Hi, I'm not with EPIK, but I know the process to some extent. When do you want to go? You have probably missed the boat on the August start date, so you will have to wait untill the next February intake. If that is okay with you, then I think you have to wait till at least October to start applying, so while there's nothing wrong with getting some things sorted in advanced (for example, thinking about the interview, doing your research, considering your lesson plan if you want to go to one of the locations that requires one), you can't really start till then. That gives you some time to get into the course as well. If you are looking into going for August, then you might just scrape in, but you're going to have to apply NOW. This probably means they won't place you anywhere you need a TEFL course, and until you get it you won't get the extra pay. This means that Seoul and Busan are out I think, and honestly, applying at this late a date you might have trouble getting a more urban location. I don't really know how placing works nowadays. EPIK isn't the only way to go to Korea, I'm working in a private school, so if you have questions about that, please ask.

Hi!

Thanks so much for that, that really helps alot. Yeah it was february I was thinking of, I'd never have myself sorted for the august intake :)

Yeah I did see that private school's are also good but with EPIK being such a big organisation I sort of trust it more because i'll be travelling on my own.

How did you find your time in Korea? Were you in Seoul or Busan or a more rural area?

I'm still here at the moment. I lived in Cheongju last year (which is about 600,000 people, so a pretty big city, but quite small by Korean standards. There were about 300 English teachers there) and Daejeon this year (1.5million people, definitely a big city!). I am really enjoying my time here, although 2 years is enough for me at the moment. I am going home in Februray. There are definite pros and cons to private vs public. I'm sure you've heard them all. I came here on my own, but don't worry, you very quickly make friends. I guess it helps that I'm involved in the church, as I've met most of them through that, but I know my co-workers never have any trouble meeting people either. We tend to be a friendly bunch :)

Great well it sounds like you're really enjoying your time there! I have always imagined myself working in bigger cities so when I do apply I'll be hoping for Seoul or Busan, fingers crossed! :)

Yeah I'm not worried about going on my own, though I'm sure I'll feel differently when the time gets closer. That's when the nerves and butterflies will start I think :)

Thanks so much for all your help and tips. I'll stay in touch :)

I'm not sure how much of a say you get in where you are placed with EPIK, but Seoul has it's own program (GEPIK I think). You might still be able to choose Busan, but I don't know, as they seem to tighten the rules every year. Reguardless, good luck! Butterflies are normal :)