We’re used to getting various questions about teaching English abroad. One of the most challenging questions is whether a TEFL certificate is sufficient to teach English abroad. The truth is that it depends on where you want to teach. Due to visa requirements, you must have a degree to teach in specific countries but don’t worry if you don’t have one. Even though many countries have strict regulations on working visas, let alone individual job requirements, there are still opportunities for TEFL-qualified teachers without a degree! Why not TEFL in Cambodia?

Regarding teaching in Asia, your options are limited because almost every country requires a degree. South Korea, Japan, and China continue to be the most popular TEFL destinations, despite their strict immigration policies. However, this is not always the case. If you meet the requirements, you can work in some countries on a working holiday visa for a while, but this can be difficult, and there are often many other restrictions. Fortunately, Cambodia is one great country that welcomes teachers without degrees!

Why teach English in Cambodia?

You won’t get rich teaching English in Cambodia, but money isn’t the only thing that attracts teachers to this mysterious and culturally rich country. With the wages available in Cambodia, you can expect to earn enough to live comfortably and explore the countryside.

The lower entry requirements attract teachers who still need a degree but want to travel to Asia. Cambodia is often overlooked in favour of its neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam. Still, with stunning landscapes, a fascinating history, and amiable people, the country has a lot to offer EFL teachers who choose to work there.

Why should I go to Cambodia?

What can you look forward to seeing in Cambodia? The capital, Phnom Penh, is the largest urban area in a rural country. Cambodia’s natural landscape and ancient sites are breathtaking, drawing on various cultural and religious influences across Asia.

Consider Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious structure, built in the early 12th century and is now Cambodia’s main tourist attraction. Or how about the tropical paradise of Koh Rong Samloem island, where hammocks and scuba diving equipment are welcome?

If Angkor Wat doesn’t tickle your fancy, try the dramatic and stunning Prasat Preah Vihear, a UNESCO heritage site on the Thai border. With a vast rainforest, spectacular views from coast to coast and a relatively low cost of living, it’s no surprise that Cambodia is becoming a popular destination for TEFL teachers.

Furthermore, TEFL teachers are desperately needed. The English Proficiency Index ranks Cambodia 97th out of 110 countries. That’s a drop; after ranking 94th in 2019, Cambodia’s English proficiency is declining.

It’s no surprise, then, that Cambodia is more lenient in terms of TEFL teachers and entry requirements. Need formal education or work experience? No bother; just as long as you have TEFL certification, ideas and money to teach English, you’ll likely be more than welcome.

Can I teach in Cambodia without a degree?

Yes! You cannot teach in neighbouring countries such as Thailand or Vietnam because a degree is required for a work visa in those countries. In Cambodia, there is no such restriction! While some employers may prefer applicants with a degree, there is enough demand for English teachers in Cambodia that you should be able to find work with one. Cambodia is one of the few Asian countries where you can legally and easily teach without a degree. 

More information: Teach English in Cambodia.

Do I need a TEFL qualification?

Finding a job teaching English with a TEFL qualification is becoming increasingly more challenging. It is not impossible, but we do not recommend it.

This is not only because it is unfair to students to pay for English lessons from someone not trained to teach English but also because a TEFL qualification will get you a better job with a better employer.

Employers are unconcerned about their teachers’ credentials should be avoided at all costs! Remember that finding a job is a two-way street; you must be as enthusiastic and thorough about an employer as they are about you.

The industry standard for TEFL certification is 120 hours. On the other hand, Specialist TEFL courses can help you if you don’t have a degree – a TEFL qualification in Business English, for example, would be helpful in an emerging economy like Cambodia.

How much can I earn?

Teachers in Cambodia can expect to earn $10 to $14 per hour, and most work 20 to 25 hours per week. With low living expenses, this salary will more than cover the necessities while also leaving you with enough money to enjoy your time in the country.

As is the case in most countries, EFL teachers with more qualifications and experience can command higher salaries. There are also opportunities to supplement this with private tutoring.

You could also look for work preparing students for English proficiency exams. For Cambodians who want to live or work in English-speaking countries, exams like the IELTS can be critical.

Finding work

Your chances of finding work in-country are better than online. Cambodian employers frequently want to know you’re committed to living locally, so finding work on the ground is often easier than applying online.

That is not to say that applying for jobs online before moving out is terrible. Getting an appointment before you leave is the safest move, and it also makes sense! Keep an eye on job boards and join relevant Facebook groups – be aware of advertisements stating a degree is required; plenty of jobs are available for those with one!

It’s also worthwhile to use LinkedIn, an excellent resource for finding Cambodian schools or recruiters looking for ideal TEFL candidates. Going directly to a recruiter, on the other hand, can significantly speed up the job-search process.

Using a recruiter has advantages and disadvantages, as discussed in this blog post. Work is most likely found in Phnom Penh, but Siem Reap, a popular tourist destination, also offers opportunities. As previously stated, much of the country is rural, but options are still available.

Where else can I TEFL without a degree?

If Cambodia doesn’t appeal to you, many countries seek non-degreed TEFL teachers.

The central regions for TEFL without a degree are Europe and South America. Other notable examples include Lebanon and Jordan, which do not require a degree certificate to be a TEFL teacher.

South America, on the other hand, is a thriving TEFL destination. Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Uruguay do not require a degree as a mandatory requirement. Some massive countries are on that list, so imagine how many schools, businesses, and universities are looking for TEFL teachers!

Although Asia can be restrictive, it is possible to teach in Nepal, where a degree is not required for a working visa.

You can only work in the most exciting parts of the world if you have a degree or teach English in general. That just isn’t the case, as Cambodia shows! Learn more about teaching without a degree by clicking here.