CNAsia
Teaching in China
China has one of the largest international school markets in the world. Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen host hundreds of schools. Salaries are competitive and housing is usually included.
Why teach in China
- Large job market—constant demand for qualified teachers
- Competitive salaries with housing often included
- Exposure to IB, AP, and British curricula
- Cultural immersion and language learning
- Strong expat communities in major cities
Salary and benefits
Typical salary range
$2,500–$4,500/month
Contract length
2 years typical; 1-year sometimes for first-time China hires
Savings potential
$1,000–2,000/month with housing provided
Cost of living
Medium. Housing is often provided; food and transport are affordable.
Typical benefits
- Housing or housing allowance (common)
- Annual flights
- Health insurance
- Visa and work permit support
- Relocation allowance (many schools)
Cost of living (approximate)
- 1-bedroom apartment (Shanghai, if not provided)
- ¥6,000–12,000 (~$850–1,700/mo)
- Meal at local restaurant
- ¥30–80 (~$4–11)
- Monthly metro pass
- ¥200 (~$28)
- Utilities
- ¥300–500 (~$42–70)
Requirements
- Teaching license from home country
- Bachelor's degree (minimum)
- 2+ years experience typically required for Z visa
- Clean criminal record; authenticated degree required
Common curricula
IB, AP, British (IGCSE, A-Levels), American. Schools specify their curriculum in job postings.
Main cities for teaching
Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Suzhou. Hiring season: October–April for August start; rolling hires year-round.
Things to know
- Visa process can take 2–3 months; authenticated documents required
- Pollution varies by city; Shanghai and Beijing can have bad air days
- VPN needed for many Western sites; schools often provide
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to speak Chinese to teach in China?
- No. International schools teach in English. Basic Mandarin helps daily life but isn't required for the job.
- What are visa requirements for teaching in China?
- You need a Z visa (work visa). Schools sponsor this. Requirements include a bachelor's degree, clean criminal record, and typically 2+ years of teaching experience.
- Is China safe for expat teachers?
- Major cities like Shanghai and Beijing are generally safe. Schools provide guidance on local norms and safety.
- What cities pay the most for teachers in China?
- Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen typically offer the highest salaries. Tier 2 cities pay less but have lower costs.
- When should I apply for China teaching jobs?
- October–April for August start. Many schools hire year-round; apply 4–6 months before your target start.
Research schools before you accept
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