Primary Education

Primary Education
Education in Thailand is largely a government responsibility provided through the ministry of

education. Two to three years of kindergarten begins this process, followed by 6 years of
primary school. The Thai school year is from may to march for primary and middle school,
while secondary schools begin one month later. Uniforms are also compulsory during
tertiary education.
Middle Education
Three years of middle school follow, where students continue with core subjects including
Thai language, arts and music, maths, physical and social science, technology and foreign
languages. From here though, vocational students follow a different path.
Secondary Education
At high school, students who wish to continue academic education move on to elective
courses. Of these, the science and maths / english programs are most popular other
choices include foreign languages and social science. In this way, they are already preparing
for tertiary education that may follow..
Vocational Education
Thai vocational education system is grounded in high school where students may choose to
adopt this more practical form of education. Here they may aspire to two levels of
qualification too. These are a certificate in vocational education, and a higher diploma that
opens to the door to a university degree. After reaching school-leaving age, a Thai may also
enrol for a technical diploma.
Tertiary Education
Both private and public colleges of higher education

and universities are regulated by the ministry of education. They offer excellent study
programs in arts, medicine, humanities and information technology. However many young
Thai citizens still prefer to study subjects like law and business abroad.
The oldest and most prestigious university in Thailand is Chulalongkorn founded in 1917. It
attracts many of the nations best students and enjoys an fine international reputation.
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Requirements to Teach in Thailand
by Chris and Angela | Oct 12, 2013 | Lifestyle, Teaching | 135 comments
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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 havent 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 youll do just fine with a rsum
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 youll see why each of them are often bent a little. The bottom line is
that these requirements are what I needed to land a teaching job.
Requirement #1: Bachelors Degree Diploma
or Higher
A bachelors degree or higher is one of the most important requirements to teach in
Thailand, or to work at all for that matter. Simply put, you must be able to provide
evidence of a diploma. In my case, I provided a picture of my diploma and also offered
the official copy of my transcript I had brought with me from the States. If I had provided
them with an unofficial transcript, they would have accepted that instead.
Bending the Rule
Although we dont encourage this behavior, in the opinion of some schools the
bachelors 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 bachelors degree, we hear that it
is unlawful to use a purchased diploma as proof of a bachelors 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 wasnt 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 TEFLprepares 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 your dont 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 rsum be competing with a few others.
Requirement #3: Non-Immigrant Business B
Visa
Among the requirements to teach in Thailand is possessing a B Visa. It is 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 B Visa run in the near future. Or maybe you are taking classes at
the university on an 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 business visa. It happens, but
its best (and required by law) to get a B visa and an official work permit, 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 werent
wearing a collared shirt in the picture you submitted with your rsum. 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. A smile goes a long way, as well as a positive attitude.
Thailand is well-known for its mai bpen rai outlook, and if you are 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 down side, 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 rsum 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. Its 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. Its 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 youve found to be useful? Here are some
great questions and answers weve found on the topic.
Disclaimer: This information is based on what weve witnessed and/or heard from other
teachers since living in Thailand. Individuals should conduct their own thorough
research into the Ministry of Educations official requirements to teach in Thailand prior
to applying for a position!
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Sort by: newest|oldest|most voted
Brenda D Pacinabao
https://www.tielandtothailand.com/re
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?
-1
3 months 6 days ago
Chris and Angela
Yes, there are definitely schools that will hire non-native English speaking applicants if their English
speaking abilities are a high enough level.
3 months 5 days ago
Brenda D Pacinabao
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
3 months 4 days ago
pprestriedge
I was wondering, as a gay man, would you suggest trying to teach in Thailand?
3 months 12 days ago
Chris and Angela
Yes. Thai people are very open and accepting of gay men and women.
3 months 8 days ago
Adrienn Magyar
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.
Chris and Angela
Yes, good luck!
Rayong Chanthaburi
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?
-1
Chris and Angela
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.
Prakit
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!
-1
7 months 2 days ago
Chris and Angela
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 (were assuming youre 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!
7 months 1 day ago
Laurence Todd
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 Masters 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 Read more
Chris and Angela
Sounds like youre more than qualified to teach at any well-paying school of your choice in Thailand.
Why are you so unsure despite your experience?
Cecilia
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.
8 months 2 days ago
Chris and Angela
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.
8 months 1 day ago
Tony
Hi, I do not have a bachelors 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?
8 months 3 days ago
Chris and Angela
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.
8 months 1 day ago
Ricky
I dont 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
Chris and Angela
If you can produce a certificate of a degree to your work or hiring agency, then there shouldnt 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. Thats one area we havent researched yet.
zel fajardo
Hello. I am a Mathematics Teacher all the way from the Philippines. Am i qualified to teach in
Thailand though Im not an English Teacher?
Chris and Angela
Yes, there are some schools that require math teachers who speak English. The positions are fewer
but it is possible.
jeffmcneill
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.
Chris and Angela
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!
jeffmcneill
Hello, I have to respectfully disagree. Teaching a subject in ones 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 dont 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 Read more
Chris and Angela
Thanks for sharing this yes, a TEFL makes you aware of major cultural differences, identifies the
hurtles 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, thats an example where you
can get away without a TEFL. But teaching at public and private schools, a TEFL definitely comes in
handy.
0
Dave Garry
Question: Im 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?
1 year 2 days ago
Chris and Angela
Sorry, we dont know the answer to this one! We dont know if Thailand is only concerned with felons
and sexual predators or if they also are against non-violent crime offenders. We dont know if its 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 Read more
1 year 1 day ago
Chuck Baker
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?
1 year 8 days ago
Chris and Angela

