Your 2021 Guide to Getting
Started with VIPKid
Part I:
Overview
Part I: Overview: Teach with VIPKid
Part II: Application Requirement and Process
1. Teacher Requirements
2. Application Process
3. Teacher Pay
4. Teaching Hours
5. Technical Requirements for Teaching
Part III: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do you need to get started?
2. What is the application process to teach with VIPKid?
3. How long will it take from sign-up to signing a contract to teach with VIPKid?
4. Do I need a resumé to sign up?
5. How do I check my application status?
6. Can I apply if I don’t have a bachelor’s degree?
7. How does VIPKid verify the degree?
8. What if I have a degree from outside the United States or Canada?
9. Do I have to pay for the background check?
10. What materials do I need to prepare to sign the contract?
11. Do teachers always teach the same students?
12. Are there resources available for those interested in signing up?
13. How are earnings calculated?
14. When will I receive my pay?
15. What is the length of the contract? Can I take breaks during the contract?
16. How much tax do I have to pay?
17. What kind of commitment is there?
18. Can I take a break or go on vacation?
19. Is there a maximum number of hours a teacher could teach?
20. I am a new teacher, and I have not been booked for a while. Did I set my time availability incor-
rectly?
21. Do students take classes during holidays?
22. What are the computer requirements to teach with VIPKid?
23. Can I teach with VIPKid on a Chromebook?
24. What are the recommended teaching accessories?
25. What are some essentials for when you’re traveling?
Part IV: Appendix
Table of Contents
What You Should Know
» Teach anywhere
» Flexible hours
» Lesson plans/curriculums
are already prepared
» No need to speak Chinese!
Step 1
Create a Teacher
Account
» Sign up for a teacher
account
» Fill in your basic information
Tech Requirements
» Desktop, laptop, MacBook,
iPad, or Microsoft Surface.
Chromebook is not
supported
» Windows 7, 8 or 10; Mac
OS 10.X or higher operating
system
» Intel i5 processor or higher
» 8 GB RAM or higher
» Fast and stable internet
connection
» VIPKid Teach App
What We Are Looking For
» Two years of experience in
teaching, tutoring, coaching,
or mentoring
» A four-year degree in any
major
» Work authorization in United
States or Canada
» Reliable technology
Step 2
Record a Demo Video
» Use provided materials for
the preparation
» Record a demo video on our
website or app
Recommendations for Your
Classroom
» HD webcam
» Headset with a microphone
» Background
» Lighting
Your Pay
» The base pay rate is $7–$9
per class, $14–$18 per hour
» With incentives, a teacher
can earn the equivalent
of $15–$22 per hour with
VIPKid
» Payments are transferred
directly to your bank
account (or PayPal)
Step 3
Become Certified
» Teach a mock class with a
teacher mentor
» Choose one level of class to
teach
» Get feedback and
suggestions
» Get certified!
Most In-Demand Times
» The peak times are when
teachers get the most
bookings! This often
happens around 6 p.m.–9
p.m. Beijing time.
Your Hours
» Each class is 25 minutes
» There’s no minimum hour
commitment
» The more you teach, the
more you earm
» Set your own schedule in
advance
Step 4
Sign a Contract with VIPKid
» Upload the proper document
» Finish the standard
background check
» Complete additional
material
» Now you’re ready to teach!
Before You Teach with
VIPKid
Application Process
Interesting Facts
Part II:
Application Requirements and Process
Time Zone
(Nov-March)
Hawaii
12 a.m.–3 a.m.
3 p.m.–4 a.m.
Pacific
2 a.m.–5 a.m.
5 p.m.–6 a.m.
Mountain
3 a.m.–6 a.m.
6 p.m.–7 a.m.
Central
4 a.m.–7 a.m.
7 p.m.–8 a.m.
Eastern
5 a.m.–8 a.m.
8 p.m.–9 a.m.
UK
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
1 a.m.–2 p.m.
Mon–Fri
Sat/Sun
Hawaii
1 a.m.–4 a.m.
4 p.m.–5 a.m.
Pacific
3 a.m.–6 a.m.
6 p.m.–6 a.m.
Mountain
4 a.m.–7 a.m.
7 p.m.–8 a.m.
Central
5 a.m.–8 a.m.
8 p.m.–9 a.m.
Eastern
6 a.m.–9 a.m
9 p.m.–10 a.m.
UK
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
2 a.m.–3 p.m.
