Comprehensive guide

TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification: Korea Requirements

Answers to common questions about TEFL, TESOL and CELTA requirements for teaching in Korea, based on EPIK's published eligibility rules.

7 questions answeredOriginally published since Last updated:

Q1.If I have a teaching degree already must i do TEFL or not?

Originally answered:

Not for EPIK. EPIK states that applicants with a teaching licence or certificate, a B.Ed. or M.Ed., or a degree in teaching, TESOL or another education-focused major are not required to have a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate. Other employers may set their own rules.

Q2.공교육기관에서의 TEFL, TESOL, CELTA 자격증의 인정 여부는?

Originally answered:

EPIK은 교육 관련 학위나 교사 자격이 없는 지원자에게 인정된 과정(accredited program)의 100시간 이상 TEFL·TESOL·CELTA 수료증을 요구하며, 수료 증빙은 제출 서류에 포함됩니다. 특정 과정이 요건을 충족하는지는 EPIK이 판단합니다.

Q3.Can I still apply if I have not finished taking a TEFL course?

Originally answered:

Yes. EPIK allows applicants to apply before they hold the certificate, as long as it is finalized no later than 6 weeks before the final expected arrival date in Korea. Mention on your application that you are enrolled and when you expect to finish.

Q4.Do you have any recommendations about finding a good TEFL course?

Originally answered:

Check your target program's requirement first; EPIK, for example, asks for at least 100 hours from an accredited program. Korvia offers an online TEFL course from the London College of Teachers & Trainers in 120, 140 and 170-hour options; see korvia.com/tefl to compare them.

Q5.I'm still in a TEFL course. Can Still Apply?

Originally answered:


Yes, you can definitely still apply to Korvia while you are still enrolled in a TEFL Certification course! Once contacted, a recruiter will help you gather and prepare all the other documents needed in order to become a candidate for the specific teaching programs.



Q6.How do I prove my TEFL course had an in-class component?

Originally answered:

For EPIK, the General Required Documents Guide (Spring 2026) says a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certificate must clearly state the number of real-time hours completed; if it does not, the applicant must provide proof of the hours, such as a transcript or a letter from the course director. EPIK does not publish a separate in-class hour rule. Other programs may ask for different evidence, so check with the program you apply to.

Q7.When should I start taking a TEFL course?

Originally answered:

Prospective applicants should take a TEFL course at their earliest convenience. While not required, Korvia recommends completing your course prior to applying to come to teach in South Korea.

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