Teaching English in Cambodia: Complete Guide to Requirements, Jobs, and Lifestyle in 2025
Teaching English in Cambodia offers more than a paycheck it’s a gateway to cultural immersion, professional growth, and meaningful connections. As Cambodia expands economically and globally, the need for English proficiency has surged in business, tourism, and education sectors.
This guide arms prospective teachers with expert insights on qualifications, legal considerations, job opportunities, compensation, and life in Cambodia.
Why Teach English in Cambodia?
English is increasingly essential in Cambodia’s workforce, education, and tourism. Entry requirements are more flexible compared to many Asian nations, making the opportunity accessible.
Coupled with a low cost of living and cultural treasures like Angkor Wat, Cambodia is a rewarding classroom for both teaching and exploration. Opportunities span from private academies and international schools to NGOs in rural areas.
Essential Qualifications and Requirements
- TEFL/TESOL Certification (120+ hours): Highly recommended ideally through in-person courses for practical training (theteflacademy.com).
- Bachelor’s Degree: Not mandatory but enhances employability and salary prospects .
- Experience: Beginners are welcomed in private schools; international schools often require 1–2 years of teaching.
- English Proficiency: Native speakers dominate positions; non-natives with strong fluency find roles too (enchantedesl.com).
- Work Visa & Permit: A work visa is mandatory teaching on a tourist visa is illegal and risky (theteflacademy.com).
Types of Teaching Jobs Available
- Private Language Schools: Popular in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
- International Schools: Higher standards and salaries; require formal credentials.
- NGOs & Volunteer Programs: Often rural; focus on community impact.
- Online Teaching and Private Tutoring: Offers flexible income supplement.
Salary Expectations and Benefits
Cambodia offers competitive pay relative to its cost of living:
- Private schools/academies: $800–$1,200/month; hourly rate $10–$15 (enchantedesl.com, beyondtefl.com).
- International schools: $1,200–$1,500+, sometimes up to $2,500+ for experienced teachers (teast.co).
- NGOs/Volunteers: Typically $500–$800/month, often with housing or food stipends (teast.co).
- Private tutoring: $10–$25/hour depending on clientele (teast.co).
Sample salary table:
| Role | Monthly Salary (USD) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level private school | 800–1,200 | Often flexible hours |
| International school | 1,200–2,500+ | Housing, health insurance, paid leave |
| NGO/Volunteer | 500–800 | Housing stipend, cultural immersion |
| Private tutoring | $10–25/hour | Flexible scheduling |
Experienced teachers in Cambodia report saving $200–$500 per month, due to low living costs (letstefl.com, gooverseas.com, reddit.com, internationalteflacademy.com, ipgce.com, teast.co).
How to Find Teaching Jobs in Cambodia
- Job portals: CamHR, TEFL.com, Teaching Nomad, local agencies.
- Expat networks & social groups: Facebook and local meetups.
- Direct applications: Contact schools and educational centers.
- Verify employers: Check benefits including visa assistance and contract clarity.
Living and Working in Cambodia as an English Teacher
- Cultural adaptation: Learn Khmer basics, respect hierarchies, and embrace local customs.
- Health & safety: Recommended vaccinations, secure health insurance, and cautious practice in clinics.
- Work-life balance: Engage with Cambodia’s rich traditions, festivals, temples, and cuisine.
- Social connections: Join fellow teachers, volunteers, and community groups to build support networks.
Challenges and Tips for Success
- Visa bureaucracy: Allocate time and budget for proper work permits.
- Resource constraints: Develop structured lesson plans with limited materials.
- System adaptation: Embrace flexible teaching environments and local practices.
- Professional growth: Engage in workshops, TEFL refresher courses, and in-service training.
Summary Table: Teaching English in Cambodia – Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| TEFL Certificate | 120+ hours recommended |
| Degree Requirement | Preferred but not mandatory |
| Avg. Salary | $800–1,200 (private); $1,200+ (international) |
| Visa Requirement | Work visa mandatory |
| Top Locations | Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang |
| Teaching Options | Private, international, NGO, online |
| Cost of Living | Low; affordable housing and food |
Conclusion
Teaching English in Cambodia offers a unique blend of meaningful work, cultural exploration, and financial viability. By meeting TEFL standards, securing proper visas, and approaching the role with flexibility and empathy, teachers can enjoy a rewarding lifestyle in 2025.
With ongoing demand across the sector, Cambodia remains a prime opportunity for those seeking to teach abroad.
