Finding a Teaching job in Vietnam
Are you considering teaching English in Vietnam? This country, rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers an enriching experience for educators. From the lively urban areas of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil countryside and beautiful coastlines, there’s a perfect place for every type of teacher.
Vietnam is known for its affordability and safety, making it a top destination for English teachers from around the globe. The climate varies across the country, offering both tropical weather and cooler seasons, and modern amenities are widely accessible for a comfortable living.
Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam shares borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia, making it an ideal base for regional travel. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to teaching, Vietnam offers opportunities for both professional development and cultural immersion. It’s a fantastic destination for those thinking about teaching English abroad.
Why Teach in Vietnam?
Teaching in Vietnam offers the chance to fully immerse yourself in the country’s vibrant culture and history. The local culture blends ancient traditions with modern influences, giving you the opportunity to experience local customs, festivals, and daily life. Participate in important celebrations like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), where families gather for food, fireworks, and cultural activities, or the Mid-Autumn Festival with its colorful lanterns and mooncakes. Exploring historical landmarks like the Temple of Literature in Hanoi or the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City offers insight into the country’s past.
Explore Southeast Asia with Ease
Vietnam’s location is a major perk for teachers who love to travel. Situated near China, Cambodia, Laos, and the South China Sea, it’s easy to explore nearby countries. Budget-friendly flights and bus routes make it convenient to visit places like Angkor Wat in Cambodia or the beaches of Phuket in Thailand, expanding your cultural horizons during your time off.
Enjoy Scenic Landscapes and Diverse Environments
Vietnam offers a variety of stunning natural landscapes, making it a top destination for travelers. From its lively cities to the peaceful countryside, there’s something for everyone. Explore the emerald waters and limestone islands of Ha Long Bay, trek through the terraced rice fields of Sa Pa, visit the Mekong Delta with its floating markets, or unwind on the tropical beaches of Phu Quoc Island. The diverse environments allow for endless adventure and relaxation.
Live Comfortably with an Affordable Lifestyle
With a low cost of living, Vietnam allows teachers to live comfortably while saving money. Housing is affordable, whether you prefer city apartments or homes in quieter towns. Traveling around is inexpensive, with options like buses, motorbikes, and taxis. Dining out is also affordable, and you can enjoy local dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha at reasonable prices. With an affordable lifestyle, teachers can save money, travel, and enjoy a high quality of life.
Abundant Teaching Opportunities
The demand for English teachers is on the rise in Vietnam, as the country focuses on improving English skills across schools, language centers, and professional settings. There are numerous opportunities available in public schools, private language centers, universities, and corporations. With competitive salaries, many schools offer visa, work permit assistance, and even housing. Whether you prefer the hustle of the big city or the charm of smaller towns, you’ll find a teaching position that suits you.
Warm Vietnamese Hospitality
The Vietnamese are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. As a teacher, you’ll have the chance to build strong relationships with students, colleagues, and locals. You may be invited to family gatherings, festivals, and community events, offering a true taste of Vietnamese life. Learning some basic Vietnamese phrases can deepen these connections and show respect for the culture, making your time in Vietnam all the more rewarding.
Savor Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is famous worldwide for its freshness and bold flavors. As a teacher, you’ll have ample opportunity to dive into the country’s culinary offerings. Enjoy local dishes like spring rolls, bun bo Hue, and cao lau, and visit markets and restaurants to sample a variety of dishes. You can even take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional meals, engaging even more with the culture.
Grow Personally and Professionally
Teaching in Vietnam provides excellent opportunities for personal and professional development. Living abroad enhances adaptability and problem-solving skills, while immersing yourself in a new culture broadens your worldview. Gaining international teaching experience boosts your resume and opens doors for future opportunities. You’ll also have the chance to positively impact students by helping them develop vital language skills, creating lasting memories and growth in both a professional and cultural setting.
Education Sector in Vietnam
In Vietnam, the Ministry of Education and Training oversees the entire public and private education system, which consists of five levels: preschool, primary school, secondary school, high school, and higher education. Education is considered a national priority in Vietnam, although many children in remote areas still lack access to quality primary education.
