Teaching Requirements

  • I only have an associates degree, can I still teach?
    Sadly no. Regulations are very strict and a bachelors degree from an accredited university is required and will be verified by a third party as well as notarized.
  • I'm not a native speaker, but lived in an English speaking country for many years and speak fluently. Does that meet the native speaking requirement?
    The list of approved countries is absolute. Unless you are a citizen of the United States, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa it is not possible to get a visa to teach English.
  • I HAD A SCHOOL OFFER ME A JOB AND A TOURIST VISA, SHOULD I TAKE IT?
    No, absolutely not. There are no circumstances where is permissible for a school to bring you over on any visa except an X work visa. Working for a school that is attempting do so will most likely result in no pay, a government fine, deportation and a temporary ban from entering the country.
  • IS IT A PROBLEM IF A HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD?
    If you have had a minor, non violent, misdemeanor no. A background check will be required, but they are mainly looking for felonies and major offences, not a speeding ticket you got five years ago.
  • DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK CHINESE?
    No although learning Chinese is highly encouraged. Investing in the language will make daily life much easier and your experience much more enjoyable. Most schools will offer complimentary courses and a tutor is never hard to find.
  • HOW MUCH DO YOUR SERVICES COST?
    Nothing at all for you! Using our services is entirely free from start to finish.

Working

  • WILL I BE ABLE TO SAVE MONEY WHILE I'M WORKING?
    Absolutely, salaries have never been higher in China and are comparable to those in Korea when you factor in the cost of living. It very realistic to pay off student loans or build a savings account on a teaching salary.
  • HOW LONG ARE CONTRACTS?
    Contracts generally are a year in length. We would not advise signing any contract longer than a year unless you are experienced and have worked for the same school previously.
  • WILL I BE REQUIRED TO DEVELOP MY OWN CURRICULUM?
    No, schools will provide curriculum and teacher development programs so that you are prepared and ready to teach.
  • WILL I HAVE TO PAY TAXES IN CHINA?
    Yes, taxes sadly do not disappear. Tax rates vary from job to job depending on your contract and salary scale. Don't worry too much as you will have a clear picture of how much tax you will pay once you have signed your contract and most schools do offer a "tax relief" program. This means that they will pay a part of your tax or offer you a salary with tax already deducted from it.
  • CAN I LEAVE MY CONTRACT EARLY?
    Leaving your contract early is considered a breach of contract. Consequences vary but will include having your visa cancelled. If you must leave early, at least a month notice is generally required.

Living

  • IS CHINA SAFE?
    Yes, China is considered a very safe country to live in. While there might be incidences of petty crime like pick pocketing in major cities, its very minor. Serious and violent crimes are extremely rare.