Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program

The 2025 JET Program application has closed for the year. Please visit the JET USA official website for more information about the 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.

 

Questions? We're happy to help! You can contact JET Office Chicago by emailing jet@cg.mofa.go.jp.

Assistant Language Teacher (ALT)

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 of the JET Program include:

• 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

JET Program applicants in the United States must:

• 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

For a detailed list of eligibility criteria, please consult the official website here.

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.
 

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 a JET FAQ
 

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 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.