Do Schools in Asia Check Introduction Videos? What Foreign Teachers Need to Know in 2026

When applying for teaching jobs in Asia, many foreign teachers ask the same question:
Do schools really watch introduction videos, or are they just a formality?

The short answer is yes.
In 2026, introduction videos are one of the most commonly reviewed materials during the hiring process, especially in Asia’s competitive ESL market.

This article explains why schools check introduction videos, how they use them, and how foreign teachers can gain a clear advantage by preparing one properly.

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1. What Is an Introduction Video?

An introduction video is a short self-recorded video, usually 1–2 minutes long, where a teacher introduces themselves to potential employers.

Most schools expect the video to include:
- Your name and nationality
- Teaching experience
- Age groups you have worked with
- A brief demonstration of communication style
- Friendly and professional presence

While not always legally required, introduction videos have become an informal screening tool across Asia.

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2. Do Schools in Asia Actually Watch Introduction Videos?

Yes. In many cases, introduction videos are checked before CVs are read in detail.

Schools in countries such as:
- Vietnam
- China
- Thailand
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Indonesia

receive a high volume of applications. Watching a short video allows recruiters to quickly assess whether a candidate matches their teaching environment.

For busy academic managers, a clear introduction video saves time and reduces interview risks.

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3. Why Introduction Videos Matter to Schools

Schools check introduction videos for several practical reasons.

First, communication clarity  
Schools want to confirm that your spoken English is clear, understandable, and suitable for students.

Second, teaching presence  
A video shows confidence, warmth, and classroom energy better than a CV.

Third, professionalism  
Lighting, posture, tone, and preparation reflect how you may present yourself in front of students and parents.

Fourth, student suitability  
For kindergartens and young learner programs, facial expression and friendliness are especially important.

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4. Is This Different for NES and NNES Teachers?

Yes, but in a realistic way.

For NES teachers, schools often use the video to check:
- Speaking style
- Classroom energy
- Attitude toward young learners

For NNES teachers, introduction videos are even more important.
They help schools evaluate:
- Pronunciation clarity
- Fluency
- Accent neutrality
- Confidence when speaking English

A strong video often removes initial hesitation and increases interview chances significantly.

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5. At What Stage Do Schools Check the Video?

Schools typically check introduction videos at one of these stages:
- Initial screening before shortlisting
- Before scheduling an interview
- Before recommending a candidate to parents or head offices

In many language centers, academic teams shortlist candidates almost entirely based on CV + video before proceeding further.

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6. Introduction Videos and Work Permit Considerations

It is important to note that introduction videos are not part of the official work permit process.

However, schools still rely on them because:
- Hiring mistakes delay work permit applications
- Schools want to minimize visa risks
- A confident teacher is easier to place legally and operationally

In practice, a strong video can indirectly speed up the hiring and onboarding process.

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7. What Schools Look for in a Good Introduction Video

Schools are not looking for perfection or professional studio production.

They focus on:
- Bright, natural lighting
- Clear audio without background noise
- Neutral or friendly background
- Professional appearance
- Calm, confident speaking pace

Content matters more than editing. Overly scripted or overly casual videos may work against you.

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8. Common Mistakes Foreign Teachers Make

Many candidates underestimate how closely videos are reviewed.

Common mistakes include:
- Poor lighting or dark rooms
- Loud background noise
- Reading directly from a script
- Overly long videos
- Casual posture or unclear speech

These issues can lead to rejection even if qualifications are strong.

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9. Why Schools Prefer Videos Over Written Introductions

Written profiles do not show:
- Real pronunciation
- Facial expression
- Teaching warmth
- Natural communication flow

Videos allow schools to imagine how you would interact with students on the first day of class.

In parent-facing markets such as Vietnam and China, this matters greatly.

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10. Should You Update Your Introduction Video?

Yes. Schools prefer recent videos.

You should update your video if:
- Your appearance has changed significantly
- You gained new teaching experience
- You want to target a different age group
- Your previous video is over 18 months old

An updated video shows professionalism and commitment.

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FAQ: Introduction Videos for Teaching Jobs in Asia

Q1: Are introduction videos mandatory?  
Not legally, but most schools strongly prefer them.

Q2: How long should an introduction video be?  
Ideally between 1 and 2 minutes.

Q3: Do online and offline schools both check videos?  
Yes, both types commonly review videos during screening.

Q4: Can a bad video hurt my chances?  
Yes. Poor video quality or unclear speech can lead to rejection.

Q5: Do experienced teachers still need an introduction video?  
Yes. Experience helps, but schools still want to see your teaching presence.