MY EPIK TIMELINE
I thought I would put up a timeline to show step by step what the whole EPIK application process is really like.
Personally throughout the whole process I was constantly wondering whether my application fell within the “usual” timeframe. There is definitely no “usual” timeframe so please don’t stress if the timing of your application process is different to mine.
Compared to other applicants my application was processed very smoothly. For example, some people had to wait 2 weeks before they heard back from EPIK as to whether they passed their interview. I only waited 5 days (noting 2 of the days fell on a weekend).
I think the main reason is that I prepared early (began collating my documents before even finding out whether I passed the interview) and applied early (sent my application the second day after EPIK began accepting applications).
October 2014
Started online TEFL/TESOL course with TEFLEN (120 hours).
December 2014
Began preparing my EPIK Application including personal essay and lesson plan.
January 2014
8th – Sent an email to both of my referee requesting a letter of recommendation.
20th – Received my first letter of recommendation.
23rd – Requested sealed transcripts from my university.
28th – Received my second letter of recommendation and applied for my National Police Check.
February 2014
1st – EPIK began accepting applications for the Fall 2014 term.
2nd – Emailed my initial application and two letter of recommendation to EPIK.
3rd – Received an email confirmation from EPIK that they had received my application and will advise in due course whether I am selected to participate in the interview.
4th – Received my sealed transcripts.
11th – Received my National Police Check.
March 2014
18th – Had my Bachelor’s Degree and Birth Certificate notarised. On the same day I left my original National Police Check, notarised Bachelor’s Degree and notarised Birth Certificate with the Department of Foreign Affairs to be apostilled.
21st – Picked up my apostilled documents from DFAT.
25th – Received email from EPIK that I have passed first selection phase and my interview is scheduled to take place on 3 April 2014.
April 2014
3rd – Had my Skype interview at 15:00pm (KST).
8th – Received email confirmation from EPIK that I had passed my interview and should submit my necessary documents as soon as possible in order for my application to be recommended to an Office of Education.
10th – Obtained passport sized photographs of myself.
17th – Obtained letter from TEFLEN confirming proof of enrolment.
22nd – Sent all required documents to Korea through international express post.
26th – Completed my 120 hours online TEFL/TESOL course through TEFLEN. Received Certificate confirming completion and emailed to EPIK coordinator.
May 2014
7th – Email from EPIK coordinator confirming documents have been checked and seem to be in order. They will be sent to his supervisor for one final check prior to being sent to an Office of Education for final approval.
11th – Received email from EPIK coordinator advising I have been granted my placement from the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education.
14th – Email from EPIK containing log-in information so I can start my online pre-orientation course.
July 2014
16th – Received contract and notice of appointment.
18th – Applied for Visa and purchase flight.
31st – Completed my EPIK online pre-orientation course.