Teaching English online in Vietnam can be a rewarding and lucrative job due to the country’s low cost of living.
Earn the dollar but spend in the Vietnamese Dong (VND; ₫). That’s a 1 to 24,385 exchange rate (roughly, as of 2023.)
But how can we do this?
Step by Step: How to teach online from Vietnam
Here are the steps you can follow to get started:
Qualifications and Requirements
First, ensure you meet the necessary qualifications to teach English.
Typically, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree (in any field) and be a native or fluent English speaker. Some online teaching platforms may have additional requirements.
While not always mandatory, having a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification can enhance your chances of finding students and getting higher-paying gigs. Many online teaching companies prefer or require these certifications.
Choose an Online Platform
Decide whether you want to work with a specific online teaching platform or offer your services independently. Some popular platforms for online English teaching in Vietnam include VIPKid, iTalki, and Cambly. Each platform has its own requirements and payment structure.
Set Up Your Workspace
Create a suitable teaching environment at home. Ensure you have a good internet connection, a reliable computer, a webcam, and a headset with a microphone for clear communication.
Create a Professional Profile
If you’re using an online platform, create a professional profile that highlights your qualifications, teaching experience, and availability. Include a friendly photo and a brief introduction.
Market Yourself
Promote your services through social media, forums, and teaching directories. You can also consider advertising on local classified websites or reach out to language schools in Vietnam for potential students.
Set Your Rates
Determine your hourly rates for lessons. Rates can vary depending on your qualifications and experience. Research what other online English teachers are charging to stay competitive.
Schedule and Availability
Be clear about your teaching schedule and availability. Vietnamese students often prefer early morning or evening classes to fit their time zones.
Prepare for the Interview
If you’re applying to work with an online teaching platform, be prepared for an interview and possibly a demo lesson. Show enthusiasm, professionalism, and teaching skills during the interview process.
Manage Payments and Taxes
Ensure you have a system in place to manage payments from your students. Be aware of any tax obligations in your home country and Vietnam, as you may need to report your income. Remember, if you are in the USA you will get double taxed. That’s right: you have to pay taxes in the US and in Vietnam.
Continuous Improvement
Stay updated with teaching techniques and materials. Attend webinars or workshops, and seek feedback from your students to improve your teaching skills. I suggest networking with other teachers to stay up to teach on your teaching.
- Join the forum Vietnam Teaching Jobs
- Join the “English teachers in VietNam” Facebook group.
Legal Considerations
Depending on your location and the platform you work with, there may be legal requirements or visa considerations to teach English online in Vietnam.
It’s essential to research and comply with any applicable regulations around your VISA or residency.
Conclusion
Remember that the demand for English teachers can vary, so it may take some time to establish a steady flow of students. Be patient and persistent in marketing your services and delivering quality lessons to build a successful online teaching business in Vietnam.
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