If you’ve been thinking about teaching English abroad—but don’t have a degree—Cambodia might be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
This Southeast Asian country is full of history, warmth, and resilience. From the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to the lively streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers the kind of deep cultural experience that stays with you for life. And when it comes to teaching English, Cambodia is one of the most welcoming places in the region for non-degree holders.
Unlike many of its neighbors, Cambodia doesn’t require a university degree for most teaching jobs. That means if you speak English fluently, have a TEFL certificate (or are planning to get one), and have a genuine interest in teaching, there’s a good chance you can find work here—legally and meaningfully.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
If you’re ready to explore Southeast Asia, gain teaching experience, and do it all without needing a four-year degree, Cambodia might just be your perfect starting point.
Cambodia is one of the few countries in Asia where you can legally teach English without a university degree—and that’s a big reason why so many people start their teaching careers here.
But it’s not just about flexibility. Cambodia offers something more: a sense of purpose, connection, and cultural depth that draws in teachers from around the world.
Here’s why it stands out:
Cambodia is developing quickly, and English is seen as a gateway to opportunity—for students and teachers alike. Many schools are more focused on your teaching ability and attitude than your academic background.
Whether you’re looking for a new adventure, a foot in the door to the TEFL world, or a way to make a real impact while exploring Southeast Asia, Cambodia delivers.
One of the biggest reasons Cambodia is so popular with first-time teachers is its simple, flexible approach to work eligibility. Unlike other countries where a bachelor’s degree is required for a visa, Cambodia keeps things much more accessible.
No—Cambodia does not require a degree to get a work visa or teach English legally.
That said, most schools will expect you to:
If you’ve got those, many schools will be happy to hire you—even without a degree.
The visa process is relatively straightforward:
Many teachers enter the country, apply for jobs in person, and then finalize the paperwork after they’re hired. Just make sure the employer is legit and willing to help with the process.
✅ Pro tip: Always clarify who is covering the visa and permit fees—some schools will sponsor you, others expect you to handle it yourself.
If you're ready to start teaching in Cambodia, the good news is that there are lots of ways to find work—even without a degree. You’ll need to be proactive, flexible, and open to different types of schools—but it’s very doable.
Online Job Boards and TEFL Sites
There are plenty of sites that post teaching jobs in Cambodia. You’ll find positions at language centers, kindergartens, and sometimes NGOs.
Facebook Groups and Expat Communities
Cambodia has an active network of expats and teachers, and many jobs are shared informally. Look for groups like:
On the Ground, In Person
Some schools prefer to hire locally, especially smaller language centers. If you’re already in Cambodia (or planning to go), visit schools directly, bring your resume, and introduce yourself. It still works.
Word-of-Mouth and Local Networking
Once you land your first job or get connected with other teachers, you’ll start hearing about more opportunities. Jobs can move fast, and being there often gives you an edge.
One of the best things about teaching in Cambodia is the range of schools and programs that welcome teachers without degrees. Whether you're looking for something structured or more community-focused, there’s likely a good fit for you.
Language schools are the most common employers of non-degree holders. These centers often run English programs for kids, teens, and adults outside of regular school hours.
Some smaller private schools and bilingual programs will consider candidates without degrees—especially if you have experience or a strong TEFL background.
Public schools, especially in rural areas, may welcome English teachers regardless of formal education—as long as you can communicate well and are eager to help.
Many non-profits and development organizations offer free or low-cost English classes to underserved communities. These programs are often open to non-degree holders, especially if you're volunteering or working on a stipend.
If you prefer to work independently, tutoring is a great way to earn money and set your own schedule.
If you’ve been searching for a way to teach English abroad without a degree, Cambodia might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. It’s one of the few places where your passion, attitude, and TEFL certification can take you farther than a diploma ever could.
Here, you can:
Whether you’re just starting out, exploring a career change, or looking for an affordable and adventurous place to live and work, Cambodia offers a real chance to grow as a teacher—and as a person.
If you don’t have a TEFL certification yet, that’s a great place to start. Once you’re certified, you can start applying to jobs, connect with other teachers, or even book a one-way ticket and look for work on the ground.
No degree? No problem. Cambodia is proof that there’s more than one way to start your teaching journey.
Helping teachers find jobs they will love.