Best TEFL / TESOL Certification Courses In Vietnam

Vietnam has quickly become one of the most exciting places in Asia to start a teaching journey. From the buzzing motorbikes of Ho Chi Minh City to the quiet charm of Hanoi’s old streets, the country offers an incredible mix of culture, cuisine, and adventure. Add to that a growing demand for qualified English teachers, and it’s no surprise that Vietnam is attracting a wave of new educators from around the world.

But before stepping into the classroom, there’s one essential step: getting TEFL or TESOL certified. A good course doesn’t just teach grammar and lesson planning—it helps you adapt to Vietnamese classrooms, understand local learners, and feel confident standing in front of a group of students. It also connects you with jobs, helps with logistics like visas and housing, and gives you a solid support network from day one.

Choosing the right TEFL course in Vietnam can shape your entire teaching experience, so it's worth getting it right from the start.

Why Get TEFL/TESOL Certified in Vietnam?

Getting certified in the same country where you plan to teach makes a big difference—especially in a place as unique and dynamic as Vietnam.

• On-the-Ground Experience: You’ll practice teaching real Vietnamese students, which helps you learn how to manage local classrooms, adapt your English level, and connect with your future learners.
• Smooth Transition: Many TEFL programs include visa guidance, accommodation help, and job placement services—ideal if you’re arriving with no local contacts.
• Cultural Immersion: You’ll start learning how to navigate Vietnamese culture right away—from classroom etiquette to food, language, and social norms.
• Faster Job Placement: Most TEFL programs have ties to local schools and language centers, so it’s common to land a job right after graduation—sometimes even before.

For new teachers, getting certified locally makes your life easier and your job prospects stronger.

What To Look for in a Vietnam TEFL/TESOL Course

Not all TEFL courses are created equal. If you’re planning to teach in Vietnam, make sure your training ticks these essential boxes:

• Accreditation
  Choose a course that’s fully accredited and internationally recognized. This guarantees your TEFL certificate will be accepted by schools across Vietnam—and keeps doors open for teaching opportunities in other countries down the line.

• Teaching Practice
  Make sure the course includes 6–10+ hours of real teaching with Vietnamese students. Observations and feedback from experienced trainers are also key for building your confidence.

• Job Support
  Good TEFL programs will help you write your CV, prepare for interviews, and connect you with local schools. Some even offer guaranteed job placement after graduation.

• Student Support
  Visa help, housing recommendations, airport pickup, and cultural orientation all make a huge difference when arriving in a new country for the first time.

• Location Fit Ho Chi Minh City is the ideal place to get TEFL certified in Vietnam. It offers the widest range of training options, strong job support, and immediate access to the country's largest teaching market—making it the best launchpad, even if you plan to teach elsewhere. Hanoi-based courses may suit some teachers, but for career access and on-the-ground support, starting in HCMC gives you the strongest foundation.

Choosing a course that fits your teaching goals and lifestyle will set the tone for your entire experience in Vietnam.

Top TEFL / TESOL Certification Courses in Vietnam

Whether you're drawn to the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the charm of Hanoi, or the flexibility of global options, these TEFL courses stand out for their quality, support, and teacher outcomes. Here's a closer look at the top programs for getting certified to teach English in Vietnam.

1. Ninja Teacher Academy (Best Overall)

• Location: Ho Chi Minh City
• Why It Stands Out: Ninja Teacher offers a full in-country experience with a strong focus on cultural immersion, practical training, and post-course support.
• Highlights:
  • 4-week, internationally accredited TEFL course
  • Real teaching practicum with Vietnamese students
  • Modern training center in central HCMC
  • Extensive job placement support + visa help
  • Supportive alumni community

Ideal for first-time teachers who want a smooth landing, personalized support, and a quick path to paid work.

👉 Visit Program Page

2. AVSE TESOL

• Location: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and online
• Why It Stands Out: AVSE is one of the few providers with accredited courses available in multiple Vietnamese cities. Their Australian-accredited certificate is also recognized in many other countries.
• Highlights:
  • 4-week TESOL course (in-person or online)
  • 60-hour practicum with local learners
  • Lifetime job support across Vietnam
  • Visa assistance and housing help
  • Active in community education projects

Great choice if you want a recognized qualification with flexible location options and long-term support.

👉 Visit Program Page

Australian International TESOL

• Location: Online with some in-person partnerships
• Why It Stands Out: A more global-facing program with a focus on transferable TESOL credentials. Best suited for teachers looking to work in multiple countries—not just Vietnam.
• Highlights:
  • Self-paced or hybrid delivery formats
  • Emphasis on international education standards
  • Moderate Vietnam-specific support
  • Good fit for experienced travelers or teachers planning multi-country careers

If you're not yet set on teaching in Vietnam long-term and want flexibility to explore teaching in other regions, this program offers a globally portable TESOL pathway.

