teach english in China
(photo by Xici)

Teaching English in China

The Popularity of Learning English in China

English is the most popular foreign language in China.

As a lingua franca, the “bridge" language of English plays a prominent role in global communication, business, finance, and so on.

As China's economy fully interacts with the international world, the number of English learners rises year after year from toddlers to white-collars.  Both authoritarian and ambitious parents are attaching more importance to English education.

How Many People in China Speak English?

List of countries by English-speaking population shows over 81 million Chinese speak English as an additional language.  According to research by EF, at least 200 million more people are learning Chinese in a formal setting.

The Ministry of National Education's estimates that it takes twelve to fourteen years of study to become proficient in the language.  Therefore, the government wishes to introduce English classes from the third grade of primary school until a student graduates with a university degree.

Can People in China Speak Proficient English?

English is not an official language of China, the way it is in some other nations (such as South Africa, etc.).  Yet, all Chinese understand the importance of learning English.

Most educated Chinese can make rudimentary and simple English conversation because of their English learning in school.  However, most English education teaches with standardized exams; as a result of this focus, many students have plenty of knowledge, but not so many critical thinking skills, especially in novel situations with social dynamics.

As a result, Chinese students often are relatively skilled at reading and writing, but require more help with casual conversation, and social adaptability.

Number of English Speakers in China

From a famous study in 2006, only 7.3% classified themselves as using English "often"; 23.3% of the respondents said they used English "sometimes" according to the survey in the Statistics of English in China.

In other words, only 30% of the Chinese population that had formally studied English used it regularly in their daily lives. However, of course, China is such a diverse country that concentrations differ. In modern cities like Tianjin, Shanghai, etc. usage rates were as high as 46%, wherein major cities far away from a port and international presence, such as Chongqing, the standard of English usage is closer to the national average of around 31% prevalence.

In general, the bigger the city, the more contact it has had with the outside world, and the more necessary English is in a daily job or school, the higher the proficiency of English will probably be.

No matter what, everyone knows the value of learning English, and respects good English teachers. For the serious, dedicated, passionate English teacher, there are many spots available to them.

High Market Demand for English Teachers

Even in something as complicated as the labor market, the forces of supply and demand have a strong influence, or perhaps a central influence, on hiring.  Specifically, if a service is heavily demanded, and there is a short supply of teachers, there are many available jobs, and these jobs tend to pay decently.

Specifically, this is the case in China, with English teachers. The entire society has always valued learning. The government has recently taken a more outward-looking focus towards trade, education, etc., English is the shared language of business, education, entertainment, and there is a heavy demand for educated, experienced, well-spoken teachers.

Most Chinese parents are willing to put money into their children's English studies. According to IIResearch, 87.2% of parents agreed children should learn English when their regular formal schooling starts, around five years old.  62.7% of parents in the survey considered English as an essential and practical tool for children's growth and career advancement.

The English teaching market in China is a booming market.  Being able to use English language skills effectively is a significant advantage, especially in the workplace. Along with a flow of foreign companies entering the Chinese market, the demand for native talent to teach spoken English is rising.

Because these companies can provide a competitive salary and better benefits than many domestic ones, white-collar workers in many industries are eager to improve their English. As a result, English teaching for adults is also increasing in China.

English Teaching Jobs in China

For clear reasons, learning English is a rigid demand that must be filled with qualified, capable, enthusiastic teachers. Whether in kindergartens, public schools, international programs, or after-school training centers or at home tutoring, everyone needs an excellent English tutor. With the "Two-Child Policy" that has been implemented, there will be even greater needs for early childhood and elementary public school education.

Beyond that, many families want more than average; they want above average or even excellent teachers. Given China's social behavior and focus on the collective, good (and bad) reputations spread quickly. There can be a great payoff for those who invest lots of effort in teaching young learners.

Private Language Schools

In Asian culture, it is typical to go to after school programs for up to eight hours after regular school. During nights, weekends, and holidays, many students are expected to do these programs for extra enrichment, homework, etc.

Even for adults, there are often programs to teach English, either early in the morning or late at night after work.

For both adults and children, most of the time, working hours include a full day Saturday and Sunday, and some work during weekday afternoons; but, most contracts offer two full days off during the week.

Just like working for an institution during the regular school day, the teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality courses to students according to a specific curriculum. Training etc. is given, and extra training may be required.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the business, teachers often need to substitute for an absent teacher, do extra hours, or face cancellations. Nonetheless, pay per hour is often better than working for public institutions.

