The go-to hub for current and aspiring English teachers in Taiwan to swap stories, ask questions, explore job options, and navigate the real-world ups and downs of teaching English here. You can also use this link to come directly to the forum http://teaching.forumosa.com
The Teaching English in Taiwan forum is one of the longest-running and most relatable sections on Forumosa. For many of us, teaching—especially in cram schools—was how we first found our footing on the island. This forum captures that shared entry point, offering a space where people can talk about everything from job contracts and pay expectations to classroom challenges, student dynamics, and what to look out for when applying to a school.
What sets this forum apart is its clear focus: this isn’t about the broader world of education or expat life in general—it’s about the nuts and bolts of teaching English in Taiwan. It brings together newbies trying to land their first job, long-timers figuring out what’s next, and those in the trenches of the buxiban system just looking for a bit of solidarity. While other work-related forums touch on business or tech, this one reflects the reality that teaching has been, and still is, the most accessible pathway for foreigners starting out here.
Topics range from horror stories to success stories, visa and ARC questions, side gigs and burnout, and even the ethics of teaching young learners. It’s a space for venting, connecting, warning, and helping. Whether you’re already in the classroom or still weighing your options, this forum is a valuable part of navigating life in Taiwan—and it’s here for you, whatever stage you’re at.
Useful Threads and Resources
- Reasonable salary expectations
- Advice for prospective teachers looking to work in Taipei
- Review thread for adult ESL schools
- Your first cram school job: what to know
- Living on a teaching salary in Taiwan
- List of Agencies and what you should know about them
- The Chains--Hess, GVO, Kojen, Shane
- Private Schools in Taiwan Thread (For Teachers)
- Review: Adult ESL Schools
Quick Guide for Newcomers
| Topic | What to Search or Ask About | Suggested Tags / Keywords |
|---|---|---|
| Finding a Job | Where to find listings, red flags in ads | teaching-jobs-available cramschools, buxibans |
| Contracts & Pay | Hourly vs monthly pay, typical benefits, late payments | #salary, #contracts, #pay_rates |
| Visa & ARC Info | Requirements for teaching legally, employer-sponsored visas | arc, visa, teaching |
| School Reviews | What to know about specific schools or chains | #school_review, #adultESL |
| Classroom Tips | How to manage students, prepare lessons, or deal with burnout | #teachingtips, #classroom, #burnout |
| Living on a Budget | Can you survive on a teaching salary alone? | cost of living, #budget, #rent |