NOTE: Since this was originally published the Chinese government has imposed restrictions on teaching by non-resident Chinese. Opportunities remain for teaching children in other countries.
Particularly in Asia parents are eager to have their children learn English with an American or Canadian accent. So there is huge demand for teachers with a Bachelor’s degree and the flexibility to work from home at odd hours.
That’s right–odd hours, such as very early in the morning for the teacher which would be normal afternoon hours for the student in Beijing or Tokyo. Before you even apply for a job, check out the time difference between where you live and the country where your prospective students live. It may turn out that you can keep your regular day job and help Chinese children learn English, too.
In most cases your students would be in the lower grades, not at the high school or college level.
A Bachelor’s degree is usually required but a Teaching Certificate often optional. If you have English as a Second Language (ESL) certification you will definitely increase your desirability as an online instructor.
What you need: a newish computer with fast internet access, good people/children skills, and a Bachelor’s degree. Speaking and reading American or Canadian English is necessary and having a second language increases your chances of employment. An ESL or Teaching Certificate is desirable, but optional in most cases.
Where to find these work from home jobs: While there are dozens of companies now offering online English language teaching services, especially in Asia, these seem to be among the most reliable: VIPKID, Teachaway, Qkids. As with all companies who employ remote workers, check their reviews on Google to learn the good, the great, and the ugly.
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