Waiting to hear back from schools after submitting your application can feel like an eternity. While some schools respond quickly, others may take weeks or even months.
Understanding typical response times and knowing how to stay proactive during the wait can help ease anxiety and keep your job search on track.
Timelines can vary significantly depending on whether you’re applying for an ESL teaching position or a K-12 teaching role.
Understanding Typical Response Times
The time it takes to hear back from schools and language centres varies widely based on several factors:
- Application Volume: Schools receiving many applications may take longer to respond. For example, international schools hiring for the upcoming academic year may receive hundreds of applications, slowing down their response time.
- Hiring Timeline: Some schools have set hiring periods, while others hire year-round. For instance, schools in countries like Japan often recruit teachers months in advance, while schools in other regions may fill positions as needed.
- Internal Processes: Administrative procedures, such as approvals and budget considerations, can delay responses. Schools with large hiring committees or strict vetting processes might take longer to move candidates through each stage.
Some job seekers can hear back within one to two weeks of applying. However, it’s not uncommon for the process to take longer, especially during peak hiring seasons like summer or the start of the school year.
What ESL Teachers Can Expect After Submitting An Application
When you apply for an ESL teaching job, it’s important to understand the process and what happens next.
Direct to School Jobs
For positions labeled as “Direct to School,” the hiring school will reach out to you directly if they are interested in moving forward. The response time can vary widely. Some schools may respond within one to two weeks, while others could take up to a month or more, especially if they receive a high volume of applications. It’s also important to note that Teach Away does not manage updates for these applications, so be patient and continue applying for other opportunities in the meantime!
What K12 Teachers Can Expect After Submitting An Application
When applying for K-12 teaching jobs, especially at international schools or public school boards, the hiring timeline can differ based on the institution and location.
International K-12 Schools
For international K-12 positions, schools often follow a structured hiring season.
You may hear back within two to four weeks after the application deadline, though it could take longer during peak hiring months (like October to March for the following school year). Schools may prioritize candidates who meet their specific certification and experience requirements.
Public School Districts
For public school positions, hiring typically follows a formal process that may involve:
- Initial Screening: Usually within one to two weeks after the application deadline.
- Interview Scheduling: Schools may contact shortlisted candidates within two to four weeks.
- Final Decision: It could take up to six to eight weeks from the application deadline to receive a final decision, especially when multiple rounds of interviews are involved.
Factors Influencing Response Time
Several elements can affect how quickly schools respond:
- Position Level: Senior or specialized roles may require more extensive evaluation, as schools need to ensure that candidates meet specific qualifications and experience levels.
- School Size: Larger institutions might have more bureaucratic processes, such as multiple rounds of internal approvals, that can add time to the hiring process.
- Recruitment Stage: Schools early in their hiring process may take longer to respond. Conversely, if the school is nearing the start of the term, they may expedite the process to fill vacancies quickly.
- Regional Factors: Schools in regions with high teacher turnover, like the Middle East, may move faster, while those in areas with more stable teaching staff might take their time to carefully select candidates.
It’s important to remember that delays don’t necessarily reflect your qualifications or chances. Many factors unrelated to your application can influence response times.
Staying Proactive While Waiting
Waiting doesn’t mean inactivity. Here are ways to remain proactive:
- Continue Applying: Don’t halt your job search while waiting for a single response. Casting a wider net increases your chances of securing a position.
- Network: Connect with other educators and professionals in your field through online communities, LinkedIn, and educational webinars. Sometimes, a personal connection can speed up the process or provide insights into a school’s timeline.
- Enhance Skills: Take courses or workshops to improve your qualifications. Gaining new certifications, such as a TEFL or subject-specific endorsements, can make you more competitive.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios. Role-playing with friends or recording yourself can help identify areas for improvement.
- Follow Up Thoughtfully: After a reasonable time (usually two weeks), consider sending a polite follow-up email expressing your continued interest and inquiring about the hiring timeline.
Engaging in these activities can boost your confidence and readiness for upcoming opportunities.
Following Up Appropriately
If you’ve waited beyond the typical response time, consider following up:
- Timing: Wait at least one to two weeks before reaching out.
- Method: Use email unless instructed otherwise. Check the job posting for any preferred communication methods.
- Tone: Be polite and express continued interest in the position. Avoid sounding impatient or demanding.
A well-crafted follow-up can reaffirm your enthusiasm and keep you on the employer’s radar.
Managing Expectations
Understanding that delays are common can help manage expectations:
- No News Isn’t Bad News: Silence doesn’t necessarily mean rejection. Schools might still be reviewing applications or waiting for internal approvals.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive outlook and continue your job search efforts. Keeping busy with other applications can make the waiting period feel more manageable.
- Seek Feedback: If possible, request feedback to improve future applications. Even a brief email asking for insights can provide valuable information.
By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the waiting period more effectively and increase your chances of landing your dream job teaching abroad.
