Teaching English in Vietnam Requirements in 2024

Wondering what is necessary for foreigners to teach English in Vietnam? Don’t worry, Giscoo can help you to figure out your question about teaching English’s requirement in Vietnam in 2024. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the application process..

Teaching in Vietnam Requirements

While Vietnam has traditionally welcomed foreign English teachers, recent regulations have introduced some changes. Here's a breakdown of the key requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in any field remains the standard requirement for most teaching positions. This demonstrates your ability to commit to a rigorous academic program, a quality valued by Vietnamese employers. However, there might be a few exceptions for highly experienced teachers (typically with 5+ years of documented experience) who can showcase a proven track record of success in the ESL classroom.
• TEFL Certificate: While not universally mandatory, a TEFL certificate is strongly recommended. This internationally recognized qualification provides you with the pedagogical foundation for effective English language instruction. TEFL courses typically range from 120 to 170 hours and equip you with essential skills like lesson planning, classroom management, different teaching methodologies, and effective assessment techniques. Here's a breakdown of the different TEFL certifications and their acceptance levels in Vietnam:
  • TEFL Certificate (120 hours): This is the most basic TEFL certification and might be sufficient for some smaller language centers or private teaching gigs. However, many established schools and programs often prefer applicants with more comprehensive training.
  • TEFL Certificate (150+ hours): These advanced TEFL courses delve deeper into specific areas like teaching young learners, business English, or online teaching. Earning a more comprehensive TEFL certificate demonstrates a stronger commitment to the profession and can significantly enhance your application.
• English Proficiency (for Non-Native Speakers): If you're not a native English speaker, you'll need to demonstrate your English language proficiency through standardized tests like the IELTS or TOEFL. The specific score requirement might vary depending on the teaching position and the school's individual policy. However, most reputable institutions typically require a minimum score in the range of 7.0 - 8.0 on the IELTS or 80-100 on the TOEFL iBT.
• Work Visa and Sponsorship: To legally teach English in Vietnam, you'll require a work visa sponsored by your Vietnamese employer. This sponsorship process usually involves submitting various documents, including:
  • Certified copies of your bachelor's degree and TEFL certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of English language proficiency (for non-native speakers)
  • A clean criminal background check from your home country (and potentially other countries you've resided in for extended periods)
  • A medical certificate obtained from a Vietnamese healthcare facility

The employer will typically guide you through the visa application process and ensure all the necessary documents are in order.

Additional Considerations

• Experience: While not always mandatory, teaching experience can significantly enhance your application. Consider volunteering or teaching English online to gain valuable experience.
• Health Check: You might be required to undergo a basic health check in Vietnam to obtain a work visa.
• Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal background check is a standard requirement for securing a work visa.

Finding the Perfect Teaching Job

Several resources can help you find your ideal teaching position in Vietnam:

• TEFL course providers: Many TEFL course providers offer job placement assistance.
• Online job boards: Several online job boards specialize in ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching positions abroad, including Vietnam such as Giscoo Job Hub

Conclusion

Teaching English in Vietnam can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. By understanding the current requirements, honing your skills, and showcasing your passion, you can open the door to a life-changing adventure in Vietnam.