Are you an experienced ESL teacher looking for a new challenge? If so, Vietnam could be the perfect destination for you. TEFL jobs in Vietnam are plentiful, and the country offers a wealth of cultural experiences and natural beauty. In this post, we’ll provide some tips on how to get a TEFL job in Vietnam, as well as some of the best places to live and work. Keep reading to learn more!
Why is teaching in Vietnam so good?
There are many reasons why teaching in Vietnam is such a great experience. For starters, the country is home to a rapidly growing economy, which means there is a huge demand for English teachers. Additionally, the cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low, so you’ll be able to save up quite a bit of money while you’re working there. And of course, there’s the fact that Vietnam is simply a beautiful and fascinating country to explore. From the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning beaches of Nha Trang, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.
Getting a TEFL job in Vietnam will allow you to experience all that the country has to offer while also earning a competitive salary.
So if you’re interested in teaching English abroad, Vietnam should definitely be at the top of your list!
How much do TEFL teachers in Vietnam earn?
TEFL salaries in Vietnam are very competitive, especially when compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Most teachers will earn between $1,000 and $2,000 per month, which is more than enough to live comfortably in the country. In addition, many schools will also provide their teachers with free housing or a housing allowance, as well as other benefits such as health insurance and paid vacation days.
Some teachers also give additional private lessons on the side, which can help to boost their earnings. So if you’re looking to save up some money while teaching in Vietnam, that’s definitely something to consider.
What requirements are needed to get a TEFL job in Vietnam?
To get a TEFL job in Vietnam, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree and preferably be a native English speaker (however this isn’t always required). While some schools may require you to have a TEFL certification, it’s not always necessary, but it is definitely worth having because it will help you understand the basics of teaching English
Additionally, many schools will also require you to have at least two years of teaching experience. However, there are some schools that are willing to hire new teachers without any experience, so it’s definitely worth applying to a few different places. If you don’t have a TEFL certification or any teaching experience, you may want to consider enrolling in a TEFL course in Vietnam. This will give you the opportunity to get some experience teaching English while also earning your certification
It’s important to note that many schools in Vietnam will require you to commit to teaching for at least one year. So if you’re only looking for a short-term position, Vietnam might not be the best destination for you.
Some schools in Vietnam prefer to hire teachers who are already in the country. So if you’re interested in teaching in Vietnam, you may want to take a holiday there first to check things out and see if you like it. And who knows, you might just end up getting offered a job while you’re there!
You will also need a police check and a valid passport.
It’s worth remembering that requirements can change at any time, so it’s always best to check with the school or government beforehand to make sure you meet all the requirements.
What is the job market like for TEFL teachers in Vietnam?
The job market for TEFL teachers in Vietnam is very strong. There are schools and language institutes throughout the country that are always looking for qualified English teachers. Additionally, many of these schools offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
So if you’re interested in teaching English in Vietnam, you should have no trouble finding a job that’s a good fit for you.
Can I get a TEFL job in Vietnam if I have tattoos?
Yes, you can definitely get a TEFL job in Vietnam if you have tattoos. While some schools may have a preference for teachers without tattoos, there are plenty of schools that are willing to hire teachers with tattoos. It is probably best however to cover up your tattoos while teaching, as some students may be uncomfortable with them.
What is the best time of year to look for a TEFL job in Vietnam?
The best time of year to look for a TEFL job in Vietnam is during the summer months (June-August), as that’s when most schools are hiring. However, it is possible to find jobs throughout the year, so if you’re interested in teaching in Vietnam, it’s best to start your job search as soon as possible. Again it will always depend on the school and position, so it’s best to check with them directly.
What are some things to watch out for when applying for TEFL jobs in Vietnam?
There are a few things to watch out for when applying to get a TEFL job in Vietnam. Firstly, make sure you research the school thoroughly before applying. There have been a few cases of teachers being scammed by schools that don’t actually exist, so it’s important to be sure you’re applying to a legitimate school.
Additionally, be wary of any job offers that seem too good to be true (e.g. jobs that offer high salaries but don’t require any experience). If a job seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Finally, make sure you have all the necessary documents (e.g. police check, passport, visa) before applying for a job. Many schools will not consider applicants who don’t have all the required documents.
What are the working conditions like for TEFL teachers in Vietnam?
The working conditions for TEFL teachers in Vietnam vary depending on the school you work for. However, most schools provide their teachers with basic amenities, such as a desk, chair, and whiteboard. Additionally, many schools offer their teachers competitive salaries and benefits packages. Your teaching hours may vary from school to school, and some schools may require you to work on weekends. You may also get assigned non-teaching hours where you can prepare lessons or grade student work. You should always ensure you understand what is expected of you before accepting a job.