Vietnam boasts high primary school completion rates, strong gender equality, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a low rate of students out of school. However, the quality of schools can vary significantly across the country. In the past two decades, significant progress has been made to improve both access to and the quality of education.
As in any country, students’ attitudes and behaviors can differ greatly. Nonetheless, you will work with many motivated students who are eager to learn, and you will quickly discover which activities and lessons engage them the most. Education holds great value in Vietnam, and learning English is a key part of the curriculum. Teachers are generally well-respected by both parents and students.
That being said, the education system in Vietnam is often described as somewhat disorganized and flexible. Teachers who prefer a strict schedule may find it challenging to adapt to the often spontaneous and “go-with-the-flow” environment, a characteristic that many people describe as “organized chaos.”
Where to Teach in Vietnam
Vietnam offers numerous cities with teaching opportunities for foreigners. Some of the most popular cities for teaching include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Halong City, Hue, and Can Tho.
Hanoi, the capital, offers a blend of traditional charm and modern growth. Known for its educational focus, the city houses many reputable universities and language schools. Life in Hanoi combines scenic lakes, historic temples, and the bustling Old Quarter, making it an exciting place for both cultural exploration and teaching.
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the country’s economic hub, is filled with energy, innovation, and opportunities. As a teacher here, you will work with a diverse range of students, from children to professionals improving their English for business. The city’s dynamic lifestyle, combined with its historical and cultural mix, makes it an exciting place to live. The demand for English teachers is high, with many openings in language centers, international schools, and private tutoring. The city is congested, and pollution can be an issue, but it remains a popular choice for expats.
Hai Phong, located in the north, is the third-largest city in Vietnam and known for its beautiful flame trees. While it has fewer foreign residents, there are still many reputable schools offering teaching positions. The city’s proximity to Halong Bay allows teachers to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities during weekends.
Halong City, famous for its UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, is an attractive location for nature lovers. Though smaller, Halong offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience with local shops and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities.
Hue is a city steeped in history, featuring landmarks like the Imperial City and the Perfume River. It’s a great choice for history enthusiasts, though teaching opportunities may be more limited compared to larger cities.
Da Nang combines a lively urban atmosphere with a laid-back beach lifestyle. Known as one of the most livable cities in Vietnam, Da Nang offers a balance between work and relaxation. It has beautiful beaches like My Khe Beach and is close to cultural spots like Hoi An and Hue, making it a perfect destination for teachers seeking both career growth and leisure.
Can Tho, located in the Mekong Delta, offers a quieter, slower pace of life. With its famous Cai Rang Floating Market, Can Tho appeals to those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. While teaching positions are fewer, the city’s fresh food and local Hot Pot restaurants make it a delightful place to live and work.
Each of these cities offers unique experiences for teachers, with opportunities to explore Vietnamese culture, history, and nature while pursuing a rewarding career in education.
Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Vietnam
In Vietnam, there are various types of schools where you can teach, each offering different conditions that may align with your lifestyle, salary expectations, and time-off preferences. You’ll need to research each option to determine which is the best fit for you. For instance, if you aim for a higher salary, international schools may be a good choice, but they often require longer hours. On the other hand, universities may provide more free time but offer a lower salary due to shorter working hours.
Vietnam is currently a top destination for teaching English, with a relatively high salary compared to the low cost of living. This makes it possible for teachers to enjoy a good quality of life, with ample time to travel and explore both Vietnam and its neighboring countries. Many teachers are also able to save money while working here. The average salary for an English teacher in Vietnam ranges from 27 to 51 million VND ($1,100 to $2,100) per month, depending on various factors.
