Yayy thank you for this video! Super helpful!

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Yay! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Yasss fave girlie 💓 thank you for this informative video love you xoxo❤️🇿🇦

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Haha! Wow you were so quick watching it!! Go get it girlie xxxxx

the air quotes were funny lol thanks for this video! getting back to south Korea is my goal this year

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Haha! I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I hope you have a wonderful day and hopefully you can get back to Korea soon!

I’m applying in August and can’t wait! This video was so so helpful and I’ll definitely be watching the ones about the interview process as well 😊

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Ahhh amazing! Wishing you the best of luck! I'm glad you found the videos useful :)

@asmaramalik8747

9 ай бұрын

Can i apply now in October , coz i just got to know about epik program today

Thank you for making this video, Alex! It was very insightful :)

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

@itsd._.d

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark I've always wanted to ask: why was Daegu your preference? Just wondering!

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsd._.d ahhh so I'm actually going to be making a whole video about Daegu! However in summary - I really wanted to be relatively central so that it was easier to commute to other places, a relatively large city and also an older city which felt more authentically "Korean" whilst having lots of modern facilities too. The fact I'm actually in rural Daegu has proved the best of both worlds :)

@itsd._.d

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark thanks for the in-depth answer! Looking forward to more videos from you✨

This video was so helpful! I'm thinking of applying to EPIK within the next year or so and your timeline was very informative. My biggest worry is when in the timeline I should quit my current full-time job and move out of my apartment. Since both of those things require quite a bit of notice, I feel like I'd have to take the risk and quit/move out before I'm even 100% sure of being accepted, which is quite a scary thought... 😅

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey Kristen! Sorry about the late reply - however I left my job a couple of weeks before flying to Korea! It gave me enough time to prepare whilst knowing I'm full well going to Korea too! Best of luck with your journey!

Hi Alex, your videos have been so helpful! I was wondering how you requested official copies of your documents as I thought I could just photocopy them at home?

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey Nieve! I'm glad you found the videos helpful :) So for the apostiled documents, I used the company apostile.org.uk and they worked wonders! It is frustrating how you get the official document, and then you have to get the official document certified, but I guess it's just all part of this crazy process. Best of luck with your journey to Korea :)

Such a helpful video, your channel is seriously the best. I’m applying for Fall 2025!! I know that applications open in the Feb and I want to submit mine as early as possible. So, I’m just curious exactly how much of the application I can work on in advance… My understanding is that it’s easiest to work with a recruiter such as Korean Horizons and Korvia. When do you think is best to contact them?

I just Love you❤

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Wow! Thank you so much! That's very kind - have a great day :)

Hey Alex, thanks for the informative video! Can I ask what recruiter you used?! Or even one you would recommend Thank you!

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey Kimberley! I used the recruiter Korean Horizons and I'd 100% recommend them. They are super super helpful!

It is so interesting to hear about peoples experiences, I just passed my interview but my process was so much faster. I applied mid-end of May got an interview 2 weeks later and was notified I passed 4 days later which was yesterday! I don't have any documents prepared and thought I would have a little more time so I feel like I am scrambling. I was wondering if you had to send your transcripts and if that was something you sent all together with your documents or directly shipped it to them? I was watching their instructional video and was a little confused..

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Ema! Amazing news that you passed your interview😄 The interview process tends to happen quicker the later you apply, however the deadline to submit your documents still stays the same. So hopefully you can get it all sorted in time☺️ Once you can get this last stress out the way, the whole process of actually living in Korea is comparatively easy! And with transcripts - I also sent 2 unopened copies along with the rest of my documents. I hope this helps! Anymore questions just let me know! Best of luck!!

Great Video Alex! Do you really need to send in original documents? College Degree, Transcripts, etc? That seems to be a little scary, worry some?

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey Andre! Thanks for the compliment on the video - glad you enjoyed it😃 So you need to send apostiled copies of your degrees and transcripts to Korea. You get them apostiled either through your country’s government services or a private company, but yes, don’t get sending your original - only notorised copies☺️

@andre1901

Жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Thank you Alex!

Hey Alex, great video! Do you know what would happen if you don't get placed during your application semester? Would you be moved to the next semester or have to apply again? Thanks!

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Camille! As much as it can happen, it's usually high unlikely that you don't get placed. As long as you apply in good time I'm sure you'll be fine. If it does come to it, and you don't get placed, there's a rule in place where you can't apply for EPIK for 3 consecutive terms. If you don't get placed through the fault of EPIK however - such as they are slow with the paperwork, not completing things on time (again, very rare) then you would be asked to be moved to the next semester. However if you apply and don't meet the requirements/pass the interview stage, then you can't apply until 3 intakes later. I hope this helps!

