Job Discussion Forums

Xelent · Joined: 04 Oct 2010 Posts: 3

I am currently a 23 year old male(american native), with no degree, and need a change from my current IT job. I have read several places that big cities only allow people with degrees teach there. However, what are some cities (in China) that allow people without a degree to teach.

Thanks

tttompatz

Xelent · Joined: 04 Oct 2010 Posts: 3

I don't want to go to mexico......the company i currently work there has a facility there and I hear nightmare stories.

My mom was actually born in Panama, so I might check that out. However China was really my first choice. I want to be able to have a got legally and run the risk of being deported.

tttompatz · Posted: Tue Oct 05, 2010 8:36 pm Post subject:

Xelent · Joined: 04 Oct 2010 Posts: 3

I am looking to go through http://www.tefllife.com/

They are accredited here by the BBB (http://www.bbb.org/) so they are reputable company.

tttompatz · Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2010 11:15 am Post subject:

Chancellor

Chancellor · Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2010 2:04 pm Post subject:

Big Poppa Pump · Joined: 28 May 2010 Posts: 167

There are still plenty of places in China who still hire people without a degree and they get them a visa. It all depends on the relationship they have with the local government. I've hired a few teachers without proper diplomas myself, thankfully, I'm not in a position to have to do that for the foreseeable future.

I wouldn't do the Tefl lite thing, if you really want a TEFL, spring for the few extra bucks and get a celta. The brand name is worth it.

As for your degree...

Well.. Fort Hays State University and Eastern Oregon University have programs that are completely online and both are reasonably priced. I suggest just getting it done. It will open doors for you beyond the ESL industry as it shows you are capable of using your brains a bit.

Big Poppa Pump · Joined: 28 May 2010 Posts: 167

Though, keep in mind.. the number of places still hiring teachers without a degree are shrinking. There is 1 plus billion people in China, you are assured that you will be able to find something, but the numbers are shrinking as there is a surplus of degree holding Americans and other westerners looking for jobs.

GypsyKingAdventures · Joined: 08 Feb 2009 Posts: 25 Location: Tampa, Florida

I lived and taught in China all of 2009 and don't agree that you must have a degree to get a job teaching there. China is clamoring for anybody who is a native English speaker but you also need to be prepared for life in China; because it is a huge shock in comparison to almost all western countries. That being said, don't let your not having a degree stop you but it will take some guts.
I recommend; Put a digital package together of your resume (CV), pics of first two pages of your passport (black out the passport #), 2 or 3 references - then Google teaching jobs in China and send your info to every one of them. Take an honest look at the responses and you'll see that you will get positive and negative feedback...take a realistic view of how much positive feedback you get and if you can try to solidify something if possible (you will need to be in China but it's fun to try).
I moved to Shanghai without a job (have a degree and a TESL certificate that was not online) and stayed in a hotel for a solid month, walking around the incredible city, eating the food and getting acclimated and paying a small weekly rate and loved it! I sent out emails everyday, checked responses every night and went on three interviews in different cities after a few weeks.
You don't need much money to live comfortably in China, I suggest getting as close to a big city as possible and you'll have more choices for fun, quiet, partying, anything you want, and access to the trains which will take you all over the country for much less than you imagine.
Trust me, do it while you're still young and you will not regret it... Smile

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Truth be told, for the most part, a degree is now an immigration requirement for a visa as a teacher in almost all of Asia, all of Europe (as well as an EU passport), and North America.

I can only speak for Europe, but, having been here for 12+ years now, I know of no EU member country that requires a BA for a visa.

They do require a passport from an EU member country in most countries, though - I'm not offering this as a possibility for the OP, but only trying to set the record straight.

Old Surrender · Posted: Tue Dec 07, 2010 8:05 am Post subject:

Perhaps you should inquire in the China forum. We're working in China, afterall. Very Happy

Madame J · Posted: Tue Dec 07, 2010 1:36 pm Post subject:

EF Shanghai are hiring people without degrees. Not sure if they manage to get the proper visas for employees though.

TeresaLopez · Joined: 18 Apr 2010 Posts: 601 Location: Mexico City

[quote="tttompatz"]