Teach English in Xi'an, China (2024)

Xi'an, an ancient city with a history spanning more than three millennia, is often considered the starting point of the famous Silk Road and is home to the world-renowned Terracotta Army. As one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, it has been the seat of more than a dozen dynasties, making it a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance. Modern Xi'an is a dynamic metropolis that bridges the past with the present, juxtaposing ancient city walls with a burgeoning skyline. With its mix of history, culture, and modernity, Xi'an presents a unique backdrop for educators looking to teach English while immersing themselves in one of China's most influential cities.

Reasons to Teach English in Xi'an

Historical Significance: For history enthusiasts, Xi'an is a dream come true. As a teacher here, you can spend weekends exploring ancient relics, such as the Terracotta Army, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Ancient City Wall. Immerse yourself in stories dating back thousands of years and share these experiences with your students, making lessons more engaging.
Cultural Immersion: Xi'an is a melting pot of various ethnicities, with a substantial Muslim population residing in the famed Muslim Quarter. This provides an excellent opportunity for teachers to experience a harmonious blend of Chinese and Islamic cultures, especially evident in the local cuisine and architecture.
Modern Amenities: Despite its ancient roots, Xi'an has evolved into a modern city with all the conveniences one might expect, from efficient public transportation to bustling shopping malls and international restaurants.
Affordable Living: Compared to mega-cities like Beijing or Shanghai, the cost of living in Xi'an is relatively lower. This allows teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving a significant portion of their earnings.
Growing Demand for English: As Xi'an continues to develop and globalize, there's an increasing demand for English education. Schools are continuously on the lookout for qualified teachers, ensuring a steady stream of job opportunities.
Gateway to Exploration: Xi'an's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of China. With well-connected transportation options, teachers can easily venture out to neighboring provinces during holidays.
Warm and Welcoming Locals: The people of Xi'an are known for their hospitality. As a foreign teacher, you'll often find yourself welcomed into local gatherings, festivals, and other cultural events, creating a deep sense of belonging and community.

Understanding Xi'an's Education Landscape

Xi'an, being a major city with historical prominence, boasts a diverse educational landscape. The city is home to some of China's renowned universities, including Xi'an Jiaotong University and Northwest University. In recent years, Xi'an's government has invested significantly in education, resulting in an increased number of public and private schools, as well as language institutions.

Public Schools: English is part of the curriculum in public schools from primary to high school levels. Native English-speaking teachers are often sought after to provide authentic language experiences for students.
Private Language Institutions: There's a proliferation of private language centers in Xi'an catering to various age groups—from toddlers to adults. These institutes often offer flexible schedules and are a popular choice among expat teachers.
International Schools: With Xi'an's rising status as a hub for international business and tourism, the demand for international schools offering curriculums like IB, AP, and A-levels has grown.
Universities: Many universities in Xi'an offer English-taught programs and employ native English speakers to teach English language and literature courses.
Teaching Adults: There's a growing trend of adults in Xi'an seeking to learn or improve their English for business or travel purposes. This has led to increased opportunities for evening or weekend classes catering to working professionals.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Xi'an

The requirements to teach English in Xi'an will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in China, however, here are the specific requirements for Xi'an:

Native English Speaker: Teachers should be native speakers and hold passports from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, or South Africa. Non native English speakers can still work in China as a subject teacher, or teaching assistant/manager.
Bachelor's Degree: Regardless of your major, a bachelor's degree is typically required by most schools and institutions.
TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification: A certification in teaching English as a foreign language, with a minimum of 120 hours of training, is essential.
Teaching Experience: While not always mandatory, having prior teaching experience can make you a more attractive candidate, especially for higher-paying positions.
Clean Criminal Background Check: For visa purposes, a clear criminal record is necessary.
Medical Examination: A health check, usually conducted within China, is required for a work visa.
Age Limit: Generally, teachers between the ages of 24 and 55 are preferred, but this can vary depending on the institution.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Xi'an

Competitive Salary: Depending on qualifications and experience, teachers can expect to earn between 12,000 to 20,000 RMB per month.
Housing Allowance or Accommodation: Many schools and institutions offer either a housing allowance or provide free accommodation.
Contract Completion Bonus: It's common for teachers to receive a bonus upon completing their contract term.
Paid Vacations: Most teaching contracts include paid public holidays and additional vacation days, especially during major Chinese festivals.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is typically provided by the employer.
Continuous Professional Development: Some institutions offer ongoing training and development opportunities, allowing teachers to further hone their skills.
Work Visa Sponsorship: Legitimate schools and institutions will handle and sponsor the necessary Z work visa for their teachers.

