Looking to fund your overseas adventure in Thailand? Teaching English is one of the most popular and readily available means to finance life abroad in the Land of Smiles. Assuming you are ready for this challenge, you may be wondering, “What are the requirements to teach in Thailand?“
If you haven’t done any research yet, it may (or, it may not) come as a surprise to learn that requirements to teach in Thailand vary greatly depending on where you look. Some sources list a dozen or so conditions, such as proof of taking a Thai culture course, having a teaching license, adequate score in an English proficiency test, and criminal history (yikes! hopefully a lack thereof), while others say you’ll do just fine with a résumé and a good looking picture. Well, which one is it!?
Based on my personal experience (individual school hiring criteria may vary) becoming a teacher in Chiang Mai in May 2013, there were four major requirements expected of me. Of course, Thailand being Thailand, these requirements seemed to be more like guidelines, and you’ll see why each of them is often bent a little. The bottom line is that these requirements are what I needed to land a teaching job.
Requirement #1: Bachelor’s Degree Diploma or Higher
A bachelor’s degree or higher is one of the most important requirements to teach in Thailand (or to work at all). Simply put, you must be able to provide evidence of a diploma. In my case, I provided a photograph of my diploma and also offered the official copy of my transcript I had brought with me from the States. My particular school was also ok if I had provided them with an unofficial transcript, but your experience may vary.
Bending the Rule
Although we don’t encourage this behavior, in the opinion of some schools the bachelor’s degree does not have to be the conventional four-year (or more) degree. It can be earned from an online university or it can be purchased through a company that sells diplomas for a few hundred dollars. The bottom line is that some schools only seem to want proof of a diploma, not proof of how you earned a diploma. Although it is up to the specific school or hiring agency to decide whether or not they will accept the online purchased diploma over a traditionally earned bachelor’s degree, we hear that it is unlawful to use a purchased diploma as proof of a bachelor’s degree in Thailand. I personally graduated from an accredited four-year university and would not feel comfortable cutting corners by utilizing a degree mill if that wasn’t the case.
Requirement #2: Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certification
A TEFL certification is not an actual legal requirement to teach in Thailand, but many schools treat it as a qualifier. Earning a TEFL prepares you for the major differences you may face teaching a Western language to Asian students as well as suggests ways to go about teaching around these differences. It also provides teaching fundamentals for those who have no prior experience, such as how to create lesson plans and how to get students more engaged in a lesson. I personally found it helpful because I had no prior teaching experience.
Bending the Rule
Since having a TEFL is not one of the requirements to teach in Thailand, employers will look for applicants with prior teaching experience, training, or an English degree. For example, if you have several years of experience teaching English in an Asian country or if you have a degree specifically in English (or even better, teaching English as a foreign language), your agency or school may overlook that fact that you don’t have a TEFL certification.
Keep in mind that although a TEFL is not legally one of the requirements to teach in Thailand, it may land you a more desirable teaching position or tip the scales in your favor should your application or résumé be competing with a few others.
Requirement #3: Non-Immigrant Business “B” Visa
Among the requirements to teach in Thailand is possessing a Non Immigrant Business “B” Visa (or B Visa for short). It’s possible to obtain a B Visa before arriving in Thailand if you are sponsored by a hiring agency or school prior to going to Thailand, but most likely you will be going to Thailand on a tourist visa and later switching to a B Visa. Unfortunately, a tourist visa specifically says, “Employment prohibited.”
Bending the Rule
Who knows – maybe your employer will scoop you right up while you are still on a tourist visa, ask you to start teaching the following Monday, and shrug their shoulders and tell you to do a visa run in the near future. Or maybe you’re taking classes at the university on a Non Immigrant Education “ED” Visa, but you are teaching through a work co-op. The point is, you may be working even if you are not on a B Visa. It happens, but lawfully you need a B visa and a Work Permit to teach, sorted by your prospective employer prior to starting your teaching position.
Requirement #4: A Good Picture and a Good Attitude
An attractive picture goes a long way in Thailand. Unfortunately, this also means that some people are denied a teaching position simply because of the way they look. Workforce discrimination is commonplace in Thailand, and it is not uncommon for a school to discriminate against you based on age, race, or sex. Or the fact you weren’t wearing a collared shirt in the picture you submitted with your résumé.
The best thing to do is to look sharp in your picture. Have well-groomed hair, a pressed shirt (a tie if you are male), and of course, a smile. Thailand is also well-known for its mai bpen rai outlook, so if you’re non-confrontational and have a good-humored, go-with-the-flow type of demeanor, you will go far.
Bending the Rule
On a good note, sometimes the people responsible for hiring teachers look past the surface and understand that experience and enthusiasm are more important than a young, white face. On the downside, people with alcohol or drug problems, lackadaisical attitude towards teaching, or flat out aggression still manage to secure teaching positions because they look good in the résumé photo.
Can You Meet these Requirements to Teach in Thailand?
Based on my experience becoming a teacher, the requirements to teach in Thailand may not be as far-fetched or as extensive as some websites may make it to be. In my experience, I was hired by an agency by legitimately meeting the above four requirements to teach in Thailand. However, the best thing to do is contact a school or agency directly and ask for their policy.
It’s well worth your time, seeing as “rules” vary between schools and districts, and in particular, because some of the requirements to teach in Thailand are rather pricey and time-consuming. It’s the best way that you can prepare yourself before making the long flight to Thailand.
Fellow teachers, what has your experience been with the requirements to teach in Thailand? Are there any suggestions you’ve found to be useful? Here are some great questions and answers we’ve found on the topic.
Disclaimer: This information is based on what we’ve witnessed and/or heard from other teachers since living in Thailand. Individuals should conduct their own thorough research into the Ministry of Education’s official requirements to teach in Thailand prior to applying for a position!
Sorry Chris and Angela. I wanted to say my husband is going to do tefl not ielts. Thank you. Cathrine
Hi Chris and Angela. My husband is black zimbabwean with a zimbabwean passport. He holds a teaching diploma from Zimbabwe and an advanced certificate in English from the University of South Africa. He is currently waiting to start his ielts online course. Is it possible for him to obtain a teaching job in Thailand after acquiring the ielts?
Cath
I have a quick question. If I am taking a B.ed degree in TESOL in Bangkok.
Can I apply for a teaching position while I am doing the course.
I have a TEFL 120 ADVANCED as Well as an IELTS trainer.
Do they accept that and able to get a job teaching?
Some schools will accept this yes. You just need to find that school.
Dear Chris and Angela, I visited Thailand for the first time in 2017 and your site gave a lot of insight to help with my trip. I hold an Accounting Technicians qualification (AAT equivalent to a foundations degree) and was wondering coupled with a TEFL or CELTA certificate, if I would be eligible for teaching in Thailand. I dont want to bend the rules or source a job illegally, but equally I dont want to spend 3yrs studying towards a degree.
Will companies sponsor a non-immigrant B visa if you take on a part time role? Having taught English full time in Korea I know that it can be pretty exhausting. I enjoy teaching however, so I am hoping to save up a considerable amount of money in the US to enable my wife and I to only work part time. Will part time employers help you get a visa? Do you have any recommendations for such employers. Additionally, I have a b.s. in Electrical Engineering and 8+ years of industry experience including working on self driving cars. So, I would prefer to teach math. Are there schools hiring English speaking math teachers that do not require a masters?
