Teaching in China FAQs | English teaching questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that coming to teach English in China can be daunting and there are many questions you may have. Hopefully you'll find the answers to all of your questions below. If not, feel free to email us on teachers@recruitforchina.com and we'd be happy to help.

01

Free, really?

YES! We are and always will be free for teachers. Schools cover all costs making sure you don't pay a penny.

02

What qualifications are needed to teach in China?

As China becomes more popular with foreign teachers, the government is constantly changing the requirements to obtain the required working visa, however as a minimum you must meet the following criteria:

Have at least a bachelors' degree from a western university (in any subject).
TEFL preferred but noyt essential in all cases
Be aged 22-60
Be willing to work for either 6/12 months
Have no major criminal convictions
Have no serious health conditions (A health test is required)

03

How long does the visa take?

The working visa process takes around 3- 5weeks to complete. Once you have chosen the right position for you, and completed the required health check, the school can then start the process for you. They will obtain your work permit & invitation letter from the provincial government and send those in the post to you. Upon arrival you can take them to the Chinese embassy to receive your working visa.

04

When can I begin?

As we work with over 400 schools we can help you find a position at any time of the year however peak times are generally in February & September.

05

What support does the school provide?

The school will be your first line of call. They will support you the moment they meet you and won’t stop until you say goodbye. They will provide initial training and guide you through the curriculum, provide Chinese assistants in your classes to provide translation support and they’ll also support you with any cultural difficulties or homesickness you endure.

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06

What support does Recruit 4 China provide?

e are available at any time teachers wish to speak with us. Whilst schools will deal with issues directly, if you feel you want our support / opinion we will be happy to speak to the school on your behalf. We will also ensure that should you face any cultural difficulties or homesickness we will provide advice and support to assist you. As an expat owned company we have been in your shoes before.

I can’t speak Chinese, can I get by?

When most people come to China they can’t speak any Chinese. Most of our schools provide free Chinese classes so you'll pick up some usefull words and phrases almost straight away.

07

Is it easy to meet other expats?

More than 3 million expats live and work in China and the number is growing each year. In almost all Chinese cities (even the small cities) you’ll be able to meet other teachers. Often your school will employ 2-3 teachers, and there will be many other licensed schools within the same city ensuring there are always a handful of other teachers living and working close by

08

What if something goes wrong?

In the extremely rare case something goes wrong we will work with you to fix the situation immediately. There are not many things that can go wrong as we are fully confident that the schools we work with are some of the most reliable in China.

09

Can i bring my family?

It’s becoming increasingly popular for expats to move overseas with a family. If you have a spouse and / or children, it’s no problem. Schools can ensure you and your family are provided with the legal visa. Schools will need to know during the application process as they will need to determine if the housing they offer is of adequate size for you and your family.

10

What support is offered?

You will receive support from your school and from us 365 days a year (Yes-even Christmas & Chinese New Year). Your school will help you integrate into your new environment and will help you set up a local bank account, buy a local SIM card, help with any translation you need and make you feel right at home. We also help our teachers with anything they need. If ever our teachers need help with anything we will help them anytime of day. We provide direct telephone numbers of other expats that can help you with anything from over the phone translation or even just a quick chat about China in general and how you’re finding your experience.

11

Can i save money?

Teaching in China is becoming increasing popular with individuals that want to save, pay off debts or repay student loans. Whilst the salaries vary depending upon the size of the city and school type, you will find that your salary will go along way in terms of spending power. It’s not difficult to save at least half of your monthly salary each month while still shopping, dining out and taking short trips & excursions.

What's inside the accommodation?

The accommodation the school will offer will meet minimum guidelines as expressed by the SAFEA (State Administration of Foreign Expert Affairs) and they will all be fully furnished. This ensures you are provided with a western style toilet, hot water, shower, TV, DVD player, refrigerator, washing facilities, air conditioning and furniture. These are the minimum requirements and you’ll often find the schools provide much more.

12

Do i pay Chinese tax?

Many positions offer salaries after tax however all schools will inform you beforehand whether or not they need to be paid by you. If taxes do need to be paid, your school will inform you of how much the taxes are in your contract and deduct them automatically each month.

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14

Are their other teachers in the same school?

Every school we work with is different. We always work with at least 400 schools across China to ensure we have a position to match every need. All of the schools we work with have at least 1 other foreign teacher. In fact, some of the schools have more than 30 teachers working at the same school. You can let us know if you have any requirements regarding this.