Job Discussion Forums

[deniserita]

I am an American applying at International Schools to teach abroad next Sept. Should I get a background check done on my own? I heard in America it can take up to 12 weeks. I thought the school that hires you would do it, but am thinking that I should do it on my own. Is this what people do? or do the schools take care of it?

If I do it on my own, can I just get one through the internet? Will that be accepted by the schools or are there certain accredited places that I have to go through?

Thanks!

[warda]

You can do it on your own. I had to for my job (NOT an international school). The FBI check does take some time. Send it off now so that you have your letter in time, in case the school requires the federal check.

Otherwise it's state-by-state. In PA you can get it instantly online, but in MO it takes a couple weeks. Google your state + CRB for details.

The FBI paperwork is really easy. All the info's online:

http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/background-checks/background_checks

I got my prints done at the local police station.

EDIT: You may need it apostilled or otherwise verified for visa or work permit purposes. I don't know anything about that process.

[deniserita]

Thanks so much for the input...very helpful

[naturegirl321]

Do it on your own. I did two last year. They each took 10 weeks. And then another month for the Dept of State apostillisation, for them to send it to my mom , and for my mom to send it to me. It's usually only valid for X amount of time, 3 or 6 months. So plan carefully. The date the FBI stamps it is when the validity starts expiring, if that makes sense.

So I got my first by requesting it in July, but the FBI didn't stamp it until Sept, so my six months started from Sept.

[deniserita]

Thanks I'll do it now...then I will get it in May and be good for 3 or 6 months...should work out ok.

d