What is the EPIK program for teaching English in South Korea?
The EPIK Program, which stands for English Program in Korea, is a prestigious government-run initiative that recruits foreign teachers to instruct English in schools across South Korea. Renowned as one of the most popular programs of its kind globally, EPIK offers a comprehensive package that appeals to many aspiring English teachers. Key highlights of the program include a competitive salary, a range of extra benefits, and the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural environment of South Korea.
If this is something you might be interested in, we recommend you contact our TESOL recruitment partner Reach To Teach. Reach To Teach is an official partner of the EPIK program and works with the Korean Ministry of Education during the recruitment process.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for the EPIK Program?
What does the EPIK Program involve?
Where will I be placed on the EPIK Program?
What are the benefits of the EPIK Program?
What are the requirements for the EPIK Program?
The English Program in Korea (EPIK) has specific requirements for applicants. Firstly, applicants must be native English speakers from one of these countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, or the United States. Additionally, a university degree and a clean criminal record are mandatory. Further to these basic requirements, EPIK candidates must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
- TESOL Certification: A TESOL certificate comprising at least 100 hours of instruction is required, and preference is given to those certificates that include a teaching practice component.
- Relevant Degree: Possession of a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Education, specifically with a major in teaching, TESOL, second language studies, or education, is highly valued.
- Teaching License: A valid teaching license obtained in the applicant's home country is acceptable.
- Teaching Experience: Applicants with at least one year of full-time teaching experience are also considered eligible.
What does the EPIK Program involve?
The EPIK Program involves a commitment to a one-year contract, typically starting either at the end of February or August. Participants in the program can expect a standard working schedule from Monday to Friday, with working hours usually spanning from 8:40 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Weekends are generally free. A key component of the EPIK Program is the teaching workload. Teachers are expected to deliver approximately 22 hours of actual teaching per week. This schedule allows for a balanced approach, giving teachers enough time for lesson planning and student engagement while also providing opportunities to experience life in South Korea outside of the classroom.
Where will I be placed on the EPIK Program?
In the EPIK Program, placements for teaching English can vary widely across South Korea. While participants can express a preference for a specific location, assignments are generally allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that the exact location of your placement could be in any region of the country, from bustling cities to rural areas. The nature of the placement may involve teaching in a single primary or secondary school or in multiple schools within the assigned region.
To increase the likelihood of being placed in a preferred area, it is advisable to submit your application to the EPIK Program as early as possible. Due to the high demand and limited spots in certain locations, early application can be a crucial factor in placement. For detailed information about the placement process and how to state your preferences, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official EPIK website.
What are the benefits of the EPIK Program?
The benefit package you receive from the EPIK program includes the following:
- Salary based on qualifications and experience ranging from 1.8 to 2.7 million KRW (currently $1,400 to $2,100 USD) per month
- Fully furnished accommodation (not including utilities)
- Paid airfare in an out of the country
- 300,000 KRW settlement allowance
- 18 days paid leave plus all national holidays
- One month salary bonus on completion of contract