I have one question. I recently looked at a TEFL site to apply for and the one I found said I did not need a bachelors degree, or really any degree at all. Would it be extremely difficult if I went through with the program to find a job afterwards?
TEFL sites often advertise to potential enrollees that they don’t need to have a degree to take the TEFL course – this is a way they can boost their enrollment numbers or cater to people who will be working in countries that don’t require that teachers have a degree. However, in the fine print, the TEFL company will often only guarantee job placement for TEFL graduates who have a university degree – because Thailand’s countrywide law requires that you have a degree. It will still be difficult to find a job, or at the very least, you will be under qualified and therefore may only be offered sub-par teaching positions.
Hi!
Question: I am Spanish, and I have been offered a librarian job at an international school. They tell me that I would need a TOEFL Certificate. Is that true? As a librarian? Or there are exceptions if you are a “specialist”?
Thanks!
We do not know the answer to this. However, if you are going to speak English with the children as a librarian, it makes sense that the school wants to make sure you have a certain skill level. Luckily, it is easy to get a TOEFL Certificate online for less than 100 USD. Good luck being a librarian! It is definitely worth getting the TOEFL because you will make a lot of money at an international school
How much schooling do the actually Thai people have to have to become teachers there ? Is it different for what age level they are teaching ? Just curious ?
We don’t know, although we’re assuming some sort of higher level degree or certification. :/ Good question.
I’d like to clarify a few things for your readers, if I may.
1. Schools in Thailand have very little to do with your paperwork. They only collect, screen and submit it. The relevant government bodies (The Ministry of Education, The Teacher’s Council of Thailand, The Immigration Department, The Ministry of Labor) will decide whether your documents are acceptable or not. Not the schools. The rules are bent (maybe even often) but not by the schools, as they have no say in it. If the Ministry of Education says your degree is not enough, that’s it, end of discussion. That’s when bending comes into the equation. Schools may have umm … “special deals” with certain contacts in the government, and can push things in the desired direction. But make no mistake, the Ministries decide to bend the rules, not the schools.
2. There is no such thing as a “B visa run”. It’s a visa run, and it’s definitely not a non-B type.
3. A question for you, Angela and Chris. Do you know for a fact that IELTS is accepted by the Government, for English teachers? There’s not a lot on the net about that and I was wondering if you had the information from reliable sources. I know someone who was scheduled for TOEIC in September, and since time is of essence (she can’t wait for 2 months) she is looking into alternative solutions.
Thanks for commenting!
1) You’re right about the “special deal” trick schools have with the Ministry of Education, so the school can tell you yay or nay for your paperwork.
2) You go on a visa run, yes. B if it’s for a Non Immigrant Business “B” Visa then we think it’s safe to say you’re going on a B Visa run :)
3) If you are a non-native English speaker (NNES), you need a TOEIC score of 600+ or IELTS score of 5+
Hi. Great blog! I am an American who lived in Thailand for 18 months doing volunteer work about 30 years ago. I speak Thai fluently and read and write S-L-O-W-L-Y :) I taught English while was there, as well. Mostly at private companies, ie banks, airlines, etc. I taught in the conference rooms of the companies for free. I went to college for 2 years and dropped out and have spent my working life as a business owner. I am considering retiring in Chiang Mai. Question…what are my chances of teaching English there? I, like you and your wife, can’t be “on vacation” all the time. I would get bored silly. I would love to teach again. What are your thoughts?
That’s awesome to hear that you can speak Thai fluently. That is such an advantage if you want to teach English. If you retire in Chiang Mai, you will be eligible for a Retirement Visa (50 years old or more) and then you can teach “informally” in your spare time. Unfortunately, without a college degree, you aren’t eligible for a Business Visa, but you CAN still teach and earn money under the table. At the right school (and maybe with a little help from a visa law firm) you can get a Work Permit and legally teach.
Our vacation lasted about 2 months and then we got stir crazy! Nowadays, we are always doing things to keep us busy. Teaching definitely does that! Don’t worry – you don’t have to teach full time if you don’t want to. You could also volunteer or just work part-time at a language center. We’re excited for you and your possible retirement in Chiang Mia. It really is a great town!
Yes, a Retirement Visa is available from 50 y.o. but it specifically states that working – including voluntary work – is NOT allowed. So your teaching “informally” and therefore without a work permit, while it might go under the radar for a while, has the potential to get you in BIG trouble.
As for Chiang Mai – be aware of the SEVERE air pollution problems; a recent report here in Thailand said that CM had the worst air pollution in the world.
Chiang Mai has had HORRIBLE smog problems Feb/March/April 2019.
There is a loophole in the system – you can apply for a work permit while you are on a Retirement Visa *Extension*.
Great post. 25 years ago you could get a CPA by going to night school and just satisfying the electives to write the national exam without a bachelors. Will this be a barrier? Also is it best to bring the criminal record check copies with you in case your asked? Finally what agency did you use as there are a lot of varying pricing outside of Thailand that seem to think they can help the process at a high price and working direct seems easier?
Thailand’s national requirement is a bachelors degree, so a CPA doesn’t technically work unless you give it to a school and they think it’s your degree. Yes, we recommend bringing a criminal record with you. I went through the agency from which I earned my TEFL. We recommend SEE TEFL because it helps graduates from their TEFL program find jobs. Good luck!
H! I am Jether from Philippines. I recently acquired my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I just want to ask if it possible for me to become an english teacher in Thailand. Right now, I don’t have a visa nor a passport. What can you advise for me to do? Thanks!
You meet the *main* requirement because you have a bachelors degree. However, since you aren’t from a native English speaking country, you will need to hae a TOEIC score of 600+ or an IELTS score of 5+. We advise that you come over on a tourist visa to look for a job, which is good for 60 days. Once you get a job and sign the paperwork, you can apply for a Non Immigrant B. But of course, apply for a passport first!
Hi Chris and Angela! Hope you are both well. Great article by the way. I have a couple questions and desperately need some clarification, I hope you can help. I have a Zimbabwean passport, I’m 25 years old, white and male. I have a BA in Communication Science and I’m TEFL certified through an accredited body (TQUK).
Will I be able to legally teach English in Thailand?
I have minimal experience in English teaching, but I have 2 year’s experience in private music teaching to students of all ages (mainly kids though).
Realistically, what are my chances. I have a neutral accent and exceptional English skills (it is my native language after all, in fact, it’s my only language haha!
Thanks for your time!
You will be legally able to teach, Tim, because you meet the minimum requirements – you have a degree and a TEFL and you’re a native English speaker. You might have a slightly lower chance of getting hired because you have a Zimbabwean passport (and not UK, Canada, Australia, or USA) but as a young white male with teaching experience, your chances are high.
Hello, Angela and Chris,
I found your blog to be quite insightful. I’m currently teaching in Spain and will spend the summer in Bali. I’ll complete my CELTA certification in Bali and will begin looking for jobs in Bangkok there. I traveled to Bangkok multiple times to renew my Vietnamese visa and get clothing in my size.
Is it necessary to return to my home country to start the work visa process for Thailand? I’m really hoping I’ll be able to go to the Thai embassy in Bali and get “the ball rolling.” I just started researching this, so hopefully I’ll find an answer soon.
Thank you!