Requirements

  • Native English speakers (UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa)
  • Bachelor's degree or above (degree to be certified by the local Chinese Embassy) .
  • Two years of relevant work experience. (Alternatively, a bachelor's degree or higher in a subject such as education/teaching or a bachelor's degree or higher with a valid national or international language teaching license is exempt.)
  • Under 60 years old
  • Non-criminal record.

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

*Note: If you are a non-native English speaker and intend to find employment teaching English, you must have a degree from a higher education institution in an English-speaking country (in principle from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa), except for the above requirements (the two-year work experience requirement may be waived if the candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Education/Teaching or equivalent national or international language teaching licence). However, it can vary from time to time from local government to local government.

Public Schools

Public schools in China belong to the Chinese government. However, as a foreigner, you will be managed and paid by a private business with ties to the local Chinese government. Your students will be public school students, and you will work at a public school campus, but your paycheck and orders come from the private business that is openly or tacitly managing you.

Teaching hours are generally around 20-22 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Often, you will teach students in each class with similar English levels. The class size is usually in medium to large (thirty to sixty students per class).

Usually, a teacher develops a semester lesson plan and explore school-based curricula according to the requirement from school. You may be required to tutor students to ensure excellent teaching quality after class and communicate with parents and colleagues to solve problems.

Faculty meetings, training, grading, after school activities are sometimes required.

Requirements

  • Hold relevant teaching license: PGCE/SACE/State license etc
  • Bachelor's Degree or above, holding English literature or related degree;
  • At least 2 years of relevant teaching experience
  • Under 55 years old

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

International Programs

International schools in China are for upper-middle-class families aiming to send their children to study overseas and for kids in foreign families.

As stated elsewhere, there is a difference between real international schools and international programs claiming international school status. The difference is noticeable by how much of the student body is comprised of international students, and how many internationally recognized certifications each school holds.

In both international schools and international programs, the teaching standards are usually significantly higher than those of regular public schools or language centers. English is the primary language of instructions; students should not only know English, but they must also be able to read, write, discuss, and critically think in English. Other topics such as math, science, social studies, history, art, etc. will be taught the Western way, for Western standards of measurement.

Because salary, prestige, and other packages are higher than teaching regular public school students, these jobs are the most sought after.  Teachers in international schools should be flexible with multi-language environments and motivate their confidence and passion for learning.

Requirements

  • Working experience above three years, preferably with the same employer.
  • Relevant teaching experience in an international school or foreign language school, and/or extensive experience in an environment with multiple English learning needs.
  • Relevant Certification/qualification from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia or New Zealand

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

Colleges and University

Among foreign teachers, teaching positions at colleges and universities are often coveted. Most university students are capable of a certain level of English skills, and often wish to do literature reading, analysis, and discussion. Teachers often enjoy being able to work with higher-level students.

The Teacher may lecture on English language or English-related subjects to domestic students or overseas students in different majors or professorial scholars who intend to pursue further studies.

Universities also need professors in English Language and Literature, linguistics, and applied linguistics as well as a lecturer and assistant professor in those areas.

While a foreigner could work at a university, the most common jobs are English lecturers, literature professors, or a master's students who assist Ph.D candidates.

Requirements

  • Lecturer teachers or assistant professor
  • Bachelor degree or above
  • Native English speaker
  • At least two years' full-time teaching experience or possess a TESOL or TEFL certificate
  • Clean criminal record
  • Professional, positive and culturally aware
  • demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively in a team setting
  • Professor
  • Ph.D. holder in related subjects with quality academic papers. Associate Professor or above.

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

Teaching English Online

Anyone is capable of teaching English online, although native speakers, those with a TEFL certificate, etc. are preferred.

Such a job allows work from home with flexible working hours.

Usually, one-to-one classes are anywhere from 25 minutes to two hours.

Group classes are 45 minutes class, with an optional fifteen-minute break, and starting class again.

Online classes can often seem boring and distant from traditional environments. In general, the more interesting and personable a teacher is, the more students will like them, the better the class will be.

Requirements

  • Native English speakers
  • Bachelor's degree or above
  • English teaching experience is preferred
  • ESL certificate is preferred (such as TESOL/TEFL/CELTA etc.)

