IOM MIGRATION INFORMATION CENTRE

A Comprehensive Assistance Program for Pedagogical and Professional Staff

In a bid to support foreign pedagogical and professional staff in integrating into Slovak schools, the IOM Migration Information Centre under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (MIC RRP), in collaboration with Studia Academica Slovaca (SAS), announces the launch of an assistance program which aims to facilitate the recognition of education credentials and proficiency in the Slovak language, thereby enabling qualified individuals to embark on fulfilling teaching careers within Slovak educational institutions. 

THE PROGRAMME IS CURRENTLY AT CAPACITY AND REGISTRATION IS THEREFORE CURRENTLY CLOSED.

Program Overview: 

The primary objective of this assistance program is to assist foreign pedagogical and professional staff in obtaining recognition for their education and passing the Slovak language exam, a prerequisite for teaching in Slovak schools. The program targets individuals whose Slovak language proficiency is sufficiently high to undertake the language exam in the current year. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• University education in a pedagogical fields obtained abroad  
• 18 years of age 
• Citizenship in an EU/non-EU country 

• Valid residence permit in Slovakia 

Application Process: 

To determine eligibility, applicants are required to fill a short form and undergo a placement test. Those who achieve satisfactory results will proceed to undergo a more extensive evaluation by SAS. Admission to the program is based on test performance and the application form, with registration not guaranteeing enrollment. 

Program Benefits: 

Participants enrolled in the program will have access to the following benefits: 

• Reimbursement of education recognition costs. 
• Free B2 Slovak language course by IOM MIC RRP (for those needing language level enhancement). 
• Free preparatory course by SAS for the Slovak language exam. 
• Coverage of costs associated with the Slovak language exam. 

There are two possible routes to navigate the program, depending on the level of Slovak language: 

1. Preparatory Course by Studia Academica Slovaca (SAS):

This route involves undertaking a preparatory course organized by Studia Academica Slovaca (SAS), an expert center for Slovak as a foreign language. The course is structured to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the Slovak language exam, a crucial step towards teaching in Slovak schools. Here's a breakdown of the route: 

• Duration: April to June 2024. 
• Format: Participants can choose between attending the course online or in-person, providing flexibility based on individual preferences and circumstances. 
• Course Content: The preparatory course focuses on comprehensive language training, covering various aspects of the Slovak language essential for effective communication and teaching in educational settings. It includes grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking exercises tailored to meet the specific needs of non-native speakers. 
• Language Exam: Following the completion of the preparatory course, participants will sit for the Slovak language exam in June 2024. Success in this exam is a key requirement for obtaining teaching positions in Slovak schools. 

This route is ideal for individuals who already possess a sufficient level of Slovak language proficiency to undertake the language exam within the current year and are seeking targeted preparation to excel in the exam. 

2. B2 Slovak Language Courses by IOM MIC RRP:

For individuals whose Slovak language proficiency may not yet meet the requirements for direct participation in the preparatory course offered by SAS, the assistance program provides an alternative route through B2 Slovak language courses conducted by the IOM Migration Information Centre under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (MIC RRP). Here's a detailed overview: 

• Duration: March to July 2024. 
• Objective: The B2 Slovak language courses aim to elevate participants' language proficiency to a level suitable for undertaking the preparatory course by SAS. The curriculum is designed to enhance participants' linguistic skills and confidence in using the Slovak language effectively in various contexts, including educational settings. 
• Course Content: The courses cover a range of language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with a focus on attaining proficiency at the B2 (upper-intermediate) level. Interactive activities, exercises, and practical tasks are incorporated to facilitate active learning and engagement. 
• Transition to Preparatory Course: Upon completion of the B2 language courses, participants will have the opportunity to enroll in the preparatory course organized by SAS, scheduled from September to November 2024. This intermediate step allows individuals to bridge any existing language gaps and acquire the necessary skills to succeed in the subsequent preparatory course and pass the language exam in December 2024. 

This route provides a structured pathway for participants to gradually enhance their Slovak language proficiency, ensuring that they are adequately prepared to undertake the preparatory course and ultimately pursue teaching opportunities in Slovak schools. 

Both program routes are designed to cater to the diverse needs and circumstances of foreign pedagogical and professional staff, offering tailored support to facilitate their integration into the Slovak education system. Whether through targeted language preparation or gradual proficiency enhancement, the assistance program aims to empower individuals to achieve their professional aspirations and contribute meaningfully to the education sector in Slovakia. 

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