Teaching English in MalaysiaNow Hiring

Teaching English in Malaysia — Quick Facts Updated September 2026
How much you can save per year US$12,000–18,800 + US$5,000–15,000 in private tutoring
Degree requirement Bachelor's degree Required for an employment pass
Certification 120-hour TESOL/TEFL Expected by most employers
Peak hiring seasons Year round International schools follow the academic year
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia

Map of Malaysia

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Asia
How Much Can I Earn?
Monthly Salary:
4,000 - 9,000 MYR
1,263 - 2,525 USD
Private Tutoring per Hour:
35 - 100 MYR
15 - 20 USD
Income Tax Rate:
19 - 25%
Ability to Save per Year:
12,000 - 18,800 USD

What Are My Benefits?
Accommodations:
Sometimes included or allowance may be given
Airfare:
Reimbursement (full or partial) sometimes given
Health Care:
Usually included
Holidays:
Paid

What Will Teaching Be Like?
Teaching Hours:
20 - 35
Typical Contract Length:
Minimum one year
Typical Start Date:
Year round
Application Timeline:
1 - 4 months


What Do I Need?
Work Visa:
Employer sponsors
Education Requirements:
Teaching Experience,
Bachelor's Degree,
Oxford Seminars TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate
Additional Notes:
Degree in education and/or 1-2 years of relevant teaching experience generally required

Teaching in Malaysia — Common Questions

How much can I earn teaching English in Malaysia?

ESL teachers in Malaysia typically earn US$1,263–2,525 per month (4,000 - 9,000 MYR) and can save US$12,000–18,800 per year. Private tutoring US$15–20/hour adds to that. Figures come from Oxford Seminars' Malaysia at-a-glance data, updated with current exchange rates.

Do I need a degree to teach English in Malaysia?

Yes. A bachelor's degree in any subject is required to qualify for a work visa (employment pass) in Malaysia. A 120-hour TESOL/TEFL certificate strengthens both the application and your placement options.

Do I need a TESOL or TEFL certificate to teach in Malaysia?

A certificate is expected by most employers in Malaysia, and a 120-hour TESOL/TESL/TEFL certification measurably improves both starting salary and placement odds. Oxford Seminars graduates also get lifetime access to the Job Placement Service.

When should I apply for teaching jobs in Malaysia?

Typical start dates in Malaysia are: Year round. Applications typically run 1 - 4 months ahead of your start date. International schools follow the academic year.