Teach English in China

Program Options

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Teach in China Program Options

CIEE was one of the first Western organizations to offer Teach Abroad programs in China. Since 1997, we have helped thousands of participants connect with reputable schools and begin their adventures abroad.

Our program packages are carefully designed to help you meet the visa requirements and transition to a new culture. We’re not just finding you a job, we’re laying a foundation for you to have a successful and rewarding experience! It’s a winning combination: competitive salary, a rent-free apartment, top notch support!

Teach in China

Teach in China – Our flagship program will connect you with our full range of job opportunities: teach pre-K, university, or grade-school kids, in Chongqing, Shanghai, or another destination. CIEE’s TEFL certification is included, and start dates are in February, March, August and September each year. Learn more.

Ideal for:  Applicants who do not already have Education degrees or TEFL/TESOL certificates.

TEACH IN CHINA BASICS

Teach in China Basics – Already have TEFL or an education degree? This is the option for you! Get all the same job opportunities and the same high level of support, without the TEFL training, at a lower program fee. Start dates are in February, March, August and September each year. Learn more.

Ideal for:  Candidates who have already earned teaching credentials like TEFL or an Education degree.

Featured Programs

We'll Be There...

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Teaching in China is the adventure of a lifetime, but it can be daunting to get everything ready by yourself. We get it. That’s why we offer the most comprehensive pre-departure package around, including:

  • CIEE’s 150-hour online TEFL certification (included with certain programs)
  • Personalized assistance with documents and interviews
  • Placement at reliable institutions, with detailed employer profiles
  • Step-by-step guidance through the complex visa process
  • Pre-departure guides with important cultural tips and advice from former teachers

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Just because you’re settled into your new home doesn’t mean we’re going anywhere. We provide:

  • 24-hour in-country support from CIEE resident staff members
  • International medical insurance and 24-hour worldwide assistance with CIEE iNext

What People are Saying

  • "The teach abroad program in China is wonderful. Every step is straight forward and CIEE staff help you with everything. This eases the transition to the new culture."

    Keli B. | Teach in China

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers. 

What’s the best thing about living in China?

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So many answers to this question! On top of the great job benefits, we like… the never-ending flow of superb food… trips to China’s mountains, lakes, and national parks… gleaming high-speed trains… easy access to Asia’s travel destinations… and learning to play cards and Mahjong with retirees in city squares. Plus, you’re learning about one of the world’s most important countries firsthand!

Why CIEE Teach Abroad?

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The CIEE Teach Abroad team is there for you every step of the way. From deciding what program is right for you, to navigating visa paperwork, to 24-hour in-country support. See all the ways that CIEE supports you throughout this exciting, yet sometimes nerve-wracking, process. Learn More.

Do I need TEFL certification to teach in China?

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Probably. Most applicants will need TEFL certification to be eligible for a Work Permit, so most of CIEE’s Teach in China program options include our high-quality online TEFL course! If you have an Education Degree or two years of full-time lead teaching experience, you can opt-out of TEFL by signing up for our Teach in China Basics program.

Is housing included?

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Yes! All employers in China provide comfortable rent-free accommodations with basic furnishings. You’ll either live in a small studio of your own, or a two-bedroom unit shared with another foreign teacher of the same gender.

Can CIEE place me with my friend/partner?

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We get this question a lot: Can couples teach in China together? Can friends teach in China together? The answer is, yes! It’s pretty easy to find a Chinese school that will hire both of you, and give you shared housing. Make sure to mention each other’s names somewhere on your CIEE application, like in your personal statement.

Is it safe to teach in China?

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Yes. China’s crime rates are far lower than the United States, especially for violent crime. Our teachers quickly settle in and feel safe and comfortable in their new homes! As long as you avoid drugs, fights, or activism on controversial political topics, you have nothing to fear from the local authorities.

Have questions?

Or call us at 207-274-5783

Meet Our Teach In China Team