Where will I be teaching?
YCT has job opportunities all over China. Where you will be teaching depends on your preferences, your qualifications and the availability of jobs. Some of the cities we place in are Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Harbin, Chengdu and Guilin.
For more information on these and more cities in China, you can visit www.travelchinaguide.com
Can I teach in China if I don't speak Mandarin (Chinese)?
Yes. In fact, most schools do not allow ANY use of the Chinese language in English classes. The best way for students to learn English is to be completely immersed in it. Most jobs in China include the assistance of a TA, or teachers assistant who can provide translation if neccesary, however YCT's integrated course will arm you with methods to teach English without any translations necessary.
For more information on the course, please contact us or download the information pack.
Where will I live? What will my accommodation be like?
Most contracts we offer our clients includes a self-contained, furnished apartment. In most cases you will have the option of living alone, or with other foreigners working at the school. Our YCT representative personally checks your accommodation before you arrive in China, to ensure you will be comfortable during your time there. You will need to spend a little money stocking your cupboards etc, however the main essentials will be provided.
What is the usual contract period?
The usual contract period is 12 months, at the end of which you will generally be entitled to a bonus payment (usually a refund of your return airfare). Some schools do offer six month contracts, however these usually don't involve a bonus. If you are interested in a shorter period of contract, contact us today and we can discuss your options.
How much will I be paid?
Salaries vary, depending on your qualifications, experience and location. For inexperienced/unqualified teachers, the pay will be minimum AU$200/week (5000 RMB/ month) for a 20 hour working week, and rises from there. Do not expect similar pay to what you would get in Australia; China is a developing nation and salaries are much lower there. Next to Chinese workers however, your rate of pay will be comparable with doctors, lawyers and other professionals.
Further, the cost of living is much lower and accommodation is paid, so more of your income is disposable.
To view an example of comparative costs of living, click here.
When and how will my school pay me?
Most schools pay monthly, in cash. At the end of each month teachers collect the pay from the office. ESL teachers are not required to pay tax.
Will I have the opportunity to travel during my contract?
Yes. You will be entitled to paid holidays as well as public holiday breaks. China borders 17 countries, making it the perfect base from which to travel Asia. But China is a big place, and there is so much to see and do without leaving. There are a lot of national holidays in China, giving you the chance to get out and see the country/region.
For more information on traveling China, you can visit chinatravelguide.com
When am I expected to arrive in China?
YCT can arrange for you to arrive in China in as little as one month, or can arrange jobs up to six months in advance. To find out more, contact YCT via the website and your YCT representative will discuss this with you.
What happens when I arrive in China?
You will be met by a representative from your school at the airport, who will take you to your apartment to get settled, and give you some advice and tips for your first weeks in China (ordering food, getting around etc). Your TESOL mentor will also be on hand to provide general advice for your first month there. All our YCT representatives are Australian ESL professionals who live and work in China.
Will I be able to learn mandarin while I'm working in China?
Yes. Most schools offer free mandarin language programs to their foreign teachers after school hours, which means you can learn Mandarin in your spare time.
How much will it cost?
The total cost will vary depending on where you currently live, which city you will be teaching in, how quickly you want to leave, and how much spare cash you want to take with you. The TESOL course itself costs $895 +GST, however you will need to pay for flights, Visas, innoculations etc. To find out exactly how much it will cost you, please contact YCT via the obligation-free application form. One of our representatives will contact you to discuss costs further.
I do not have teaching qualifications, can I still apply?
Yes. YCT's TESOL course is the only requirement of some schools. However if you are qualified, you may be entitled to a higher rate of pay.
Can I also bring my spouse and/or child with me to China?
In most cases, yes. It may be that you will be required to contribute to the rent for a bigger apartment to accommodate your family. These negotiations will all be handled by YCT when securing you employment.