NET Scheme Hong Kong: Salary, Application, and Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of teaching English abroad while immersing yourself in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities, the NET Scheme in Hong Kong might be exactly what you’re looking for. Short for the Native-speaking English Teacher Scheme, this government-backed program places qualified English teachers in public primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong - offering competitive salaries, generous housing allowances, and the chance to experience life in a truly international city.

Whether you’re an experienced educator seeking a new adventure, or a first-time applicant looking to launch your teaching career overseas, the NET Scheme is one of the most stable and rewarding opportunities in the ESL world. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know - from salary details and benefits to how the application process works — so you can decide if teaching in Hong Kong is the right move for you.

What Is the NET Scheme?

The NET Scheme - short for Native-speaking English Teacher Scheme - is a long-running program funded by the Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB) that brings qualified English teachers from around the world into local public schools. The goal? To boost English language education by exposing students to native-level instruction, new teaching styles, and authentic cultural exchange.

There are two main roles within the program: Primary NETs, who work with younger students (typically ages 6–12), and Secondary NETs, who teach teens in local high schools. While both positions aim to improve students’ English skills, the classroom dynamics, curriculum focus, and teaching responsibilities can vary depending on the level.

What makes the NET Scheme especially attractive is that it’s not a private company or third-party recruiter - it’s directly administered by the Hong Kong government, which means the salary, benefits, and support are consistent and reliable. For teachers looking to live abroad, grow professionally, and experience the energy of city life in Asia, the NET Scheme offers a uniquely stable and enriching path to do just that.

NET Scheme Salary and Benefits

One of the biggest draws of the NET Scheme - besides the chance to live in vibrant, fast-paced Hong Kong - is the generous salary and benefits package. Whether you're looking to save money, travel throughout Asia, or simply live comfortably abroad, the NET Scheme offers one of the best compensation packages for ESL teachers anywhere.

💰 Salary Ranges

Your salary depends on your qualifications and experience, using a structured pay scale and points system set by the Hong Kong Education Bureau. Here's a general idea:

• Primary NETs: HKD $32,000 – $73,000/month (approx. USD $4,100 – $9,300)
• Secondary NETs: HKD $32,000 – $76,000/month (approx. USD $4,100 – $9,700)

Teachers with formal teaching credentials (like a PGCE or QTS) and years of experience will be placed higher on the pay scale.

🏠 Housing Allowance

If your contract doesn’t include school-provided housing, you’ll receive a monthly housing allowance of around HKD $20,000 (approx. USD $2,500). This is in addition to your salary and helps cover rent in Hong Kong’s competitive housing market.

✈️ Passage and Baggage Allowance

To help with relocation, the EDB also provides:

• Passage allowance: Covers round-trip airfare for you (and eligible dependents)
• Baggage allowance: Assists with moving costs when arriving and departing

These are reimbursed per contract cycle and are a great bonus for international teachers.

🎁 Gratuity and Bonus

At the end of each completed 2-year contract, you’re eligible for a 15% gratuity - essentially a bonus based on your total earnings. It’s a nice financial boost if you decide to stay beyond your first contract.

🏥 Medical Insurance

The scheme includes basic medical insurance for you and any eligible dependents. This covers general outpatient care and hospitalization in public facilities.

💸 Low Income Tax

Hong Kong has one of the lowest income tax rates in the world, typically capped at 15% or less. Many NETs find they can save significantly more than in their home countries while enjoying a high standard of living.

NET Scheme Requirements

Thinking about making the move to teach in Hong Kong? The NET Scheme is open to teachers from around the world, but there are a few important boxes to tick before you apply. Whether you're an experienced educator or a qualified ESL teacher looking for your next big adventure, here's what you'll need.

🎓 General Qualifications

To be eligible for the NET Scheme, you’ll typically need:

• A Bachelor’s degree or above, ideally in English, Education, or a related field
• A recognized TEFL/TESOL qualification (at least 100 hours) if you don’t have a teaching license
• A strong command of native-level English

🌍 The program is open to citizens from English-speaking countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland.

