
Cambodia has quietly become one of Southeast Asia’s most accessible and welcoming destinations for new and experienced English teachers alike. With fewer barriers to entry than neighboring countries, it draws a steady stream of teachers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and meaningful work.

Two of the most common teaching paths are through public (government) schools and private language centers. Each setting offers a different rhythm, different responsibilities, and a different kind of day-to-day life. Some teachers thrive on the structure of the private sector, while others prefer the laid-back, community-rooted feel of public schools.

Choosing where to teach isn’t just about salary — it’s about the kind of life you want to build while living and working abroad.

## 🏫 What is a Public School in Cambodia?

Public schools in Cambodia are government-run institutions that serve local communities across the country — from Phnom Penh to small rural towns. These schools often operate with limited resources, meaning classrooms can be sparsely equipped and teaching materials may be minimal. Despite the challenges, they provide a unique window into Cambodia’s culture and education system.

Teaching in a public school typically means working daytime hours, Monday to Friday, following a set curriculum. Class sizes can be large (30–50 students or more), and English levels may vary widely. Foreign teachers often collaborate with Khmer staff or co-teachers, which can be both a challenge and a rewarding opportunity for cross-cultural connection.

For those seeking authenticity and meaningful community engagement, public schools can offer a deeper sense of purpose — especially outside the major cities where foreign teachers are still a novelty.

## 🏢 What is a Private Language School?

Private language schools in Cambodia are for-profit institutions that specialize in English education — often focusing on practical, communicative skills. These schools operate outside of regular public school hours, which means most classes are held in the late afternoon, evenings, or on weekends.

Students range from young learners to university students and working adults looking to improve their job prospects. Class sizes are usually smaller (10–20 students), and the schools tend to have better infrastructure — think air-conditioned classrooms, whiteboards, and access to digital materials. The curriculum is generally more structured, and teachers are expected to follow lesson plans closely and track student progress.

This setting tends to attract teachers looking for more predictable teaching environments, modern facilities, and the chance to work with motivated learners. While you may work non-traditional hours, the trade-off is often greater comfort and support in your teaching role.

## ⏰ Schedule and Workload

One of the biggest differences between public and private schools in Cambodia is the daily schedule — and how it affects your lifestyle.

Public schools operate on a fixed schedule, typically from Monday to Friday, with teaching hours during the daytime. Weekends and national holidays are usually off, giving you a predictable routine and more opportunity for travel or relaxation. However, the workload can include large class sizes and minimal planning support.

Private language schools, on the other hand, often run classes in the late afternoon, evening, and on weekends. This setup caters to students who study or work during the day. While the hours are less conventional, private schools usually offer more flexibility in terms of part-time work or choosing your shifts — especially in larger cities.

Your decision might come down to how you want to balance free time, side gigs like tutoring or online teaching, and your overall lifestyle in Cambodia.

## 💰 Salary and Benefits Comparison

When it comes to pay, both public and private schools in Cambodia offer modest but livable salaries — with private schools usually offering a slight edge.

Public school teachers typically earn between **$700 and $1,000 USD per month**, depending on experience, hours taught, and whether you're working in Phnom Penh or a smaller town. Benefits are often minimal, but some schools provide basic housing assistance or transportation allowances.

Private language schools usually pay between **$800 and $1,200 USD per month**, and they may offer bonuses for attendance or performance. Some better-known institutions also provide paid leave, visa support, or even partial housing subsidies — though this varies widely.

Regardless of where you work, many teachers in Cambodia boost their earnings through **private tutoring, weekend classes, or online teaching**, especially in urban areas where demand is high. With smart budgeting, it's possible to live comfortably — and even save — while teaching in Cambodia.

## 📚 Curriculum and Teaching Styles

Teaching styles and curriculum expectations can vary widely depending on the type of school.

Public schools in Cambodia generally follow a **national curriculum**, which means the content is fairly rigid and may not always prioritize communicative English. Lessons often rely on repetition, grammar drills, and textbook-based learning. Many public schools have **limited resources**, and foreign teachers may be expected to create their own materials with little guidance. This setting can feel more traditional but gives you the chance to bring creativity into a system that needs it.

Private language schools usually offer a **more structured and supportive teaching environment**. These schools tend to emphasize **conversational English, student participation, and interactive activities**. You’re more likely to receive teacher training, lesson plans, and access to technology or teaching materials. While expectations may be higher in terms of professionalism and classroom management, there’s often **more room for dynamic, engaging teaching**.

Ultimately, your freedom in the classroom and the kind of teaching you'll do depends heavily on the school type — and your own initiative.

