Applying for anything is a frightening and daunting process. There are forms to fill out, interviews to do, and a million other things that you might need to complete to be successful. Many of these application processes can be difficult and complicated to do. Indeed, I have stopped filling in applications because it just got too confusing; I couldn’t do it anymore. However, applying to be a Meddeas’ Language Assistant was demanding, but clear, and they guided me through the selection process. I wish there were people who could have talked me through the process and given me some advice regarding what to say and what to do. So here I am to talk to you about what to expect when you are applying to teach with Meddeas here in Spain.
The Selection Process with Meddeas: Requirements, Tips, and Steps
What are the Requirements If You Want to Apply?
So, what do you need to apply for a placement with Meddeas? Do you need to speak fluent Spanish? Do you need to have an education degree? Or do you need to have teaching experience? The answer to all of these questions is… NO! Although there are specific programs for people with a teaching background, Meddeas programs are open to anyone with any degree and you do not need to be a Spanish speaker, or have teaching experience.
The most important skills that you need to have are a can-do attitude and the willingness to learn and adapt to your new tasks and your new country. Oh, and you must be a native-level English, French, or German speaker. You don’t even need to have a TEFL or CELTA certificate, as Meddeas provides you with the fantastic opportunity to study and teach at the same time.
I have met people from all different walks of life here in Spain and none of us have the same backstory. Some come from a teaching background and others come from a science one. Some studied English and others studied Translation or Linguistics. The fact that we are all different with different skills and talents is what makes this program so great. At my school, there are four of us and every single one has a different set of talents and skills, meaning that we all have something different to offer.
Some Hints and Tips to Overcome the Selection Process with Meddeas
- When applying for Meddeas, do not be afraid to show off your individuality and uniqueness. Being yourself is what will make you succeed in this process and this placement. Be proud of your achievements and your experiences: They are what make you, you. Anything can enhance your application and make you stand out.
- Flexibility is key when applying. If you just want to teach to a certain age group, in a certain city, with a certain number of hours, and with every Friday off, it is not the best way to succeed. Being open to new places, experiences, and opportunities will make the chances of getting a placement much more realistic. I didn’t know that I necessarily wanted to be teaching in Infantil (0-5 year-olds) in a town outside of Barcelona. However, that’s what I got and I loved every single moment. You should also be flexible about what your role involves in the school. I am involved in around 14 hours of art activities every week, despite not being artistically inclined, but I am learning as I go.
What are the Steps If You Apply?
The application process is not so difficult. Just follow the steps and consider the following things while applying:
Step One: Filling Out the online Application Form
This step is an important one, as this is the time when you will tell Meddeas about yourself, your experiences, and your preferences for the program. Along with sending your professional resume or CV, you will need to fill out an online Application Form.
Things to think about when filling out the application form:
ACCOMMODATION
There are two options regarding the accommodation: a host family or independent housing.
You should think about if you would prefer to live with a host family or find your own living arrangements. Meddeas will not provide housing nor help you with finding your own housing, but they will give you some useful information so you can find it yourself.
If you would like to live with a host family to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle, check out the Host Family Conditions.
All applicants will be teaching between 20 to 24 hours a week, but it varies depending on the accommodation type (among others).
CITY SIZE
Would you feel more comfortable living in a big city, in a smaller city, or in a town? This is your chance to express how you want to experience Spain. There are both benefits and drawbacks to each so choose wisely. Meddeas says in the FAQs: “we try our best to find a well-suited placement – taking into consideration the location only when possible. Remember that our allocation process is profile-based and not location-based (that’s why specific location requests are never accepted)”.