You don’t have to return to your home country to apply for a Non Immigrant B ‘Teaching’ Visa. Just remember 1) you’ll have to first accept a job to get a B Visa 2) go to Bangkok to get the supporting visa documents or have your future employer mail them to you wherever you are in the world 3) apply for the B Visa at the Thai Consulate in Denpasar (or another location nearest to you). Good luck!
Hello Chris and Angela, I am working in Dole Philippines under Human resource Department, I took my Bachelors degree recently which is related Financial Management. I can speak English fluently where i used to do the orientation for the incoming employees of company prior to the deployment in their job. Do I qualify to apply as an English Teacher in Thailand?
Yes, there are definitely schools that will hire non-native English speaking applicants if their English speaking abilities are a high enough level.
Chris and Angela what are reliable agencies or website you may suggest where I can apply? I mean is paying a right amount according to the level and capacity of teaching of every Filipino
I was wondering, as a gay man, would you suggest trying to teach in Thailand?
Yes. Thai people are very open and accepting of gay men and women.
Hi Angela and Chris,
Thank you for your post and answering all these questions.
I am a Hungarian citizen and I possess a master degree in soil science from Edinburgh Uni (MSc soils science). I have taught English in China at a summer camp and I have been doing one-on-one sessions online mainly with adults in the past 6 six months. I enjoy teaching and all the interaction that comes with it however, I wonder if all the above mentioned experience/certificate is enough to qualify as an English teacher in Thailand.
Yes, good luck!
Hi, i graduated 4 years university finance department in my country but i want to move Thailand with my family, i am also married from Thailand, i dont have ielts or tesol… can i work as an English teacher in Thailand? if i can, what would i earn about salary per month?
Yes, with a non-teaching degree (without a TESOL or teaching experience) you qualify for a job at a government school, private school, or language center. The salary will vary a lot depending on your nationality and what city you choose to teach in. As a very rough example, you could make 15k baht per month in the countryside if you are Malaysian or 50k baht per month if you are Australian working in Bangkok.
Hello Chris and Angela,
Great blog!
What if English is my 2nd language? However, I have BS degree in engineering from US universities and I also have worked in US company for quite sometime. I speak/read/write/interact in English at work and outside of work 24 hrs a day. I am also a native Thai speaker. Would I be qualified?
Thanks!
Yes, but some schools may want to see a passing TOEFL score to show your proficiency in English. Be forewarned: If you are native Thai speaker (we’re assuming you’re Thai?) then you may be offered a much lower salary (what a Thai person would earn) rather than the higher pay of a Westerner. Not all schools will do this but some will. Good luck!
Hi Chris and Angela. I last worked in Thailand from 1997 to 2000. I worked using my Cert. TEFL qualification, despite not having a University degree. I survived on non-imm B visas throughout my time, employed by ECC (Thailand). I even spent one academic year at a Government primary school.
Today, I have a Cambridge DELTA (post-graduate qualification – Master’s equivalent) (obtained in 2001). I have held Director of Studies and Academic Director posts for the last five years in the UK, successfully steering schools through British Council and ABLS accreditation inspections.
In addition, since 2012, I have worked for UK state and private secondary schools teaching English at Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 to GCSE level. I continue in this role, with summer school English management and teaching for six weeks in July and August each year.
Despite this experience, I fear that my ability to secure a teaching role in Thailand is limited. What do you think are my chances of success?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sounds like you’re more than qualified to teach at any well-paying school of your choice in Thailand. Why are you so unsure despite your experience?
Hello I am from Ghana an African country and a teacher i wish to travel to Thailand to teach,I have a 3 year teacher training college certificate,Diploma in teaching, and a bachler degree in teaching do I qualify? If yes what should I do to come there with necessary Documents.
Yes, you definitely qualify. Each school is a bit different in the qualification ‘proof’, so we would err on the safe side and bring several copies of official transcripts to hand out as necessary.
Hi, I do not have a bachelor’s degree but I have a Level 7 Diploma in TESOL from London Teacher Training College, which is equivalent to a Masters Degree according to the U.K. Is this sufficient or would I need a degree still?
Some schools may look at your certification a bit funny but you are well beyond qualified and there are schools that will hire you. You may have to ask around a bit but you definitely qualifiy.
I don’t have a four-years degree but a three-years degree in IT. Is that a problem? Besides, do I need a good score in IELTS? Which IELTS exam should I take – academic or general training ? Thanks
If you can produce a ‘certificate of a degree’ to your work or hiring agency, then there shouldn’t be a problem. The official Thai government sites (that we know of) do not mention a specific length (number of years). We do not know which IELTS exam you need to take or the minimum score (6? 7?) without Googling it ourselves. That’s one area we haven’t researched yet.
Hello. I am a Mathematics Teacher all the way from the Philippines. Am i qualified to teach in Thailand though I”m not an English Teacher?
Yes, there are some schools that require math teachers who speak English. The positions are fewer but it is possible.
This is not strictly true. There are private schools that can hire, with work permit, without the undergraduate degree, who are then in turn contracted to provide teachers at government schools. This is a common practice, though not the majority of jobs. It is aboveboard, however.
Could you give us a few names of schools that hire without a degree? Many of our readers (us included) would be very interested to know!
Hello, I have to respectfully disagree. Teaching a subject in one’s native language is very different than teaching English as a foreign language. I taught at a Tier 1 research university for 7 years in the US, and found a TEFL course quite necessary. Because one generally teaches English IN English, to those who don’t know English, a different approach is needed.
If students have problems understanding the subject matter, then one can provide additional explanation, however when teaching English, that generally makes things worse by overloading the language abilities of the learner (unless you are teaching advanced topics such as IELTS/TOEIC).
Secondly, there are big cultural differences in the classroom in Thailand vs. the US. Expectations are very different, taboos are different, these all need to be learned, and it is way better to learn them in a TEFL course, that includes observed teaching practice, so that helpful feedback can be provided.
Thirdly, unless one is going to exclusively teach adults, there is a great difference in teaching children of different ages, than teaching adults.
And finally, English as a subject matter needs to be structured, and cannot be extracted wholesale from a native speaker. Brushing up on grammar terminology as well as methods for how to design lessons around explicit grammar is again, something that needs to be learned explicitly.
Thanks for sharing this – yes, a TEFL makes you aware of major cultural differences, identifies the hurdles specific to non-native English speakers, as well as focuses on grammar rules instead of “oh, it just ‘sounds better’ this way” without an explanation. Great points. If you are teaching at an international school with may students who grew up speaking English, that’s an example where you can get away without a TEFL. But teaching at public and private schools, a TEFL definitely comes in handy.
Question: I’m an American who has a BS in chemical engineering and some teaching experience in Taiwan. i would like to quit the corporate world and teach English in Thailand. However, I do have a DUI on my record. Will this prevent me from obtaining a visa or finding employment?
Sorry, we don’t know the answer to this one! We don’t know if Thailand is only concerned with felons and sexual predators or if they also are against non-violent crime offenders. We don’t know if it’s up to each school to determine if your offense is worth ignoring or not (similar to how some schools accept a 3 year degree and – instead of a 4 year degree – while others may not) or if it is up to the decision of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate-General to which you apply. I know several teachers who never submitted a police report during their visa application (myself included) and there were no problems with getting hired and getting a visa. Thailand has rules in place but varying consistency in following them – we wish we could give you a straight answer but it’s hard to because Thailand upholds its own rules only some of the times.
Chris and Angela,
Thank you for the feedback. Another question! You mentioned that I might be able to work at an international school or university? Where would I go to find available jobs for working at an international school or university?
