{"id":2608,"date":"2023-01-14T14:45:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-14T21:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/teflonline.com\/blog\/?p=2608"},"modified":"2024-08-08T15:29:09","modified_gmt":"2024-08-08T21:29:09","slug":"jet-program","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/","title":{"rendered":"JET Program: Everything You Need to Know to Teach English in Japan"},"content":{"rendered":"<div style=\"margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;\" class=\"sharethis-inline-share-buttons\" ><\/div>\n<p>Have you heard of the JET Program in Japan? This popular <a href=\"https:\/\/jetprogramme.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Japanese teacher exchange program<\/a> requires assistant teaching applicants to have a bachelor\u2019s degree and citizenship from a participating country, as well as a strong interest in Japanese culture. The salary for teachers starts at an appealing \u00a53,360,000 per year (which is about $26,000 USD) with guaranteed raises for each additional year in the program. Teachers apply for the unique benefits such as airfare to and from Japan, a job lined up in advance, plenty of in-country support, and a high level of cultural immersion. Let\u2019s take a deeper look at JET and help you decide if becoming a Japanese exchange teacher makes sense for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/teaching-in-japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check out Bridge&#8217;s guide to teaching English in Japan for more information about the country!<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#What_is_the_JET_Program\" >What is the JET Program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#What_are_the_requirements_for_applying_to_the_JET_Program\" >What are the requirements for applying to the JET Program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Is_the_Jet_Program_hard_to_get_into\" >Is the Jet Program hard to get into?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#How_much_does_the_JET_Program_pay\" >How much does the JET Program pay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Does_the_Jet_Program_pay_for_flights\" >Does the Jet Program pay for flights?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Does_the_JET_Program_pay_for_housing\" >Does the JET Program pay for housing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Where_are_teachers_placed_in_Japan_in_the_JET_Program\" >Where are teachers placed in Japan in the JET Program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#How_long_are_JET_Program_contracts\" >How long are JET Program contracts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#What_are_the_duties_of_a_JET_teacher\" >What are the duties of a JET teacher?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Is_JET_better_than_a_regular_teaching_job_in_Japan\" >Is JET better than a regular teaching job in Japan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Can_I_bring_my_spouse_with_me\" >Can I bring my spouse with me?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/jet-program\/#Is_the_JET_Program_worth_it\" >Is the JET Program worth it?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_JET_Program\"><\/span>What is the JET Program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>JET stands for the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program. It\u2019s a structured organization that was founded in 1987 by the Japanese government. The goal of the program is to bring English-speaking teachers to work as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in schools throughout Japan. JET is aimed at young professionals with an interest in Japanese culture, and you\u2019ll see the idea of being a \u201ccultural representative\u201d of your country is a strong program theme.&nbsp;Today, the program offers more than just the ALT position, including positions for regional coordinators and sports coaches. We&#8217;ll be focusing on the requirements and benefits of Assistance Language Teachers, specifically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_requirements_for_applying_to_the_JET_Program\"><\/span>What are the requirements for applying to the JET Program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several focus requirements for applying to the JET Program. More information and contract specifics can be found on the official <a href=\"https:\/\/jetprogramme.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JET website<\/a>. Make sure to read the site&#8217;s information thoroughly if you&#8217;re considering becoming an applicant. Here&#8217;s what you need to qualify for an ALT position:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Citizenship from a participating country<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Citizens of the 54&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/jetprogramme.org\/en\/countries\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">participating countries<\/a> are eligible; permanent residents without citizenship are not. Visit the JET site specific to your country (i.e., the <a href=\"https:\/\/jetprogramusa.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/jetprogramme.ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Canadian<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jet-uk.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UK<\/a>&nbsp;program site) to learn the details of your program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, those who possess dual citizenship with Japan and a participating country must renounce their Japanese citizenship before accepting a position in the JET Program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interest in Japan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a requirement that appears again and again in JET messaging, and it makes sense in light of the fact that JET was developed as a youth-to-youth cultural exchange program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bachelor&#8217;s degree<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A degree is not an uncommon requirement in countries throughout Asia, and Japan is no exception. This program\u2019s emphasis on professionalism and quality of education makes this requirement a non-negotiable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TEFL certification<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TEFL certification<\/a> is not a requirement of JET, but in a program as competitive as this one, having qualifications above and beyond the minimum is considered an asset during the selection process. Consider taking an <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/online-tefl-certification\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online TEFL course<\/a> of at least 120 hours of certification since this is the international standard for most jobs online and worldwide, including in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Age<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Is there an age limit to apply to the JET Program? Nope! Teachers of all ages can apply to JET. It is important to note that JET&nbsp;was developed as a youth-to-youth exchange program, however. Students are generally in elementary or middle school, though plenty of high schools have adopted the program as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some other requirements include:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 1.2em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 1em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%230693e3&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-d571b5f0-9579-4514-9ac2-5cabd114bd5b\"><div class=\"ub-block-list__layout\" style=\"text-align: left; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 2; \">\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-bb43e453-689f-4111-a425-694d68706844\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Having native-level English-speaking proficiency<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-73f0e4fc-6bf1-4ef0-b9a7-67cc990c7301\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Being mentally and physically healthy<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f9ba15e1-8f44-4341-ad42-749c02215fab\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Not having lived in Japan for more than six years prior to applying<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-14477f6e-c8a2-4a74-9fba-776b48136820\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Having good pronunciation and language skills<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f0d8c6f5-3826-4bb8-a556-531268754348\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Having an interest in maintaining relations with Japan after contract completion<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/jetprogramme.org\/en\/eligibility\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Read all JET exchange program eligibility requirements.