About Teaching English in Thailand
To teach English in Thailand, most teachers will need a TEFL certificate and a bachelor's degree. Native English proficiency is also expected when finding a TEFL job in Thailand. The average salary range for an English teacher in Thailand is between about $850 - $1,500 USD per month.
ITA's Thailand Insights
Degree | Cost of Living | Types of Jobs |
Salary Range |
Savings Potential |
BA/BS Required | $500-$800 USD | Public or Private Schools | $850-$1500 USD | Save up to $450-$700 |
- English is a compulsory subject beginning in elementary school.
- Nearly 30% of the country is under the age 30.
- According to the British Council, over 6 million Thais speak English at a conversational level - roughly 10% of the population.
- Despite recent emphasis on English education, Thailand still ranks low in English proficiency.
While most job interviews for teaching English in Thailand are conducted in person, some are completed in advance over the phone or via Zoom. English instructors in Thailand are typically responsible for airfare and housing expenses. Housing is typically very affordable, and many English teachers in Thailand share accommodations with other English teachers. Contracts typically last 5 to 12 months with jobs available to teach business professionals as well as children. English teachers typically teach on a Non-B Immigrant Visa.
Most English teaching jobs in Thailand are found in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, although teaching jobs are plentiful in smaller cities too.
For those looking to get certified onsite in Thailand, International TEFL Academy offers courses in Chiang Mai and Hua Hin.