Navigating Your First TEFL Job in China: Red Flags, Contracts, and Big Decisions

So you and your partner have been offered teaching positions in Guangzhou, China. The excitement is real—but so are the nerves. You’re staring at a contract that feels informal, you’re unsure about the agency, and you’re wondering if this is the right move or a mistake waiting to happen.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many new TEFL teachers face this exact crossroads. Let’s break down the biggest concerns and how to handle them.

The Informal Contract Problem

When a contract feels loose or vague, trust your gut. A legitimate teaching job in China should come with a clear, detailed contract that outlines:

• Salary and payment schedule (monthly, before or after tax)
• Housing allowance or provided accommodation
• Flight reimbursement terms
• Working hours and teaching load
• Holiday and sick leave policies
• Termination clauses and notice periods

If an agency tells you to “just sign it and back out later,” that’s a warning sign. Signing a contract creates legal obligations, even if enforcement varies. Always ask for time to review the document—ideally with someone who knows Chinese labor law or has TEFL experience in China.

Grads Gone Global and SIE: What You Need to Know

Agencies like Grads Gone Global (GGG) and placement companies like SIE (Shanghai International Education) are common entry points for first-time teachers. They can help with visa processing, school placement, and initial support.

However, they also take a portion of your salary. That’s their business model. While this can provide security, it also means you earn less than if you found a job directly.

The key question is: What are you getting for that cut? Legitimate agencies offer:

• Pre-arranged housing or housing assistance
• Visa guidance and paperwork support
• A local point of contact for problems
• Guaranteed placement before you leave

If you’re not getting these, the agency may not be worth it.

“Sign First, Interview Later” – Is That Normal?

No, it’s not standard. Usually, you interview with the school first, get a job offer, and then sign a contract. Being asked to sign before interviewing suggests the agency is focused on locking you in rather than matching you with the right role.

This is a major red flag. You might end up at a school that’s a poor fit—and with little recourse to change.

The Pay Reality Check

Teaching salaries in China vary widely. In first-tier cities like Guangzhou, expect anywhere from 12,000 to 20,000 RMB per month for first-time teachers, depending on qualifications and hours. After agency fees, you’ll be on the lower end.

Remember: a lower salary doesn’t automatically mean a bad job. But it does mean you’ll have less savings potential. If you have student loans or other financial commitments, run the numbers carefully.

Should You Stay or Go?

You mentioned feeling like this is your best window to go abroad. That’s a real concern—life does have a way of filling up. But a rushed decision made out of fear can lead to regret.

Here’s a better approach:

1. Ask for a sample contract from the agency before making any decisions.
2. Request a video call with the actual school where you’d be teaching.
3. Talk to current or former teachers at that school if possible.
4. Set a deadline for yourself that includes time to review the contract with a trusted advisor.

If the agency can’t provide these, consider it a clear no-go.

The Bottom Line

Teaching in China can be an incredible experience—but only if you go in with eyes wide open. Don’t let urgency push you into a bad deal. There will be other opportunities, both through agencies and independently.

If you and your partner are serious about this adventure, take the extra week to vet the offer thoroughly. A good opportunity will withstand scrutiny. A bad one won’t.