Several elements influence your salary, including the location of the school, your experience and qualifications, and the type of institution. Schools in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi typically offer higher salaries compared to those in smaller towns. Additionally, teachers with more experience and qualifications generally earn more. The salary and benefits can also differ depending on the type of school, so it’s important to understand the options available.
| Type of school | Monthly salary | Avg. Vacation | Schedule |
| Training centers | 1,000 – 1,800 USD | 4 weeks/year | Weekday daytime |
| Preschool/kindergarten | 1,500 – 2,200 USD | 4-10 weeks/year | Weekday daytime |
| Public schools | 1,500 – 1,900 USD | 6-10 weeks/year | Weekday daytime |
| International schools | 2,000 – 2,400 USD | 6-10 weeks/year | Weekday daytime |
| Universities | 1,700 – 2,000 USD | 6-10 weeks/year | Weekday daytime |
Training Centers & Private Language Schools in Vietnam
Many foreign teachers in Vietnam work at training centers, which are often attended by children or adults in the evenings and on weekends for English lessons. These positions are usually the easiest to secure due to high demand and year-round hiring. Each training center typically has its own curriculum and materials, reducing the need for extensive preparation.
Training centers are the most common workplaces for English teachers, especially in large cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where there are many such schools. The top schools may require a TEFL or TESOL certificate, but many hire teachers based on their personal appeal rather than qualifications. It’s possible to find a job at a language school without prior teaching experience, and hiring occurs throughout the year. These centers cater mainly to children after school hours or adults in the evening, and classes may be scheduled during the day, evenings, or weekends. Many teachers appreciate the support and training provided, as well as having prepared lessons and materials. Teachers at language schools can earn between 27 to 42 million VND ($1,100 to $1,750) monthly, depending on the number of hours worked.
- Experience Required: 0–1 year+
- Salary: $1,000–$1,800/month
- Schedule & Hours: Weekday daytime
Preschools and Kindergartens in Vietnam
Preschools and kindergartens in Vietnam cater to children aged 18 months to 6 years old and are a popular choice for English teachers. Teachers can expect a welcoming environment, with teaching assistants and a wealth of teaching materials available, making preparation time minimal. Classes typically have 8–20 children and last between 20–40 minutes.
- Experience Required: 0–1 year+
- Salary: $1,500–$2,200/month
- Schedule & Hours: Weekday daytime
International Schools in Vietnam
International schools in Vietnam cater to expatriates and wealthy local families, offering high tuition and competitive enrollment. These schools offer excellent pay and benefits, especially for those with children. However, they generally require a teaching license and a graduate degree. Classes are held on a traditional two-semester schedule, with most lessons taught in English. These schools often follow international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or A-levels, and prefer teachers with experience in these systems. A two-year commitment is commonly expected. Jobs at these schools are highly competitive, but they provide substantial pay, ranging from 46 to 55 million VND ($1,900 to $2,300) monthly, along with great benefits.
- Experience Required: 1 year+
- Salary: $2,000–$2,400/month
- Schedule & Hours: Weekday daytime
Public Schools in Vietnam
Public schools in larger cities offer decent pay, benefits, and more vacation days. Teachers work with diligent, well-behaved students, though some classes may have up to 60 students, which can be challenging. Public school teaching jobs often require a graduate degree or teaching license, especially for those without prior experience. Salaries range from 35 to 48 million VND ($1,450 to $2,000) per month, and teachers typically work weekdays during the daytime.
- Experience Required: Graduate degree or teaching license may be required
- Salary: $1,450–$2,000/month
- Schedule & Hours: Weekday daytime
Universities in Vietnam
Teaching at universities in Vietnam offers variety, with smaller universities hiring teachers for required English classes. These positions are less selective and typically involve teaching oral English. Salaries range from $1,700 to $2,000 per month, and teachers usually work no more than 20 periods a week. High-ranking public universities in major cities offer higher salaries and better benefits, but they require advanced degrees and substantial teaching experience. These positions are more competitive, and work is typically conducted on weekdays during the daytime.
- Experience Required: 1 year+
- Salary: $1,700–$2,000/month
- Schedule & Hours: Weekday daytime
Private Tutoring Jobs and Salaries
Private tutoring is a more lucrative option for entrepreneurial teachers. By cutting out the middleman, teachers can meet students in their homes or at cafes, charging an hourly rate. Rates typically range from 345,000 to 1.4 million VND ($15 to $60) per hour. This can be done part-time or as a full-time career. Online teaching companies also provide opportunities for teachers to connect with students beyond their immediate area. If you’re good at marketing yourself and are comfortable with the uncertainty, private tutoring can offer a very profitable opportunity.