AGE LEVEL OF THE STUDENTS
Would you prefer to teach preschool, primary, middle school, or high school students? You will have the opportunity to select your preferences. If you have experience with one or more age groups and you would like to be with them, choose them here.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE
This is the part of the application which is the most important. This allows the Meddeas team to know exactly what your experiences are working with children and will help them to place you into the correct placement. Talk about ANY kind of experience you have working with children and/or teaching, anywhere from working as your neighbor’s babysitter for 10 years to volunteering as a soccer coach, to studying primary education and completing your student teaching. Be as detailed as possible, specifically talking about the age groups you worked with and for how long!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEVANT TO THE SELECTION PROCESS
This is the part where you can share anything else you’d like with Meddeas. You can mention your experiences living abroad previously, specifically if you have studied abroad or lived in Spain before. And you can talk about any job experiences or skills that would be beneficial for this work experience.
Step Two: The Interviews
Congratulations! The Meddeas team has seen your application and profile and wants you as a potential candidate for the program. There are two online interviews in the selection process with Meddeas.
You should dress business casual for the interviews. The online interviews could be early in the morning because they will most likely be done in Spanish working hours and time zone, so be prepared for this. To prepare for the interview, simply review the FAQs and Meddeas’ website to make sure you fully understand the program, its requirements, and its features. Be prepared to talk about your experiences with children and/or teaching, and some of the skills you’ve gained along the way.
In the second interview, you will be given the opportunity to resolve any doubts you may have; as well as make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the programs. Also, one thing you may be asked to do is an activity. But don’t sweat it: you don’t need to prepare anything for it.
Step Three: I’ve Been Accepted! What Comes Next?
You passed the selection process with Meddeas, making it through both interviews. Congratulations, and welcome (almost) to Spain!
If your selection process finishes before April, first you’ll receive a pre-agreement acceptance letter from Meddeas, which you will need to return within a few days in order to secure your spot in the program. Depending on the time of acceptance and available schools, you’ll receive your school placement about 2 weeks or so after your initial acceptance (bear in mind this process can get longer). At this point, you’ll make your official decision and place a deposit for the program (which will be returned to you upon successful completion of the program). Once you make the deposit, you will officially be a part of the Meddeas family. What now?
If you aren’t an EU citizen, start getting your paperwork together for your visa. You will be applying for the Student Visa. Each consulate is different, depending on where you currently reside, so make sure to consult your own consulate’s website. Most require a background check, a medical clearance form, a current passport, and passport photos. Some also require you to make an appointment.
Some Last Tips Before You Start the School Year
Once you receive your school’s contact information, write the tutor or coordinator an email, introducing yourself. This is a great way to start the school year off and show initiative.
Start saving money! You will not receive your first stipend until mid-October or early November depending on your start date. Because of this, you will need to have money for the start-up costs of living in another country: flight to Spain, first and second month’s rent plus deposit, grocery costs, transportation costs, extra money for fun and traveling, etc.
After all of this has been done, you’ll soon be on your way to Spain, excited and ready for the best experience of your life. Once you get to Spain, let the rest happen. Meddeas will be there every step of the way and so will your other school colleagues and friends. Get ready for all of the amazing experiences and memories you are going to have after this yearlong journey, and all of the great people you will meet along the way.
65 Responses
Hello, I just wanted to ask when will I receive the result of my 1st Skype interview?
Hello Glezy! Contact us at candidates@meddeas.es to know more about the status of your application. Thank you.
Hi! How long do I hear back from your team after the first interview?
Hello Ysabel! Thank you for your message. If you are a successful candidate, you will receive an email within 2 weeks. Thank you
Hi!Aside from the 850€, do I need to show my proof of funds to Meddeas prior to arriving in Spain? How much money do you reckon I need to save for my pocket money?
Hello Marah! The refundable deposit for the 2022/2023 academic year is €1,000. This deposit will be given back at the end of the program, once you successfully complete your school placement and
university course. If you are a successful candidate, you will receive more information about savings and costs. Bear in mind that some things have a set and known price that you will have to pay for before your arrival.
Hi, I’ve had my first interview but am waiting for a reply. My interview was on the 28th, should I hear back within one week or two?
Hello Stephen,
To inquire about the status of your application process, please send an email to candidates@meddeas.es
If a High school Graduate has a TEFL Certificate, then is it a possible factor to be competent enough to apply for the Advanced Language Assistants?
