The path to be an educator can be filled with difficulties, particularly for pre-service teachers enrolled in programs such as Asistensi Mengajar. The Asistensi Mengajar program, as a first step toward a teaching career, is critical in preparing undergraduate students from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education for the demands and rigors of the educational landscape. This journey, however, is not without its challenges. Additionally, comprehensive studies investigating the challenges encountered by EFL pre-service teachers during the program are limited, considering the relatively new modifications implemented within the segment of the curriculum. This aspect  is particularly relevant because it explores the impact of these changes on teaching practice and teacher preparation, which may not be covered in studies focusing on older curricula.

       The purpose of this research is to investigate the challenges that EFL pre-service teachers confront within the framework of the program. The result shows that there are four major area of the problems: 1) writing lesson plan 2) classroom management 3) preparedness and anxiety 4) positive working relationship with mentor teachers and peers. These challenges developed since they did not have much experience and teaching time as they were beginners.

       The results highlight the need for continual support, mentorship, and training to address these challenges and better preparation for the demands of the teaching profession. Additionally, to guarantee the comprehensive development of teaching abilities and competencies, a more comprehensive provisioning phase is required. Educational institutions and stakeholders should work to establish a supportive learning environment that fosters the growth and development of future educators.