## 👨‍🏫 Class Size, Facilities, and Student Behavior

One of the clearest differences between public and private schools in Cambodia is the classroom environment.

**Public schools** often have **large class sizes**, sometimes exceeding 40 or even 50 students per room. Resources can be limited — think chalkboards, fans instead of air conditioning, and shared or outdated textbooks. The range of English ability within one class is usually wide, and discipline can vary depending on the school culture and age group. That said, these settings offer a more **authentic connection with the local education system**, and many teachers find the relationships they build with students to be meaningful.

**Private language schools**, on the other hand, tend to feature **smaller class sizes** — typically between 10 and 25 students. Facilities are generally more modern, with access to **whiteboards, projectors, air-conditioned rooms, and better teaching materials**. Students (and their parents) are usually paying customers, which means expectations for discipline, attendance, and performance are higher. You’ll often work with learners who are more motivated and accustomed to interacting with foreign teachers.

The classroom vibe you prefer — energetic and unpredictable, or structured and resource-rich — will help guide your decision.

## 🧘‍♀️ Lifestyle, Pressure, and Routine

Your day-to-day lifestyle as a teacher in Cambodia will be shaped heavily by the school environment you choose.

**Public schools** typically offer a **more relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere**. The workload may be lighter, and you're less likely to face intense administrative oversight. However, this comes with trade-offs — schedules might change last minute, resources may be lacking, and support from school leadership can be inconsistent. This kind of environment suits **laid-back teachers, travelers, or those looking for cultural immersion over career-building**.

**Private schools**, by contrast, tend to run with **more structure and higher expectations**. You’re likely to have regular schedules, clearer lesson plans, and a chain of command that holds you accountable. There’s more support — and more pressure. Performance reviews, parent expectations, and stricter discipline policies are common. This setup is better for **career educators, those seeking long-term roles, or teachers who prefer a professional and organized routine**.

Whether you're chasing flexibility or structure, Cambodia has space for both styles — it just depends on what balance you want.

## 🌍 Immersion vs Expat Networks

One of the biggest lifestyle differences between teaching in public and private schools in Cambodia is how connected you are to the local culture — and to other expats.

**Public schools** offer a chance for **deep cultural immersion**. You’re likely to be one of the few (if not the only) foreign teachers on staff. Your coworkers will mostly be Khmer, and your daily life will naturally bring you closer to local customs, language, and school traditions. This setting fosters a **strong sense of community** and allows for authentic connection — ideal for teachers who want to live like locals and understand Cambodian society from the inside.

**Private schools**, especially larger language centers, usually hire a **higher proportion of expat staff**. You may find yourself in a team with teachers from the US, UK, South Africa, the Philippines, and beyond. Communication will be easier in English, and there’s often a built-in social circle of fellow foreigners. The environment is more familiar and often **more supportive for first-time teachers**, but with less immersion into local life.

Both settings offer social and professional rewards — it just depends whether you’re seeking cross-cultural challenge or an expat-friendly springboard.

## 🔄 Can You Switch Between the Two?

Absolutely — many teachers in Cambodia end up experiencing both public schools and private language centers at different points in their journey.

It’s not uncommon to **start in a private school**, especially if you’re new to teaching or want the support of a structured environment. After gaining confidence and classroom experience, some teachers **transition to public schools** for a slower pace, more holidays, or a deeper cultural experience. Others may do the reverse: **leaving public roles for better pay or clearer career paths** in the private sector.

Switching is fairly straightforward, but there are a few logistics to consider. **Contracts may include clauses about notice periods**, and **your work permit is usually tied to your employer**, so a switch might mean a brief visa or paperwork adjustment. Still, schools and visa agents in Cambodia are used to these changes — and the process is usually smooth with proper planning.

In fact, having experience in both types of schools can make you a more versatile, in-demand teacher. Each setting builds different skills, and switching allows you to grow professionally while keeping your experience fresh.

## 🎯 Final Thoughts: Choosing What Fits Your Cambodia Journey

[Teaching English in Cambodia](/teach-english-cambodia) can take many forms — from lively language centers in Phnom Penh to rural public schools where the pace is slower but the immersion runs deep.

If you’re looking for **structure, consistency, and a built-in expat network**, private schools may be your best fit. They offer competitive salaries, modern classrooms, and more predictable expectations. On the other hand, **public schools invite you into the heart of Cambodian life**, offering flexibility, meaningful cultural connection, and a chance to stretch your resourcefulness as a teacher.

There’s no “better” path — just the one that aligns with what you’re after. Whether your goal is to save money, grow professionally, dive into local culture, or simply live an adventure with purpose, Cambodia has a place for you.

