TEFL Courses in Hong Kong, China

Global trotters looking to spend time in a diverse Asian city with international connections should consider getting TEFL certified in Hong Kong. It's is an international metropolis with residents from India, Pakistan, European countries and America. From its crowded streets filled with food vendors to the beautiful tourist attractions along Victoria Harbor, Hong Kong is fantastic place to complete a TEFL course and start a new career.

Completing your TEFL course in Hong Kong will provide you with the strong foundation to live and work in Hong Kong’s private and public school establishments. You will make connections with the city’s ESL job market and even learn about opportunities beyond the city. However, the number of available TEFL courses is limited in Hong Kong.

Four Week Courses:

In four weeks potential teachers are taught teaching methods and standards for teaching English as foreign language. Earning a TEFL certificate in Hong Kong directly allows a teacher to experience and adjust to life in the city. This can also lead to a greater chance to secure employment while being in Hong Kong upon completion of the course.

Part-Time Courses:

Part-time courses cover all the components of a month long TEFL course but are spread out over 3 months. This type of course might be a good option for those looking to spend time exploring the city during the duration of their TEFL course.

When and Where to Look:

The best time to take a TEFL course in Hong Kong is between May and June as the academic school year begins in late August. Schools and recruiters will begin their search around this time for new teachers. Most TEFL programs will provide students with housing with an additional housing fee.

Qualifications:

To enroll in most TEFL courses you must be 18 years of age and a native speaker or non-native with a high proficiency of the English language. However, if you are planning on staying in Hong Kong you must have a Bachelor’s degree to obtain a work visa.

Post TEFL Resources:

While some TEFL courses might help you seek employment others may not. There are many recruiting companies in Hong Kong and throughout China that recruit English teachers for private and public schools. Some of these include China Job, Foot Prints Recruiting, and Gold Start Teachers. Another option is to teach at language school which may be run by a business or corporation.

It is strongly recommended to thoroughly research recruiters and any schools advertising for English teachers. A legitimate agency will never ask for a fee to help place you in a teaching position. Also, it might not hurt to try and connect with other teachers whom have gone through a recruiting agency you are considering taking an offer from.

Cost of Living:

Hong Kong has been ranked as the 13th most expensive city to live in globally. Even a small one-bedroom apartment outside the city limits cost a staggering $1,400 USD a month to rent. It is best to probably take the accommodation offered by the TEFL program. If you plan on teaching in Hong Kong you may want to check and see if any cost of housing is covered under your teaching contract as well. Learn more about the cost of living in Hong Kong on Numbeo.

Contributed by Heidi Cruz