🏫 Requirements for Primary vs. Secondary NETs

While both positions aim to improve students’ English fluency, the entry requirements differ slightly:

Primary NETs should have:

• A degree (in any subject) plus a TEFL certificate
• At least one year of full-time teaching experience, preferably with young learners
• Bonus: A teaching qualification like PGDE, PGCE, BEd, or equivalent

Secondary NETs should have:

• A degree in English or Education plus a teacher training qualification (like PGCE, QTS, or state/provincial license)
• At least one year of post-certification teaching experience
• Bonus: Experience teaching literature, speaking & listening, or exam prep (e.g. IELTS)

🗣️ Language Requirements

Applicants must be native-level English speakers. While a passport from an English-speaking country helps demonstrate this, your communication skills and academic background will also be assessed.

🏅 Preferred Qualifications and Experience

While the basic requirements get you in the door, the EDB gives preference to candidates with:

• Formal teacher training (PGCE, PGDE, BEd, QTS, etc.)
• Strong ESL credentials (e.g., CELTA, Trinity CertTESOL)
• Experience teaching in a public school or international setting
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability

NET Scheme Application Process

Ready to take the leap and teach in Hong Kong? The NET Scheme application process is straightforward but competitive, so it’s important to be organized and proactive. Whether you're applying directly or through a recruitment agency, here's how to get started.

🌐 Where and How to Apply

There are two main ways to apply:

1. Directly through the Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB):
   Visit the official NET Scheme page to download application forms and view current openings.

2. Through recruitment agencies:
   Some teachers prefer to apply through international recruitment agencies that specialize in placing educators in Asia. These agencies can help with paperwork, interviews, and relocation support.

✨ Tip: Applying directly often gives you more control and insight into the process, but agencies can be helpful for first-timers.

📝 Documents You’ll Need

Prepare these documents early to avoid delays:

• Completed application form (available on the EDB website)
• Certified copies of your degree(s) and transcripts
• Teaching certificates (e.g., TEFL, TESOL, PGCE, CELTA)
• Valid passport copy
• Recent reference letters (usually 2–3)
• Resume/CV tailored for teaching positions
• Teaching portfolio or sample lesson plans (optional but helpful)

📅 Application Timeline

• The main hiring cycle is for the August intake (the start of the academic year).
• Applications typically open in January or February.
• Shortlisted candidates are interviewed in March–May.
• Final offers are usually made by June or July.

✅ Early applications are encouraged, as processing times can vary and positions fill quickly.

🎙️ Interview and Selection Process

If shortlisted, you'll be invited to an online or in-person interview, often conducted by a panel from the EDB. You may be asked about:

• Your teaching experience and methods
• Classroom management strategies
• Cultural awareness and adaptability
• Why you want to teach in Hong Kong

Some candidates may also be asked to present a sample lesson plan or complete a short teaching demo.

🌟 Tips for Standing Out

• Highlight your teaching qualifications and real classroom experience
• Showcase your flexibility, cross-cultural understanding, and passion for education
• Tailor your application to show how you can contribute to local schools - not just that you want to live abroad
• Include any experience with ESL learners, curriculum development, or student engagement strategies

Life as a NET Teacher in Hong Kong

Teaching in Hong Kong through the NET Scheme is more than just a job - it’s a full cultural experience. You'll be working in local schools, collaborating with local teachers, and playing a key role in shaping how students use and understand English in their daily lives. Here's what life is really like as a NET teacher in Hong Kong.

🏫 What to Expect in Local Schools

Most NETs are placed in government or aided schools, where they work alongside local English teachers to enhance language learning. You might:

• Lead speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities
• Run extra-curricular English clubs or camps
• Help develop curriculum materials
• Team-teach or co-plan lessons with local staff

The environment is professional, structured, and respectful — with a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

🕘 Working Hours and Teaching Load

NET teachers generally work Monday to Friday, with school days running from around 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. While schedules vary slightly by school, most NETs teach 20–25 lessons per week, with additional time for lesson planning, meetings, and activities.

