Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program

The 2024 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? Email us at jet@cg.mofa.go.jp.

 

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.
*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.

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 of the JET Program include:

• an allowance of ¥4,020,000 the first year, thereafter increasing
• round-trip airfare
• health benefits
• vacation and travel opportunities
• an international alumni network, the JET Alumni Association (JETAA)

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
• ideal candidates will be flexible, adaptable, personable, articulate, and interested in Japanese culture
• interest in teaching and working with children

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
October	Applications available
November	Applications due
Late-January, Early-February	Interviews
April	Notifications of acceptance (though alternates may be contacted until or after departure)
End of July	Departure for Japan

 

Applications

When available, applications can be accessed through the JET Program's website.
 

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 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.

Our JETAA Talks series features stories from JETAA (JET Program Alumni Association) members in our jurisdiction. Visit here to read about their experiences!