Quick answer: To join Hong Kong's EDB NET Scheme you need native (or near-native) English, a relevant degree in English (or any degree plus a higher degree in English), a PGDE in English or equivalent (new NETs can complete it within four years), and a TEFL/TESL qualification at least at certificate level. You can apply through EDB's central recruitment or directly to eligible aided schools with a NET vacancy. EDB's 2026/27 primary NET salary scale (APSM rank, MPS Pt.15-29) runs from HK$35,080 to HK$67,850 a month (EDB, accessed 20 Oct 2026). Get qualified well ahead of applying. Below are the six steps in detail.
Are you passionate about teaching and eager to explore new horizons in education? The Hong Kong Education Bureau Native-speaking English Teacher (EDB NET) Scheme might just be the perfect opportunity for you. It offers an incredible chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Hong Kong while making a meaningful impact in classrooms across the region. If you're ready to take the first step towards becoming an EDB NET teacher, here is your comprehensive 2026 guide on how to apply. Prefer it all in one document? Download our free Hong Kong NET Scheme e-book.
What is the EDB NET Scheme and what does it pay?
The NET Scheme places qualified native (or near-native) English teachers in government and government-aided schools to raise the standard of English language learning. The secondary-school scheme (SNET) began in 1998/99 and the primary-school scheme (PNET/EPTNET) followed in 2002/03. NET teachers plan lessons, co-teach with local English panels, run extracurricular activities and help develop the school's English curriculum.
NET salaries follow the government Master Pay Scale, so your exact pay depends on your qualifications and years of experience. The figures below are indicative starting points - always confirm current rates on the official EDB recruitment pages.
| Scheme | Typical starting monthly salary | Key allowances |
|---|---|---|
| Primary (EPTNET) | HK$35,080 to HK$67,850 a month (APSM rank, MPS Pt.15-29; EDB, accessed 20 Oct 2026) | Special allowance for rental, medical & dental, passage & baggage |
| Secondary (SNET) | HK$35,080 to HK$81,510 a month (GM rank, MPS Pt.15-33; EDB, accessed 20 Oct 2026) | Same allowance set, plus longer contracts and retention allowances |
Indicative figures based on the EDB NET pay scales and reports from Global English graduates teaching in Hong Kong. Salaries are revised periodically - check the EDB recruitment pages for the current scale.
What qualifications does the NET Scheme require?
To be eligible for the NET Scheme you will generally need:
- Native or near-native competence in English;
- A relevant degree in English, or any degree plus a higher degree in English;
- A PGDE in English or equivalent (new NETs can complete it within four years);
- A TEFL/TESL qualification at least at certificate level that meets EDB's published criteria;
- For secondary posts, usually a teacher-training qualification such as a PGCE or CertEd, plus relevant classroom experience.
Our ACTDEC-accredited Hong Kong NET bundles are matched to EDB's published TEFL/TESL criteria at certificate level. Each packages the course and the teaching practice together, on a single certificate:
The first is our 120-hour Hong Kong NET bundle (for primary applicants), which includes:
- 120 Hour Level 3 TEFL Course Certificate
- 10 Hour Teaching Practicum for the HK NET (own school)
- Global English Course Transcript
You can buy the bundle here.
Our second is the 250-hour Hong Kong NET bundle, for candidates aiming at secondary positions, which includes:
- 250 Hour Level 5 TEFL Course Certificate
- 20 Hour Teaching Practicum (own school)
- Global English Course Transcript
You can buy the bundle here. Not sure which route is right for you? Browse all of our online TEFL courses, then add the Hong Kong teaching practice at checkout.
Primary or secondary: which NET route is right for you?
The scheme has two streams, and the right one depends on your qualifications and the age group you want to teach. Use this comparison to decide before you enrol:
| Primary NET (EPTNET) | Secondary NET (SNET) | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum course | 100+ contact hours (our 120-hour Level 3) | 250+ contact hours (our 250-hour Level 5) |
| Teaching practice | 10 observed hours | 20 observed hours |
| Typical extra requirement | Relevant degree + PGDE (or within four years) + TEFL/TESL | Relevant degree + PGDE (or within four years) + TEFL/TESL |
| Students | Young learners (P1–P6) | Teenagers (S1–S6) |
| Global English bundle | 120-hour bundle | 250-hour bundle |
If you're unsure, the 250-hour route keeps both doors open, because it also satisfies the primary requirement - several of our graduates choose it for exactly that flexibility. Read how to get a secondary-school NET job for a serving teacher's view of the secondary route.
The 6 application steps in detail
Here is the whole application, from research to placement, as six clear steps:
- Research and prepare. Before you apply, understand the requirements and responsibilities of a NET teacher. Read the eligibility criteria on the EDB site and gather your documents - academic transcripts, certifications and identification. Our free NET Scheme e-book walks you through everything.
