TEFL Course Requirements: Do You Really Need a Degree to Teach English Abroad?

Published 22 March 2026 · 7 min read · Category: TEFL Advice

The Short Answer

A bachelor's degree is not required to do a TEFL course, but it is required to legally work as an English teacher in most countries. Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, China, UAE, Philippines, and Taiwan all require a degree for a legal work permit.

Country-by-Country: Degree Requirements

CountryDegree Required?Notes
VietnamYesRequired for work permit. Bachelor's minimum.
South KoreaYesRequired for E-2 visa. Any subject.
JapanYesRequired for work visa. Any subject.
ChinaYesRequired for Z visa.
UAEYesRequired for work visa.
PhilippinesYes (for 9G visa)Required for work permit.
South AfricaYes (for visa)SA citizens exempt from visa requirement.
CambodiaNoLower market, less regulation.

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