Applying
Application Process
Application Overview
Here is an overview of the application process to become an officer. As you will be able to tell from the images, there's a lot going on behind the scenes. Hopefully, these posts will give you a better understanding. Please remember we are always here and willing to answer any questions you may have or provide clarity for you.
There are 5 phases that a leader will pass through on their journey towards becoming an Officer:
1. Expression of Interest
2. Application
3. Advanced
4. College
5. First Five Years
There is quite a lot of paperwork required to be completed during the application process. The dark blue boxes indicate where you are required to fill out forms or attend an interview. The green diamonds indicate points where a major decision takes place that allows an applicant to move to the next phase in the process.
Please note: Each phase acts as a gateway for the next phase, it is not an automatic progression. It can seem daunting at first, but you will have support along the way. The first 3 phases normally take between 3-6 months.
Expression of Interest online form can be found here: Expression of Interest Form
Phase #1. Expression of Interest Phase
So, there are lots of forms that get filled out – some by you but most of them from leaders within your division.
The first form you will need to fill out is the online Expression of Interest form (F.1). This is a very quick exercise that asks entry-level questions e.g. name, email, mission expression etc…, and gives you an opportunity to submit any questions or ask for direction.
This helps put you on our radar so we can reach out to you and provide answers to any questions you may have, set realistic expectations, and give you direction on the next steps.
Form 2 will be sent to you. Forms 3 and 4 will be handled internally.
We will send you a Self-Assessment form, touch base with your Mission Expression leader, and organise a catch-up to talk about your interest.
You can fill out a short Expression of Interest form online: Expression of Interest Form
You can email us any questions at: candidates@ebc.edu.au
Phase #2. Application Phase
Once you’ve had some time to talk, discuss, pray, gather information, the next step is filling out Form #5. This is labeled as Application Form. It asks lots of questions and takes a bit of time to complete (approximately 7-10 hours). But don’t worry, we can help guide you through it.
In this phase, there is also:
• Form 6: Mission Expression Recommendation – completed by either your corps officer or mission expression leader.
• Form 7: Corps Members Recommendation – this is like a character reference from other people/leaders in your corps that have known you in a ministry setting for at least two years.
• Form 8: Divisional Interview. This is when leaders in your division ask questions to get to know you more and make a recommendation on whether to proceed.
• Form 9: Psychological Screening. This review assesses your readiness and compatibility for ministry in TSA. This assessment is confidential and is seen by only a few senior leaders.
This can seem daunting but the reason for this process is to help place you in a ministry environment where you can thrive. It's also mutually beneficial for TSA as it helps us identify how ready and suited you are to life-long service in TSA.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about this step, please email us: candidates@ebc.edu.au
Phase #3. Advanced Phase
As these forms contain sensitive information, we want to highlight that The Salvation Army adheres to a strict Privacy Policy and keeps all your information confidential. This is really important as we acknowledge that some of the information you may provide is sensitive, and all of it must be treated with the utmost respect and privacy.
If you would like to review TSA’s privacy policy, you can read it online here: TSA Privacy Policy
The reason for Forms 10-13b is to ensure that as you prepare to join full-time ministry any obstacles, difficulties or complexities may be identified and, where appropriate, addressed beforehand.
• Form 10: Your GP completes a medical assessment.
• Form 11: Your dentist completes a dental check-up.
• Form 12: A statement of financial position is required.
• Form 13a: Reference Check: Employment
• Form 13b: Reference Check: Character
Upon completion of all the Forms, the TCC will make a decision on your suitability. Successful candidates will become Cadets and move to Phase 4.
If you would like to review TSA’s privacy policy, you can read it online here: TSA Privacy Policy
Phase #4. College Phase
There are several Modes of Training options.
During your application process (phases 1-3), officers from The Officer Formation Stream at Eva Burrows College will be involved in determining the best mode of training that should be made available for you.
Training is generally 2-3 years. In 2023, all training will be non-residential.
You will be allocated an Individual Training Officer (ITO) who will be your go-to contact person.
The College staff are very friendly, have vast experience, and are more than willing to answer any questions you may have. We can help organise the right person for you to speak to.
To learn more about the Cadet experience, watch these videos:
Phase #5. First Five Years Phase
During the first five years after commissioning, you will continue to be supported by the Officer Formation Stream. This ensures you meet the additional development requirements for your journey as an officer.
Expression of Interest
Expression of Interest online form can be found here: Expression of Interest Form