements, often in rural schools or communities, with commitments ranging from a few weeks to several months. Participants may need to cover costs such as visas, insurance, and transportation.
The first six options are salaried teaching roles that generally require the appropriate work authorization. Internships, au pair placements, homestay tutoring, and volunteer programs operate under different arrangements, so compare the compensation and visa requirements of each listing carefully.
Salaries typically range from $1,600 to $4,500 per month, depending on the type of school, city, qualifications, and teaching experience. Here's what teachers can expect to earn across different roles:
Source: Compiled from GoAbroad program listings and industry salary reports, August 2026. USD converted at 7.30 RMB to the dollar.
Teaching salaries in China can vary significantly by school type, city, qualifications, and experience. Understanding the upfront costs and monthly expenses can help you compare programs and plan your budget before you move.
Actual costs vary by city and personal spending habits. Check each program listing to see which expenses are included in the program fee and which you'll need to cover yourself.
The city you choose affects your salary, living costs, school options, and lifestyle. Larger cities tend to offer more teaching opportunities and higher salaries, while smaller cities can offer lower living costs and more opportunities to save.
These cities offer the highest salaries in the country alongside the highest living costs. They also have the widest range of international and bilingual schools.
These cities generally have lower living costs than China's largest cities while still offering a wide range of teaching opportunities. For many teachers, these cities can provide a strong balance between salary and expenses.
Rural placements come with lower salaries and much lower costs, with fewer foreign teachers around. These suit anyone prioritizing language immersion or cultural experience over earnings, and they are where most volunteer teaching programs operate.
GoAbroad is the original online resource for meaningful travel, helping you find and compare study, volunteer, teach, and intern abroad programs worldwide since 1997.
Use the steps below to compare teaching opportunities, read reviews from past participants, and explore programs from verified providers around the world.
1. Get matched. Use the GoAbroad Online Advisor to find China teaching programs that match your goals and background.
2. Compare program details. Look at program fees, requirements, teaching placements, and what's included. Check whether the program provides TEFL certification, accommodation, visa assistance, flights, or in-country support.
3. Save and compare. Create a MyGoAbroad account to organize the programs you're considering and compare your options side by side.
4. Read the reviews. Reviews from teachers who have taught in China can give you a better idea of the actual experience, including teaching placements, provider support, accommodation, and daily life.
5. Hear it first-hand. Alumni interviews offer another perspective on teaching and living in China, including details that may not appear in a standard program description or review.
Get answers to the questions travelers ask most
Start by finding a teaching program that matches your qualifications, preferred location, and budget. Review the program requirements, submit your application and required documents, and complete the visa process with support from your program provider or employer.
Most teaching positions require applicants to be at least 18, while many programs set their minimum age at 21. Upper age limits vary by work permit, employer, and location, so check the requirements for each program before applying.
Some highly rated options on GoAbroad include International TEFL Academy, which offers TEFL classes and job guidance for teaching English in China, and MEF World (MEF English), which offers English teaching opportunities in China. You can also browse other teaching programs on GoAbroad to compare providers, locations, program details, and reviews.
GPA is generally less important than having a bachelor's degree and meeting the other requirements for your teaching role. Individual employers and programs can set their own academic standards, so check the requirements before applying.
Yes. Some programs accept first-time teachers, particularly entry-level positions and programs that include TEFL certification or training. More competitive roles, such as international school positions, typically require previous classroom experience and additional qualifications.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: Au Pair in China – Cultural Exchange & Mandarin Learning
I spent 4 months in China with Masons Au Pair agency and honestly it passed sooo fast. One minute I was unpacking and the next I was trying to squeeze everything in my suitcase. (I bought a loot of stuff on Taobao) My host kid taught me a thing or two about patience and negotiating skills. we played football and hide-and-seek literally everyday but he's a good boy and I'm happy I was his Au Pair. My Chinese is still in progress but my chopstick skills now is perfect haha Masons team was always around when I needed a hand, which made everything feel a lot less overwhelming. I left with new friends, great memories, and a suitcase that really tested the airline’s weight limit but what can we do. Thanks to Masons agency for such a great adventure, I definitely will come back to see you guys!

Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
Gotoco made teaching in Thailand really easy to get into. The team was friendly and organised, the training prepared me well, and I always felt supported along the way. Teaching the kids was a lot of fun, and the cultural trips were a great extra. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I'd happily recommend it to anyone thinking about teaching abroad
Program: Au Pair in China – Cultural Exchange & Mandarin Learning
My 6 months as an Au Pair in China with Masons Au Pair were honestly unforgettable! I had such a lovely time exploring China, making new friends, and becoming part of a wonderful host family. They even threw me a birthday party, which was so sweet and really made me feel like part of the family! The Masons team were brilliant and always happy to help whenever I needed anything. I also really enjoyed the Mandarin classes and all the fun activities with the other Au Pairs. The whole experience was absolutely lovely, and I can't believe how quickly those 6 months flew by! I'd definitely recommend Masons to anyone thinking about becoming an Au Pair in China! ❤️


Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I spent two weeks in Vietnam with Gotoco and had a really positive experience! My group taught English in a preschool, which was really rewarding and gave me valuable classroom experience. We also took part in a cultural exchange with a local university, which helped me develop my public speaking skills. Outside of teaching, I really enjoyed the day trips around Da Nang and trying food at local restaurants with the other participants. The staff were lovely and supportive throughout. Having our flights booked for us was especially helpful, and they were flexible with my plans to travel independently before and after the programme. Overall, I really enjoyed my time in Vietnam and would definitely recommend the experience!
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
Teaching in Thailand for 2 weeks was awesome. It's the perfect blend of travel and tourism. You have the opportunity to see the country's more well-known destinations, but also it's far out areas where tourists don't normally travel. The teaching, as well, is so fun, it's such a unique way to interact and learn about another culture all whilst they are learning from you! Honestly can't think of any cons besides the 25 hours it takes to get to Thailand--but there's no way to end up in Thailand and have the experience without this so you just gotta stiff up a lip.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I really enjoyed meeting everyone on the programme and making new friendships. I think that we were all a very diverse crowd, coming from different backgrounds with different experiences, which made everything increadibly interesting and stimulating. I also think working with the kids was such an amazing and eye-opening experience. It gave me a great understanding of what it means to be a TEFL teacher and work with kids, and it has inspired me to continue looking for more TEFL opportunities that I hope to get involved in. I think that Thailand as a destination was perfect and is a place that I would definitely love to explore further in the future. I believe that the support given by Gotoco before my departure was amazing, especially with the quick, thorough and reassuring responses that I received. I think that the structure was also well thought out, with each day consisting of something new with different events and activites. I appreciate the guidance and the support I was also given throughout the trip as well.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I had such an amazing experience with gotoco in Thailand! The whole experience of teaching English to the children was so rewarding. They were so excited to learn and it was honestly so nice seeing how quickly we built a connection with them. I also met some amazing people and made some really good friends along the way. Outside of teaching, we got to experience so much of Thai culture, from cooking classes and exploring temples to night markets, boat trips and trying loads of amazing food. Everything was really well organised and I always felt supported throughout the programme. I’m genuinely so glad I decided to apply and got the chance to do something completely different. It was such a unique experience and I’d 100% recommend gotoco. I really hope I get to do another programme with them in the future!

Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
It was really fun immersing myself in the Thai culture and teaching local children as well as getting to know everyone and having so much fun together! I loved the whole experience and I am satisfied!

Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
This summer I took part in Gotoco's TEFL programme in Vietnam. The TEFL course was amazing as we had the opportunity to teach multiple age groups over the 3 weeks and I have overall become more confident with my teaching. The coordinators additionally gave us classes in how to teach which I think really prepared us. Overall the living conditions were great; the house was lovely, and the food was also good. The location of Da Nang was also a very nice place to spend 3 weeks, and on the weekends we had daytrips and throughout our coordinators took us to various cultural experiences.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
The Further Afield initiative of Goto-CO is an experience I would recommend for the following reasons. They take care of and book flights (with great flexibility). The organisers and people behind it are friendly, outgoing, and on top of it all. The experience combines work and leisure.
Program: Volunteer to Teach English to Children in Rural China
My experience teaching abroad was an unforgettable one. Being able to teach children in rural areas and learning about their culture taught me so much. I would definitely go again when I get the chance!
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
From a wonderful team and great people, to a new experience and the opportunity to explore Thailand and its culture, this was such an amazing programme. Although it was only a 2 week programme, I’m so glad that I came. I learned so much and met so many amazing people. Before I went I didn’t expect there to be so many cultural activities planned for us which was a really nice surprise. We learned how to make traditional Thai desserts and dishes, visited many temples and got to see so much more during our free time :) I would recommend Gotoco to anyone who wants to try something new, meet new people, experience a different culture, and see what teaching English abroad is like.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I was able to spend 3 1/2 weeks in Vietnam, and it was amazing. Firstly, the cohort I was with was incredible; I have made some lifelong friends from that group. Secondly, being able to travel to my first Asian country and essentially live like a local was an experience I believe every young person should have. The school I worked at were amazing, and the teachers were unbelievably welcoming. Vietnam itself is such a beautiful country with beautiful sights.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
This programme is an easy way to introduce someone to travelling abroad, teaching English as a foreign language and gaining independence. The opportunity gives someone enough independence but also has a safety net in case you need advice or help in a matter. I have gained valuable skills that I can use in a new career, and it has given me insight into a career where I would teach abroad. I have gained the ability to create and use teaching resources, which would allow me to continue to teach if I wished. I went on a 5-week Rural thialnd programme and the highlight was the students and the meaningful impact we all had on them in a short period of time. From the very first day, we were welcomed by the students and were made to feel like respected teachers. Students were receptive and understanding of the language barriers we faced. Students were happy and wanted to constantly learn and practice English. Those same students continue to contact us and have a strong desire to practice English and get better. Another highlight was the friends I made on the programme. It was initially daunting knowing I would be stuck living with strangers, but I can proudly say I made lifelong friends, and we built connections with each other almost immediately.
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
It was my first time travelling abroad independently and Gotoco made the entire experience unforgettable and incredibly stress-free. They had considered every detail on what the participants would need and want to have a good experience both at the school and within the area that we were living in. I joined the 1 month programme and had a lot of fun making life-long friends, getting to know the locals and teaching the kids. Doing this programme with Gotoco just ensured that I was able to live and work in Thailand comfortably and stress-free. I would highly recommend joining one of their programmes to anyone wanting to travel, live and work abroad!
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
Did the 2 week funded trip in Thailand and it was fantastic! Teaching, travelling, meet new people from Thailand and from the Uk too! The biggest highlight for me was the combination of teaching, travelling and meeting people from completely different backgrounds. I really enjoyed being able to experience Thailand beyond the usual tourist destinations, particularly staying in smaller towns and getting a feel for everyday life there. The teaching itself was also a great experience. Even though it could be challenging at times, having to adapt lessons to students with very different levels of English really helped me develop my communication, creativity and confidence. Seeing the students become more engaged as the programme went on was particularly rewarding. Teaching was fun and came naturally to me. Not as hard as i thought the students are well behaved and are genuinely happy to have a natuve English speaker as a teacher. The social side was another major highlight. Having a group of other participants to travel, explore and spend time with made the whole experience much more enjoyable, and I think the programme does a good job of creating that sense of community. Met plenty of people from uk too so the social side was great too!
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I’m really glad I joined Gotoco’s Thailand programme. It was a great opportunity to travel, meet some lovely people and experience teaching English. I especially enjoyed spending time with the students and experiencing the local culture. The financial support with flights, accommodation, meals and transport made a big difference too. Overall, a very memorable experience that I would recommend.

Program: Au Pair in China – Cultural Exchange & Mandarin Learning
I stayed in China for 6 months through Masons Au Pair agency and it was a good experience. I'm especially grateful to the agency who helped me with all the documents and always were ready to help but also thanks to all Au Pair community where I met new friends from different parts of the world! The Au Pair activities the agency provides really helped me to get to know Au Pairs faster, so we hanged out a lot. It is nice that the agency's office is right next door to the language school where I studied Mandarin, so if I had any problems or needed an advice, it was very easy to find people from the agency to talk. In general it was very nice experience and I'm happy I did it! Thank you, Masons agency for your help and support!

Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
I really loved and appreciated the positive attitude from the teachers and the children at my school, always making us feel included and cared for. The people and friends we made along the programme will be some friends for life; we even went on holiday together in the weeks break for the King's birthday! This experience has definitely made me more adaptable and flexible. With Thai schools and teachers, anything can change instantly and I struggled to acclimatise to that aspect at first but then I really got into that attitude during my time there. It has definitely made me more resilient (and stress-free!)
Program: Teaching Internship (with TEFL Certificate) in Asia & Europe
My Thailand trip with Gotoco was incredible! I would recommend the scheme because it is a great way to experience a new country while learning and growing in an employability sense. It's a great balance of work and fun that I would love to experience again someday.
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Fransisca Vermeulen
Wanderlust Exchange
AlumniAs soon as I saw the advertisement: "Teach English in China," it immediately caught my attention. I thought about it and realised that I had always wa...
Read Full Interview
Carl Franklin
(DEAD URL) Premier English
AlumniI wanted to have the opportunity to teach a range of students: children, teenagers and adults. I also wanted to do something worthwhile and fulfilling...
Read Full Interview
Marina Pulgarin
(DEAD URL) Aupairia
AlumniExperiencing life in one of the biggest and culturally rich cities in the world, Beijing.
Read Full Interview
Hope Marshall
LoPair Cultural Exchange
AlumniI think traveling and being exposed to a very different environment, one that you’re especially not used to, is the best way to learn. Not only do you...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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