Teaching English in Taiwan: A Beginner’s Guide

Teaching in Taiwan is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to experience new culture, form meaningful connections and grow both personally and professionally. Whether you're a fresh graduate or someone looking for a change, Taiwan offers a welcoming environment for foreign teachers to teach English.

In this article, I’ll walk you through where and how to apply, along with the documents you need to prepare.

Why teach in Taiwan?

• Friendly and respectful culture

• High demand for English teachers

• Competitive salary and benefits

• Safe cities and convenient transportation

Basic Requirements to Teach in Taiwan

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Self-introduction video ( 1-2 minutes)

• Teaching demonstration video (4-5 minutes)

• TECO-authenticated diploma, teaching license, and NBI clearance certificate

• Statement of Purpose (for TFETP applicants)

How to Apply for a Teaching Job

Option 1: Applying through an Agency

• Easier for first-time teachers

• Help with paperwork and placement

• Less flexibility in school choice

Option 2: Applying directly to Schools

• More control over location and salary

• Requires more research and communication

Agencies you can explore: These agencies are based in Taiwan, and you can apply online.

• TFETP

• PGA

• PIDI

• Teach Taiwan

Websites you can check:

• Tealit

• ESL Dewey

• Teast

• Teach away

Steps for Applying Through an Agency (for applicants from the Philippines)

• Submit Your Application: Submit your application and required documents through the agency’s email or website, then wait for their response. They might respond right away, or it may take weeks and months. Be patient!

  
  

• Screening and Interview Invitation: If your application passes the initial screening, you will receive an email inviting you to an interview.

  
  

• Interview and Job Offer: Upon successfully passing the interview, the agency will offer you a teaching position. They will provide details about a school that is interested in hiring you, and you can choose to either accept or decline the placement.

  
  

• Visa and OEC Application: Once you accept the school placement, the agency, in coordination with the school, will begin processing the necessary documents. A digital copy of your work permit will be sent to you for your visa application, while the remaining documents will be mailed to you for your OEC application. Please note that this process may take several weeks.

  
  

• Ready to fly: After your documents are processed and everything is in order, you’ll be ready to embark on your teaching journey in Taiwan.

Why Taiwan?

Teaching in Taiwan provides a rewarding career as well as life in a vibrant, culturally rich and very safe environment. Taiwan, with its high standard of living, efficient healthcare system, and endless opportunities to explore natural beauty and vibrant city life, is an ideal place for teachers to seek both professional growth and personal adventure.

If you are ready to explore a new culture, experience a different way of life and grow professionally, teaching in Taiwan is a rewarding adventure.

My Journey to Teaching in Taiwan

The application process to teach in Taiwan can take a very long time, so be patient.