Browse Google for and Facebook for teaching listings. We like to recommend ajarn.com.
hi chris n angela…i am from pakistan and i have masters in english literature i dont have any celta certificate may i apply as an english teacher in thailand???plzzzzzzzz help me
Yes, but certain schools (the better ones) may want you to have CELTA if you have no prior teaching experience. Also, they may want to see your proficiency in English, so you should look into taking the IELTS.
Chris and Angela,
I am retired Air Force and Marines (25 years) and have a Bachelors of Science Degree in Occupational Education from an accredited university in the US. I have taught Health Science Courses (medical terminology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, etc.) for 23 years. I’m considering retiring from teaching in Texas and possibly teach abroad. I would have no problem teaching English. I am, white, 59 (do they discriminate by age)? I am not TEFL certified. Do I have the credentials to teach English in Thailand? If not, what do you suggest I do to be able to teach in Thailand?
Chuck
You definitely have the credentials – no need to go after a TEFL if you’ve had 23 years experience teaching already. We think for your situation (being older and more experienced), an international school or university would be value your skills over your age. Good luck!
Hi Chris and Angela! Just a quick question. I just moved to Chiang Mai and was offered a job at a public school. I am currently finishing my last course of my four-year degree online and will not have my degree until December. I do, however, have copy of my university transcripts and my high school diploma.
The school that hired me would like me to get the Non-Immigrant B Visa. Would I be able to get this with my university transcripts and high school diploma alone?
We know you need a degree to apply for a Non Immigrant B Visa and the subsequent extensions, but it’s really up to your school to vouch for your degree. In other words, they are required to write a letter saying you have a degree, which is part of the application documents required at a Thai Embassy or Consulate; you do not have to submit the degree itself. Therefor, it’s up to your school to decide if your 95% completed degree is worthy. This is kind of in the grey area!
Hi Chris and Angela! Just a quicky, i live in England with my hubby and our daughter.im originally from Finland so English is my second language.How much this really matters when looking for a job as a teacher in Thailand?
Second questions is considering my partner. He is black African with Finnish passport as well, native in English language with masters degree in English and mechanical design engineering.will his race and skin color be a huge no factor to get a job as a teacher?
Thank you for your reply.Love your blog x
If English is your second language, you may be asked to complete a IELTS (International English Language Testing System) to show how well you master the language before getting hired. In regards to your partner, he can expect to face discrimination, but not with every school. If he is turned down for a position, he needs to stay confident and apply at another school. Unfortunately, most Thais see dark skin as bad and white skin as good, but there are Westernize schools who hire teachers based on ability and not skin color. We wish you luck!
Hi there, I am looking to change career to teach children preschool or pre-k. I have been working here in Thailand for 8 years and have a good paying job but I feel I am called to teach children. I like being around them and interacting with them. I feel I have more meaning when I help these kids learn. I understand what a big influence teachers have in these early years of a child. I understand pay is low however, I would like to have some experience and get at least 18 units of education.
Do you know a center that could provide those educ units or teaching certification in BKK and teaching experience? My plan is to move to USA in June next year to pursue a teaching job there. My best friend who is a teacher there informed me that schools require at least 18 units of education. I am from Philippines but if I could get the training in BKK I prefer to remain here instead of go home.
Thank you very much for your advice.
We’re not the best people to ask because we aren’t familiar with teaching requirements in the USA. We don’t know how important it is to earn the 18 credit hours of educational classes from just anywhere or if American schools want to see that you’ve earned those units in the USA. Sorry, we don’t know!
its LLB (Hons), LLM and MA.
Having an MA is what’s important. You’ll get the job!
Hi guys,
Thank you for the infos. I have a law degree (3 years) and 2 masters in English University. Would it still be possible to teach despite the fact that my degree is 3 years course instead of 4?
Is it a BA or BS?
Hello Chris and Angela I am RJ 22 years old from the Philippines I went to college but due to my personal constraints I didn’t manage to finish the course but despite of it I earned a three year teaching experience as a Bible teacher at Jesus Is Lord Church worldwide Ministries,I will be going to Phuket this coming October to take TEFL course, undergo TOEIC examination and find a teaching job afterwards . My questions are:
1. will it be possible for me to be hired as an English teacher tho I am not a degree holder?
2. Will my three year teaching experience be considered if I apply for a job there?
I know these questions seems so irrelevant but I am still hoping for your answer THANK YOU
1) Not legally. You may be able to find a paying job (as in, you’ll have cash in your pocket) but you will not be eligible to receive a Non Immigrant B Visa or a Work Permit. Because Thai laws.
2) It’s good you have three years teaching experience – and that will definitely help you find a job – but again, the company who (illegally) hires you, will not be able to sponsor you visa and work permit. It’s possible to teach for a short time this route is not sustainable for the long term.
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.
Please I hold Bachelor of Science Degree in Construction Technology Education (English taught course), Do I have any chance of getting teaching appointment in either public or private school in Thailand? I’m asking this based on fact that, it appears English teaching is the only critical job opportunity. My subject area is either Building Construction or Technical Drawing/Building Drawing
There’s a very high demand for English teachers and the opportunity to teach other subjects is few and far between. However, we suggest looking at either private (high) schools or universities to see if they offer a specialized program in building construction/drawing. Good luck!
Hello, I have a masters degree, but no bachelors degree, will this be okay? I hope so.
We would assume so since it is an advance degree and that with most schools (maybe not all) will accept it.
I have no college degree, but am interested in living abroad in places like Thailand and since i’m good with English maybe i can use my english to teach to schools
do you think i can bend the rules like what you wrote on the blog and secure a job so i can live in Thailand?
my main purpose to live in Thailand with help of Savings maybe 10,000 US Dollars and secure job to live there and also marry a thai woman who’s willing to marry foreigner
Any Advise u can give?
People bend the rule (working without a real degree) all of the time but we do not advocate it. It’s just up to the school. You are one of many men who want to marry a Thai woman in order to have a reason to stay in Thailand. Yes, that is absolutely possible.
Hi Chris and Angela I’m a healthy and well qualified English teacher, but over the age limits. Are there ways around ageism in Thailand?
Dress sharply and have a clean shaven face (a beard is a nono anyways but it has a tendency to make men look older). International schools are much more open to hiring qualified teachers with less emphasis on age, skin color, sex, etc. Start with them first. Don’t bother with public schools at all. Some private schools may be good.
Hello Chris & Angela, I am planning to go to Thailand by the end of August.
I am a licensed teacher here in the Philippines with experience, BS Secondary Education major in Biological Sciences.
Recently, I have just acquired my TESOL Certificate.
I have already read your previous reply about Thai’s favor in European-native speakers.
Questions are:
1. How low would the pay be, compared to native speakers? Like how much do they pay Filipino’s?
Just to see the picture. :)
2. Will my TESOL Certificate help me? or should it be TEFL?
3. Does the requirements needed, need to be authenticated here in the Philippines (red ribbon)?
4. I prefer tutorial one-on-one class, rather than being in a classroom setting with lots of student.
Which is a better option and better salary?
