English-related jobs and workers in China is in high demand. Be enlightened on the 2025 Guide on The Best Places for Foreigners to Teach English in China.
It’s no surprise you’re thinking about teaching English abroad — and if you’ve done your research, China has probably popped up more than once. And why not? The country offers a vibrant mix of modern cities, deep cultural roots, a huge demand for English teachers, and salaries that actually let you live comfortably.
Even in 2025, China remains one of the most sought-after destinations for foreigners looking to teach English.
And this isn’t hype — it’s the truth. I’m sharing what real teachers have experienced, what the data shows, and what actually works for those who’ve made the move.
So, whether you’re a recent graduate, a certified teacher, or someone simply seeking a new adventure, this guide is for you.
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2025 Guide on The Best Places for Foreigners to Teach English in China
Let’s break down the best teaching opportunities in China for foreigners — including real salary ranges, qualifications, and what to expect in each setting.
1. International Schools – High Pay, High Standards
Best for: Licensed or experienced teachers.
If you’ve got teaching credentials, international schools in cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen are where the money’s at.
Salary range: $3,500 – $6,000 per month
Perks: Paid holidays, health insurance, flight reimbursement, and often free housing
But — these schools are selective. You’ll usually need:
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in education
- A teaching license (PGCE, state certification, etc.)
- Several years of classroom experience
You’ll be teaching top-performing students with advanced English, using modern resources in well-equipped classrooms. The workload is demanding, but the rewards — both financial and professional — are worth it.
2. Public Schools – Balance and Stability
Best for: Teachers who value free time and steady routines.
Public school jobs (from primary to high school) are managed by local education bureaus and offer some of the most balanced teaching schedules in China.
Salary range: $1,800 – $2,500 per month
Perks: Free housing or allowance, paid holidays, weekends off
Teachers typically work 16–20 classes a week, Monday to Friday. Evenings and weekends are yours — perfect for exploring, studying Mandarin, or freelancing.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certificate
- Clean criminal record
Second-tier cities like Chengdu, Xi’an, or Nanjing often offer the best quality of life with lower living costs.
3. Private Language Centers – Fast-Paced but Rewarding
Best for: New teachers or those open to evening/weekend work.
Private academies like EF (Education First) and Wall Street English are always hiring. They cater to kids, teens, and adults who study English after school or work.
Salary range: $2,000 – $3,200 per month
Extras: Bonuses, paid training, visa sponsorship, relocation help
Expect to work weekends and evenings, with two weekdays off. It’s energetic, sometimes intense — but it’s also one of the easiest ways to build teaching experience fast.
Pro tip: If you’re just starting out in ESL, this is your best entry point.
4. Universities – Low Stress, Light Schedule
Best for: Teachers who prefer freedom and fewer hours.
Teaching at a university is relaxed and flexible — think 10–14 hours a week, with long vacations and plenty of downtime.
Salary range: $1,200 – $2,000 per month
Perks: Free housing, long holidays, motivated students
While the pay isn’t as high, the lifestyle is ideal for those who want to write, travel, or pick up side work.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred)
- TEFL certificate
- Clean criminal record
5. Kindergartens – Fun, Creative, and Well-Paid
Best for: Teachers who love working with young kids.
Kindergartens — especially bilingual or international ones — remain one of the most in-demand sectors in 2025.
Salary range: $2,500 – $4,000 per month
Perks: Housing, meals, insurance, paid vacation
Expect a lively, play-based environment where you’ll sing, dance, and teach through games. The hours are usually Monday to Friday, which means your weekends are free.
6. Hybrid & Online Teaching – The Flexible Future
Best for: Teachers transitioning from online to in-person roles.
Post-COVID, many private schools now blend online and in-person teaching. Some even allow teachers to work with international students online to boost income.
Salary range: $2,000 – $4,000 per month
Platforms like Cambly, Preply, and AmazingTalker still hire tutors who live in China (for non-Chinese students). You might teach in classrooms by day and run virtual lessons by night — ideal for flexible educators.
What You’ll Need to Qualify
- To land a legal teaching job in China in 2025, you’ll typically need:
- A bachelor’s degree (any major)
- A 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certificate (online accepted)
- Two years of work experience (not always teaching-related)
- A clean background check
- A Z work visa (the only legal visa for paid teaching)
Native speakers have an edge, but fluent non-natives with the right credentials can also get hired.
How to Get Started
- Update your resume – Highlight teaching experience and adaptability.
- Apply through trusted recruiters – e.g. TeachAway, Work and Live in China, Gold Star TEFL.
- Prepare for interviews – Many schools ask for demo lessons.
- Read contracts carefully – Check for housing, health insurance, airfare reimbursement, and visa support.
- Avoid shortcuts – Never work on a tourist or student visa. Only the Z visa is legal.
Final Thoughts
Teaching English in China in 2025 isn’t just another job — it’s a lifestyle. It’s for curious, open-minded people who want growth, challenge, and cultural exchange.
Yes, you’ll face language barriers, cultural quirks, and occasional homesickness. But you’ll also gain stories, friendships, and confidence you can’t get anywhere else.
Whether you stay for one year or make a long-term career out of it, China offers experiences that will shape you far beyond the classroom.
So, polish your resume, get your TEFL ready, and take that leap — because your next chapter might just start with a plane ticket to China.