Browse Google for and Facebook for teaching listings. We like to recommend ajarn.com.
0
1 year 6 days ago
iqra
hi chris n angelai 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
1 year 10 days ago
Chris and Angela
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.
1 year 10 days ago
Chuck
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.
Im 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 Read more
1 year 11 days ago

Chris and Angela
You definitely have the credentials no need to go after a TEFL if youve 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!
1 year 10 days ago
Maria
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?
1 year 11 days ago
Chris and Angela
We know you need a degree to apply for a Non Immigrant B Visa and the subsequent extensions,
but its 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, its up to your school
to decide if your 95% completed degree is worthy. This is kind of in the grey area!
1 year 10 days ago
Henna
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
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
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!
0
1 year 1 month ago
Anna
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 Read more
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
Were not the best people to ask because we arent familiar with teaching requirements in the USA.
We dont 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 youve earned those units in the USA. Sorry, we
dont know!
1 year 1 month ago
Andrea
its LLB (Hons), LLM and MA.
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
Having an MA is whats important. Youll get the job!
1 year 1 month ago
Andrea
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?
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
Is it a BA or BS?
0
1 year 1 month ago
RJ
Hello Chris and Angela I am RJ 22 years old from the Philippines I went to college but due to my
personal constraints I didnt 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 Read more
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
1) Not legally. You may be able to find a paying job (as in, youll 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) Its
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.
Its possible to teach for a short time this route is not sustainable for the long term. Sorry to be
the Read more
1 year 1 month ago
John Wilson Ampomah
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? Im 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
0
1 year 1 month ago
Chris and Angela
Theres 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!
1 year 1 month ago
AwokenPhotographyUK (@AwokenPhotoUK)
Hello, I have a masters degree, but no bachelors degree, will this be okay? I hope so.
1 year 2 months ago
Chris and Angela
We would assume so since it is an advance degree and that with most schools (maybe not all) will
accept it.
1 year 2 months ago
michael
I have no college degree, but am interested in living abroad in places like Thailand and since im
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 whos willing to marry foreigner
Any Advise u can give?
1 year 2 months ago
Chris and Angela
People bend the rule (working without a real degree) all of the time but we do not advocate it. Its 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.
1 year 2 months ago
mike
Hi Chris and Angela Im a healthy and well qualified English teacher, but over the age limits. Are
there ways around ageism in Thailand?
1 year 2 months ago
Chris and Angela
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. Dont bother with public schools at
all. Some private schools may be good.
1 year 2 months ago
Jo Vis
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
Thais favor in European-native speakers. Questions are: 1. How low would the pay be, compared to
native speakers? Like how much do they pay Filipinos? Just to see the picture. :) 2. Will my TESOL
Certificate help me? or should it be TEFL? 3. Does the requirements needed, need to Read more
1 year 3 months ago
Chris and Angela
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 doesnt matter but a specific school may prefer one or the other 3.
Not that were 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 Read more
1 year 2 months ago
Scott Currie
Hi guys, good read! Just a quick question, Im 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 Ive 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
1 year 3 months ago
Chris and Angela
Yes. Employers and Thailands 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
0
1 year 3 months ago
Marc Aldridge
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
1 year 3 months ago
Chris and Angela
I absolutely recommend taking a TEFL course in the Thai city you want to teach in. Dont bother with
the online classes and I dont 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 its a lot easier when their connections are within arms reach rather than on the
other side of the country. For agencies, go here.
0
1 year 3 months ago
Renan Arlegui
thank you very much!!!
0
1 year 4 months ago
Renan Arlegui
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!
1 year 4 months ago
Chris and Angela
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. Its a good read and
should set you in the right direction.
0
1 year 4 months ago
Daniel
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
bachelors 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 Im 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 Read more
1 year 5 months ago