Thank you very much! :)
1. There is a poor relationship between Thailand and the Philippines – Filipino teachers get paid what Thai teachers are paid even if they are fluent in English. So, 15,000 to 20,000 baht per month
2. TESOL/TEFL/CELTA – generally doesn’t matter but a specific school may prefer one or the other
3. Not that we’re aware of
4. The better salary is one-on-one based on the hourly wage AND because it will be less frustrating, but you would have to freelance (and not be eligible for a visa). On the chance that you find a school/language center that will put you on as a private tutor, they will pocket most of the hourly wage from the paying customer.
Hi guys, good read! Just a quick question, I’m looking to go teach English in Thailand (like most here). Got my TEFL, BA in Publishing degree and general plan/timeline for heading over in September… One thing I’ve just noticed though is it seems to be 4 Year degree course required (which would be a BA Hons in my case). Is my BA going to be okay? Or will that be a problem? Just to clarify, my BA is a 3 year degree, although with resits it did take me 4 years to complete…
Yes. Employers and Thailand’s Minitry of Labor want to see that you have completed college/higher education. In fact, the requirement seems quite vague on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: “Evidence of educational qualification such as diplomas or teaching certificates.” – Section 2.4
Hi Guys,
Thanks for an amazing blog! Been incredibly informative and helpful in planning an escape to Asia from the hustle bustle of the corporate world. I meet all the requirements above, but planning on doing my TEFL together with some practical once arriving in Thailand- What is your take on that compared to an online alternative before arriving? Lastly, you make mention of agencies you used for placements- any names in particular that you can recall perhaps?
Thanks again! Look forward to your response :)
Marc
I absolutely recommend taking a TEFL course in the Thai city you want to teach in. Don’t bother with the online classes and I don’t recommend taking a TEFL course ‘vacation’ in the southern beaches of Thailand and then trying to get a job in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Most TEFL companies help with job placement, but it’s a lot easier when their connections are within arms reach rather than on the other side of the country. For agencies, go here.
thank you very much!!!
Hi Chris and Angela. Your website is so helpful to us. Do you have any idea how many years a foreign teacher can work in Thailand? i heard that there are some rules about foreign teachers in Thailand. In my case, I have been teaching in my school for 3 years now, and this school year will be my 4th. I am not a graduate of Education. If i want to stay in the same school, what should i do next to extend my stay here? thank you very much!
Legally you are allowed four years (2 years, twice) on a temporary/provisional teaching license before securing the real teaching license. Check out this post – they suggest a few alternatives, such as teaching at a foreign language center or going through a hiring agency to bypass the TCT teacher license. They also give situations for people like you who may not have a degree in education but with a few extra tests/courses you can be eligible to get a teacher license. It’s a good read and should set you in the right direction.
Hello guys I just discovered you blog since I am right now looking for a teaching job in Chiang Mai. I am a certified English Teacher though, with no CELTA degree or anything like that. I have a bachelor’s degree in Education and Teaching English as a Second Language. I think I meet all the requirements except that I am not a native speaker and I have long hair :P
I’m confident about my English and my skills but what do you think about the long hair? hahaha. Is it a silly question? Thanks for your time in advance, and best wishes guys!
Man, this is a toughy. It really depends on the school. Some school directors are more open to ‘unconventional’ looks, such as beards and long hair on men, and may ask that you have it securely fastened during the day. Have an answer ready if they ask you if you are willing to cut your hair short. :/
Hi Chris & Angela,
I am moving to Thailand in September and the plan, like most people, is to teach English.
I am Irish so English is my first language and by September I will have completed my TEFL course.
My one and only concern is my lack of a Bachelor’s degree.. In saying that, I do possess a Foundation Degree (2 year higher education degree) and I am 2 years into my BSc. From your experience and knowledge, Will my Foundation Degree certificate be enough to get me a teaching licence and a job in a school?
I appreciate any help or advice you might have.
Many Thanks
Thomas
Hi Tom. Legally speaking, Thailand’s work laws require that all employed foreigners have a undergraduate’s degree. Is it possible to teach without a degree? Yes, many people teach ‘illegally’, particularly at schools who are desperate for teachers. You may be able to find a job and earn a paycheck, but unless your hiring company/school forges documents (falsifying that you have a 4 year degree), then you will not have the correct credentials to receive a Non Immigrant B Visa, a Work Permit, or a Teacher’s License.
Hi, I meet all of these requirements but I have a shaved head. I’m white and American so that’s good. Any idea if schools will discriminate because of this? Also… is it likely at all that I could be hired during the school break around october or november at a state run highschool? Thanks
I’ve worked with men with shaved heads – it’s totally acceptable! Be sure to wear a collared shirt (tie to an interview for sure) and have a clean shaven face. Yes, applying in October during the semester break is a great time to look for jobs since many teachers ‘go on vacation’ and never return. You have a good chance of filling a vacancy. Good luck!
Hi Chris and Angela,
I’m traveling to Chiang Mai end of May to complete a CELTA course that ends June 24. What are the chances that a regular Thai school will hire me in the middle of the semester? My goal is to teach children ages 6-11.
Thanks!
Hannah
Public and private Thai schools typically begin school in mid to end of May. Although the chance is less than if you were to apply right now, a few schools may be looking for replacements or trying to fill ‘no shows’. Language centers hire year-round (if you are willing to work in afternoons and weekends to not overlap with traditional school hours).
hi Chris and Anj, I’m a graduate of Secondary Education major in Music, Arts, Physical Education Health (MAPEH Major here in the Philippines) but can speak english fluently, am i qualified to be one of the teachers?
You’re qualified but many of Thailand’s schools (and the Thai parents who send their kids there) want European English-speaking teachers because of their physical features. Oftentimes Filipinos who have been be offered positions are paid at a lower pay rate than their European colleagues. Your best bet it be hired by a school who has adopted less discriminating hiring standards – international schools are a great place to start. We’re sorry to be the bearer of bad news but that’s how it is here :/ Good luck!
Hi Chris,
I am from Pakistan and I speak English with an American accent. I had applied for Celta course in Chiang Mai and passed the interview. I was wondering, would I be able to pass the course successfully since I’m a non-native.Also, I speak English in American accent not the British,so would that be a problem?
If you are fluent in reading and writing and understand English grammar than you should have no problem passing the course. Non-native English speakers sometimes have a more difficult time finding a job because some schools only want native speakers. However, some schools will be happy to hear your American accent and hire you. Good luck!
Thank you for the reply. Now I know the period to travel. So can I apply for schools here while still in Cameroon? If yes please can you assist me. I already have my passport. Can you place me in contact with some schools.
You can apply while you are still in Cameroon, but we think it’s best to come to Thailand and meet your future boss in person and see the school before signing a contract. We can offer our services in helping you contact some schools. Please send an email to us and we will provide you with our rates.
Hello Chris and Angela. I’m a Cameroonian but with an excellent English accent. Can I have a job in Thailand? I plant to travel by last week of March. Is that a good period for me to get a teaching job? I have a bachelor’s degree.
March and April are when public and private school have their “summer” break, so it is a bad time to look for schools. Apply in late April and beginning of May because the school year starts in mid May. You are certainly qualified. You can also apply to language schools and, if you’ve had prior teaching experience or you have a degree in teaching, you are eligible to teach in an international school. Racism exists here, but some schools are changing their ways and you will find work with them.
Dear Chris and Angela
About the CELTA and TEFL, I have no limitation in budget or time, please guide me how long each of them would take? and what certification will you suggest? though I prefer to teach adults. :)
I appreciate your concern and assistance
Both can take between 4 to 6 weeks if you go full time. CELTA stands for “Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults” so you may want to do that. We like to recommend SEE TEFL for a general TEFL, which is also completely applicable to teaching adults.
