If you’re looking to teach English in Vietnam, you’re not alone—this vibrant Southeast Asian country has become a top destination for educators seeking adventure, professional growth, and cultural immersion. With breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and a high demand for English teachers, Vietnam offers a wide range of opportunities for both seasoned educators and first-time teachers.
Whether you’re interested in public schools, international institutions, or flexible freelance work, there’s something here for every teaching style. Here’s your go-to guide on the types of teaching jobs available in Vietnam—so you can find the best fit and start your journey with confidence.
1. Public School Teaching Jobs in Vietnam
Teaching at a Vietnamese public school is a fantastic option for those who want structure, cultural immersion, and a steady schedule. You’ll likely work with large class sizes (30–50 students) and follow the national curriculum, focusing on subjects like English, math, and science.
Why Choose Public Schools?
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Set Monday–Friday schedule
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Paid holidays aligned with the school calendar
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Deep immersion into local education culture
Things to Consider:
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Limited resources in some schools
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Larger class sizes can require classroom management skills
Requirements:
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Bachelor’s degree
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Teaching experience is helpful but not always required
Typical Salary: $1,200–$2,000/month
Benefits: Paid holidays, sometimes housing support
2. Private Language Centers: The Most Popular Way to Teach English in Vietnam
Language centers are the most common route for foreign teachers in Vietnam. These schools operate after regular school hours and on weekends, offering flexible schedules and interactive classes for students ranging from toddlers to adults.
Why It’s a Great Choice:
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Smaller class sizes for a more engaging experience
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High demand means more job openings
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Many centers provide curriculum and lesson planning support
What to Expect:
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Evening and weekend hours
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Peak hiring seasons around the start of the school year (and after Tet holiday)
Requirements:
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Bachelor’s degree
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Experience is a plus, but not always necessary
Typical Salary: $1,500–$2,500/month
Benefits: Performance bonuses, housing assistance, contract completion bonuses
3. International Schools in Vietnam: High Pay and Prestige
If you’re a licensed teacher with classroom experience, international schools offer some of the most competitive salaries and benefits in Vietnam. These schools serve both expat families and local students enrolled in international programs like IB, Cambridge, or American curriculums.
Why Teachers Love It:
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High salaries and excellent benefits
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Small class sizes and well-resourced classrooms
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Professional development opportunities
Challenges:
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Competitive hiring process
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Requires formal teaching credentials
Requirements:
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Bachelor’s or Master’s in Education
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2–3 years of classroom experience (often required)
Typical Salary: $2,500–$5,000/month
Benefits: Housing allowance, health insurance, annual flights, paid vacations
4. University Teaching Jobs in Vietnam
Want to teach motivated learners in a relaxed academic setting? University positions in Vietnam often involve teaching English communication or academic writing to college students, with some opportunities to lecture in business, IT, or STEM subjects.
Why It’s Appealing:
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Fewer teaching hours per week
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Flexible schedules
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Longer holiday breaks
Things to Keep in Mind:
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Fewer jobs available compared to schools and centers
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Pay is typically lower than international schools
Requirements:
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Experience teaching at the college level
Typical Salary: $1,200–$2,500/month
Benefits: Flexible hours, academic environment, occasional research opportunities
5. Private Tutoring: Flexible and Lucrative
Many teachers in Vietnam supplement their income through private tutoring, and some make it a full-time career. Whether you’re helping students prep for exams or supporting business professionals, tutoring offers full control over your schedule and rates.
Why You Might Love It:
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High hourly pay
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Freedom to choose your students and teaching style
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Great side income or main gig for freelancers
Downsides:
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No guaranteed hours or income
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Requires self-promotion and scheduling flexibility
Requirements:
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Strong teaching skills and networking abilities
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Local contacts or online presence helps
Typical Pay: $20–$50/hour
Benefits: Independence and high earning potential
6. Corporate English Training Jobs
With Vietnam’s growing economy, there’s a demand for business English trainers to help companies improve their employees’ language and communication skills. These jobs often focus on industry-specific vocabulary and professional writing or speaking.
What Makes This Unique:
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Professional, adult learners
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Often involves on-site training at offices
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Some corporate perks (meals, transport, bonuses)
Things to Note:
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Classes may be early in the morning or in the evening
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Fewer roles available, especially outside major cities
Requirements:
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Business experience is a plus
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Prior ESL teaching experience preferred
Typical Salary: $2,000–$4,000/month
Benefits: Travel reimbursements, meal allowances, contract bonuses
Final Thoughts: Should You Teach English in Vietnam?
If you’re looking for a teaching destination that combines career opportunity with cultural adventure, Vietnam checks all the boxes. Whether you want the structure of a public school, the high salary of an international school, or the flexibility of private tutoring, Vietnam offers something for every type of educator.
With its affordable cost of living, friendly communities, and dynamic cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, it’s no wonder more and more educators are choosing to teach English in Vietnam.
Need help finding the right teaching job? Teaching Nomad is here to guide you every step of the way—from choosing the best teaching role to handling your visa paperwork. Let’s make your Vietnam adventure a reality. Browse teaching jobs in Vietnam or connect with a placement consultant to get started.
