How to Start Teaching English in Shanghai: Everything You Need to Know

Shanghai is China's most international city and a top destination for ESL teachers. The pay is excellent, the city is vibrant, and there's a massive expat community. Here's your complete guide to starting your teaching career in Shanghai.

Why Shanghai?

• Highest salaries in China: 20,000-30,000+ RMB/month for qualified teachers
• International lifestyle: Western restaurants, bars, and amenities everywhere
• Historic and modern: The Bund, French Concession, and futuristic Pudong
• Huge expat community: Easy to make friends and network
• Career opportunities: Many international schools and corporate training jobs

Types of Teaching Jobs

Language Training Centers

EF, Wall Street English, Meten, and dozens of local chains. Salaries: 16,000-24,000 RMB/month. Evening and weekend schedules.

International Schools

Shanghai has some of the best international schools in Asia. Pay: 30,000-50,000+ RMB/month plus housing. Requires teaching license and experience.

Bilingual Schools

Chinese schools with international curricula. Pay: 20,000-35,000 RMB/month. Regular school hours.

Corporate Training

Teaching business English to professionals. Pay: 300-600 RMB/hour. Flexible scheduling.

Finding Jobs Through WeChat

In China, WeChat isn't optional—it's essential. The best jobs are shared in WeChat groups before they ever hit job boards.

How It Works

1. Download WeChat and create an account
2. Meet other foreigners at expat events, cafes, or through apps like Meetup
3. Ask to be added to job groups—everyone knows someone who can add you
4. Network aggressively—the more groups you're in, the more opportunities you see

Popular WeChat Groups

• Shanghai ESL Jobs
• Shanghai Teachers
• Expats in Shanghai
• Shanghai Part-Time Teaching

Working with Agents

Many groups have 中介 (agents) who connect teachers with schools. Good agents can open doors to better jobs. Build relationships with a few and they'll bring you opportunities.

Online Job Boards

• eChinacities.com: Most popular ESL job board in China
• SmartShanghai.com: Shanghai-specific listings
• hiredchina.com: Growing platform for teaching jobs
• Dave's ESL Cafe: Traditional ESL job board

Visa Requirements

Legal teaching requires a Z visa. You'll need:

• Bachelor's degree (authenticated and notarized)
• TEFL/TESOL certificate (120 hours minimum)
• 2 years work experience OR related degree
• Clean background check
• Health examination (in China)

Cost of Living

• Rent: 5,000-8,000 RMB/month for a decent apartment (more in popular areas)
• Food: 2,000-4,000 RMB/month
• Transport: 300-500 RMB/month

Shanghai is more expensive than other Chinese cities, but salaries are higher to match.

Pro Tips

• The French Concession and Jing'an are popular with expats but expensive
• Learn to use Dianping (China's Yelp) for restaurants and services
• Get a Chinese bank account ASAP—cash is nearly dead in China
• Negotiate housing allowance separately from salary