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

Teach English in China Programs

From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report, some programs will offer teaching opportunities for candidates who don’t have education degrees or TEFL/TESOL certificates with TEFL training. It usually needs a program fee of $2,000, and accordingly, you will receive 7,000 RMB (approx. $1000)/month or more plus housing in compensation. If applicants have already have a TEFL (or other teaching credentials) or an Education degree, the application fee will be lower.

Salary of Teaching English in China

There are three main factors that affect the average teacher's salary:

  • Previous experience and qualifications
  • The area or city where you work
  • Type of institution where you teach
Tpyes of SchoolAverage Teaching Salary
Private Language Schools ¥16,867 – ¥23,284 per month  ($2,412 – $3,330)
Public Schools¥8,000 – ¥11,000 per month ($2,657 – $1,570)
International Schools¥18,582 – ¥26,597 per month ($1,428 – $3803)
Colleges and University¥7,000 - ¥9,700 per month ($1,000 – $1385)
From Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report

Notes: Public schools and most universities in China belong to the Chinese government, so their salary levels may be different from market prices.

Benefits of Teaching English in China

In addition to payment, some other benefits help teachers save money:

  • Free accommodation or housing allowance
  • Reimbursement for Work Visa Documents, Flight Tickets, Other Fees Related to Work Visa. Usually, this bonus is paid after the contract is fully finished.
  • Twelve National Holidays

Additionally, although some Chinese businesses are reluctant to admit it, all workers in China (both domestic and foreign) are subject to Chinese labor law. This gives basic protection against over-work by employers, allows legal remedies, etc.

Of course, each situation needs to be looked at carefully. There is no single perfect job, only the best fit for you. For example, teachers in public schools have lower pay than an international program or language center, but often have fewer teaching hours, longer holidays (often with payment), and free meals for teachers, etc.

University teaching may have a low pay-scale, but a much lighter workload and less preparation time. At best, university teaching jobs allow a teacher to specialize in an area they studied in university (such as English literature, French literature, history, etc.), teach to eager university students, have few restrictions on lesson plans and grading policies, and be given up to five months off of paid time off per year. If a professor has specialized, then this time can be used for further reading, research, etc.

Is Teaching English in China Worth it?

Such a question is highly personal and depends on many factors. But, given that the expatriate population is growing, it shows that China is attractive for foreigners, and people stay in China.

Those who truly work hard to learn the local language, understand local customs, be a good teacher, and try to show your best, the local community of Chinese will appreciate it, and work hard to retain you.

Expand Your Horizons

You will inevitably encounter a cultural difference between East and West. You may feel uncomfortable at first, but as you develop cultural competency, there will be more in-depth communication with the locals. Your mind will be more open and perceptive. What's more, together with your co-teachers, you can take many opportunities to try new foods, explore the city, or learn the local dialect. All of this and more will be part of your experience when in China.

Save Money While Traveling

If you are a new graduate who gets a teaching job, your teaching salary in China will probably be between ¥14,865 ($2,125) - ¥20,589 ($2,944). While this salary is typical in the US, many Chinese university graduates only make around ¥4,000 ($572) - ¥7000 ($1,001).

While the cost of living in China is rising, the cost of everything except housing is less than a Western country. For those who have accommodation paid for by their employer, it is reasonable to save 75% of a paycheck.

Perhaps most impressive is how close you are to other tourist spots. For a Westerner to travel from New York City, Canada, to China, it would take at least 24 hours of traveling and thousands of dollars. Yet, for teachers in Beijing, traveling to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, etc. may only cost as much as a bus ticket.

Likewise, for someone from North America to go to Japan, Thailand, etc. it would take thousands of dollars and perhaps a whole day of travel. Yet, going from Beijing to Tokyo, or Shenzhen to Thailand would only take a few hours.

For day trips, such as Shenzhen to Hong Kong, such a drastic change in scenery and lifestyle could be done in a single hour.

Even within Chinese cities, such work could be easily done, thanks to government subsidies for high-speed rail and airports.

Spend your Gap Year in China

There are two main reasons why teaching English in China is a good option in your gap year.

First, it can boost your resume and enhance your overall perspective on life.

Second, you can still be learning a desired foreign language (Chinese) and gain perspective without losing touch with academic, campus life, etc. As many people get to experience being both students and teachers, they can appreciate their teachers at a university, etc.

How to Teach English in China

Teaching English in China Requirements 2020

The requirements vary from types of schools and different cities from Teach in China:36 Cities&Salaries 2020 Research Report.

