Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program
Applications for the 2026 JET Program are now open! To apply, please visit the online application portal.
The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program was established in 1987 with the goal of fostering international exchange at the community level and supporting English language education. Over 80,000 participants from more than 80 countries have worked in schools, boards of education, and local government offices across Japan as JETs. Applications open every fall for departure the following year. Please visit the JET USA official website for more information about the program.
Questions? We're happy to help! You can contact JET Office Chicago by emailing jet@cg.mofa.go.jp.
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Online via Zoom:
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Positions
ALTs assist Japanese Teachers of English (JTEs) 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. Although no Japanese language ability is required for this position, successful applicants are expected to make an effort to study or continue studying the Japanese language. Applications for the ALT position open annually in the fall.
Coordinator for International Relations (CIR)
Most CIRs work 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. Please note that strong Japanese skills are required for this position. Applications for the CIR position open annually in the fall.
Sports Exchange Advisor (SEA)
SEAs are sports professionals who assist with training and sports-related projects in their assigned placement. There are very few SEA positions and applications are accepted only when there is an opening.
Benefits
- Living and working in Japan through a government-supported program
- A competitive starting salary of ¥4,020,000
- Round-trip airfare
- Healthcare benefits (including national health insurance and additional accident insurance)
- Vacation and travel opportunities
- An international alumni network and post-JET career support
Qualifications
- Be a US citizen
- Complete a Bachelor's degree by late June of the year of departure for Japan
- Have native-level English proficiency
- Not have lived in Japan for six or more years in the ten-year period prior to departure for Japan
Timeline
| Month | Timeline |
| Late September/Early October | Applications available |
| November | Application deadline |
| Late January/Early February | Interviews |
| April | Notification of interview results |
| End of July | Departure for Japan |
Applications
When available, applications can be accessed through the online portal. Register to receive a notification when applications open.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Click here for the official JET Program USA FAQ page.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 providing career support for recently returned JETs.To join or contact the JET Alumni Association in your area, please visit the JET Alumni Association USA homepage.
Our previous JETAA Talks series featured stories from JETAA (JET Program Alumni Association) members in our jurisdiction, which still provide great insight into what you can expect from the program. You can access the archive here to read about their experiences.