Reflect on your teaching style, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. With an open mind and a TEFL certificate in hand, you can shape a teaching journey in Cambodia that’s uniquely your own.


Teaching English in Cambodia: Public Vs Private Schools


Cambodia offers a refreshing balance for anyone looking to work online while experiencing life in Southeast Asia. It’s one of the region’s most affordable countries, and that low cost of living stretches far—meaning even part-time online work can cover your basic needs. Cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have fast Wi-Fi, plenty of cafés and coworking spots, and a surprisingly strong community of teachers, creatives, and digital nomads.

The TEFL scene here is steadily growing, but it’s less saturated than in nearby Thailand or Vietnam. That means more opportunities to carve out your own teaching path—whether that’s online, in-person, or a mix of both. The lifestyle is slow-paced but lively, and the locals are known for their warmth and openness toward foreigners.

Whether you’re working from a riverside café in Kampot or a studio apartment in the capital, Cambodia makes it easy to focus on teaching while enjoying the freedom that comes with working remotely.

## Who This Guide Is For

This is for the English teacher who wants more than just a job—it’s for the traveler who wants to stay a little longer, the freelancer who wants a cheap place to build their student base, and the classroom teacher looking to earn a little extra on the side.

If you’re already [teaching English in Cambodia](/teach-english-cambodia), picking up a few online students can seriously boost your monthly income without adding much to your workload. If you’re arriving as a digital nomad or remote worker, [online teaching](/teach-english-online) is a great way to support yourself while living in one of the easiest countries to settle in long-term.

It’s also a solid option for new teachers who want to gain experience without diving straight into a competitive job market. Cambodia has enough flexibility to try things out, adjust your schedule, and see what works best for your lifestyle.

## Internet, Work Environment, and Infrastructure

Cambodia might not be the first place that comes to mind for remote work, but it’s more prepared than you’d think. In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, high-speed internet is widely available, especially in apartments, hotels, and coworking spaces. Wi-Fi speeds are generally reliable enough for video calls and online classes—just make sure to test the connection before signing a long-term lease.

Coworking spaces are growing steadily, especially in Phnom Penh, where places like The Desk and Emerald Hub offer quiet, AC-cooled environments with stable internet and flexible memberships. Siem Reap also has a few cozy coworking cafés that cater to travelers working online. If you’re staying in a guesthouse or hostel, you’ll often find a strong enough connection for casual work—but it’s worth checking in advance if you plan to teach daily.

Teaching from home is common, but a few essentials make the difference: a backup mobile hotspot (Smart and Metfone offer decent coverage), noise-cancelling headphones, and a quiet setup away from street traffic or construction. In smaller towns like Kampot or Kep, internet can be patchier and power outages more frequent, so always have a Plan B—whether that’s a fully charged laptop or a local café with backup power.

## Types of Online English Teaching Jobs

### Global Teaching Platforms

The easiest way to get started teaching English online from Cambodia is through international platforms. Companies like **Cambly**, **Preply**, **italki**, **AmazingTalker**, and **Engoo** let you connect with students around the world, set your own schedule, and teach from wherever you’re living.

These platforms have varying requirements. Some are open to non-native speakers and don’t require a degree or TEFL certificate (Cambly), while others are more selective. Pay rates typically range from $8 to $25 USD per hour depending on experience, platform, and student type.

Cambodia’s timezone (GMT+7) works perfectly with student demand in China, Korea, Japan, and even the Middle East—making it easier to line up a consistent schedule without pulling all-nighters.

> 👉 Explore your options on our full [Teach English Online Guide](/teach-english-online).

### Local and Regional Platforms

Cambodia doesn’t have as many well-known local online platforms, but opportunities still exist. Some language centers—especially in Phnom Penh—offer hybrid or online-only classes, often using Zoom or Facebook groups to connect students and teachers.

You’ll also find ad-hoc tutoring jobs through local expat Facebook groups like “Teaching Jobs Cambodia” or “Expats in Phnom Penh.” These gigs might involve working with local families, international school students, or even adults prepping for IELTS or TOEFL.

It’s not unusual for in-person teaching contracts to evolve into part-time online lessons—particularly during holidays or if students travel. If you're already teaching in a school, it's worth asking if your employer offers or allows online options as part of your role.

### Freelance and Private Students

Going freelance is one of the most rewarding paths if you’re confident managing your own schedule and marketing yourself. Many online teachers in Cambodia build a client base of students from around the world, or even pick up private clients locally through referrals.

You can start by offering trial lessons via marketplaces like Preply or italki, then transition long-term students to private arrangements. Niche offerings like pronunciation coaching, IELTS prep, or conversation fluency tend to attract the most reliable students.