👉 Visit Program Page

TEFL/TESOL Course Costs and Inclusions in Vietnam

Getting certified in Vietnam isn’t just affordable—it also sets you up for a smooth transition into teaching life. Most in-country programs are packed with value that goes far beyond a piece of paper.

💸 Cost Range

Expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 USD, depending on the provider, location (HCMC is often slightly more expensive), and what’s included in the package.

✅ What’s Usually Included

• 120-hour in-person TEFL/TESOL certification
• Real teaching practicum with local students
• Visa guidance and document support
• Housing assistance or short-term accommodation options
• Airport pickup and cultural orientation
• Lifetime job placement support

These inclusions make it especially attractive for first-time teachers or anyone unfamiliar with Vietnam’s job market and systems.

🌏 Living Costs in Vietnam (Monthly Averages)

• Accommodation: $250–$500 for a modern apartment in HCMC or Hanoi
• Food:
  • Street food: $1.50–$3/meal
  • Sit-down cafés/restaurants: $5–$10
• Transport:
  • GrabBike (motorbike ride-hailing): extremely cheap for short distances
  • Motorbike rental: $60–$100/month
  • Public buses: even cheaper, but limited coverage in some cities

With these low living costs, most teachers find they can live well, save money, and explore the country without financial stress.

Job Opportunities After Certification

Vietnam’s booming demand for English teachers makes it one of the most accessible countries to start a teaching career.

💼 Common Job Types

• Language Centers: Mornings/afternoons/evenings/weekends; high demand; entry-friendly
• Public Schools: Daytime hours; less prep; decent pay
• Private & International Schools: Higher standards and requirements, but better salaries
• Online Teaching: Many teachers supplement income with online gigs

💰 Salary Expectations

• $1,200–$2,000/month depending on city, job type, and experience
• HCMC generally pays more than Hanoi or smaller cities
• Cost of living is low, so saving $300–$1,000/month is very possible

🛂 Visa Requirements

• Most employers require a bachelor’s degree + TEFL certification
• Some flexibility exists, especially in private tutoring or less formal jobs, but legal teaching requires proper documentation

Who Should Get TEFL Certified in Vietnam?

Not every teacher needs to get certified in-country—but if any of these apply to you, doing your TEFL in Vietnam is probably the best move.

• ✅ You want a smooth, supported entry into teaching abroad
• ✅ You’re new to Vietnam and want real-world cultural experience while you train
• ✅ You’re planning to stay and work in Vietnam long-term
• ✅ You want to make teaching your career and start with real classroom experience
• ✅ You prefer hands-on training over online-only courses
• ✅ You’re looking for a Southeast Asia base with great lifestyle + income balance

Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or pivoting to something new, Vietnam offers a supportive, exciting, and budget-friendly path into the TEFL world.

Who Might Consider an Online TEFL Course Instead?

While in-person TEFL courses in Vietnam offer unmatched immersion and hands-on experience, online options still appeal to some teachers—especially those with tight schedules or global ambitions.

You might prefer an online TEFL course if:

• You're not yet sure if Vietnam is your final destination
• You're on a budget and want a more affordable certification path
• You already have some teaching experience and just need a recognized certificate
• You plan to teach online rather than in a physical classroom

🆚 Online vs In-Person TEFL in Vietnam

For best results, some teachers start with a low-cost online TEFL, then upgrade to in-person training or job placement support once they commit to a country.

FAQs About TEFL in Vietnam

• Do I need a degree to teach in Vietnam?
  Yes. Most legal schools require a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate. If you don’t have a degree, it’s still possible—but you’ll need to be more proactive and selective with employers.

• Can I teach with just a TEFL certificate?
  If you have a degree, yes. A TEFL certificate is essential for landing a job and succeeding in the classroom.

• What’s the difference between TEFL and TESOL?
  In Vietnam, both are accepted and functionally equivalent. Just make sure your course is well-structured, has teaching practice, and is from a reputable provider.

• Can I teach English online from Vietnam?
  Yes. Many teachers use Vietnam as a base for online teaching, either full-time or as a supplement to local work.

• How much can I save teaching in Vietnam?
  Most teachers save around $300–$800/month, depending on location, lifestyle, and job type. Those working in premium roles or teaching online part-time may save more.

Final Thoughts: Starting Your TEFL Journey in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most dynamic and welcoming countries for new and aspiring English teachers. Whether you're drawn by the vibrant street life of Ho Chi Minh City, the cultural calm of Hanoi, or the laid-back coastal vibe of Da Nang, there's a place for every kind of teacher here.

Getting TEFL certified in Vietnam doesn’t just boost your job prospects—it helps you hit the ground running with cultural awareness, practical experience, and a support network.

In-person TEFL courses in Vietnam offer immersive training, real teaching practice, and job support that continues well after the course ends. And with low living costs, friendly locals, and a strong demand for English, Vietnam is an incredible place to launch your teaching adventure.

Choose a course that prepares you and inspires you—and start your new life abroad with confidence, clarity, and a taste of Vietnam’s magic.