Anyone who wants to be fully employable should have

  • A Bachelor's degree in any subject.
  • A TEFL Certificate (120+ Hours of Instruction)
  • A National Criminal Background Check
  • A Native Speaker from One of the Seven Recognized Countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa)
  • Previous teaching experience at home is always helpful.

What Helps Me Prepare for Teaching in China?

Get a TEFL Certificate

To work legally as an English teacher in China, you need more than a bachelor's degree.  

For a work visa, either you need a TEFL degree or a teaching certificate from your home country or state (such as a state teaching license, PGCE, etc.).

The CELTA is probably the best degree for those who want to get into teaching quickly. In this one month intensive course, a student can learn, pass the skills-based certification, and be ready to teach.

Both routes: state teaching license and CELTA complement each other. Many teachers have both.

Get Your Z-Visa

The first step to teach in China legally is to obtain a Z work visa (not a business visa) in your home country or Hong Kong.

Your company should provide letters of invitation and other relevant documents, such as foreign expert permits. Then, you need to go online and fill out all the appropriate visa forms.

There is a person at every school who can help you fill out the forms and get processed; usually, the person is a designated "Visa Specialist" or "HR for Foreigners." If you have all the necessary documents and have competent visa support, you can get that visa promptly.

Where to Look for English Teaching Jobs in China

In truth, there are many available jobs everywhere. It is a question of meeting as many people as possible and asking around.

However, if we go by common patterns, we can see a few chief sources where most people get their jobs:

Online Job Posting Websites

Most large sites post dozens, or even hundreds of teaching jobs, every day.

The good news is that competitive candidates can contact many institutions directly. Unfortunately, the bad news is that most candidates will get screened initially merely due to the color of their skin, background, lack of superb qualifications, etc.

Nonetheless, many teaching veterans will tell you that sending out hundreds of resumes on the various large sites can often yield good results.

Recruiters

Recruiters have a mixed reputation in the entire teaching market, and perhaps every industry. Recruiters are third party agents who make a commission every time a candidate is placed in a company and stays there for a minimum time.

At best, a recruiter can be very knowledgeable about their target industry, in this case the education industry in China, have long standing relationships with the institutions they are placing, have enough trust in relationships to get candidates jobs and smooth over any misunderstandings that may arise, and look out for the candidates best interest, being forthcoming with everything. There have been many successful job placements, and candidates owe it to their recruiter's knowledge, skills, and relationships.

At worst, recruiters are known to lie to candidates, forge resumes, or withhold vital information.  

Just like any other service business, it is essential to carefully research websites, look at testimonials, ask for referrals of previous candidates, etc. Many candidates who have been successful with a particular firm will be happy to give a good reference.

There are several options when searching for teaching positions online. For example, you can check out websites like Toptutorjob, which provide teacher recruiting services.

Contact Schools Directly

As in many other fields, the more pro-active a candidate is, and the harder they work to get things done, the more successful they will be in the long run.  

This initiative can be applied to finding a teaching job. Very few schools in China have ample amounts of high-quality workforce manpower, and will not have the situation change at the end of contract terms. Many schools would appreciate being sent a resume, especially by an experienced, qualified teacher.

The difficult part comes in that China is not an open society. It is hard to get email addresses of decision-makers, such as HR, hiring managers, or other people who can make decisions, especially when a candidate is abroad.

Contacting directly often works well when someone is in a particular neighborhood and wants to branch out. For example, someone who comes to Beijing or Shanghai during the middle of the year can slowly get acclimated to the environment. Through asking around, a foreigner can find out which are the best public schools, international programs, language centers, etc. to work for, and the reason why. Then, visiting the school, dropping off resumes, volunteering, etc. can be valuable to build up important work relationships.

Asking a Friend Who Lives in China

An acquaintance, friend, etc. who lives in China can also help you find a teaching job. They are more familiar with the local market, understand times when it is most appropriate to reach out to people, can advise you if you are getting a good deal, etc.

Of course, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a trusted friend that can help in time of need. Even so, even the best friend has a limit to his knowledge and understanding of professional situations.

Teaching English in China without a Degree

Although in decades past, numerous people worked in East Asia without a credential or a forged credential, it is much rarer these days.  China now has access to internet databases with websites such as DegreeVerify, and the penalties for lying to the government are very harsh.

