Why does the admissions process take 4-6 weeks?

 

The admissions process includes an online application and interview. There are several steps that happen in between the time you submit the online application and the time you may be invited to the interview. The entire process takes about 4-6 weeks, from start to finish.

 

 ~1 Hour: Complete Your Online Application 

 

The timing varies for each applicant, but you may be able to complete the application in as little as one hour. The application consists of a series of background questions, a resume upload, and two short answer responses.

 

1 Week: TFA Reviews Your Online Application

 

It takes about a week for us to review all applications after each application deadline. The information you provide in the online application will help us gain a more thorough understanding of who you are, your unique strengths, and motivations for joining the corps. Having this full picture will help us decide if you should move on to the final interview.

 

2 Weeks: Prepare for Interview & Submit Additional Materials

 

If you are invited to the interview, you will be notified about one week after the application deadline. The interview window begins a few days later, and applicants can sign up for an interview that best matches their schedule within a two-week period. Applicants will need to submit their recommenders' contact info if they are invited to an interview, and we encourage applicants to submit that information, as well as their transcript(s), prior to their interview.  These materials provide us with additional examples of your leadership and accomplishments before you head into the interview. During your interview, you'll teach a five-minute lesson, participate in a case activity, and discuss your accomplishments and interest in joining the corps with an interviewer.

 

2 Weeks: Submit Your Regional Preferences / Admissions Decision

 

After your interview, you'll be asked to rank the regions in which you prefer to teach. During this time you'll be able to compare our regions and determine the factors that are most important to you. Your location preferences have no impact on your chance of acceptance. We'll then evaluate your full application. Our admissions process is holistic, meaning we look at all the information you've provided when evaluating your candidacy. We'll take everything from your initial application, to your sample lesson, and to your interview into consideration

 

~10 Days: Accept or Decline Your Offer

 

At this time, you'll be notified of your admissions decision and your region and subject placement. If you've received an offer to join the corps, you'll have around 10 days to make your decision about accepting your offer to become a corps member.