we have had many students come through us that don't have degrees but are willing to do a minimum of a 120 Hour course that includes a practical component.

Most of these students do end up in China and most do get visas (Z Visa) without having a degree but there are a few that do go on F Visa and still do work. It really depends on the institute that you are working with in China.

I do agree that there are companies in China that will abuse you but whichever TEFL/TESOL Institute you do go through should be able to weed out any companies that would do that. We look at the contracts with the students and you can definitely see which are worth it and which are not.

Maybe also look at volunteering programs too. You might not earn the same amount but you do get the experience which is also in your favor!