You’ve polished your resume, crafted a thoughtful cover letter, and hit “submit” on your teaching job application. Now what?
That post-application silence can feel endless, but it’s completely normal. Here’s a realistic look at what happens behind the scenes, how long it might take to hear back, and how you can stay proactive and prepared in the meantime.
What Happens Behind the Scenes
Once your application lands in a school’s inbox, or in their applicant tracking system, it may not be reviewed right away. Many schools receive hundreds of applications and sort through them in batches, often waiting until the job posting closes before beginning the review process.
Insight: Many schools use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific keywords before a human ever sees them. If you don’t hear back, it might be because your application didn’t pass this initial automated screening, not a reflection of your qualifications.
What the Hiring Process Usually Looks Like
If your application passes the initial review, here’s a general overview of what the next stages often look like:
- Resume screening: Schools check that you meet the basic requirements and look like a strong match for the position.
- Phone or video screening: You may be invited to a short conversation to confirm your background and gauge your communication skills.
- Formal interview: Next comes a more in-depth interview with a principal or hiring committee. This may include questions about your teaching philosophy, classroom management, and real-life scenarios.
- Demo lesson: Some schools request a sample lesson, either live or recorded, to evaluate your teaching style and presence.
- Reference checks: If you’re moving forward, schools will contact your references to confirm your experience and teaching performance.
- Job offer and onboarding: If all goes well, you’ll receive a formal offer, often followed by a background check and verification of certifications or visa eligibility (for international roles).
Note: Requirements vary by location. International schools may include additional steps, such as visa processing, medical exams, or specific credential evaluations.
How Long It Might Take to Hear Back
International and ESL positions: When applying for teaching jobs abroad, response times can vary widely. Some schools respond within a week, while others, especially large programs, follow set recruitment windows and may take several weeks or more.
Some schools may respond more quickly if they’re filling urgent vacancies. That said, during peak hiring seasons like spring and early summer, it’s not unusual for responses to take time.
Recommended reading: How Long Does It Take to Hear from Schools?
When and How to Follow Up
If it’s been two to three weeks and you haven’t heard anything, it’s perfectly acceptable to follow up with a short, professional message. Reaffirm your interest in the role and politely ask if there are any updates on your application status.
Pro tip: Instead of just “checking in,” share a relevant teaching resource you created, a professional article you found interesting, or something related to the school’s mission. It shows initiative and adds value.
What to Do While You Wait
The waiting game doesn’t have to be passive. Here are a few ways to stay proactive and productive after submitting your application:
- Apply to more jobs: Keep the momentum going. Every application gives you another chance to land the right fit—and helps build your confidence.
- Tailor your materials: Update your resume and cover letter to match keywords from new postings. This boosts your chances of passing through ATS filters.
- Network strategically: Connect with current teachers or administrators at schools you’ve applied to. A short, friendly message on LinkedIn can sometimes lead to helpful advice—or even a referral.
- Update your online presence: Make sure your LinkedIn profile, digital portfolio, and any professional social accounts reflect your latest experience and teaching philosophy.
- Keep learning: Use this time to explore new teaching tools, strategies, or certifications. It gives you something fresh to bring up in interviews and shows your commitment to professional growth.
- Track your progress: Keep a simple job search journal where you record where you’ve applied, follow-up timelines, and any notes for future interviews.
If You Don’t Hear Back
Unfortunately, not every application gets a response. If it’s been a month with no contact, it’s okay to move on emotionally and refocus your energy on new opportunities.
Hiring timelines depend on many variables, internal referrals, shifting budgets, visa delays, or leadership changes. Silence doesn’t always mean “no.” It often just means “not right now.”
Mindset shift: Think of every application as a stepping stone, not the final destination. Rejection is part of the journey, not the end of it.
The Job Search Is a Journey
Landing the right teaching job can take time. But every resume you send, every follow-up you write, and every skill you develop brings you closer to that perfect match.
Stay confident. Stay visible. And most importantly, stay proactive while you wait.