Best Places to Teach English in Vietnam
Vietnam is a beautiful country that is very diverse from north to south. The people are friendly and welcoming, and there is a growing demand for English teachers.
There are many great places to teach English in Vietnam, but some of the best places include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang.
One popular option is Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. This bustling metropolis is the largest city in Vietnam, and it offers a wide variety of job opportunities. In addition to teaching English, you can also find work in business, tourism, or hospitality.
Another popular destination is Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Hanoi is a smaller city than Ho Chi Minh City, but it’s still a great place to live and work. In addition to teaching English, you can also find job openings in business, diplomacy, or NGOs.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, you may want to consider teaching English in one of Vietnam’s smaller cities or towns. Popular options include Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang. These cities are less developed than Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, but they offer a more authentic Vietnamese experience.
What kind of lifestyle you want to lead will influence where you decide to teach English in Vietnam. There are many great options available, so take some time to research your options and find the perfect place for you!
How to get a TEFL job in Vietnam
Do your research
Before you start applying for jobs, it’s important to do your research about the TEFL job market in Vietnam. This will help you set realistic expectations and avoid being scammed. Start by reading articles and reviews from other teachers who have worked in Vietnam.
You’ll need to find out what qualifications are required to teach English in Vietnam. While a TEFL certificate is not always required, it will give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs. If you don’t have a TEFL certificate, consider taking an online course or attending a training program in Vietnam. Depending on the role or location you may also need a university degree.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements for Vietnam. Most teachers will need to apply for a work visa, which can be obtained through your employer. Be sure to check the requirements carefully and allow plenty of time to complete the application process. Don’t be convinced to start working before you have the right visa or you could face legal penalties.
Make sure you take some time to learn about the culture and customs of Vietnam. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or cultural faux pas while you’re living and working in the country.
Get a TEFL certification
If you haven’t already, now is the time to get a TEFL certification. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful English teacher. There are many different types of TEFL courses available, so you’ll need to do some research to find the right one for you. You can do it online or face to face.
Some TEFL course providers have offices in Vietnam so you can do the TEFL certificate in country. This is a great option if you want to get a feel for Vietnam before committing to a teaching job. It’s also a good way to make contacts and learn about different job opportunities. Some of them even offer a guaranteed job placement after you complete the course!
Get your documents in order
Once you’ve done your research and are ready to start applying for jobs, it’s time to get your documents in order. In addition to a resume and cover letter, you’ll need to provide copies of your passport, degree, transcripts, teaching certificate (if applicable), and any other relevant documents. You may also need to provide letters of recommendation from previous employers.
Create your resume
When creating your resume, be sure to highlight any experience you have working with children or teaching English. If you don’t have any direct experience, that’s okay! You can highlight other types of experience that will make you a good candidate for the job. For example, if you have customer service experience, this shows that you have the ability to deal with people in a professional setting
If you don’t have much work experience, you can also include relevant volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities. Anything that shows you have the skills and qualities that will make you a good English teacher will help your application stand out
When writing your resume, be sure to use clear, concise language and check for grammar and spelling errors. Have a friend or family member read it over to make sure it’s error-free.
An ESL resume is very different to a normal resume. You need to make sure that you include all the relevant information about your qualifications and experience, without going into too much detail. Keep in mind that most employers will only spend a few seconds scanning your resume, so you need to make sure the important information stands out
Some things to include in your ESL resume
- Your contact information: include your name, email address, and phone number. You can also include your social media profiles if you think they would be relevant to the job
- A brief introduction: a few sentences about who you are and what you’re looking for
- Your teaching experience: list any relevant experience you have working with students of all ages, in group or one-on-one settings
- Your education and qualifications: mention any relevant degrees or certifications you have. If you’re still completing your teaching qualification, you can include details about the courses you’ve taken so far
- Any other skills or experience: if you have any other skills or experience that would be relevant to the job, such as customer service or sales experience, include them here
Start applying for jobs
There are many different types of ESL jobs available in Vietnam, from teaching at private language schools to working at international schools or universities or in local government schools. Decide what type of job you’re looking for, and then narrow your search to only include positions that fit your criteria.
Where to look for a TEFL job in Vietnam
There are many different websites and job boards where you can search for ESL jobs in Vietnam. Some of the most popular ones include:
Just ESL Jobs : We offer a wide range of ESL job vacancies in Vietnam, from teaching at private language schools to working at international schools or universities. Plus don’t forget to check out our socials for our latest jobs.