For someone without a college degree, but who is determined to be a teacher, the best way is to do so is enroll in an international program at a university in Beijing or Shanghai.  The entire cost of a bachelor's degree program (taught in English), and with a single room dormitory can be had for as little as 5000 USD a year.  Because of changes in visa laws, a foreigner could legally work while in school, on an internship visa, and possibly earn enough to pay their way through school.  If the student gets the degree in a valuable field, such as English, and is a good fit for teaching, there will be plenty of opportunities during and after university.

Teach English in China with No Experience

For someone with a bachelor's degree but no experience, the best way is to familiarize yourself by getting a TEFL certificate in your home country.  

At least, this would qualify for language center work. A hard work ethic and persistence are crucial for success; teachers who show they are hard workers, genuinely want to be teachers, and enjoy being in China can often advance in ways others do not.

The Truth about Teaching English in China

Reviews about Teaching English in China

Best Places to Teach English in China

Top 10 Cities to Teach English in China

Shanghai

As the commerce hub of China, Shanghai attracts talents from all over the world. The city government highly values English education and fosters English talent to attract more foreign companies and business interests.

In terms of the number of high paying jobs, Shanghai often tops the lists, even though the cost of living is also some of the highest in China.

For more info, visit Teach in Shanghai

Shanghai City
(photo by xiyow)

Beijing

Beijing is the capital of the People's Republic of China and the nation's political center. Located in northern China, Beijing has thousands of years of history that weaves together unique culture, historical treasures, and a vibrant modern landscape.

Since Chinese culture values education and the Beijing government has a strong public sector, the best public schools are in Beijing. Since the entire high school education relies on passing the GaoKao exam, the public schools are structured by the students' average GaoKao scores. For example, schools like Tsinghua High School, Beijing 8, 80, 101, etc. have a strong track record of GaoKao scores, and have strong GaoKao English programs.

Many other international programs (Guojibu) are attached to these schools. They are each owned by private businesses and vary in quality, regardless of the reputation of the government-owned parent institution.

In addition to public schools and international programs, there seem to be over ten thousand language training centers, kindergartens, and supplemental learning centers.

In all of this, there are also about a dozen real international schools that pass all certification requirements.

Beijing is the best city to go to if you want the most organized, established, nationalized system of education.

For more info, visit Teach in Beijing

Beijing City
(photo by people.cn)

Guangzhou

Guangzhou, a vibrant and bustling metropolis, is the capital city of Guangdong Province, which is located along the southern coastline of China.

Guangzhou is an open South China Seaport on the Pearl River with fast access to Hong Kong and Macau. It is the political, economic, scientific, educational, and cultural center of the Guangdong region.

Most people in Guangdong province have made their money in manufacturing, specifically using factories to produce many different types of goods.  

For more info, visit Teach in Guangzhou

Guangzhou City
(photo by ChinaVisual)

Shenzhen

Shenzhen is the fastest growing city in China.

In the last forty years, Shenzhen has developed due to being the first city to allow market reforms and its proximity to Hong Kong.

Now known as the "Silicon Valley of China," Shenzhen is one of the economic centers of China, with a comprehensive economy that has long ranked fourth in mainland China, and now ranks behind Shanghai and Beijing as one of the most economically developed cities in mainland China.

For more info, visit Teach in ShenzhenFor more info, visit Teach in Guangzhou

Shenzhen City
(photo by Xici)

Chengdu

Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and has been known as the "Land of Heaven" since ancient times.

It is an important central city in terms of high-tech industry, trade, logistics, and the comprehensive transportation hub in western China.

Many foreigners appreciate Chengdu's above-average salaries, moderate cost of living, delicious Sichuan cuisine, a laid-back population, and cute panda bears.

For more info, visit Teach in Chengdu

Chengdu City
(photo by leyijc)

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province and one of the central cities of the Yangtze River Delta with a history of more than 2200 years, from the first Qin Dynasty.

Many natural and humanistic sites exist in and around the West Lake, like the West Lake culture, Liangzhu culture, silk culture, tea culture, and many stories and legends pass down from generation to generation.

The Internet economy has become a new economic growth point in Hangzhou, with the flourishing development of Alibaba and other high-tech enterprises.

Many ex-pats regard Hangzhou as the top three beautiful places in China, along with Suzhou and Ningbo. Many people view the scenery, weather, population, as charming and attractive.

For more info, visit Teach in Hangzhou

(photo by pz821)

Suzhou

Suzhou is close to Shanghai and is another one of the critical central cities in the Yangtze River Delta of China.

