EPIK Eligibility Requirements (2026)
Who can apply to teach English in Korean public schools through EPIK? Here are the official requirements.
EPIK accepts applicants who are citizens of 7 approved countries, hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, and have studied in an English-speaking country from at least 7th grade through university. A TEFL certificate is required unless you hold an education degree.
Core Requirements
Nationality
Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. Indian citizens may qualify under CEPA with a valid teaching certificate in English education (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA alone is not sufficient).
Education
Bachelor's degree (or higher) from an accredited university in one of the approved countries. The degree must be completed before the contract start date — you cannot apply with a degree in progress.
Schooling History
Must have studied from at least junior high school (7th grade) through university in one of the approved countries. This ensures English-medium education throughout your academic career.
TEFL / TESOL / CELTA
Required for applicants without an education-related degree. Minimum 100 hours from an accredited program. Can be completed during the application process but must be finished at least 6 weeks before your arrival date in Korea.
TEFL Exemptions
Holders of a teaching license, Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), Master of Education (M.Ed.), or other education-focused degree are exempt from the TEFL requirement.
Health
Good physical and mental health. A medical check (including drug screening) is required as part of the visa process. This is completed in Korea after arrival.
Background Check
Clean criminal background check from your home country. FBI check for US citizens, RCMP for Canadians, DBS for UK, etc. Must be apostilled or authenticated.
Common Disqualifiers
Degree from a non-approved country (even if you are a citizen of an approved country)
Degree not yet completed at the time of application
Criminal record (certain minor offenses may be reviewed case-by-case)
Currently on a Korean visa blacklist or previously deported from Korea
Unable to pass a medical examination (including drug screening)