Hey Alex just wondering if epik told you a specific date to book your flight? Thanks for the video !!

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Nope - so booking the flight is actually down to yourself! My recruiter gave me a suggestion of when to book my flight, with some people booking it earlier, but the definitive date to leave for Korea is always changing - so I'd wait until that is confirmed first :)

How can you send your degree certificates . Without any information....... I mean if some people are stoling certificates. Then what should you do.... ..

I have a question about the letter of reccomendation. I understand they need an ink signature ultimately, but when you first put in your application online do they accept a PDF of the letter, unsigned, then when you go to send in your final paperwork, it is not until then they need an ink signature? I was told an electronic signature won't be accepted but how else to you signa PDF? Are they expecting no signature on the PDF version? Thank you.

Thank you for the detailed video. I’m curious about when you get your documents back, because they are your original documents?

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

So in terms of documents, you request an official copy of them which needs to be apostilled. Whatever you do - DON'T send your original documents! I used the company apostilled.org.uk and was a little bit more expensive however I'd recommend going with them. Any other questions don't be afraid to ask :)

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Sorry - I forgot to add, the service I used is for UK residents only :)

@TamaraMashego

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark thank you this is helpful

Hi Alex! This is probably a stupid question, but did you have to contact your uni to get the sealed copy of your documents? Or do you just send off the copy you already have to get apostilled? Hope that makes sense!

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hello :) No question is ever a stupid question! I had to contact them to get a sealed copy of my transcripts, yes. Most universities provide a copy for free, and some you may have to pay + delivery costs. The degree is fine to send off to get COPIED and apostiled without being sealed, however the transcripts don't need to be apostiled - just simply in a sealed envelope (and not opened) from your university. Hopefully this helps you out!

I just keep staring at your eyes😂❤️😭 they are so cute omg🌟

Do you have to submit hard copies of your letters of recommendation? Or just scanned version's?

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Daniel! You have to submit physical hand signed letters of recommendation. I hope this helps!

I have sent my documents to South Korea, and they have been sent to EPIK by agency KORVIA and they said they will tell me within a week if my documents where approved or not, am telling this I cant eat I cant sleep, I really need this EPIK Job and I need to leave this country because so many bad things happening around me, Like i legit have no plan B

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey! The worst thing about this whole process is the waiting around/the unknown. Hang in there - you've got this! It won't be until December (the earliest!) until you hear about your location placement as current teachers in Korea are still filling out paperwork to decide whether they're staying/leaving. So once this process is sorted, and EPIK know which positions are available, then will they start allocating placements. It's not too long to wait now and once you get to Korea it's the start of your next chapter! Best of luck and if you need any advice with anything else don't hesitate to ask :)

Is it compulsory for TSFL certificate? Can I teach with my degrees in Supply chain only

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

So as part of EPIK you will need to have a TEFL, as well as a degree :)

Hi Alex :) How much total should you budget in pounds sterling for the entire documentation & visa process & 1st month living expenses?

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

So this is quite difficult to say! In terms of getting your documents together, getting copies of your degree/transcripts/DBS/birth certificate/photos - it came to around 200 pounds. However, some of these documents you need to get apostilled which are extra costs. Delivery costs too. And obviously you visa can be expensive too - if I remember correctly my visa cost about 150 pounds. In terms of your first month costs, you actually get a settlement allowance in your first pay check to help cover some costs (such as getting things for your apartment etc) so it's actually relatively affordable.

@kristinapaxton9686

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Thank you! I was thinking 2-3K originally lol ( including emergency fund)

where did you get your documents apostilled? Is there a website for this?

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hello my lovely! I used the website apostile.org.uk however this is for UK applicants only. I'm unsure where you're from however Google apostilling services in your country/local area and there should be plenty of options to choose from. Sorry if this isn't too much help! Best of luck with your Korean adventure!

they cancelled your visa the week before?! omg, that's interesting to know. i work for the NHS and will need a 2-months notice to resign. i'll have to consider and plan for this scenario

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey! So this was down to the Omicron variant at the time, so it was super unfortunate, so things are definitely looking up now. Got my fingers crossed, however, I think you should be good!

@ellav07

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark i hope so too! i'll find out about late Spring intakes! 🙂

Hi Alex I want to ask if they can book flight ticket ?

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey! So unfortunately, you have to book your flights yourself. Have a great day!