Living in Xi'an

Xi'an, one of China's ancient capitals, is a mesmerizing blend of old and new, where historic relics coexist alongside modern developments. Living in Xi'an allows you to immerse yourself in China's rich history while enjoying the conveniences of a modern urban environment. Here's a glimpse into life in Xi'an and some intriguing facts about the city:

Historical Significance: Xi'an is best known as the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the Terracotta Army, the collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These statues, along with the city's ancient walls and pagodas, give a vivid picture of China's profound historical legacy.
Food Haven: The city is renowned for its diverse and scrumptious street food. Whether it's the savory Chinese hamburgers ('Rou Jia Mo') or the spicy cold noodles, Xi'an offers a culinary experience that's hard to forget.
Cost of Living: Compared to cities like Beijing or Shanghai, Xi'an offers a more affordable living experience. While modern amenities are easily accessible, everyday expenses like food, transportation, and rent are relatively lower.
Climate: Xi'an experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be chilly, but seldom see heavy snowfall, while summers are hot and can be humid. Spring and autumn are mild and are considered the best times to explore the city.
Cultural Experiences: Xi'an is home to several museums, theaters, and cultural centers that showcase both ancient and contemporary Chinese art and culture. The Shaanxi History Museum, for instance, offers an extensive collection of artifacts detailing the rich history of the region.
Green Spaces: Amidst the urban hustle, Xi'an boasts several parks and green spaces like the Tang Paradise and the Lianhu Park, offering residents tranquil spots to relax and rejuvenate.
Transport: The city has a well-developed public transport system, including buses and a metro system. The Xi'an Xianyang International Airport connects the city to various domestic and international destinations.
Diverse Population: With its universities and burgeoning industries, Xi'an attracts students and professionals from across China and the world. This has cultivated a diverse, inclusive, and vibrant community.

Teacher Stories

Megan from the USA

"When I first decided to teach English in Xi'an, my friends were baffled. Why not Beijing or Shanghai? But Xi'an, with its rich history, called out to me. My mornings began with Tai Chi sessions near the ancient city wall and ended with hot bowls of biang biang noodles at local eateries. The students were curious and eager, and the locals welcomed me with open arms. I learned as much from them as they did from me."

Connor from the UK

"Being a history buff, I was drawn to Xi'an like a moth to a flame. Teaching English here was an experience like no other. The Terracotta Warriors, the city's rich history, and the mix of traditional and modern life made every day a new adventure. My students often became my tour guides, sharing with me hidden gems and local legends."

Aaliyah from South Africa

"Xi'an is a city that grows on you. Initially, I was overwhelmed, but soon the rhythmic chaos became second nature. My favorite part? The food! From spicy lamb skewers to sweet persimmon cakes, my taste buds were always in for a treat. Teaching in Xi'an was not just a job but a journey of discovery."

Lachlan from Australia

"Teaching English in Xi'an was my first international gig, and I couldn't have asked for a better introduction to China. The ancient walls, the bustling Muslim Quarter, and the beautiful Big Wild Goose Pagoda became my daily haunts. My students were enthusiastic and always ready with a recommendation for the best local dishes or spots to visit."

Siobhan from Ireland

"I've taught in many cities, but Xi'an holds a special place in my heart. The respect for history, the juxtaposition of the ancient with the modern, and the incredible warmth of the people made my teaching stint here unforgettable. Every break, every holiday was an opportunity to explore a new facet of this remarkable city."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Xi'an

Xi'an, a city that embodies China's deep-rooted history and its march towards modernity, offers an unparalleled teaching experience. While you get the chance to mold young minds and introduce them to the intricacies of the English language, Xi'an ensures that every day is a lesson for you too – be it in culture, history, or the art of Chinese living.

If the idea of merging your profession with a deep dive into China's historical heart appeals to you, then moving towards teaching English in Xi'an might just be the adventure you're seeking.