Teaching English in Cambodia

Cambodia Overview

Main Cities/Areas	Salary range (USD/month)
Phnom Penh, Siem Reap	$800 – $1500

After a troubled recent history, the country of Cambodia is undergoing something of a renaissance and this is mirrored by slight improvements in the growing standards of the TEFL industry.

High rise buildings are going up seemingly overnight, and with those buildings come workers from China. With this, the demand for English teaching has also gone up over the last few years. Phnom Penh remains one of the easiest places in the world to find casual work as an English language tutor, and now it might be even easier!

Pay is not particularly high but because of low living costs, an average teacher’s salary goes a long way. Cambodia is quickly becoming an ideal destination for teachers.

Typical Requirements and Tips

Degree?	TEFL Certification?	Experience?
Yes	Yes	No

Unless you are applying to work at one of the International Schools then it is recommended that you simply arrive in Cambodia armed with your CV and photocopies of relevant academic certificates.

Hotels are cheap enough to make it sensible to see apartments in person rather than arranging accommodation in advance of your arrival.

Ask around on the forums on Khmer 440 for up-to-date information on accommodation and expatriate goings-on.

It is normal to arrive on a tourist visa and then obtain your work visa once in Cambodia. This is a very simple process compared to most neighboring countries.

The cost of accommodation in Cambodia is very low with reasonable apartments going for as little as $200 (USD) per month. Food and basic necessities are also cheap. Bear in mind that medical facilities are not exactly first-class so arrange health insurance in advance or take enough money to facilitate a trip to Thailand in an emergency.

Income tax should be paid by your employer.

Pros and Cons of Teaching in Cambodia