How to Get a Job Teaching English in Korea

I know from experience that when you first start thinking about coming to Korea to teach English, it can be a bit overwhelming and confusing.  Watching all the videos, reading all the blogs builds up the anticipation and excitement of this endeavor.  On top of all that, there is a huge void of how to really get started, what you need to do, when to do it - basically how to get the job teaching in Korea.

I honestly think that I would hold the title for having watched the most videos and read the most blogs during the whole time from when I decided to when I actually got here.  When I arrived I started blogging and vlogging and I received many questions about the application process and what to expect through it all.  I made a few videos and responded to many emails to try and answer questions as they came in, but I couldn't really answer them all.  I finally decided to do this video detailing the process from start to finish, explaining the required documentation and how to get it.  It's very cut and dried.  I don't overly detail everything, it's more of an outline and a timeline for the process of getting the job.  It could be a whole lot longer for sure if each point was discussed, but that wouldn't be useful.  Each experience will be different, but everyone still needs the same documents.

When preparing for this video, I made an outline of the process based on both my experience and the information contained in my application packet from my recruiter.  I've inserted the outline below for your reference.  I really hope it's helpful to anyone interested in getting a job to teach English in Korea.






How to Get a Job Teaching English in Korea

1.       Decide you want to go to Korea to teach English
2.       Contact a Recruiter.
a.       Use sites such as:
                                                               i.      Dave's ESL
                                                             ii.      Waygook
                                                            iii.      Koreabridge
3.       Immediately begin obtaining the following documents:
a.       CRC (Criminal Record Check)
b.      College transcripts (3 copies)
c.       Passport, photos, fingerprints (at City Hall)
d.      IRS Residency Verification (for tax exemption)
e.      Contact 2-3 references and create templates for them to complete and sign
4.       Complete application documents (including but not limited to summary forms, evaluation forms, couples, with kids, etc.)
5.       Submit following documents electronically to qualify for an interview:
a.       Application (including personal essay and personal medical assessment)
b.      Electronic photo attached to application
c.       Electronic/scanned reference letters
d.      Scanned copy of passport
6.       Interview with EPIK via phone or webcam (Skype)
7.       While the above are taking place, notarize and send CRC and a copy of diploma to state for apostille
8.       Create document package (documents listed below) and make copies.  Mail to recruiter for verification before they are sent to EPIK.
***NOTE: Make 2 copies of all documents except for college transcript (originals and 1 copy go to EPIK, 1 copy goes to recruiter)
a.       Completed application with photo attached
b.      Medical assessment
c.       Personal essay
d.      Photocopy of passport
e.      Apostilled CRC
f.        Apostilled copy of diploma
g.       Official college transcripts
h.      2 signed letters of recommendation (originals)
i.         Photocopy of TESOL certification, if applicable
j.        Photocopy of Master's (no apostille req'd), if applicable
k.       Master's degree transcript, if applicable
l.         Photocopy of teacher's license/certification (not TESOL), if applicable
9.       Payment for mailing document packages to EPIK (approximately $70-80 USD) – these are sent to EPIK by the recruiter
10.   EPIK verifies the documentation
11.   EPIK sends you Notice of Appointment (NOA) and contract
12.   Apply for E-2 visa
13.   Make flight arrangements (will be reimbursed once you arrive in Korea)
14.   Arrive for orientation
15.   Have fun in Korea like me!

the Red Dragon Diaries

ESL, Travel, and Judo!