Wondering how to teach English in Taiwan? Learn what qualifications you need to meet to become an English teacher in Taiwan including education, citizenship, criminal background check and more.
Most people that initially teach English in Taiwan find jobs working with recruiters or by applying directly to schools on job boards. The basic qualifications required by schools for teaching English in Taiwan are outlined below.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an English Teacher in Taiwan?
To find a job teaching English in Taiwan, you will need to have a TEFL certificate, a bachelor's degree, and a clean criminal background check. Native English speakers are preferred too. The average salary range for an English teacher in Taiwan is about $2,000 - $3,000 USD per month.
How to Teach English in Taiwan in 2023
Now let's look at the following requirements to teach English in Taiwan in 2023 in detail:
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Hold citizenship from a recognized English-speaking country
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Have a Bachelor's degree
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Possess a clean criminal background check
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Hold a TEFL certification (typically required)
1. Hold Citizenship from a Recognized English-Speaking Country
Citizenship from one of the following countries - US, Canada, UK, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand - is highly desired.
2. Have a Bachelor's Degree
Your Bachelor’s degree (or any higher degree) can be in any field. There is one exception to this requirement, however. One organization, Hess International Education Group, hires teachers who possess an Associate’s Degree (commonly known as an "AA" degree) in addition to a TEFL certification.
Teaching English in Taiwan Without a Degree: Can You Do it?
English teachers in Taiwan must have a degree to be eligible to teach English in Taiwan. A Bachelor's degree (or higher) is preferred but teachers with an Associate's degree can also find jobs teaching English in Taiwan. Know that your degree does not have to be in education. It can be in any field.
3. Possess a Clean Background Check
As of 2019, a clean FBI criminal background check (US citizens) or a national criminal background check is needed to teach English in Taiwan. Additionally, know that minor traffic violations will not disqualify you.
4. Hold a TEFL Certification
Though not technically a legal requirement, reputable private language schools in Taiwan will typically require that their teachers be TEFL certified. Quality schools offering quality jobs typically are not interested in hiring teachers who have not received proper training.
Documents You Will Need to Teach English in Taiwan
- Bachelor’s/Associate’s Degree
- Valid Passport
- College/university transcripts
- Passport photos
- TEFL Certification
- International resume/CV and cover letter
Here are a couple of bonus documents that we recommend you have available:
- Sample lesson plans
- Copies of Bachelor’s/Associate’s degree apostilled or authenticated
Side note: Most teachers that work in Taiwan will enter on a passport stamp or on a tourist visa if needed, then process their actual work visa after they arrive with assistance from their school or employer.
Go Further:
- Taiwan is One of The Best TEFL Countries to Make Money
- Taiwan is One of The Best Countries for Teaching English Abroad
Want to Learn More About Teaching English Abroad & Online?
Request a free brochure or call 773-634-9900 to speak with an expert advisor about all aspects of TEFL certification and teaching English abroad or online, including the hiring process, salaries, visas, TEFL class options, job placement assistance and more.