Hi, thank you for your great website
I have a few questions, I am a 33 year old Iranian English teacher and I try to attend in a TEFL or CELTA courses in Thailand so I can peruse in a career in teaching afterwards. but as far as I read through the job vacancies, Many schools or teaching posts require native-English speakers, and I wonder if I have a chance of landing a teaching job there. I studied Bachelor and Master of arts in art studies in Iran . I have 3 years of experience in English teaching in 2 different institution in Iran. my first question is which certificate or diploma( TEFL or CELTA) and what insitutions would you suggest based on my condition?
and Will Thai grant a working visa to a non-native teacher such as me?
Generally speaking, non-native English teachers do have a more difficult time finding a job simply because of the bias of the Thai hiring system. However, we have a friend who is an Iranian teacher and her English is excellent and she works at a university in Thailand. We suggest with your past teaching experience to look at universities, language institutions (perhaps ones that focus on adult business learners), and international schools. Getting either a TEFL or CELTA will be based on how much time and money you have to earn the certification and whether you want to teach adults or not. Yes, if you are working at a legitimate and professional school, they will give you the proper supporting paperwork for a Non Immigrant B Visa and a work permit no matter your race.
Always afraid of getting LOST …lol :)
Thanks a lot for your assistance..ur site is a great help..It’ll be my first time to work abroad so I’m quit nervous. I’m planning to visit Thailand around April, when do you think will be the best place for me to start? I’m thinking maybe Bangkok but ur suggestion will be a great help specially I’m travelling alone. Hope to meet you in the future :) :)
Bangkok is huge and offers many different types of neighborhoods. It’s relatively convenient regarding public transportation (at least the above and below ground metro – BTS and MRT) and often people speak English. However, it can be a bit pushy and simply overwhelming if you don’t like city life. There are other major towns in Thailand – Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Khon Kaen, and Udon Thani that offer a good selection of familiar Western food and products, as well as varying degrees of English for foreigners. Start searching about each of these cities depending on your lifestyle to see where’s the best place for you to start.
Hi Chris and Angela, I’m planning to try my luck in Thailand this coming April but I just want to get few suggestions, is it better to get a job before hand(apply online) or is it better to apply in person? Anyone knows if Echo English is a Legit agency? Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you.
We think its’s better applying in person and seeing what the facilities are like and meeting people rather than trying to secure something before coming here. Plus, it gives you time to get to know whatever town you are living in before making the mad dash off to work. Come over on a tourist visa and then once you have a job offer, get the proper paper work and apply for a business visa. Sorry, we haven’t heard of Echo English before!
hi . Im joven Pamintuan. 21 years old . Im a certified board passer and my course is bachelor of secondary in education major in english . I am a call canter agent here in the philippines now and I dont have teaching experience. Im planning to go in thailand in february. Do you think I qualify to teach ? Thank you.
Hi Jovin. There are schools out there who are need teachers, and as long as you meet the basic requirements, will happily hire you. You are eligible to teach with your bachelor’s degree, but we would highly recommend earning a TEFL before teaching because you do not have past experience and it helps with teaching concepts and developing lesson plans and getting children engaged. February is near the end of the typical school year, but keep in mind that language schools hire year round.
This is a great article, very inspiring I must say. I was thinking of teaching in Asian countries for a while now, but you mentioned that one of the requirements is 4 year degree, well I have Bachelors degree from UK which is only 3 year degree, do you think they would accept that?
And I was also looking up the TEFL courses and there seem to be quiet a few different ones.
Would I be ok just to do the basic one?
Any advice will be very much appreciated.
Glad you found this helpful! You have a bachelor’s degree, so that’s acceptable and meets the basic requirement to teach English in Thailand. There are many TEFLs to choose from, but we personally recommend SEETEFL. You can go for the basics, but if you would like to be best prepared, SEETEFL does just that. Check out our other post, too: Do I Really Need a TEFL? Hope this helps!
Good picture and good attitude are definitely the most important for any occupation. I have often met teachers working with tourist visas and this is normal until the employer provides documents to obtain the business visa and then a work permit. However it can be simpler and cheaper to bend the rules as pointed out and teach without the formal requirements. I am interested to see any changes and possible reduction in English teachers now visas and visa runs are scrutinized according to recent report on Thai forums. Do you think this might change current practices? I hope not because schools will then be more desperate for teachers than they currently are already, particularly in rural areas.
With the tightening security behind repeated 30-day exempt stamps and/or tourist visas, there very well could be dip in English teachers. Let’s hope that schools rebuttal with more efficient paperwork for the proper non-immigrant B visa and work permit.
It’s kind of tricky then on the part of Filipinos to distinguish Thai from Pinoy, and if that’s the case, it’s going to be very tiring to explain every time Thais thought I was Thai, but it’s still fun somehow. :) :) :)
Thanks, baja2bangkok. We’ve worked with a guy before who’s half Japanese half Filipino and had the same issue. The phrase “Pom mai bpen kon Thai” means “I am not Thai” and is good to learn for sanity sake!
Thank you Chris and Angela!
I asked which specifically part of Thailand is the best for Filipinos (or non-native English speakers in general) because I don’t want to compete with Native-English speaking applicants. Hehehehe :) :) :)
Kidding aside, I’ll plan carefully for this job hunting plan of mine in the Land of Smiles. Hope to you see two there someday :) Thanks.
Good luck!
I hope you don’t mind if I weigh in here. I am Caucasian and have lived in Thailand as an exchange student and while doing research. I recently went on vacation there with a friend whose family is originally from Ilocos Norte – although she speaks hardly any Ilocano or Tagalog and speaks unaccented English – and no Thai, but everyone thought she was Thai. I would talk to people in Thai and they would reply to her in Thai.
You would probably have to approach every situation with the understanding that they will think you are Thai. In Bangkok, they are pretty familiar with Filipinos and understand that they look very much like Thais. Other than that, I think most Thais will think it is kind of fun that you look like a Thai but are not.
Thank you for that quick response! I appreciate it so much. Thank you also for enlightening me about TEFL and Visa requirements. If it’s not too much, I still have more questions :) which I forgot to include on my first post.
1. Which part of Thailand is best for Filipinos (non-native English speakers) applying for a teaching job? Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket?
2. How much is the starting salary for a non-native English speaking teacher without teaching experience?
3. Hiring period of schools in Thailand? Best time to go to Thailand? School calendar?
Thanks a lot :) :)
Oh wow, we have no idea where the best city to apply for Filipinos! We do, however, know a well groomed appearance and a nice smile go a long way :) Supposedly the salary (both for starting and experienced teachers) are around the same and haven’t changed for many many years. I made 28,000 baht per month, which is ok for Chiang Mai. It had nothing to do with teaching experience (all teachers made the same), it’s just what the school paid. Bangkok is higher, 35,000 – 40,000 baht per month since it’s more expensive to live in the city. Phuket is also more expensive place to live. The best time to apply for schools is at the end of April and beginning of May (NOW) since the school year starts around mid May. However, don’t rule out English language schools or tutoring, which is available all year round. Another great resource is ajarn.com. Check it out!
