How to Teach English in Cambodia

Cambodia has become a hotspot for aspiring English teachers, attracting adventurers and educators alike. Perhaps this is, in part, due to teachers being able to live comfortably in Cambodia while saving money thanks to the country’s low cost of living, which allows for substantial savings after covering essentials.

Cambodia is the place for you if you have a strong interest in experiencing new things, immersing yourself in different cultures, and changing the world for the better. This small Asian country is known for its ancient temples, lively markets, friendly people, and rich history, which contributes to its educational landscape. Soon you will understand how to teach English in Cambodia as well as the requirements to teach English in Cambodia.

Is teaching English in Cambodia without a degree possible?

It’s time to start exploring—no degree required.

Without a doubt! Teaching English in Cambodia without a degree is totally possible—it’s one of the few countries where this can be done legally. For this reason, Cambodia stands out.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a recent college graduate or a seasoned traveler. Cambodia welcomes instructors who are passionate about their work. Having your TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification should be sufficient to secure employment as a teacher.

However, employers frequently prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree, even though it is not strictly necessary. Although it would be an asset to have teaching experience on your CV, it is not required to teach English in Cambodia.

Now that it has been confirmed that you can teach English in Cambodia without a degree, read on to find out how a TEFL certificate might give you the edge you need to land a job teaching English in Cambodia.

4 teaching English in Cambodia requirements

Check that you meet these requirements to land the teaching job of your dreams:

• TEFL certification: While a degree isn’t mandatory, a TEFL certification is absolutely necessary to demonstrate that you are equipped with the skills needed to create effective lessons for learners of English as a second language.
• Native English proficiency: Fluency in English is most certainly one of the major requirements to teach English in Cambodia. Native speakers from the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or South Africa tend to gain preference with employers.
• Valid passport and visa: Ensure your passport is up-to-date and secure a valid visa for your stay. For the most up-to-date information, it is essential to verify the most recent immigration restrictions and requirements with the Cambodian government or consulate.
• A calculated budget: Being financially prepared means being ready for the costs associated with getting started, which may include early spending, transportation, and lodging.

How to teach English in Cambodia

We’ll bet views like this have you wondering how to teach English in Cambodia!

One of the most incredible places to teach English is Cambodia. The locals are incredibly kind and inviting, and the country itself has a lot to offer. Plus, with the generous public holidays, vacation time, and relatively inexpensive cost of living, you’ll have plenty of leisure time to see the world.

Fortunately, the demand is high year-round for English teaching positions in Cambodia. In fact, the overall job market in Cambodia is booming thanks to a younger population, exponential economic growth, and a genuine thirst for education. Here’s how to get started:

1. Get a TEFL certification

As you now know, the teaching English in Cambodia requirements include ensuring you have a TEFL certificate. Showing you have qualifications and experience certainly gives you an advantage in the ESL market.

TEFL programs are a less expensive alternative to a bachelor’s degree, which is preferred but not required. You should think about enrolling in a TEFL course of at least 120 hours, which can be taken online or in person in cities like Phnom Penh.

Cambodian educational institutions, including language schools, conduct most of their hiring processes face-to-face. Thus, ITA’s TEFL Course in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, which lasts for four weeks, is a popular choice among many people who want to teach English as a second language. You can start applying for TEFL employment in Cambodia the moment you finish the course, if you take it there.

2. Choose your location

Cambodia offers a variety of teaching opportunities in some pretty awesome cities. For instance, you could explore a city like Phnom Penh, which is located in the middle of Cambodia, as its vibrant capital city. As a major financial hub, it has a strong need for qualified English language instructors. However, the climate can be described as hot, humid, and rainy.

The tourist capital of Siem Reap is well-known for its closeness to the Angkor Wat monuments. Therefore, viewing the attractions is essential while spending time here. Despite lower wages, there is a thriving expat community that employs English teachers at language schools and tourist-related businesses.

You might also consider beach towns like Kampong Som for festivals and lively nightlife!

3. Apply for jobs

Put together a great application and you can land a teaching job.

When job hunting in Cambodia, it’s important to do your research and understand the job market, including possible institutions to work for, salary expectations, and cultural nuances. Attend networking events and workshops, and connect with local schools and educators.

Ensure you have all of the required documents organized, including your updated and printed CV, as interviews often happen in person. As with any job hunt, it’s essential to be proactive and persistent!

4. Prepare for visa and start-up costs

Budget for initial expenses, including accommodation and transportation, but also for a Cambodian visa. This is one of the most important steps when inquiring about how to teach English in Cambodia, as you will be required to possess a Type E Ordinary/Business Visa.

You have the option of obtaining this visa either before you travel to Cambodia or after you have entered the country yourself. The majority of the time, English teachers in Cambodia just wait until they arrive at the airport to purchase the visa. You will then be required to pay a fee ranging from $100 to $300 in order to extend the visa for either six or twelve months.

The type of visa you’ll need for Cambodia (and how to get it) will depend on your nationality, the teaching job you’re taking, and sometimes other factors like whether you’re hired locally or if you find out about your position before you come.

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What can I expect from an English teacher salary in Cambodia?

Even for educators without degrees, an English teacher salary in Cambodia can provide competitive compensation. Cambodia pays its non-degree ESL teachers around $1,000 per month. Compare that to South American countries, where teachers without a degree are paid around $700 per month.

Your salary could go up even more if you have teaching experience or if you have further credentials like an advanced TEFL diploma or an associate’s degree. On average, beginning educators might anticipate a monthly salary of $800 to $1,200.

Cambodia has a low cost of living, so after you cover the basics, you can save $200 to $500. And since experience matters, experienced teachers tend to save even more!

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Are you ready to teach English in Cambodia?

Now that you know how to do it, you’re ready for your adventure.

As we wrap up our exploration of teaching English in Cambodia, it’s clear that the journey is as enriching as it is accessible. The teaching English in Cambodia requirements are straightforward, allowing even those eager to teach English in Cambodia without a degree to embark on this fulfilling path.

For those still wondering how to teach English in Cambodia, the process is filled with opportunities for personal growth, cultural immersion, and the chance to make a significant impact in the lives of Cambodian students. So, pack your bags, gather your spirit of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable teaching experience in the heart of Southeast Asia!

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