Why Get a U.S. Teaching License as an International Educator in China
| by Hannah Sparling
If you’re an international teacher — or considering becoming one — you have plenty of options. There are more than 15,000 international schools worldwide, according to the 2026 Global International Schools Snapshot, with 7.7 million students and 730,000 staff members.
China is at the top of the list, with 1,117 international schools, according to that snapshot. That sizeable market makes China an attractive destination for teachers looking to advance their careers while experiencing a rich, vibrant culture.
This post will cover some of the top benefits of becoming an international teacher in China as well as how earning a U.S. teaching license can set you up for higher pay, stronger job security, and expanded career options.
Why Choose China as an International Educator
One of the biggest selling points of international teaching is the chance to travel and explore the world, and China has a lot to offer as you narrow down your list of locations. First, it has one of the largest and fastest-growing markets in the world for English language education, according to HiredChina. This could mean you’ll have an easier time finding a job.
Second, schools in China are known for offering competitive benefit packages. As an international teacher, you can often expect perks like free housing, international medical insurance, relocation assistance, and generous vacation time. Many schools even cover visa expenses and provide free flights back to your home country. Combined with a cost of living that is about half of what it costs in the United States, educators in China have a fantastic opportunity to save for the future while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.
Third, China offers phenomenal cultural and travel experiences. It’s one of the oldest civilizations in the world and has the second highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World).
How a U.S. License Benefits Teachers in China
While a U.S. teaching license is not always a requirement for teaching jobs in China, having your license can be a massive boost to your career trajectory. It sets you apart from other applicants and unlocks opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.
Higher Earning Potential
China has multiple school types, including training centers, public schools, bilingual schools, and international schools. According to China by Teaching, international schools offer the highest salaries, but those positions are also the most competitive and generally require a teaching license.
So, you could get a teaching job in China without your license. But with it, you could potentially get a better, higher-paying job.
Competitive Advantage for Jobs
Standing out in a sea of resumes can be challenging. But if it’s you, a U.S. licensed teacher, competing against other applicants with a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate, you’re in a good spot.
Top-tier international schools want educators who have completed a rigorous Educator Preparation Program (EPP). Holding a U.S. license shows hiring managers that you have the skills and experience they need.
Moreland grad Hamed Ghaheri initially started teaching in China with his TEFL certificate. But after talking with other teachers at his school, he realized he wanted to earn his U.S. license to set himself up for new and better opportunities.
Ghaheri chose Moreland University because he liked the global cohort model, learning with educators from around the world, and he was drawn to the fact he could earn his teaching license and his M.Ed. through Moreland in just 12 months.
“In one year, I can get both,” he said. “The price was affordable compared to other programs I found in the U.S. And honestly, Moreland opened a gate for me to follow my dreams.”
Advanced Teaching Skills
Beyond the financial and professional perks, earning your U.S. license can simply make you a better teacher. The certification process gives you a solid foundation in education, and you’ll learn new teaching methods and strategies for supporting and connecting with your students.
Nikiwe Khambule is another teacher who started with her TEFL certificate and then earned her license through Moreland.
“[Moreland] is how I got more skills to be better and be intentional with my teaching and everything else,” Khambule said. “That really stands out for me even today.”
Chad Stephens learned a lot about differentiation and supporting students with varied needs during his Moreland classes. Stephens initially decided to earn his U.S. license because his goal is to work at an international school in China (and, again, a teaching license is often a prerequisite for those positions).
“I was intrigued by Moreland University because I could do everything online while still working full-time here, while going through having a new baby daughter,” he said. “Rather than uprooting and moving back to the states, it was definitely more convenient and gave me more flexibility to do it on my own time.”
What Does it Take to Earn Your U.S. Teaching License from China?
Teachers in China will follow the same steps to earn a U.S. license as they would if they were planning to teach in the States. You’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree
- A completed Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
- Passing scores on your licensure exams
- A clear background check
For an overview of the process, download our Guide to U.S. Teacher Certification in China. You’ll learn the steps you’ll take to become a U.S. licensed teacher along with tips for choosing the right EPP and passing your exams.
Ready to earn your U.S. teaching license? Become a licensed teacher in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.
You can apply for free in about 15 minutes, and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.
If you have questions, click here to book a 1:1 chat with a member of our admissions team. We’d love to connect.
