Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get my working papers?
We will give you instructions for obtaining a visa to work in China. The cost is reimbursed by the school. You will need a passport, a medical certificate completed on a form from the Chinese embassy, four copies of a recent photo, and copies of your qualifications. You can begin preparing these documents. The school uses them to begin the visa application process.
2. How do I receive my salary?
Compass teachers are paid monthly, in local currency (yuan/ RMB). Your salary will be paid into your local bank account (which we will help you to open). An ATM card can be used with this account.
3. Can I save money on my salary?
Your salary will afford you a comfortable standard of living and you will be able to save a significant proportion of the salary as the cost of living is quite low in Tianjin.
4. What is the standard of accommodation?
A typical international teacher’s flat is within a 30-minute walk of the school, in a middle-class housing complex. All teacher have their own one-bedroom flat in good, clean (to western standards) condition. The flats are equipped with standard furniture and amenities, including fridge, washing machine, 2-ring gas cooker, micro-wave oven, TV, A/C, heating, telephone and water dispenser. The school can assist the teacher to get internet access and the rate is very reasonable. Utilities are paid by the teacher, usually by deduction from salary. Teachers may obtain their own accommodation and receive a standard reimbursement from the school if they wish.
5. How many foreign teachers does the school employ?
Compass currently employs over 20 full-time teachers, of whom one third are international teachers. Our teachers come from Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
6. What hours of work can I expect?
Our standard contract is for 21 teaching hours per week. Most classes are scheduled Monday to Friday, but teachers can be scheduled for weekend classes. Teachers receive overtime pay for teaching hours above 21 per week. In busy periods, teachers may be asked to work up to 27 hours per week, but not for longer than a few weeks at a time.
7. Will I be teaching children?
Compass’ main market is adults who aim to study or work abroad, so most of our students are aged between 24 and 34 years old. Students must be at least 17 years old to join the General English class. Summer and winter school classes may be scheduled for middle school children.
8. Can I transfer to another school?
Your work visa for China is valid for the school which offered you the job and cannot be transferred. At Compass we have a two month mutual trial period to see if both the teacher and the school are happy with the appointment. If either party wishes to end the contract during that time, this is negotiated and the teacher is released from the contract.