Mon–Fri
Sat/Sun
Time Zone
(Mar-Nov)
4
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
Teach Anywhere
From the comfort of your living room or kitchen, you can teach from almost anywhere in the
world as long as you meet our basic requirements. There’s no need to hop on that commuter
bus since everything is online.
Flexible Hours
You set your own schedule. You can teach as many hours as you like. There’s no minimum
hour commitment. See more information under Teaching Hours.
Lesson Plans, Check
Our curriculum team has already prepared materials for every class to serve as a reference, so
you will always feel supported and have resources available to you.
Don’t Speak Chinese? Not a Problem
We offer full English immersion for our students, so there’s no need to know any Chinese. That
said, your students might teach you a word or two.
Teacher Requirements
What You Should Know
What We Look For
Teaching Experience
We recommend that you have at least two years of experience in teaching, tutoring, coaching,
or mentoring.
Bachelor’s Degree
You must have obtained a four-year degree from a university. The great news is that this can
be in any eld or major.
Work Authorization in United States or Canada
Legally eligible to work in the United States or Canada.
Reliable Technology
This shouldn’t be a shocker, but a virtual class requires a few technical things to make it
happen. Learn more about Technical Requirements
.
Application Process
https://www.vipkid.com/teach/application-process
The length of time the application process takes varies depending on your schedule and the
preparation time you need. Most applicants take two to three weeks from sign-up to become a
teacher with VIPKid.
1. Create a Teacher Account (5 min)
Sign up for a teacher account and provide some basic information
about yourself. Before doing that, you might want to check Teacher
Requirements for eligibility.
2. Record a Demo Video (30 min)
Get a taste of what it’s like teaching English online and record a short
demo lesson. We’ll tell you exactly what to expect and how to prepare, so
don’t worry. In fact, we’ve made it so simple you can record it directly on
our website or the app.
3. Become Certied (2-3 hours)
Meet one-to-one with another teacher to teach a mock class. Take
recommendations from feedback and guidance from a teacher already
teaching on the platform, and you’ll be on your way to teaching English
online like a pro.
4. Sign a Contract with VIPKid (30 min)
Upload the proper documents to nish the standard background check.
You may also be asked to complete some additional materials to make
sure you’re ready to teach. Next thing you know, you’ll be teaching new
students across the world!
6
7
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
Teacher Pay
Payment Fundamentals
The Teacher’s Guide to Payment
https://www.vipkid.com/teach/teacher-pay
Get Paid per Class
Your earnings are based on the number of classes you teach. The more classes you teach, the
more you can earn. There is no limit. Learn more about Teaching Hours.
Base Pay
The base pay rate is between $7–$9 per class. Since classes are 25 minutes each, you can
earn the equivalent of $14–$18 per hour plus incentives (see next).
Incentives
From teaching more classes to referrals, there are lots of opportunities to earn extra money. In
general, with incentives, a teacher can earn the equivalent of $15–$22 per hour with VIPKid.
Earn on Your Own Terms
Deposit Directly to Your Wallet
Payments are transferred directly to your bank account. You can also set up to be paid through
PayPal. For teachers in North America, we have other payment options such as VIPKid Prepaid
Mastercard, ACH, and Non-ACH. You choose how you get paid.
Customize Your Pay Schedule
We offer different payment options. You may choose to be paid weekly, biweekly, or monthly.
After classes have been taught, payments will be sent out in your next pay period.
Your Earnings, All in One Place
Everything is tracked when you’re done with each class. Simply view all your earnings in the
VIPKid Teach App.
Perks Like Nowhere Else
Once you become a teacher, you also get to enjoy community perks from partners like Ama-
zon, TurboTax, ClassPass, and more. That’s just another reason to teach with VIPKid.
Teaching Hours
Work to Meet Your Schedule
When we say exible, we mean it.
https://www.vipkid.com/teach/teaching-hours
25-Minute Classes
You teach 25 minutes per class. Each major class is 25 minutes of active teaching time.
Flexible Hours
There’s no minimum hour commitment. You can teach as many hours as you’d like.
Remember, you’re in the driver’s seat. Learn more about Teacher Pay.
Your Own Schedule
Set your teaching availability in advance in the VIPKid Teach App. If you change your mind
about your schedule, don’t worry, just give us a heads-up.
Most In-Demand Times
Peak Peak Time (PPT)
It’s so popular, we had to say peak twice, but you should probably have this on your radar. The
peak times are when teachers get the most bookings! This often happens around 6 p.m.–9
p.m. Beijing time.
