Can you teach English in Cambodia with no experience?

Cambodia has quietly become one of the easiest places in Asia to start teaching English—even if you’ve never set foot in a classroom before. With a friendly culture, low cost of living, and plenty of schools actively hiring, it’s the kind of place that gives new teachers a real shot.

Unlike stricter markets like Japan or South Korea, Cambodia doesn’t always require a degree or prior experience. Instead, schools often look for enthusiasm, reliability, and a genuine interest in helping students learn. If you’re open to learning as you go, this country can be a launchpad into a life of travel, growth, and meaningful work.

✅ 1. Is Teaching Experience Required in Cambodia?

Nope—you don’t need teaching experience to land a job in Cambodia. In fact, many schools are used to hiring first-time teachers and provide some on-the-job guidance. This makes it one of the best countries in Asia for those just getting started.

Private language schools and community-based NGOs often prioritize attitude, reliability, and a willingness to engage with students over formal qualifications. As long as you’re confident speaking English and can connect with learners, you’re off to a good start. Personality often matters more than a polished resume here.

🎓 2. What Qualifications Do You Need Instead?

Unlike many other countries in Asia, Cambodia doesn’t strictly require a bachelor’s degree for English teaching jobs—though having one can open more doors. What’s more important, especially if you’re new to teaching, is holding a TEFL certification, ideally a 120-hour course.

Even though it’s not legally required, a TEFL certificate shows schools that you’re serious about teaching and have at least a foundational understanding of how to run a classroom. It also helps you feel more confident when you step into one for the first time.

Online TEFL courses are a great fit for beginners. They're affordable, flexible, and can be completed in a few weeks—even while you plan your move. It’s a smart way to boost your chances of getting hired and hit the ground running in Cambodia.

🏫 3. The Best Job Types for New Teachers

If you're just getting started, Cambodia offers a range of beginner-friendly teaching environments where enthusiasm matters more than experience.

• Private language schools are the most accessible. They hire year-round and often provide on-the-job training. These roles usually involve evening or weekend classes with learners of all ages.

• NGOs and community programs are a great match for those who value social impact. You might work with underserved youth or rural communities, and while the pay is lower, the experience is deeply rewarding.

• Public schools offer a more traditional setting with larger class sizes and a structured schedule. They're ideal if you're looking to ease into teaching with less pressure and more opportunity for cultural immersion.

While international schools typically require teaching credentials and experience, they can be a great goal to work toward after gaining a year or two in the classroom.

✈️ 5. Where to Start Looking for Jobs as a Newbie

If you're new to teaching, Cambodia offers a surprisingly welcoming job market—especially in the right places.

• Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are your best bets. These cities have the largest number of schools, NGOs, and private academies, with systems in place to help new teachers settle in.

• For a quieter, more authentic experience, consider smaller towns like Kampot, Battambang, or Takeo. These locations may have fewer positions but are often more relaxed and community-focused.

• To find your first job, explore:

  • Job Boards like Teast
  • Local Facebook groups like “Teaching English in Cambodia”
  • Walk-in visits to language centers with your CV in hand
  • Partner NGOs or volunteer programs that support first-time teachers

📚 6. Why TEFL Still Matters—Even if Experience Doesn’t

Even if you’re brand new to teaching, getting TEFL certified is one of the smartest things you can do before heading to Cambodia.

• It teaches you real-world classroom skills like managing students, planning lessons, and adapting materials—skills that will make your first weeks much smoother.
• You'll walk in with more confidence and structure, which students (and employers) pick up on quickly.
• Many schools—especially the ones offering better pay—prefer or require TEFL certification, even if they don’t ask for teaching experience.
• An online TEFL course gives you a flexible, affordable way to prepare. You can study on your own time and finish before (or even after) arriving.

While Cambodia is one of the few places where you can teach without experience, having a TEFL puts you a step ahead of the rest.

💬 7. Tips to Succeed as a First-Time Teacher in Cambodia

Landing the job is one thing—thriving in the classroom is another. Here’s how to make your early days count:

• Observe experienced teachers whenever you can. Most schools are happy to let you sit in on lessons. You’ll pick up techniques, classroom flow, and cultural norms fast.
• Keep lessons simple and structured. Start with clear objectives, repeat key language points, and build lessons that are interactive but manageable.
• Use visuals, gestures, and games—especially if your students’ English level is low.
• Create consistent routines to help students (and you) feel more comfortable and focused.
• Focus on building rapport. Cambodian students are generally respectful and eager, but they may be shy at first. A friendly, patient attitude goes a long way.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s steady improvement and connection.

🌱 8. Long-Term Opportunities After Starting in Cambodia

Starting out in Cambodia doesn’t mean staying entry-level forever. In fact, many teachers use it as a springboard for growth:

• After 6 to 12 months of experience, you'll become eligible for better-paying roles within Cambodia—such as coordinator positions, private tutoring, or international school jobs (especially if you earn a degree or license).
• With experience under your belt, you can also transition to other Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, or even South Korea, where higher salaries and stricter requirements often exclude total beginners.
• Consider upgrading your TEFL or adding specialties (like teaching young learners or business English) to expand your options.
• Cambodia’s relaxed entry path and welcoming schools make it one of the best places to launch a long-term teaching career.

It’s a great first step with doors that lead far beyond the classroom you start in.

📝 Conclusion: Start Bold, Start Here

If you’ve ever dreamed of teaching abroad but felt held back by your lack of experience, Cambodia might just be your perfect starting point. It’s one of the few places where schools welcome enthusiastic newcomers, where the cost of living lets you enjoy life even on a modest salary, and where your impact as a teacher can be deeply meaningful.

While you don’t need teaching experience to get started, a TEFL certification goes a long way. It shows schools you're serious, gives you the tools to walk into the classroom with confidence, and opens doors to better opportunities over time. An online TEFL course is flexible and affordable—perfect if you’re starting from scratch.

More than just a job, teaching English in Cambodia offers a chance to grow personally and professionally. You'll develop real teaching skills, immerse yourself in Khmer culture, and build connections that could last a lifetime. And once you’ve got your feet wet, you’ll be in a strong position to explore other countries, upgrade your qualifications, or take on higher-paying roles.

So don’t wait until you feel "fully ready"—you’ll learn the most by doing. Start bold, start here.

👉 Get Online TEFL Certified
👉 Find English Teaching Jobs in Cambodia