The Suzhou Classical Garden and the Suzhou section of the Grand Canal of China are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Many people are drawn to the canals (which resemble Venice), the relaxed pace of living, friendly population, and peaceful lifestyle.

For more info, visit Teach in Suzhou

Suzhou City
(photo by pconline)

Tianjin

Tianjin is the economic center of the Bohai Sea region and the largest port city and one of the most economically developed cities in northern China.

Tianjin (formerly Tientsin) is a city rich in history and culture.  Because of its busy port to the outside world, Tianjin's economic development has always been the best in the country. A large and active port, a bustling stock market, and a significant international presence have made Tianjin one of the most developed, wealthiest, and most modern cities in China, if not the world.

For more info, visit Teach in Tianjin

Tianjin City
(photo by Xici)

Dalian

Dalian is a famous city, port, and scenic tourist destination on the north coast of China.

Many foreigners enjoy being in a port city, with a lower cost of living compared to Tianjin, Shanghai, etc. The vibrant atmosphere is pleasing to many people.

For more info, visit Teach in Dalian

Dalian City
(photo by Xici)

Wuhan

Wuhan is a central city of central China, a substantial national industrial base, science and education center, and a comprehensive transportation hub. As the economic and geographic center of China, Wuhan is known as the "Ninth Province Throughway," the largest water, land, and air transportation hub in China's interior and a shipping center in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River.  It is the only city in central China with direct flights to five continents.

Wuhan is speeding up the construction of a national center city supported by four functions: a national economical center, a high-level science and technology innovation center, a trade and logistics center, and an international communication center.

While Wuhan had a booming economy, the 2019 Coronavirus and the resulting lockdown has had a devastating impact on the economy. Nonetheless, as the Coronavirus has been contained, and the economy is rebuilding, much foreign investment and hiring are expected to resume, as investors can get high-quality lands and services at low prices.

For more info, visit Teach in Wuhan

Wuhan City
(photo by sina)

Best Company to Teach English in China

Best Private Language Schools

EF Education

In 1965, a young Swedish man named Bertil Hult founded EF Education, a global private English language education provider focused on language learning, study tours, and degree programs. Today, EF Education has turned the world into an English classroom.

Rice English

Relying on Horton Mifflin Harcourt Group's (HMHG) global education resources, Rice provides pure English education for children aged 3-18 years through the self-developed and optimized curriculum. Rice helps the child gradually develop English application and thinking skills as well as cross-cultural skills, including teamwork, presentation, and future leadership.

New Oriental English School

New Oriental English School, developed by Beijing New Oriental School, established in 1993, is a large comprehensive education technology group that integrates education training, education product research and development, and education services. New Oriental English School was successfully listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2006, becoming the first overseas listed education and training institution in mainland China.

Best Platform of Teaching English Online in China

51 Talk

51 talk is the first online education platform to be listed on the NYSE. It focuses on providing a comprehensive English curriculum with all foreign teachers and English tutoring only to both kids and adults. 51 talk has the best performance in the current market of online English education in terms of brand awareness, usage rate, and most frequent usage rate, according to China K12 Online English Education Survey Report 2018.

VIPKID

VIPKID aims at one-to-one online American elementary lessons teaching by abroad teachers. It received $200 million in Series D funding in 2017 and $500 million in Series D+ in 2018.

By incorporating craft classes, picture book classes, music classes, and other themed classes, DaDa can make learning English enjoyable for the child. The platform offers a one-to-one class with foreign teachers from Europe and America for 5-16 years old. It received $100 million in Series C funding in 2018 according to 2018 China K12 Online English Education Market Research Report.

TutorABC

TutorABC is a 22-year-old adult online English education platform with more than 180 million students. It selects nearly 10,000 quality foreign teachers from all over the world and adopts a small class system, tailor-made courses.

Koolearn

Koolearn is one of the first professional online education websites in China. Courses in Koolearn cover six major categories: foreign exams, national exams, vocational education, English language learning, multiple language learning, and K12 education, with nearly 3000 courses. It has more than 20 million registered individual users and more than 50 million learning users.

Hujiang

Hujiang is a leading education company providing various courses and professional teaching services, covering 12 foreign languages such as English, Japanese, Korean and French, as well as multi-disciplinary courses such as exam studies and workplace interests. As of May 31, 2018, it has about 170 million users.

Relying on the rich experience of Hujiang in Internet education, Hitalk creates a more adult-friendly English speaking course.