ESL Base: This website has a large database of ESL jobs around the world, including several in Vietnam
Dave’s ESL Cafe: one of the largest and most popular ESL job boards, with positions available all over the world
TESOL Online: a website with job postings, articles, and resources for ESL teachers
TEFL.com: another large job board with positions available all over the world, including Vietnam
You should also join some Facebook groups for ESL teachers in Vietnam, such as:
ESL Teachers in Vietnam
TEFL Jobs in Vietnam
These groups are a great way to network with other teachers and find out about job openings that might not be advertised online elsewhere. You can also post yourself and get offers from recruiters and schools directly.
Apply to multiple schools
When applying for jobs, it’s important to cast a wide net and apply to multiple schools. This will increase your chances of being hired, and it will also give you more options to choose from. When applying, be sure to include your resume, a recent photo, and a cover letter. It’s also a good idea to include any relevant teaching materials, such as lesson plans or sample lessons.
What to watch out for when applying for a TEFL job in Vietnam
There are many legitimate ESL jobs available in Vietnam, but there are also some scams that you need to be aware of. Be particularly careful of any job that asks you to pay a fee for anything, as this is usually a sign that it’s not a real job. Also be wary of any school that asks you to work without a contract, as this is not legally allowed in Vietnam. If you’re ever unsure about a job listing, you can always contact the Vietnam TESOL Association for advice.
Be prepared for interviews
When you start getting interview requests, congratulations! This means that your application materials were impressive and that the school is interested in hiring you. Be sure to prepare for your interviews in advance, so that you can make a good impression and give yourself the best chance of being hired.
Some things you might want to practice in advance include:
- Answering common interview questions: there are some questions that are commonly asked in ESL interviews, such as “Why do you want to teach English?” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”. Practice your answers to these questions so that you can sound confident and prepared during the actual interview.
- Speaking about your teaching experience: if you have teaching experience, be sure to talk about it in your interview. This will show that you’re a qualified and experienced teacher, and it will give the school confidence that you’ll be able to do a good job.
- Answering questions about Vietnam: the interviewer is likely to ask you some questions about Vietnam, such as “What do you know about Vietnam?” or “Why do you want to live and work in Vietnam?”. Be sure to do some research on the country before your interview, so that you can answer these questions confidently.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing a great ESL job in Vietnam!
Common ESL Interview Questions and the Best Way to Answer Them
Once you get a job offer, start planning your move to Vietnam!
Once you’ve found a job you’re interested in, the next step is to negotiate your salary and benefits. This is where it’s helpful to have done your research beforehand so you know what to expect.
When negotiating your salary, it’s important to be honest about your experience and qualifications and to have a realistic idea of what you’re worth. It’s also a good idea to have a backup number in mind, in case the school’s first offer is lower than you were hoping for.
Once you’ve agreed on a salary, you’ll need to sign a contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully and ask any questions you have before signing it. Once you’ve signed, you’re ready to start your new job as an ESL teacher in Vietnam!
Top Tips for Teaching English in Vietnam
If you’re planning on teaching English in Vietnam, there are a few things you should keep in mind. These tips will help you adjust to life in Vietnam and make the most of your experience teaching English.
1. Learn some basic Vietnamese.
While you don’t need to be fluent in Vietnamese to teach English in Vietnam, it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases. This will help you communicate with your students and build rapport with them. It will also make your day-to-day life in Vietnam easier, as you’ll be able to communicate with locals more easily.
2. Be prepared for a different teaching style.
In Vietnam, the teaching style is quite different from what you may be used to. Vietnamese students are typically very shy and reserved, so it’s important to be patient and understanding. It may take some time for your students to warm up to you, but once they do, they’ll be eager to learn.
3. Dress conservatively.
Vietnam is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly. This means avoiding short skirts, low-cut tops, and revealing clothing. It’s also a good idea to avoid wearing clothing with offensive images or slogans.
4. Be respectful of local customs.
When you’re teaching English in Vietnam, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, you should avoid speaking loudly in public, as this is considered rude. You should also take off your shoes when entering homes and temples.
5. Be patient.
Vietnam is a very different place from most Western countries, so it’s important to be patient and open-minded. Things will likely happen differently than you’re used to, but try to go with the flow and enjoy the experience.
Teaching English in Vietnam is a great way to experience the country and its culture. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time teaching English in Vietnam.
In conclusion
Teaching in Vietnam will be an amazing experience that will be full of great students, new friends, and plenty of adventure. Just remember to do your research, start learning some Vietnamese, and be respectful of local customs. If you do all of this, you’re sure to have a great time teaching English in Vietnam!