Hi, this article really is of big help. I have a few questions however. Many schools or teaching posts in Thailand require native-English speakers, and I wonder if I have a chance of landing a teaching job there. Below are my credentials (personal details :)), can you please help me assess if I’m qualified or more likely to get a teaching job in Thailand. I plan to go to the land of smiles last week of August this year.
1. I’m 25 years old and from the Philippines (Same skin color of Thais).
2. Bachelor’s degree in Office Administration major in Medical Transcription (4 years)
3. Master of Arts in English Language Teaching (more than 36 units completed / 2 years)
4. 18 Units of Education (Teaching) incorporated in the master’s program.
5. No teaching experience / three years work experience as an office staff.
My questions:
1. Do I need a TEFL, TESOL, any cert? Most of our courses in our Master of Arts in English deal with Teaching English as a Second Language like Approaches in Teaching English as Second Language, Test Preparation and Evaluation, Curriculum Development and the like.
2. Will Thai grant me a working visa despite my bachelor’s degree not English Education?
3. Any advice please.
Thank you! :) :)
Hi Avel! You’re in luck! We just put a post about whether or not you need a TEFL to teach in Thailand. But it sounds like with your MA in English Language Teaching goes above and beyond what a TEFL provides, so include that on your resume!. And don’t worry – your BS/BA doesn’t have to be in English to be a teacher. Only a handful of the most prestigious schools require a degree in (specifically) education. A bachelor’s degree in anything will qualify you for a work permit.
Hi, can you tell me if there is an age limit to teaching in Thailand? In Brunei, you must be 54 or under when you are first employed. I’m 49 and am worried that my 14 and 15 year olds won’t hurry up and leave home in time! Just kidding not really pushing them out…yet :P
Haha. We’ve read a few forums saying it’s 60, and you are eligible for a retirement visa at 50. HOWEVER, if you look younger and have good energy, there’s no reason not to still teach. The year before I started teaching, there was a man who was still teaching at my school and he was in his late seventies!
Thank you so much for such an insightful article. I am very keen to move from where I am based now (South Africa)and would like to just get into a whole new field. Teaching the English language has always interested me as I am a serious lover of words. I just wanted to find out what the chances would be for someone like me (apologies for any offense my candour might cause, I am a black African,specifically Zimbabwean) to be taken seriously and actually be gainfully employed.
You will get mixed reactions from hiring agencies or schools being a black African. While you may stumble upon schools who are open to hiring anyone, be equally prepared to be turned away because of your dark skin. The private school Angela worked at in Chiang Mai does not hire black teachers, but we met a 30-something year old black teacher from NY that taught in a public school in Isaan (NE part of the country) for a few years.
There are schools out there that greatly need an English teacher, but have few people applying for a position. They are more inclined to accept teachers with no prior experience, no degree, no TEFL, darker skin, etc. These are usually farther from town where fewer teachers are willing to travel to. Keep in mind these areas will also have less English speaking locals and English written signs and you may be one of the few farang in town.
Timing is important. Schools start in mid May and the second semester may start in September or October. There is a better chance of securing a job within a few weeks of the semester starting. Don’t rule out teaching at an International school or an English language school, too. Also private tutoring through companies like AUA are great because you can have a flexible schedule (more or less students) and can start anytime in the year. We hope this helps!
Schools may hire you on the basis that they are desperate and are in great need of teachers, however the government in order to issue you with a working visa requires you to hold any 4 year degree, and working without one can send you to jail.
My partner and I recently ended our want to relocate from South Africa I hold a teaching degree, diplomas and TEFL, my partner holds only TEFL we had been offered a job as couple through EF, a fantastic organized and helpful teaching company, however when they sent for a visa for my partner due to lack of his accreditionals he was denied. It’s very disappointing as jobs advertised state no degree, but at end of the day it’s the government who have the actual say.
We think you made the right decision. We would never recommend trying to game the system. One can assure that if they are caught, the school or agency that told them to bend the rules will not end up taking the fall with them.
Hi there interesting reads…I’ve been teaching for 10 years in bilingual schools in spain and have tefl a 4 yr degree and sate certified teaching…I’m 40 and want to jump on a plane and come Thailand to find a job. I’ve done the usual…agencies sending off cv´s. What are my chances of getting a job just by going to the schools in person? thanks kev
You meet all the basic requirements of becoming a teacher in Thailand (TEFL, 4 year degree) and even then some (10 years teaching experience), so you have an excellent chance at securing a teaching job.
Going to schools in person may be difficult if you do not speak Thai due to the communication barrier. In my personal experience, going through a hiring agency (which finds you the job AND takes care of all the legal paperwork for visa and work permit) is a life saver. You can try to your luck working with an agency while still in the UK or after coming to Thailand.
I was interested in that you said to smile in the official photograph. When I was doing my masters research in Thailand about 25 years ago, I was firmly informed that I was not to smile. The resulting picture makes me laugh now, because it is so hard to suppress a smile in the “Land of Smiles.”
Also, I currently work for a University system in the US (not teaching) and their community college system has a certification program for TESL (21 credits). As an employee I can take these classes for free if space is available. I am looking at a two-year time frame minimum before I can make my move to Thailand, so it will be perfect. It may not be necessary with my experience in teaching Laotian refugees back in the day and “plain language” curriculum development, but I will be in my mid 50’s when I make my move, so I figure I had better make myself bullet-proof. I will spend a couple of days in Bangkok making myself “suay maak” for insurance.
BTW, if a person can truly handle more culture shock or if they have lived in Thailand before, it may be easier to get work in a smaller regional city. Probably even less pay, but perhaps more in a relative sense because the cost of living is even lower. However, if you have never LIVED in an Asian country before (as opposed to even a long-term visit), you could be unpleasantly surprised at how hard it is. Oh, and forget about being able to afford AC. But other than that, it could be a really rewarding experience.
Finally, I cannot even begin to tell you how much respect the title of “ajaan” (teacher) carries. If you are a teacher, especially a good one whose students thrive, you will be accorded a tremendous amount of admiration and respect.
I love following your progress. It sounds like you are having a fun and rewarding experiece – Cheers to you!
Excellent point about culture shock! It’s easier to get settled into expat life in one of the bigger cities (Bangkok, Chiang Mai) than compared to a smaller town if you’ve never lived in Thailand before. There are a lot of things to get used to, and it can be much harder if you are teaching in the boonies!
IF you have the time to do the TESL course, that’s great. I like your thinking about being as best prepared as you can be and even getting dolled up in Bangkok. Good luck with everything!
I’ve just stumbled upon your blog and found the articles very interesting, especially this one.
Will definitely share it with my friends who’s been really interested in coming to work in Thailand.
Thanks so much for the great tips, kudos!
You’re welcome! There are a lot of teaching experiences on the web, but sometimes they forget to include what it took to get that position in the first place. Thanks for following and sharing the info with your friend.
I had thought about teaching over in TL, but don’t think it will be something I will follow through with. I am happy that I can do something different to earn an income in TL rather than just teach or survive on a pension. The age factor, the looks factor, the paperwork, etc. . . . all for ?? . . . about $1,200 USD per month while working very hard full-time? . . . no thanks. I think I prefer trading currencies much better. Also, as more and more people flood into CM, and other desirable cities of TL, the demand imbalance will begin to fade and the salaries will, I think, begin to become less . . . simply too many people applying for the same type of work. This will take a while, but it will happen. I hope this does not come off sounding like a negative post reply. I just read your last 2 posts: Impressions of Chiang Mai and Teaching Requirements . . . they are both excellent – as all of your posts have been. You have a beautiful and informative site.