For payments, most freelancers use **Wise**, **PayPal**, or **Stripe**, depending on where their students are based. Cambodia doesn’t have the best local banking system for online work, so international accounts are key to getting paid smoothly.

With the low cost of living, even a handful of consistent students can go a long way—giving you more freedom to travel, save, or just enjoy your time without financial pressure.

## Visa Options and Legal Considerations

One of the big advantages of living and working online from Cambodia is how relaxed the visa system is. Compared to neighboring countries, it’s refreshingly simple and flexible—especially for long-term stays.

**Tourist and E-Class Visas**  
You can enter Cambodia on a 30-day tourist visa (T-class) and extend it once, but most people doing longer stays opt for the Ordinary Visa (E-class), which you can convert into a 6- or 12-month extension. These are often labeled as “business visas” but don’t necessarily require you to work for a registered Cambodian company.

The most common extension for teachers, remote workers, and freelancers is the **EG visa** (general extension), followed by the **ER** (retirement) and **EB** (business/working) extensions. These are relatively easy to get through a visa agent without jumping through too many hoops.

**Can You Legally Teach Online from Cambodia?**  
This is where it gets a bit grey. Technically, Cambodian visas don’t explicitly permit or prohibit working online for foreign clients. Because your income isn’t Cambodian-sourced and doesn’t take a job from a local, most online teachers operate without issue—especially if you're not advertising local services publicly.

If you’re teaching online as a side hustle while working in-person at a school, it’s even more common—and generally seen as fine by employers and immigration alike.

**What Most Online Teachers Do**

- Arrive on an E-class visa and extend it with an **EG** or **EB** visa for 6 or 12 months
- Work entirely online without registering a local business
- Maintain a low profile if working for private clients
- Use international payment platforms (like Wise or PayPal) to receive earnings

Cambodia’s approach is refreshingly low-enforcement, but it’s still smart to avoid advertising yourself as “open for business” to local clients unless you're fully legal. Teaching online for students overseas remains the safest and most common option.

## Cost of Living vs. Online Teaching Income

Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia to live in—especially if you're earning in USD through online teaching. Whether you’re staying in the capital, a tourist town, or a small riverside city, it doesn’t take much to live comfortably.

**Typical Monthly Costs**

- **Phnom Penh**: $600–$1,000 for a private apartment, meals out, transport, SIM/data, and basics
- **Siem Reap**: $500–$900 for a similar lifestyle, a bit cheaper and more relaxed
- **Kampot/Kep**: $400–$800 if you’re living simply and cooking more often

Rent ranges from $200–$400/month for a private studio or 1-bedroom apartment in most cities. Utilities and fast internet add another $50–$100, and food costs are low—local meals cost $2–$3, while Western options run $5–$10.

**How Much Do You Need to Earn?**  
To live well in Cambodia as an online teacher:

- **$800/month** is enough to get by modestly
- **$1,200/month** allows for regular comforts and some savings
- **$1,500+/month** means full comfort, travel, and the ability to save or reinvest

Even if you're working just 15–20 hours a week online, that’s usually enough to cover your base expenses. If you add in-person teaching on the side, you can easily boost your income to $2,000/month or more.

**Combining Income Sources**  
Many teachers in Cambodia use a hybrid strategy:

- **Local teaching job** for visa sponsorship and a steady paycheck
- **Online teaching** for flexibility, extra income, and global experience

This setup offers stability while keeping the freedom to grow your income on your terms—and it makes living in Cambodia not just affordable, but genuinely enjoyable.

## Best Places in Cambodia for Online Teachers

### **Phnom Penh**

Cambodia’s capital is where most of the country’s teaching jobs, coworking spaces, and reliable infrastructure are concentrated. Internet speeds are strong in most parts of the city, and there’s no shortage of modern apartments, cafés, and quiet corners to work from. The cost of living is still low by regional standards, though slightly higher than in smaller towns. It’s a good fit for teachers who want a balance between work, social life, and creature comforts—plus access to embassies, hospitals, and decent shopping.

### **Siem Reap**

Famous for being the gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has transformed into a chill, creative hub with a surprisingly strong remote work scene. It’s smaller and quieter than Phnom Penh, but still offers good internet, affordable housing, and a growing number of coworking cafés. Because it’s a major tourist spot, there’s a lot of English spoken and a steady flow of new people passing through. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and the pace of life makes it ideal for teachers who want to work a few hours a day and enjoy their surroundings.