Hello Chaira! Due to legal restrictions, we can only offer placements to candidates who have obtained their bachelor’s degree within the last 4 years (as of 2018). In case you are a High school graduate, you will have to earn university credits trhough this placement to be eligible for the programs. I hope you find another interesting opportunity soon. Receive all of our encouragement and good luck!
Greetings,
I have a question regarding the graduation dates. I was scheduled to graduate in 2013, but I officially graduated in 2014, due to government related issues. My degree has the year 2013 and I majored in Education English Language. Can I still apply for the program?
Hello Precious, and thank you for your interest. However, this is a grant program and, unfortunately, due to legal restrictions, we can only offer placements to recent graduates (as of 2015). You can send your CV either way and they will inform you of other options in our spin-off COnversaSpain, in which there is no graduation date limit
Hi, I was wondering how I should apply if I won’t have my degree until September 1 but I have already completed my classes by June?
Don’t worry, the program starts in mid-September. This is not a problem
Hi
I’m looking to apply for the September/October 2019/2020 school year, when do you start taking applications for these dates?
Hello Naomi! The application process for September 2019 is already open, so I would encourage you to apply ASAP. The sooner, the better
Hi there!
This is a very helpful post. My concern is if I get accepted in November 2018 for the January 2019 program, will I have enough time to apply for the Student Visa?
Thank you for your help!
Hello Taleen! Positions are limited in January, but I would encourage you to send an email with your CV/resume by the end of September to candidates@meddeas.com
The one thing I can not find are dates/deadlines for the application? Are there?
Thank you!
Hello Kate. We encourage candidates to apply ASAP or at least before March 1st (if they want to start in September)!
Hello Christian. We accept applications from native-level English speakers. Please send your CV to candidates@meddeas.es and they will assess your profile!
Hi there!
Would they accept my application if I am a Spanish-native speaker but have fluency in the Eng. language and have a TEFL degree.
Or they just want English native speakers?
Thanks!
Hello Christian. We accept applications from native-level English speakers. Please send your CV to candidates@meddeas.es and they will assess your profile!
Hello, I have a question regarding graduation dates and references. I graduated in 2013 and majored in Education. Is it still ok to apply? Also, since I graduated in 2013, I feel that my references would best be from my colleagues and supervisors. Would it be possible to offer three work references instead of 1 academic. Thank you!
Hello Njeri. I encourage you to contact us via email, there are different options. Send your CV/resume to candidates@meddeas.es. Thanks!
Hi Amelia!
If you want to have more information or you have any question regarding the security deposit please send us an email and we will reply you with more details!
Yeah honesty is key! True of life though really, isn’t it?
Hello Natalie and Rebecca
This is a fantastic article I have re-read it so many times. It was great for getting me through my skype interview but I have just found out I have my in person interview this week, which I am really nervous about. If anyone has any additional advice I would be truly greatful. Especially on what the activity component includes? Thanks ever so much!
When is the Application Deadline?
I’m not sure if there is exactly an application deadline, but Meddeas is accepting applications now for the 2018-2019 school year! The earlier, the better, and the more probability you will have getting your preferences! I would apply ASAP! Let me know if you have any questions!
Hi Natalie 🙂
Thank you so much for creating this! It was extremely helpful with the skype interview. I do have one question in regards to the 450 euro deposit. Do you know how much time you have to commit and make this down-payment? I’m currently in my last year of university and am looking at another program though I am hoping I am accepted in to this one. In addition, I will not have the money until around mid-May and I know that we typically recieve our placements in April.
Hi Amelia!
If you want to have more information or you have any question regarding the security deposit please send us an email and we will reply you with more details!
Hi Natalie,
I am from Jamaica and I am interested in the Meddeas grant program. How is face – to-face interviews facilitated for interested Caribbean residents? Do we have to travel to one of the listed countries (UK, USA, Germany Ireland or Spain) just for the interview? Or are there are representatives in Jamaica, per say, as well?