Time Zone Table of Peak Peak Time
Daylight Saving (Mar–Nov)Time Zone (Nov–March)
Hawaii
12 a.m.–3 a.m.
3 p.m.–4 a.m.
Pacific
2 a.m. –5 a.m.
5 p.m.–6 a.m.
Mountain
3 a.m.–6 a.m.
6 p.m.–7 a.m.
Central
4 a.m.–7 a.m.
7 p.m.–8 a.m.
Eastern
5 a.m.–8 a.m.
8 p.m.–9 a.m.
UK
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
1 a.m.–2 p.m.
Mon–Fri Sat/Sun
Hawaii
1 a.m.–4 a.m. 4 p.m.–5 a.m.
Pacific
3 a.m.–6 a.m. 6 p.m.–6 a.m.
Mountain
4 a.m.–7 a.m. 7 p.m.–8 a.m.
Central
5 a.m.–8 a.m. 8 p.m.–9 a.m.
Eastern
6 a.m.–9 a.m. 9 p.m.–10 a.m.
UK
10 a.m.–1 p.m. 2 a.m.–3 p.m.
Mon–Fri Sat/Sun
8
9
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
Part III:
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical Requirements
https://www.vipkid.com/teach/technical-requirements
Device
Desktop, laptop, MacBook, iPad, or Microsoft Surface. We currently do not support
Chromebook.
System Requirements
Windows 7, 8 or 10; Mac OS 10.X or higher operating system (Linux and Chrome OS are NOT
supported by VIPKid). Intel i5 processor or higher. 8 GB RAM or higher.
Network
A Fast and stable internet connection will make for a smooth teaching and learning experi-
ence. We recommend a wired high-speed internet connection of ≥ 25 Mb/s.
VIPKid Teach App
The VIPKid Teach App includes stickers, animations, sound effects—anything you need to
make the world a fun place from your ngertips.
Recommendations for Your Classroom
HD Webcam
A camera with a resolution of at least 2 megapixels is considered high quality and well
functioning. Simply put, the better the camera, the more clearly students can see you.
Headset, with a Microphone
A comfortable noise-cancelling headset will make your teaching more enjoyable. A nice crisp
sound will help students hear you better as well. Remember, for the most part, they try to
repeat after you.
Background
Parents and students love seeing a professional and educational background. Having a
bright and fun backdrop can help attract and engage young students. We love vibrant colors,
especially our orange, Teacher Tangerine.
Lighting
Get that spotlight ready! Bright, happy spaces lead to bright, happy learners. We recommend a
full-size sele ring or clip-on sele rings to eliminate shadows on your face.
10
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
Requirements & Applications
1. What do you need to get started?
• To teach on the VIPKid platform, you must have:
i. At least two years of teaching experience
ii. Obtained a four-year degree from a university in any major
iii. Legal eligibility to work in the United States or Canada
iv. Reliable tech equipment. Learn more about Technical Requirements.
• Learn more about Teacher Requirements.
2. What is the application process to teach with VIPKid?
• Sign up to create an account and complete a simple form.
• Review some materials and do a short demo lesson so we can get a glimpse of how awesome
you are.
• We provide a bigger welcome to the world of online teaching. You’ll get access to additional
information and support.
• Do a mock class with a current teacher (they’ll help prep you for the real thing).
• Submit the documents, sign your contract, and get started teaching! (Documents are reviewed
by in-house staff.)
3. How long will it take from signup to signing a contract to teach with
VIPKid?
• The length of time varies depending on your schedule and the preparation time you need. Most
applicants take two to three weeks from sign-up to become a teacher with VIPKid.
4. Do I need a resumé to sign-up?
• No, you don’t need a resumé. If you are eligible to teach, just sign up and start from there.
5. How do I check my application status?
• Once you start the sign-up process, you can always log back in to your account and check your
status. We also send you emails at each stage, reminding you what to do for the next step, so
keep an eye on your inbox.
6. Can I apply if I don’t have a bachelor’s degree?
• We require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to teach.
7. How does VIPKid verify the degree?
• You must submit proof of the degree with one of the following:
i. A photo of your physical bachelor’s degree certicate
ii. A copy of your ocial transcript from your institution (a signed and sealed or
watermarked version of the transcript)
iii. Degree verication from National Student Clearinghouse
iv. A verication letter from your institution’s registrar oce (signed and sealed or
watermarked)
8. What if I have a degree from outside the United States or Canada?
• This would be valid. You just need to provide an ocial translation with the original copy.
