Consulate General of Japan at Chicago

JAPAN EXCHANGE AND TEACHING (JET) PROGRAM

Every year, the Japanese government invites thousands of young college and university graduates from overseas to participate in the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program throughout Japan. Established in 1987, the program has earned a high reputation, both in Japan and overseas, for its efforts in human and cultural exchanges, and has become one of the largest cultural exchange programs in the world.

The JET Informational Session will be held on Saturday, October 31st, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Location: Japan Information Center 737 N. Michicagn Ave. #1000 Enter off of Chicago Avenue, east of Michigan Avenue

Applications for the 2010 JET Program are now available. Please go here to download the forms and instructions. The application for the 2010 JET Program must be received at the Embassy of Japan in Washington D.C. no later than 5:00pm EST on Tuesday, Nov. 24th 2009.

Positions

Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) The ALT assists Japanese Teachers of English (JTE) in the classroom. In addition to team-teaching, ALTs often assist in preparing for and judging speech contests, act as advisors for after-school English clubs, and participate in special school events. NO JAPANESE LANGUAGE ABILITY IS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION.

Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) The CIR works in a local government office. Typical CIR duties include editing and translating pamphlets, implementing international exchange programs, interpreting at special events, presenting cultural events, creating newsletters, and teaching English to government employees. STRONG JAPANESE LANGUAGE SKILLS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION.

Benefits
Benefits of the JET Program include: an allowance of ¥ 3.6 million per year (around $33,000, depending on the exchange rate) tax free round-trip airfare health benefits good vacation and travel opportunities an international alumni network, the JET Alumni Association (JETAA)

Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following qualifications: U.S. citizenship have attained a Bachelor's Degree (in any field) by July 1 of the year of departure in principle, be under 40 years of age ideal candidates will be flexible, adaptable, personable, articulate, and interested in Japanese culture like to teach and work with children

Timeline
The application process follows the general timeline below. However, please keep in mind that specific dates vary from year to year, so check back regularly or contact us for the current year's dates.

	September usually around the 4th week	Applications available

	Late November usually by the 4th week	Applications due

	February usually the 3rd week	Interviews

	April usually by the 2nd week	Notifications of acceptance (though alternates may be called until departure)

	July usually by the 4th week	Departure for Japan


Application
When available, applications can be downloaded from the Embassy of Japan at Washington D.C. website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Click here for a FAQ document.

JET Alumni Association (JETAA)
The JET Alumni Association (JETAA) is a network of former JET participants organized into regional chapters. Activities vary from chapter to chapter, but typical activities include presenting information sessions for potential JET participants, organizing Japan-related activities, and holding job-fairs to help returning JETs reenter the marketplace. To join or contact the JET Alumni Association in your area, please visit the JET Alumni homepage.

JET Program
	Positions
	Benefits
	Qualifications
	Timeline
	Application
	FAQ
	JETAA