Japan: the country of cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, kimonos and sushi. Have you always wanted to experience Japan’s rich beautiful nature, rich culture and amazing food? The JET Program offers the opportunity to native English speakers to teach English in Japanese schools and engage with local communities.
Whether you’re a recent graduate seeking adventure, a seasoned educator looking to broaden your horizons, or someone with a deep interest in Japanese culture, the JET Program might be the perfect fit for you.
What is the JET Program?
JET stands for Japan Exchange and Teaching Program, a government initiative that aims to promote international exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and other countries. Established in 1987, the JET Program has welcomed thousands of participants from around the world, fostering cultural exchange and international understanding.
The JET Program is managed by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, and the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations.
The main goals of the JET Program are to improve foreign language education in Japan and to foster cultural exchange at the grassroots level. JET participants contribute to language instruction and cultural awareness in Japanese communities while gaining firsthand experience of Japanese culture and society.
Participants work primarily as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in public schools, but they can also have roles as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) in local government offices and as Sports Exchange Advisors (SEAs).
Application Process
As you can imagine, the program is highly competitive, so put in the time and effort to make your application as good as possible. The application process involves several steps, from meeting eligibility requirements to attending interviews and getting all the paperwork for your departure.
The following criteria must be met before you can apply:
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a participating country.
- Education: A bachelor’s degree or higher is required by the time of departure.
- Language: Proficiency in English is essential; some knowledge of Japanese can be beneficial but is not mandatory.
- Health: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.
- Background: No prior convictions and a clean criminal record.
The application process happens online. You start by completing the application form available on the JET Program website. An important part of the application is the personal statement. In the personal statement, you outline your motivations for joining the JET Program, why you are a good candidate, and what you hope to achieve during the program.
To boost your application, letters of recommendation, and academic or professional references help you stand out. Next to that, you’ll need to add official transcripts from all the post-secondary institutions you’ve attended and a copy of your diploma (if you have already graduated).
Lastly, you must include a copy of your passport and fill out a self-assessment medical form. If there are any health issues, further documentation may be required.
The screening and interviewing process can be quite intimidating. Once a participant is screened for eligibility and is successful, they are invited for an interview. The interview is typically held at your home country’s Japanese embassy or consulate.
To prepare for the interview, think about your motivation, teaching philosophy, understanding of Japanese culture, and how you can contribute to the JET Program. The interview panel usually consists of Japanese officials, former JET participants, and educators. The interview may include questions, a teaching demonstration, and a Japanese language assessment (if applicable).
After the interview, applicants will be notified whether or not they are
accepted or placed as an alternate. Accepted candidates receive their placement details, including location and contracting organisation. Once you are accepted, it is important you also confirm your acceptance. Now you can start preparing for departure.
What Happens Once You Are Accepted?
The first thing you’ll have to do once you are accepted into the JET program is obtain a work visa. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do this all on your own. Your local Japanese embassy or consulate will assist you.
The program also offers orientation sessions about living and working in Japan, cultural norms, and job expectations to better prepare you for arrival. Lastly, it is time to start with practical preparations such as packing and making the necessary travel arrangements to Japan.
Upon arrival, you must attend a multi-day orientation in Tokyo covering essential information about living and working in Japan. This is a great opportunity to meet new people in similar situations and get yourself oriented in Japan.
After the orientation, you travel to your assigned location and meet your supervisors and new colleagues. You may get additional training and orientation via your contracting organisation or local government.
An Example of Daily Life in the JET Program
Now that you know what the application process involves, what do you think about the JET program in Japan? Is it worth the effort? Absolutely! Let’s see what your daily life in the JET Program could look like.
A typical school day in Japan starts at 8:00 AM. Upon arrival, you greet students and staff and participate in the morning staff meeting. As an Assistant Language Teacher, you’ll teach or assist in English classes. Lessons may involve co-teaching with a Japanese Teacher of English (JTE), leading activities, or facilitating discussions.
Lunch is usually eaten with the students in the classroom. You can use this time to interact with students in a more informal setting and get first-hand experience of authentic Japanese lifestyles.
In the afternoon, you’ll continue with classes or conduct English conversation clubs. The afternoon might also involve preparing lesson plans for the next few days, grading tests and papers, or meeting with other teachers.
The day doesn’t have to be over once school ends. Many JET participants assist with school clubs, such as sports teams, music, or cultural clubs. This can be a rewarding way to bond with students and participate in Japanese school culture.
You can also engage in community events or volunteer activities. This might include teaching adult English classes, participating in local festivals, or attending cultural workshops.
Your time in Japan won’t be all work and no play, though. On the weekend or in other moments of your free time, you can explore nearby cities or regions. Japan’s efficient transportation system makes visiting cultural landmarks, natural sites, and urban centres easy.
You can participate in local festivals (matsuri), tea ceremonies, and seasonal events like cherry blossom viewing (hanami) or autumn leaf viewing (momijigari), or continue your own education with language learning and take Japanese language classes.