✨ Weekends and public holidays are yours to explore — perfect for day trips, hiking, or weekend getaways across Asia.

🤝 Support and Orientation

The Hong Kong Education Bureau provides a comprehensive orientation program for newly arrived NETs, covering everything from classroom expectations to life in the city. You’ll also be assigned a school mentor to help you settle in, both professionally and personally.

In addition, you’ll be part of a tight-knit NET community, with regular meetups, support groups, and social events.

📚 Professional Development

NETs are encouraged to grow throughout their contracts. The EDB offers:

• Workshops and training seminars
• Curriculum planning sessions
• Opportunities to present or attend English education conferences
• Support for continued studies and development

It’s a great chance to improve your teaching craft while contributing to English education at a national level.

👩‍🏫 Classroom Culture and Student Expectations

Hong Kong classrooms tend to be disciplined and exam-oriented, but students are generally respectful, motivated, and eager to learn - especially when lessons are interactive and engaging.

Many students are used to traditional, textbook-heavy instruction, so your creativity and natural communication skills will go a long way in building confidence and fluency.

Pros and Cons of the NET Scheme

Teaching abroad isn’t just a career move - it’s a life experience. And like any major adventure, the NET Scheme comes with its own set of highs and challenges. Here's a balanced look at what you can expect if you're considering this path.

✅ Pros

💸 High Salary & Benefits

The NET Scheme offers one of the highest-paying ESL teaching positions in Asia, plus housing, flights, medical coverage, and end-of-contract bonuses - making it financially rewarding and sustainable for long-term travel or saving.

🏛️ Prestigious, Government-Backed Program

Unlike many private ESL gigs, the NET Scheme is run by the Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB), giving you job security, structure, and clear standards. It also looks great on your CV if you plan to stay in education.

🌏 An Incredible Cultural & Travel Experience

Living in Hong Kong means daily exposure to a fusion of East and West, world-class cuisine, buzzing city life, and easy access to the rest of Asia. It’s a perfect base for weekend getaways or deeper immersion into Chinese culture.

📚 Opportunities for Growth

With regular professional development workshops, mentoring, and teaching autonomy, you'll have plenty of room to grow your skills - both in and out of the classroom.

⚠️ Cons

🧑‍🏫 Competitive Application Process

Because of the excellent pay and perks, the NET Scheme attracts highly qualified candidates from around the world. Expect a thorough screening process and a bit of a wait to hear back.

🧠 Adapting to Local School Culture

Teaching in Hong Kong can be quite different from what you're used to — more formal, test-focused, and structured. It can take time to adjust to local expectations, classroom etiquette, and co-teaching dynamics.

💰 High Cost of Living

Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially when it comes to rent, dining, and entertainment. While the salary and housing allowance help a lot, budgeting is still important — especially if you’re supporting a family or hoping to save big.

Final Thoughts & Resources

If you're looking for a teaching opportunity that combines adventure, stability, and strong financial rewards, the NET Scheme in Hong Kong is hard to beat. With competitive salaries, full relocation support, and the chance to live in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, it's no wonder this program attracts teachers from all over the world.

🌟 Is the NET Scheme Right for You?

The program is ideal for:

• Qualified English teachers with a passion for language and cultural exchange
• Educators seeking international experience in a highly respected government program
• Adventurous individuals ready to live abroad, explore Asia, and grow professionally
• ESL teachers with TEFL/TESOL certifications and classroom experience who want more stability and better pay

If you're someone who loves teaching, enjoys cultural immersion, and wants to take your career overseas — this is your opportunity.

If you meet the requirements and feel ready to take the leap, don't hesitate to apply. Opportunities like the NET Scheme don’t come around often - and they can truly change your life, both in and out of the classroom.