No worries at all! We definitely see where you are coming from!
Actually, the salaries in Chiang Mai aren’t even $1,200…more around the $1,000 mark because of exactly what you mentioned about the same type of workers flooding the market. At the end of the day it is all about what you are happy doing with your life and you seem to have yours right where you want it which is refreshing to hear! Thanks for the kind words as always. It is encouraging to know that we are providing information that residents of Chiang Mai and future residents find helpful. Take care!
The requirements to teach in Thailand are very similar to China, but to be honest everyone can go here and teach. You just need to look pretty or handsome :)
Kind of funny how that works, isn’t it? What is the round about average salary in China from your experience? We have heard mixed reviews, but we think it all comes down to what you make of it!
I’m screwed!
Why do you say that? Let us know if you need any help. You can always message us through our Facebook page or the contact page. Don’t give up :)
Hi I am currently a grade 4 teacher in south Africa, I have attented 4years of varsity, for BE.d Foundation phase, I have received my credits for all subjects, however I am short one semester subject of Afrikaans. I am wanting to arrive in Bankok complete a TEFL in April next year. What are my chances of getting a job with teaching experience and a 4 year Education study even though I am still short one subject
What schools want too see is evidence of a diploma. If you can show a diploma with four years of study even though you are short one subject, then you’ve held up your end of the deal. But without a diploma the chances of finding a job will be less. We’re not saying the chance is a zero because there may be a school or agency out there that may still accept your four year transcript. Unfortunately, this requires contacting agencies or schools and asking them directly about their policy and what they will accept. But technically, you require a diploma. Other than your big move to Bangkok next April, is there any reason why you wouldn’t complete that last subject and get a diploma, since you have all the other credits?
I am still working on my BA but it seems like there are people that just get a diploma mill degree online. There is nothing illegal or fraudulent about paying for a degree that does not have legit certifications. I read it is when someone buys a fake doctorate degree from ucla and uses it to obtain employment that it becomes fraud. You read stories about the US government cracking down on the diploma mills yet there are supposedly a high percentage of government workers with unaccredited degrees that have used the degrees for promotions so, it seems many employers have no interest in doing checks on these degrees. I’m wondering though if employers in thailand go through much effort to verify academic credentials for regular low paying teacher positions or it is all just a show thing the government put in place since thailand is so overly concerned with how it is perceived?
From doing a little digging around online we have seen that there are a number of degree mills that are flat out banned or flagged by the Ministry of Education and the list continues to grow. We have never seen the list, so we cannot confirm that it actually exists. At the end of the day I guess it depends on each school or personal situation. Of course it is better to be legit (and that is what we suggest), but it is obvious that many people decide that it is worth the risk to use a degree without any real certifications. It is so hard to be sure of any of the rules when they are constantly sidestepped. To be completely honest we think the need for teachers far surpasses the amount of truly qualified individuals willing to teach long term in Thailand, especially in it’s more remote and less coveted areas. Many of the schools are like revolving doors. People come to Thailand for a long vacation, sign 1 year contracts and when they realize it is not for them they quit mid semester leaving schools in situations where they desperately need to fill the vacant positions rather quickly.
From my experience working in a different profession, no diploma was required in obtaining my Non B and WP.
I’d also advise against starting work without the correct paperwork. What happens if someone from a government dept coming knocking and you are at your place of employment without the necessary documentation? You will be sent packing after a few days/weeks at immigration detention.
Totally agree. We highly recommend that you have a proper degree and a TEFL. Anything less and you could possibly be taking a big risk. Talking with one’s school or hiring company thoroughly is advised prior to accepting work. It is the responsibility of each individual to make the decision that they feel is best for them. Preferably the legal one…
I was cautioned by my TEFL school about the age discrimination thing (I’m 64), and was advised to avoid just emailing my resume, but to make a point of visiting the school in person. Unfortunately, here in Thailand, looks count for everything, and the Thai thinking seems to be that if you look the part, you much be the real deal. So an unqualified person who shows up dressed like a professional will often beat out a PhD wearing jeans and a T. My experience with the Bachelor’s Degree is that it’s necessary in order to secure a work permit. There’s seldom any verification of the legitimacy of the degree…again, appearances. My degree was purchased on line and, so far, has been perfectly acceptable to everyone. Same with the TEFL, you need some kind of certification in order to acquire a work permit. The work permit is becoming more essential, especially in Chiang Mai. I was informed by a Thai teacher, who happens to hold a PhD in education, that the Ministry of Labor is cracking down on schools that employ foreign teachers who don’t hold the required documentation, and the school is assessed a heavy fine, so schools are becoming more strict about requiring the proper paperwork. If you plan to be serious about teaching, and genuinely want to help the Thai students, I suggest a lot of research before deciding on a TEFL school. You can shell out a lot of money for a two week school, or about the same for a five or six week school, the difference being the level and quality of instruction. I opted for a longer course with more classroom experience in front of Thai students. For me, it’s made a big difference, as I had little formal teaching experience in the past.
Thanks again for the valuable insight. We agree that a legit TEFL course that allows you time in front of Thai students is a smart move to make (especially for newbie teachers). It prepares your on a small level for the challenges that you will come to face as a full time teacher in Thailand. The discrimination is definitely unfortunate, but “this is Thailand” as the saying goes. We feel the benefits of living in this country far outweigh the negative aspects in the end. Thanks again!
A Diploma in NZ is usually a 2 yr qualification. Would a Diploma in Aromatherapy or say Reflexology along with a TEFL qualification be suffice to teach?
If the diploma is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree (and not an associate’s degree as it would typically be in the US for two years of study), then yes that would work. As for what the focus is on, some schools require the degree to be in teaching or English studies, but most schools don’t seem to care what you went to college for.
Thanks for all that. No a Diploma is definitely not up there with a Degree.
Great article, and thanks for talking about agencies a bit – not a lot of info out there on them. I’d never heard of them before I came to Thailand, but they made my life so much easier when I first arrived, sorting out my visa and giving me advice. And not enough people mention the “prettiness” discrimination – that was another shocker when I first arrived too!
You’re right – many people go directly to a Thai school without even considering applying through a teacher hiring agency. It’s difficult though because many agency do not advertise online in English. The best chance to learn about them is either through word of mouth or simply walking around town and finding their offices.
The sheer bluntness of the “prettiness” factor shocked us, too. But, it’s better to know how to play by Thailand’s rules before you buy the ticket to fly here!
I taught English in Korea for a year based only on a BS degree. It was a great experience overall. But because I am now much older I will get my TEFL to increase my chances and because it is probably very helpful. The thing I would caution anyone is to be in country first before committing. The differences in types of schools, schedules, ages of students etc can only be determined by seeing it first hand. The major difference I see in these two countries is that for S. Korea they will provide housing, salary (about $1500), and R/T airfare. I haven’t looked into North Korea however!
Although people get by without a TEFL, it certainly helps your chances in securing a job and helps you be a better teacher in the classroom. We agree, it’s better to come to Thailand first and then look for a job, just in case a job prospect something falls through and visas don’t work out, etc.
While we don’t know of anyone personally who has had round trip airfare paid for, we have heard that accommodations are paid for with a reduced salary in Thailand. It can definitely be a deal breaker for some if the school or agency isn’t willing to get you into the country first.