Chris and Angela
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. :/
1 year 5 months ago
Tom
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 Bachelors 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 Read more
1 year 5 months ago
Chris and Angela
Hi Tom. Legally speaking, Thailands work laws require that all employed foreigners have a
undergraduates 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 Teachers License.
1 year 5 months ago
Randall
Hi, I meet all of these requirements but I have a shaved head. Im white and American so thats 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
1 year 5 months ago
Chris and Angela
Ive worked with men with shaved heads its 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!
1 year 5 months ago
Hannah Gavios
Hi Chris and Angela,
Im 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
1 year 5 months ago
Chris and Angela
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).
1 year 5 months ago
Jacquiline
hi Chris and Anj, Im 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?
1 year 6 months ago
Chris and Angela
Youre qualified but many of Thailands 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 colleges. Your
best bet it be hired by a school who has adopted less discriminating hiring standards international
schools are a great place to start. Were sorry to be the bearer of bad news but thats how it is here :/
Good luck!
1 year 5 months ago
Naya
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 Im a non-native.Also, I speak English in American accent not the British,so would
that be a problem?
0
1 year 7 months ago
Chris and Angela
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!
1 year 7 months ago
Mbifi Roy
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.
1 year 9 months ago
Chris and Angela
You can apply while you are still in Cameroon, but we think its 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.
1 year 9 months ago
Mbifi Roy
Hello Chris and Angela. Im 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 bachelors degree.
0
1 year 9 months ago
Chris and Angela
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 youve 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.
1 year 9 months ago
peymun
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
1 year 11 months ago
Chris and Angela
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.
0
peymun
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 Read more
Chris and Angela
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 Read more
Remanel
Always afraid of getting LOST lol :)
2 years 8 months ago
remanel08@gmail.com
Thanks a lot for your assistance..ur site is a great help..Itll be my first time to work abroad so Im quit
nervous. Im planning to visit Thailand around April, when do you think will be the best place for me
to start? Im thinking maybe Bangkok but ur suggestion will be a great help specially Im travelling
alone. Hope to meet you in the future :) :)
Chris and Angela
Bangkok is huge and offers many different types of neighborhoods. Its 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 dont 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 Read more
Remanel
Hi Chris and Angela, Im 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.
Chris and Angela
We think itss 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 havent heard of Echo English before!
0
Joven Pamintuan
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.
Chris and Angela
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 bachelors 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.
0
Kat
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.
0
Chris and Angela
Glad you found this helpful! You have a bachelors degree, so thats acceptable and meets the basic
requirement to teach English in Thaiand. There are many TEFLs to choose from, but we personally
recommend UniTEFL. You can go for the basics, but if you would like to be best prepared, UniTEFL
does just that. Check out our other post, too: Do I Really Need a TEFL? Hope this helps!
0
Michael
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 Read more
Chris and Angela
With the tightening security behind repeated 30-day exempt stamps and/or tourist visas, there very
well could be dip in English teachers. Lets hope that schools rebuttal with more efficient paperwork
for the proper non-immigrant B visa and work permit.
Avel Obli
Its kind of tricky then on the part of Filipinos to distinguish Thai from Pinoy, and if thats the case, its
going to be very tiring to explain every time Thais thought I was Thai, but its still fun somehow. :) :) :)
Chris and Angela
Thanks, baja2bangkok. Weve worked with a guy before whos 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!
Avel Obli
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 dont want to compete with Native-English speaking applicants. Hehehehe :) :) :)
Kidding aside, Ill plan carefully for this job hunting plan of mine in the Land of Smiles. Hope to you
see two there someday :) Thanks.
baja2bangkok
I hope you dont 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, Read more
0
Chris and Angela
Good luck!
Avel Obli
Thank you also for enlightening me about TEFL and Visa requirements. If its not too much, I still
have more questions :) which I forgot to include on my first post. Thank you for that quick
response! I appreciate it so much.
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 :) :)
Chris and Angela
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 havent 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), its just what the school paid. Bangkok is higher, 35,000 40,000 baht
per month since its more expensive to live in the city. Read more

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