- Get TEFL-certified with observed, assessed teaching practice. The scheme expects an accredited TEFL course and observed teaching practice. Enrol on a Global English course, complete the interactive modules with your personal tutor, and apply what you learn in real classroom settings during your Hong Kong teaching practice.
- Complete the online application. With your certification in hand, visit the official EDB application portal for NET teachers and carefully fill in the form with your personal details, academic background and teaching qualifications.
- Submit your supporting documents. Provide the documents that verify your eligibility - copies of your TEFL certificate, academic transcripts, teaching credentials and a valid passport. Scan and upload everything in the specified format to speed up the review. Need a transcript or a hand? Contact us and we can provide confirmation of your course completion.
- Attend interviews and assessments. Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews and assessments with the EDB selection panel. Be ready to showcase your teaching ability, communication skills and cultural awareness. Our guide on how to ace your NET Scheme interview covers the questions and the demo lesson in detail.
- Await placement and visa processing. Successful candidates are notified and matched to a school based on their qualifications and preferences. The EDB then helps you obtain the work visa and residence permit you need to teach legally in Hong Kong. You are now ready to teach and travel in Hong Kong.
When do NET Scheme applications open and close?
The NET recruitment cycle runs on a predictable annual timeline, so plan backwards from it:
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Central EDB recruitment exercises are advertised and applications open; individual schools also post vacancies throughout the year.
- Winter (Dec–Jan): Applications are screened and shortlisted candidates are invited to interview.
- Summer: Contracts, visas and school placements are finalised for the new academic year, which starts in September.
Because our 120-hour course can be completed in as little as a few weeks (you have up to six months), starting in the summer or autumn leaves plenty of time to be qualified before you apply.
What happens after you apply?
If you are shortlisted you will be invited to an interview and, in most cases, asked to deliver a short teaching demonstration. Panels look for clear communication, sound methodology and genuine cultural sensitivity. If you are selected, your details go into a pool that schools draw from, you agree a placement, and the EDB supports your visa and residence-permit application. Prefer to go direct? Many teachers also apply straight to schools that are hiring - the criteria are the same, but the school handles the paperwork itself.
More Hong Kong NET Scheme guides from our teachers
- Ten FAQs on how to become a NET in Hong Kong - contact hours, teaching practice and course choice answered.
- Ace your Hong Kong NET Scheme interview - sample questions and a demo-lesson checklist.
- How to get a secondary-school NET job in Hong Kong - a serving SNET on the process and pay.
- Aaron and Laura's success story and our couple applying together - real graduate journeys.
Hong Kong NET Scheme FAQs
How much do NET teachers earn in Hong Kong?
Pay follows the government Master Pay Scale. EDB's 2026/27 scales: primary NETs HK$35,080 to HK$67,850 a month (MPS Pt.15-29); secondary NETs HK$35,080 to HK$81,510 a month (MPS Pt.15-33) (EDB, accessed 20 Oct 2026). On top of salary, NETs receive allowances for rental, medical and dental cover, and passage and baggage. Check the EDB recruitment pages for the current scale.
Do I need a PGCE or QTS for the NET Scheme?
Yes, for new NETs a PGDE in English or equivalent is required for primary and secondary posts; if you do not have it you must complete it within your first four years. QTS is not named in EDB's requirements. For secondary posts, most successful applicants hold a teacher-training qualification such as a PGCE or CertEd alongside classroom experience, because it is difficult to gain secondary experience without one.
How long does the NET application process take?
The cycle runs roughly a year: applications open in autumn, interviews follow in winter, and placements and visas are finalised over the summer for a September start. Complete your TEFL qualification and teaching practice well before you apply; check EDB's recruitment page for this year's dates.
Can non-native English speakers apply to the NET Scheme?
Yes. The EDB requires native or near-native competence in English rather than a specific nationality, so strong near-native speakers with the right qualifications and experience are eligible. You will need to demonstrate your command of English clearly during the interview and any language assessment.
Is the NET Scheme for primary or secondary schools?
Both. Primary applicants need a course of at least 100 contact hours; secondary applicants need at least 250 contact hours and usually a teacher-training qualification. Our 120-hour and 250-hour bundles are matched to EDB's published TEFL/TESL criteria at certificate level; the 250-hour bundle suits secondary posts.
Congratulations - you're now well on your way to an exciting career as an EDB NET teacher in Hong Kong. With dedication, perseverance and the right qualifications, you'll make a real impact on students' lives while experiencing one of the world's most dynamic cities. Ready to get qualified? Start with the 10 Hour Hong Kong NET teaching practice and browse everything you need to know about teaching in Hong Kong.