Can you use the same account on the website, or do you have to make a new account each time?

@itsalexmark

8 ай бұрын

If I remember correctly, your account is only valid for 6 months so you might have to make a new account each time. However, I may be wrong.

Hi Alex! I’m currently getting my Bachelor’s in Korean Studies (in my 2nd year) and I plan on getting my a Master’s in Communications and Education (which will probably be another 2 years 😮‍💨). Anyways… I really want to teach in Korea, but do you think I’d have to wait till I get my Master’s in Education to be eligible? Should I try to do a study abroad program to Korea while I’m still in college to have a sort of advantage? Btw I absolutely love how you make an informative video entertaining; I bet you’re an awesome teacher! ❤

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hey Lily! I'm glad that you found the video useful (and entertaining too) In terms of getting your E2 visa, you only need a bachelors degree. You don't need a specific education degree/masters. However you do need a TEFL certification in order to be accepted on to the visa too. You can't apply for your visa until after you've physically completed degree too - you can't apply for it before you finish, and then ready to fly after finish (if that makes sense). Having a degree in education is a bonus and it may even help you get paid more in the future, however it's not seen as an advantage. it's mainly judged upon character. Hopefully this helps and if you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask. Best of luck!

Hey girly! Sorry if someone has already asked this but where did you go to find your recruiter in the UK? xo

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey girlie! So I actually went with the company "Korean Horizons", however unfortunately they're not doing EPIK anymore, so the next best ones I'd recommend are "Korvia" :) Best of luck!

@megstandeven9572

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Thanks so much for your response!! I will check them out :)) x

Hi Alex! I applied the same intake you did but bombed the interview. I'm planning to reapply for Spring 2023 but my confidence has been knocked. Any advice? :)

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Pola! It's unfortunate that the interview didn't go as planned, however I'm sure it will all work out this time. Some words of advice for the interview: Print out your application form and have it in front of you. Prepare your mock lesson demonstration beforehand and don't be afraid to be a little bit silly - props help too! And just be as confident and open minded as possible. They may ask you questions about your preferences (for example would you be disappointed if you were placed in a rural location rather than a city) and just be open minded! They will appreciate that a lot! Best of luck and any more questions just let me know :)

@polasglobe

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Thank you so much for that! I'm sure I'll have lots more to ask closer to the applications stage so I'll appreciate any future help ❤ Till then I'll keep watching your fun videos which have been a great way to keep myself excited and not too down about not being there. As a side note, I just lost my cat on Monday (he was with the family for almost 13 years) and can't help feeling like fate or something else was looking out for me - I would have struggled a lot more with our decision to put him to sleep if I was abroad and unable to say a proper goodbye. May be silly, but I appreciate this small bit of light in the dark times. Sorry, might have been oversharing but if anyone is in my position now or in the future - don't feel so down, there is a reason why you didn't get in and you will find it someday ❤

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

@@polasglobe Wow - what a beautiful response. You are so kind and I'm so happy I can provide you with some comfort at such a difficult time. I set out to make these videos to show my family back at home, so it's super cool people like you are reached by them! I'm sorry to hear about your cat. Things WILL start to look up. Your future is so bright and I'm sure you'll get to Korea eventually. Sending all the love

@mckenzierise26

2 жыл бұрын

Or you can apply for hagwons and apply for Epik later if you don't like your job

Hi Alex~ can i apply to teach there if am a non-native speaker but i hold a TESOL degree(and also a bachelor degree but not related to education),cheers!

@itsalexmark

Жыл бұрын

Hello my lovely! Unfortunately, you have to be from either the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland or South Africa to apply for the E2 visa in order to teach over here in South Korea. Even if you have a bachelors degree, regardless of whether it be in education or not, the strict requirement is that you have to be from one of the countries. I hope you have a great day!

@omario2069

Жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Bummer~ ah well, thanks for the reply!

Was waiting for the visa the most stressful part? I passed my interview and my documents have been approved so now Im waiting to hear about a placement 😭

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

Ahhh this is so exciting! You know what, I actually think waiting for the placement was the most stressful part. I was only anxious about the visa due to it being cancelled last year - however, once you get that job offer you will feel so much better! I'm sure you'll be fine! Best of luck!

@headrush5743

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark Thank you! I’m pretty excited, but all the waiting feels like forever!

@headrush5743

2 жыл бұрын

@@itsalexmark I just got my placement today! Definitely much less anxious now!

@itsalexmark

2 жыл бұрын

@@headrush5743 Amazing!! Congratulations!! One step closer to getting on that plane :)