### **Kampot & Kep**

Down by the coast, Kampot and Kep offer a slower, more scenic version of expat life. These towns are popular with people looking to unplug while still getting work done. Internet can be hit or miss depending on your building or provider, so it’s essential to test speeds or bring a backup mobile connection. You won’t find coworking spaces everywhere, but plenty of quiet cafés serve the same purpose. These towns are ideal for experienced teachers who already have a steady stream of students and want a break from busy cities.

### **Pros and Cons at a Glance**

- **Phnom Penh**: Great infrastructure and job access, but busy and hotter
- **Siem Reap**: Balanced, friendly, touristy, good amenities
- **Kampot/Kep**: Peaceful and scenic, but limited resources and slower pace

Where you base yourself really depends on your teaching style and lifestyle goals—but the good news is that it’s easy (and cheap) to move around and try a few places before settling in.

## Pros and Cons of Teaching English Online from Cambodia

### ✅ Pros

- **Low cost of living** – You don’t need a big salary to live well. Even part-time online work can fund a comfortable lifestyle.
- **Visa flexibility** – Long-term stays are possible without complicated paperwork or constant border runs.
- **Relaxed pace of life** – Cambodia is a great place to slow down, focus on teaching, and enjoy your time abroad without burnout.
- **Strategic time zone** – Teaching students in Asia or Europe is easy to schedule from Cambodia.
- **Easy to combine with in-person work** – Many teachers build a hybrid routine of classroom and online teaching to diversify income.

### ⚠️ Cons

- **Internet can be unreliable** – Especially outside the main cities. Always have a mobile backup or choose your apartment carefully.
- **Fewer local online platforms** – Most opportunities come from global companies or freelance work, not Cambodian-specific platforms.
- **Limited professional networking** – Cambodia has a smaller digital nomad and TEFL crowd than places like Thailand or Vietnam.
- **Banking and payments** – Local banking is less integrated with international platforms, so you’ll rely on services like Wise or PayPal.

For teachers who value independence, flexibility, and affordability, Cambodia is one of the easiest and most enjoyable countries to teach online from—even if it requires a little extra resourcefulness along the way.

## Tips for Succeeding as an Online Teacher in Cambodia

Teaching online from Cambodia can be smooth and rewarding, but it helps to plan ahead—especially if you’re moving between cities or working with international clients.

**Create a reliable workspace.**  
Whether you're in Phnom Penh or a sleepy beach town, make sure your internet is strong enough for video calls. Choose an apartment with fiber if possible, or pick up a local SIM card with data (Smart and Metfone are solid options) to use as a hotspot. Have a quiet corner set up with decent lighting, a good headset, and a comfortable chair—these small things go a long way in making lessons more professional.

**Stay organized.**  
Juggling students across platforms and time zones can get messy quickly. Use tools like Google Calendar, Notion, or even Trello to keep track of classes, student progress, and scheduling preferences. Always double-check time zones, especially during daylight saving changes in other countries.

**Make payments easy.**  
Since most platforms and private students won’t pay into Cambodian bank accounts, set up international services like **Wise**, **Payoneer**, or **PayPal** to receive funds. Keep in mind that some platforms only support specific methods, so check this before committing to one.

**Plan for power and tech issues.**  
In smaller towns, occasional power cuts are part of life. Keep your devices charged, consider a power bank or small backup battery, and always have a hotspot ready. Let students know if you’re in a location where disruptions might happen—it helps set realistic expectations and builds trust.

## Is Cambodia a Good Base for Teaching English Online?

Cambodia suits a particular kind of teacher—the kind who values freedom, flexibility, and doesn’t mind a little unpredictability now and then.

It’s a great fit for:

- **New teachers** who want to build experience while living affordably
- **Budget-conscious digital nomads** who need to stretch their income
- **Freelancers or side-hustlers** combining online teaching with other projects
- **In-person teachers** looking to top up their salary or transition online

If you’re after a highly structured, ultra-modern setup, Cambodia might not be your ideal destination. But if you're adaptable, self-directed, and want to enjoy Southeast Asia without breaking the bank, it offers the perfect mix of work and adventure.

Many teachers use Cambodia as a starting point, gaining experience and saving money before moving on to more expensive countries—or they fall in love with the rhythm of life and end up staying much longer than expected.

## Useful Resources and Next Steps

- [Teach English in Cambodia](/teach-english-cambodia) – Learn about in-person teaching opportunities, qualifications, and visa options.
- [English Teaching Jobs in Cambodia](/jobs/cambodia) – See current job openings across Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and beyond.
- [Teach English Online Guide](/teach-english-online) – Compare top platforms, freelance tips, and payment tools to start your online teaching journey.


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