Hi Tav. I would encourage you to apply, as exceptional situation are treated differently. Although we have delegates in the UK, the US, Ireland, Germany, Australia, and Spain, applications coming from non-listed countries will also be considered.
Everything in the article hits the nail on the head; flexibility is really key. if you go into the program with an open mind you will have a great time! I am glad you highlighted all of the factors to consider and how to prepare for the move abroad.
Thank you for your lovely feedback! I’m glad you agree!
Yes, I definitely agree that flexibility and open-mindedness is key when moving to another country! Thanks for your feedback!
Thanks for putting this together! I had a friend who’s interested in the program take a look at your article to get an idea of what to expect. 🙂
I hope it helps your friend! Thanks for sharing and thanks for the feedback on the article!
That’s so great to hear, Margaret! I hope they found it useful!
This is really informative and well-written, great job! If I were going through the Meddeas selection process again this would be so helpful. The blog post covers all the bases of the process and I think that those who are applying are going to be really grateful for your work!
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the feedback, Elizabeth! I hope it will be helpful to future Meddeas applicants!
This blog covers everything about the selection process in a clear, concise manner and is really helpful for anyone going through the process or considering it. I definitely agree that showing your unique qualities/experiences and your personal preferences is really important as they take all of that into consideration when finding a placement.
Thanks for sharing, Rebecca!
I’m glad you agree! Being unique and yourself is so important in this job! Glad myself and Natalie could help you!
Thanks for the feedback, Paige! We’re glad you enjoyed it and found it useful!
Can’t be said any better! I love this post. Thank you. Indeed before coming to Spain you must save up because the cost of living is quite high here in Spain well I’d say especially compared to that in South Africa. Save, save, save!
Thanks for the feedback, Ahd! Spain is surprisingly cheap compared to other parts of Europe! It’s the traveling that will cost you some extra money 😉
This sums up everything perfectly! Thanks so much for sharing this information. I think this article will be invaluable to prospective language assistants!
Glad you agree! Thanks for the feedback!
thanks for the feedback, Rebecca!
if you have any questions with the process, don’t hesitate to ask me! rebecca and I both contributed to this blog so I would be more than happy to further explain any questions or solve any doubts! 🙂
I wish I could comment something more useful to add onto the application process but honestly Rebecca your blog is perfect and covers all the bases of applying for Meddeas. You have written a highly informative piece.
Thanks for the feedback, Kate! I’m glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Together with Natalie I hope you have all of the info you need! Thanks for the feedback!
Thanks Rebecca for the tips! I remember meeting you at the Barcelona meeting!!
I’m going to send this to my friend who is currently going through the application process with meddeas. I especially like the part about being who you are in the application because that’s also something I feel strongly about when actually teaching as well. Bringing your own strengths and positive qualities to the fore in combination with solid classroom management when teaching really helps you get that good rapport going with your students from the outset and sets you up well for the rest of the year wouldn’t you agree? I feel like the second year I’ve gotten better at that and feeling in a stronger position as a teacher/assistant 🙂
Thanks again!
Thanks for the feedback, Hannah! Glad to know it will help your friend with the process!
Hi there, I’m thinking of applying for this program and thought I’d ask someone who’s already done it – I was just wondering how you found the selection process? Was it tricky or fairly stress free? Also what would you say the success chances are?
Thank you so much☺️
Hi Georgina, the selection process is based on your prior experiences, but you don’t need to have any experience! There are different programs depending on your experience level, so have no fear! Just make sure you study up about the program before your interview, and list ANY type of experience you’ve had working with kids to coaching a soccer team, to babysitting, to tutoring at school! Anything can help your application process! I didn’t find it stressful at all and Meddeas does a great job of giving you information and their decision quickly and as efficiently as possible. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Being prepared for the interview and the selection process definitely helps make it stress free! Just keep calm and enjoy the ride! Remember to be yourself and relax! They want you to succeed!
I hope the article helps your friend! I’m glad you agree with me that being yourself is important! I think the kids like to see a bit of who you are!