- Salary: Varies ($15–$60/hour) depending on the arrangement and experience
- Schedule & Hours: Flexible
Cost of Living in Vietnam
When evaluating the cost of living in Vietnam, it is helpful to differentiate between essential expenses (such as rent, utilities, food, and transportation) and non-essential expenses (like dining out, entertainment, and fitness memberships). Generally, Vietnam offers a very affordable lifestyle, particularly for English teachers. However, costs can vary depending on whether you live in a major city like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, or in a more rural area. Below is a breakdown of typical monthly expenses based on recent data from Numbeo:
| Item | Average Cost (VND) | Average Cost (USD) |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | 8,956,014 VND | $370 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside Centre | 5,881,213 VND | $240 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | 20,398,476 VND | $840 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside Centre | 12,708,944 VND | $520 |
| Monthly Utilities (915 sq ft) | 1,650,991 VND | $68 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more) | 234,969 VND | $10 |
| Meal in an Inexpensive Restaurant | 50,000 VND | $2 |
| Rice (1 lb) | 10,443 VND | $0.44 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | 42,196 VND | $1.70 |
| Potatoes (1 lb) | 13,661 VND | $0.55 |
| Bananas (1 lb) | 11,467 VND | $0.46 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 12,585 VND | $0.52 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | 43,625 VND | $1.80 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | 20,409 VND | $0.85 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 35,631 VND | $1.50 |
| One-Way Local Transport Ticket | 7,068 VND | $0.30 |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee | 592,884 VND | $24 |
Housing
Housing is often the largest expense for English teachers in Vietnam. A single person can expect to pay between 6,000,000 and 16,000,000 VND (around $250 to $670) per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. If you live outside the city center, the cost drops to between 4,000,000 and 11,000,000 VND (approximately $165 to $460).
For families, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from 12,000,000 to 40,000,000 VND (about $500 to $1,670), while outside the city center, the price range is generally between 8,000,000 and 25,000,000 VND (around $330 to $1,050).
Living in the city center provides easier access to amenities, schools, and social activities, but it comes with a higher rent. On the other hand, suburban areas offer a more peaceful lifestyle and more affordable housing, which can be ideal for families or those looking to reduce housing expenses.
Food
Vietnam is known for its diverse and affordable food options. Street food and local markets offer budget-friendly choices, with meals at inexpensive restaurants typically costing around 50,000 VND (about $2). Basic groceries, such as rice, chicken, and fresh produce, are also reasonably priced, making it easy to stick to a healthy diet on a budget. A regular cappuccino costs around 43,625 VND ($1.80), and a domestic beer is priced at about 20,409 VND ($0.85). While dining at high-end restaurants or purchasing imported groceries can be more expensive, the abundance of local food markets and street food options ensures that eating out remains affordable.
Transportation
Transportation in Vietnam is very affordable. A one-way ticket for local transport typically costs around 7,068 VND (0.30 USD), with monthly passes ranging from 140,000 to 400,000 VND (6 to 17 USD). Taxis start at 15,000 VND (0.62 USD), and gasoline is approximately 89,864 VND (3.70 USD) per gallon. Public transportation, including buses and the expanding metro systems in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is both efficient and cost-effective.
Utilities and Internet
Monthly utilities for an average apartment (around 915 sq ft) usually range from 1,000,000 to 3,080,000 VND (42 to 130 USD), with an average of 1,650,991 VND (68 USD). Internet services in Vietnam are reliable and inexpensive, with a 60 Mbps or higher unlimited data plan costing about 234,969 VND (10 USD) per month.
Entertainment and Leisure
Entertainment and leisure activities in Vietnam are also reasonably priced. A monthly gym membership typically costs around 592,884 VND (24 USD), while cinema tickets range from 80,000 to 150,000 VND (3.30 to 6.30 USD). Whether you’re exploring cultural sites, relaxing in cafés, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, there are many affordable options to choose from.
Monthly Cost Summary
For a single person, the estimated monthly expenses (excluding rent) are approximately 11,725,661 VND (480 USD). For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are around 41,293,501 VND (1,690 USD) without rent. The total will vary depending on the type of accommodation and its location.
