Teach For America's application 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
Complete an Online Application (~1 Hour)
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, short answer responses, and the chance to tell us which regions you would like to apply to.
TFA Reviews Your Online Application (1 Week)
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.
Prepare for Interview & Submit Additional Materials (2 Weeks)
If you are invited to the interview, you will be notified about one week after the application deadline. You will then have about two weeks to prepare for the interview and submit required materials such as college transcripts and letters of recommendation. 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.
Finalize your Regional Selections and Submit Your Preferred Subject Areas (~2 Weeks)
After your interview, you’ll be asked to finalize your regional selections from your initial application. As a reminder, your location preferences have no impact on your chance of acceptance. In addition to finalizing your regional selections, you will have the chance to tell us the subject areas that you are most excited to teach in your region if you are admitted.
Receive An Admissions Decision & Accept or Decline Your Offer (10 Days)
Teach For America will evaluate your full application after you finalize your regional selections and submit your subject area preferences. 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. When you receive your admissions decision you will also be notified about your region and subject placement. If you’ve received an offer to join the corps, you’ll have roughly two weeks to make your decision about accepting your offer to become a corps member
