Can you teach English in China without a degree?

China has long been one of the most popular destinations for teaching English abroad. From ancient cities to ultramodern skylines, the country offers an incredible mix of culture, adventure, and opportunity. And with the huge demand for English education, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to teaching here.

But if you’ve looked into it, you’ve probably noticed something important: to legally teach English in China, you need a bachelor’s degree.

This requirement is tied to the government’s work visa system—and without it, getting a legal teaching job in China just isn’t possible.

Still, that hasn’t stopped everyone. Some people do find ways to work under the radar, often through tutoring or unofficial jobs. But these paths come with real legal risks—and in recent years, China has been cracking down hard on unqualified foreign teachers.

So what can you do if you’re passionate about teaching abroad but don’t have a degree?

In this guide, we’ll break it all down:

• Why China requires a degree for English teachers
• The risks of working illegally in China
• What to consider before going the unofficial route
• And most importantly: legal alternatives in nearby countries like Cambodia, Taiwan, Thailand, and more

If you’re looking for a smart, legal, and safe way to start your teaching journey—this guide is for you.

The Legal Framework for Teaching English in China

If you want to teach English in China legally, the rules are pretty clear. The government requires foreign teachers to meet certain qualifications in order to get a Z visa, which is the official work visa for teaching jobs.

Here’s what you need to qualify:

Basic Requirements for a Legal Teaching Job

To be approved for a teaching position in China, you typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree (in any subject)
• A TEFL certificate (usually 120+ hours)
• A clean criminal background check
• A medical check
• At least two years of teaching experience (some cities may waive this if you have a TEFL)

These rules are enforced by the Chinese government as part of their effort to raise education standards and regulate the growing number of foreign teachers.

Why the Degree Requirement Matters

The bachelor’s degree isn’t just a preference—it’s legally required to obtain a Z visa. Without it, schools aren’t allowed to sponsor you, and you won’t be eligible for a legal teaching contract.

Some employers might try to get around this by offering jobs under tourist or business visas, but this is a major red flag (more on that below).

⚠️ Bottom line: No degree = no legal Z visa = no legal teaching job in China.

There are no loopholes or exceptions here—at least not ones that are worth the risk.

The Risks of Teaching Illegally in China

Even though the rules are strict, some people still teach in China without a degree by working on the wrong visa—usually a tourist or business visa. Others take under-the-table jobs at small schools or tutoring centers that don’t ask too many questions.

But here’s the truth: it’s risky—and getting riskier.

What Happens If You’re Caught?

Over the past few years, China has tightened enforcement. If you’re caught working illegally, the consequences can be serious:

• Fines (often thousands of RMB)
• Detention or deportation
• Bans on re-entering the country
• No legal recourse if you’re underpaid or treated unfairly
• No health insurance or worker protections

And because you're not on a legal work visa, you won’t have access to basic rights—like signing a lease, opening a bank account, or even being protected if something goes wrong at your job.

Can You Still Get Away With It?

Some people do still work under the table, especially in smaller cities or tutoring gigs. But enforcement is much stronger now, especially in bigger cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.

And with China’s growing focus on regulating the education sector, crackdowns on illegal teachers have become common.

It’s just not worth risking your safety, freedom, or future travel plans.

Legal Alternatives to Teaching in China Without a Degree

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, you won’t be able to teach legally in China—but that doesn’t mean your teaching journey has to end. In fact, there are several countries in Asia where you can legally teach English without a degree, or where the rules are more flexible.

Here are some of the best alternatives:

1. Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the most accessible places in Asia for teachers without a degree.

• A bachelor’s degree is not required for most jobs
• Many private schools and language centers will hire based on your TEFL certification and English ability
• Work permits are relatively easy to obtain
• Cost of living is low, and the demand for English is high

It’s a great place to gain experience, explore Southeast Asia, and get started as a teacher.

2. Thailand (With Some Limitations)

In Thailand, a degree is usually required for formal teaching positions and visa sponsorship. However:

• Some private schools or rural placements may be open to hiring teachers without degrees, especially if you have a TEFL certificate
• Others teach online or tutor while living in Thailand on an education visa or a tourist visa (note: this comes with its own risks)

It’s not the easiest option—but it is possible with the right setup.

👉 Read more: Teach English in Thailand Without a Degree

3. Taiwan (With an Associate’s Degree)

Taiwan is one of the few countries in East Asia that offers a legal workaround:

• You can apply for a work permit with an Associate’s degree + TEFL certification
• These jobs are often in private language centers, not public schools
• Taiwan is safe, modern, and offers a great quality of life

👉 Full guide: Teaching English in Taiwan Without a Degree

4. Online Teaching (Live Anywhere)

Don’t forget—you can teach online from anywhere in the world, even while living in Asia.

• Some platforms don’t require a degree (just TEFL certification and fluency)
• You can also find your own students and work independently
• It’s a legal way to live abroad and earn income, especially if you're on a tourist or student visa

👉 Explore options here: How to Teach English Online

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Risk?

Teaching in China without a degree might seem tempting—especially with so many stories floating around online. But the truth is, it’s not worth the risk.

China has become much stricter in recent years. Working without a proper visa could cost you your job, your freedom, and your future ability to travel or teach abroad. And while some schools might offer to “work around” the rules, they’re not going to protect you if things go wrong.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to break the rules to teach abroad.

There are countries where you can start legally—even without a degree. Cambodia, Myanmar, parts of Latin America, and online teaching all offer real, legal, and rewarding ways to get started. And once you have some experience under your belt, even more doors start to open.

If teaching is something you’re serious about, invest in a good TEFL course, start where the rules are flexible, and take your time building a career you’re proud of.

There’s a big world out there—and plenty of ways to explore it as a teacher, even without a degree.