If you’re thinking about teaching in China, it’s completely natural to worry about the language barrier. China is one of the most popular destinations for our teachers, but it’s also one of the most linguistically intimidating. Mandarin Chinese is very different from English, and the idea of living and working somewhere without speaking the local language can feel daunting.
So let’s answer the question clearly and honestly. Do you need to speak Chinese to teach in China?
For the vast majority of teaching roles, no, you don’t. Most schools in China hire foreign teachers specifically to teach in English and do not expect them to speak Mandarin. However, while Chinese isn’t required for the job itself, learning some basics can make daily life easier and help you settle in more quickly.
In this blog, we’ll explain when Chinese is and isn’t needed, why most schools don’t require it, and what to realistically expect if you decide to teach in China without speaking the language.
And after you’re done here, why not check out our 2026 Beijing program?
Do You Need to Speak Chinese to Teach in China?
In short, speaking Chinese is not usually a requirement to teach in China.
Most foreign teachers are hired to teach English or teach subjects through English, and schools expect lessons to be delivered entirely in English. In fact, many schools actively prefer teachers who don’t rely on Chinese in the classroom, as this supports full language immersion for students.
This applies to:
- English teaching roles in public schools
- Private language centres
- International schools
- Many bilingual schools
As long as you meet the main requirements (such as a degree, a TEFL qualification, and native or fluent English) a lack of Mandarin is very unlikely to prevent you from getting a teaching job in China.
Why Most Schools Don’t Require Chinese
There are several practical reasons why Chinese language skills aren’t essential for teaching in China.
English immersion is the goal
Most English programmes in China are built around immersion. Schools want students to hear, use, and think in English as much as possible. For this reason, teachers are often encouraged to avoid using Chinese in lessons, even if they do speak it.
Support staff are usually available
In many schools, especially public schools and larger institutions, foreign teachers work alongside Chinese teaching assistants or local staff. These staff members can help with:
- Classroom management
- Translating instructions if absolutely necessary
- Communicating with parents
- Navigating school systems
This support means teachers can focus on teaching, rather than worrying about language barriers.
Teaching materials are provided in English
Lesson plans, textbooks, training materials, and curricula are typically provided in English. You’re not expected to translate materials into Chinese or teach complex concepts through Mandarin.
Schools are used to hiring international teachers
China has been hiring foreign teachers for decades. Schools are well aware that most international teachers arrive without Chinese language skills, and systems are already in place to support them.
When Speaking Chinese Can Be Helpful (But Not Required)
While Chinese isn’t necessary for most teaching roles, learning some Mandarin can definitely improve your overall experience.
Daily life outside school
Simple things like ordering food, shopping, using taxis, or asking for directions become easier if you know a few phrases. In bigger cities, you can often get by with translation apps and basic English, but in smaller cities, Chinese is more commonly spoken.
Settling in faster
Teachers who learn some Mandarin often feel more independent and confident early on. Being able to read menus, recognise characters, or exchange basic greetings can make everyday life feel less overwhelming.
Building relationships
Speaking even a little Chinese can help you connect with colleagues, neighbours, and the local community. Many locals really appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect.
That said, fluency is absolutely not expected. Basic “survival Chinese” is more than enough, and many teachers learn gradually once they arrive.
Does It Depend on the Type of School?
Yes, the type of school you work in can influence how useful Chinese will be.
Public schools
Public schools often provide teaching assistants who speak both English and Chinese. Mandarin is not required, and many foreign teachers work comfortably without it.
Private language centres
These centres are designed around English immersion and often operate entirely in English. Chinese is rarely needed at work.
International schools
International schools typically have a very international staff body, and English is the main working language. Chinese is not required for teaching roles.
Does Location in China Make a Difference?
Location plays a role in how often you’ll use Chinese, but not usually whether you’re required to speak it.
Large cities
Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou have large expat communities. English is widely used in restaurants, shops, and transport hubs, and it’s relatively easy to live comfortably without Chinese.
Smaller cities
In smaller cities or less touristy areas, English is less commonly spoken outside school. While this doesn’t affect your ability to teach, learning some Mandarin can make everyday life smoother.
Many teachers actually enjoy this challenge and find that living outside major cities accelerates their language learning naturally.
Should You Learn Chinese Before Moving to China?
Learning Chinese before you move is not required, but it can be helpful.
If you do decide to prepare, focus on:
- Basic greetings
- Numbers
- Ordering food
- Transport vocabulary
Apps like Duolingo or HelloChinese are popular starting points, but many teachers find they learn far more quickly once they’re surrounded by the language every day.
Importantly, schools do not expect you to arrive with Chinese language skills. Learning on the job and in daily life is completely normal.
So, do you need to speak Chinese to teach in China?
For most teaching roles, the answer is no.
Schools hire foreign teachers specifically to teach in English and do not expect Mandarin skills. While learning some Chinese can make life outside the classroom easier and more enjoyable, it’s not a barrier to getting a teaching job in China. If you’re interested in teaching abroad, language concerns shouldn’t stop you from exploring opportunities in one of the world’s most exciting countries.
Check out your options in China with us, we’d love to help kickstart your adventure in the Middle Kingdom.