9. Do I have to pay for the background check?
• No, you don’t have to pay. You only need to authorize VIPKid to perform a background check.
Due to different state laws, instead of signing it online, you may need to print the authorization
form and sign it.
10. What materials do I need to prepare to sign the contract?
• A copy of your bachelor’s Degree
• Document/proof of work authorization in the United States or Canada (valid driver’s license or
passport)
• A copy of your K–12 teaching credential or ESL certicate (if you don’t have these certicates,
no worries, you can get certied with us!)
• Prole materials: This is to introduce yourself to students, which helps your bookings once you
start teaching
i. Three photos
ii. A self-introduction paragraph
iii. A self-introduction video (15 seconds)
11. Do teachers always teach the same students?
• No. Teachers can teach any students who book their class.
12. Are there resources available for those interested in signing up?
• Once you begin the sign-up process, you will have access to optional tutorials, webinars, and
even free online coaching.
12
13
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
Teacher Pay
13. How are earnings calculated?
• Earnings are calculated based on the number of classes you’ve taught and your base
pay rate per class, which is $7–$9 per class. Since classes are 25 minutes each, you
can earn the equivalent of $14–$18 per hour.
14. When will I receive my pay?
• Teachers may choose to be paid weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Your payment date is
based on your preference.
15. What is the length of the contract term? Can I take breaks
during the contract?
• VIPKid signs six-month contracts with teachers, and you can work as much or as little
as you’d like.
16. How much tax do I have to pay?
• We do not withhold taxes from independent contractors. A completed W-9 form
is required prior to signing your contract. As an independent contractor, you are
responsible for your own taxes in accordance with individual tax jurisdictions or state
laws.
17. What kind of commitment is there?
• There is no commitment—you can work as much or as little as you’d like.
18. Can I take a break or go on vacation?
• Yes, you can! The world is your oyster and exibility is one of the best perks when
teaching with VIPKid. Just make sure to change your slot availability beforehand.
19. Is there a maximum number of hours a teacher could teach?
• VIPKid sets no limit on how much a teacher can teach—you have 100% control over
your schedule. However, non-peak times may not be as popular among our students,
as they are not available for classes (they are likely in school or asleep). Please also be
advised that the amount of time it can take to get a relatively steady stream of classes
can vary as students and parents get to know and try out new teachers.
20. I am a new teacher, and I have not been booked for a while. Did
I set my slot availability wrong?
• The best chance to get booked is during peak peak time (PPT), which is 6:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.
(EDT). More details can be found on the time zone comparison chart above.
• If you open your time slot and set everything correctly, please just be a little patient. A great
prole picture and a detailed description may help as well.
21. Do students take classes during holidays?
• Chinese holidays are slightly different from U.S. holidays. Students are less likely to take
classes during Chinese holidays, such as Lunar New Year. During U.S. holidays, though,
students are taking classes just as they do during normal school time. If you are unavailable
to teach or want to take some time off, simply turn off your schedule during the holidays.
Remember, you set your own schedule.
22. What are the computer requirements to teach with VIPKid?
• Desktop, laptop, MacBook, iPad, or Microsoft Surface
• Windows 7, 8, or 10; Mac OS 10.X or higher operating system (Linux and Chrome OS are NOT
supported by VIPKid)
• ≥ Intel i5 processor
• ≥ 8 GB RAM
• High-speed internet connection of ≥ 25 Mb/s
23. Can I teach with VIPKid on a Chromebook?
• After you become a teacher with VIPKid, you will not be able to teach classes on a
Chromebook. You can teach on a desktop, laptop, MacBook, iPad, or Microsoft Surface.
24. What are the recommended teaching accessories?
• A headset (such as Logitech H151 or H150)
• A webcam (such as Logitech C270 or Logitech C310) or a high-quality built-in camera
• A backup power supply and mobile hotspot in case you experience power outages or blackouts
in your area
• A backup device such as an iPad
• A camera with a resolution of at least 2 megapixels is considered high quality and well
functioning
• A blue or clear white-based light or lightbulb that is positioned to shine a light on your face
25. What are some essentials for when you’re traveling?
• Teaching while traveling can be done with grace. Once stationary, we recommend you set up
for your lesson with an educational tapestry, computer device/tablet, portable clip-on sele
light, and basic props. Most importantly, if you don’t have WI-FI access, make sure you have a
Teacher Hours
Technical Requirements
14
15
Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!Become a teacher with VIPKid. Get started today!
