How to Start Teaching English in Beijing: The Complete Guide

Beijing is the cultural and political heart of China. It's where you'll find the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and some of the country's best teaching opportunities. If you want an authentic Chinese experience with excellent career prospects, Beijing is the place.

Why Beijing?

• Rich history and culture: Historic sites, traditional hutongs, world-class museums
• Strong job market: Thousands of schools and training centers
• University opportunities: Many universities hire foreign English teachers
• Mandarin learning: Standard Mandarin spoken here (ideal for learning)
• Large expat community: Established networks and support

Types of Teaching Jobs

Training Centers

New Oriental, EF, and countless local schools. Pay: 15,000-22,000 RMB/month. Usually weekend and evening work.

Public Schools

Teaching in Chinese public schools as a foreign expert. Pay: 12,000-18,000 RMB/month plus housing. Regular school hours.

Universities

Oral English teacher positions at Chinese universities. Pay: 8,000-15,000 RMB/month but includes free housing and light workload. Great for those who want time to explore.

International Schools

Top-tier options like ISB, WAB, and Dulwich. Pay: 30,000-50,000+ RMB/month. Requires teaching credentials.

WeChat: Your #1 Job-Finding Tool

Forget Indeed or LinkedIn. In China, jobs spread through WeChat groups faster than any website.

The Process

1. Set up WeChat before you arrive
2. Make foreigner friends at Sanlitun, Wudaokou, or expat events
3. Ask to join groups—Beijing ESL Jobs, Beijing Teachers, Expat Beijing
4. Be active—people share jobs constantly, sometimes just for a day

Finding Agents

Agents (中介) in WeChat groups can connect you with multiple schools at once. They handle visa paperwork and negotiations. Find 2-3 reliable ones and maintain those relationships.

Job Websites

• TheBeijinger.com: Best Beijing-specific job listings
• eChinacities.com: Nationwide ESL jobs with Beijing filter
• chinajob.com: General job board with teaching positions
• Dave's ESL Cafe: Long-running international ESL job board

Visa and Legal Requirements

You need a Z visa for legal employment:

• Bachelor's degree (any subject)
• TEFL certificate (120+ hours)
• 2 years experience or education degree
• Background check from your home country
• Medical examination in China

Schools handle most paperwork, but bring all original documents.

Cost of Living

• Rent: 4,000-7,000 RMB/month (cheaper than Shanghai)
• Food: 1,500-3,000 RMB/month
• Transport: 200-400 RMB/month

Living in Beijing

• Air quality: Yes, pollution is real. Get a good mask and air purifier
• Winter: Cold (-10°C) but apartments have heating
• Language: Less English spoken than Shanghai—great motivation to learn Mandarin
• Neighborhoods: Chaoyang for nightlife, Haidian for universities, Dongcheng for culture