Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Been There, Taught That]

Actually, two questions, kind of related. Fact is, aside from whether I can afford it, I just feel more comfortable with airfare prepaid by the school than trying to chase reimbusement when I get there, which is why I'm leaning to private in my job search. Because of it, I'm thinking of going public only in the second year, when I'm there and have no airfare worries.

1. Investigating the two sides, I seem to find that one difference between private and public is the EPIK stipulation that airfare be reimbursed, not prepaid. Is that always the case for EPIK/GEPIK? Any way to get it paid?

2. My wife and daughter will be coming with me from the US. I want to get them prepaid, too, and then reimburse when I get there. Anyone feel that that is at all possible? All recruiters say no when I ask, but I read posts here and there with advice about holding out for that. Maybe it's better to go directly to a hagwon and request it, hmmm?

[BS.Dos.]

I doubt it. There's too much risk for the people at this end for them to lay out a couple of $1000 on airfare tickets. For all they know, you could change your mind and decide not to come. By reimbursing, it gives them a degree of security etc.

I'm not aware that EPIK will pay for your wife and kids tickets. They're only interested in you being as you'll be the one doing the teaching. If you decide to bring your family along, then I suspect that they'll expect you to pay for them.

[sojourner1]

I heard Work and Play is prepaying EPIK teachers flights. I used another recruiter and received my airfare reimbursement (loan) 3 weeks after arrival. The airfare reimbursement is called a loan until you hit your six month mark.