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"459\" height=\"470\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/adulkt-students-Fukushima_Colleen-Luckett.jpg\" alt=\"English teacher in Japan, Colleen, with her adult students\" class=\"wp-image-1783\" style=\"width:344px;height:353px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/adulkt-students-Fukushima_Colleen-Luckett.jpg 459w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/adulkt-students-Fukushima_Colleen-Luckett-297x304.jpg 297w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/adulkt-students-Fukushima_Colleen-Luckett-293x300.jpg 293w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 459px) 100vw, 459px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>ESL teacher Colleen with two of her adult students in Japan<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_Jet_Program_hard_to_get_into\"><\/span>Is the Jet Program hard to get into?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you might imagine, the JET Program is competitive. According to their website, they typically receive 4,000-5,000 applications each fall and only about 1,000 of those are selected to participate. All in all, the JET Program acceptance rate stays at about 25% each year. So, what are they looking for exactly? It is important to apply with a standout application, excellent qualifications and credentials, and a go-with-the-flow approach to assignments. We recommend the following:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 1.2em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 1em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%2300d084&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-d97fa431-68d2-4875-b3e2-867a2abca149\"><div class=\"ub-block-list__layout\" style=\"text-align: left; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 2; \">\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-21274c15-d38f-4b81-b006-a70d5fff33d9\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Having relevant <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/how-to-get-tefl-experience\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">experience as an ESL\/EFL teacher<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-28c32296-d0b5-454a-a3ff-13365230ab5a\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Being a native English speaker or having native-level proficiency in English pronunciation and writing<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-4a355c51-58ee-4dbb-9d24-ae52a803e94a\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Familiarity with Japanese law, customs, and way of life<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-95d324e4-8533-46d7-92b4-870923b23630\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Obtaining <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TEFL certification<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f654c207-0afc-4249-86b5-3a3c28a777d5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Demonstrated <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/benefits-professional-development-elt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">professional development<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f1f45154-7d44-49cb-a312-887c095fec6d\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Being willing and able to learn some Japanese<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The JET Experience\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dRjTHcz0JQw?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_the_JET_Program_pay\"><\/span>How much does the JET Program pay?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Salary is very straightforward with JET; your pay depends on how many years you are in the program. The JET Program salary is a scaled operation. First-year participants receive an annual salary before taxes of \u00a53,360,000 (which is about $26,000 USD). Should you decide to stay longer, your salary jumps to \u00a53,600,000 in the second year and \u00a53,900,000 in the third. Participants who teach for four or five years receive \u00a53,960,000 annually, or about $31,000 USD per year. Keep in mind that while this may seem low for a teacher&#8217;s salary in the U.S., the cost of living in Japan is on average about 12% lower overall, and rent averages in Japan are 56% lower! These figures are important to take into account in order to set your budget or to determine if the JET Program salary margins work for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your next question is likely about take-home pay. Are other deductions made from JET salaries, and, if so, how much are they?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pre-tax deductions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>JET participants in Japan will see pre-tax paycheck deductions for a few things, such as health insurance (about \u00a515,000\/month), employment insurance (about \u00a51,000\/month), and contribution to the national pension fund program (about \u00a525,000). These deductions come to about \u00a541,000\/month (around $300 USD).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As an estimate, the annual JET pay of \u00a53,360,000 comes to a gross salary of \u00a5280,000 per month. After deductions, your monthly take-home paycheck might be around \u00a5239,000 per month, or about $1,800 USD. Keep in mind that you can apply to get the contributions you made to the pension back when you leave Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Taxes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>First and second-year ALTs from the US are usually not required to pay income tax in Japan; however, third-year and above JET participants are. The tax rate is approximately 20%. This tax is applied after deductions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_the_Jet_Program_pay_for_flights\"><\/span>Does the Jet Program pay for flights?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes! This is one of the key benefits of working through the JET Program. There are some stipulations, such as requiring teachers to be in good standing with their employer prior to each flight. Assuming you meet the criteria, the flights both to and from your teaching location are 100% covered under your teaching contract. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting to Japan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiring takes place on a consistent and reliable schedule every year. Teachers offered work through the Program typically depart their home country in late July or early August. The program allows the teacher to fly from whatever international airport they requested on their original application. Upon arrival, there will be an orientation hosted by the employer to make sure new arrivals are settled in and comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Returning home <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the one-year contract, two things can happen: Either you are offered another year-long extension to your contract or your contract comes to an end. If you don&#8217;t continue with the Program, teachers are required to fly home within 30 days or the organization will not pay for the return flight. The JET Program keeps a tight schedule, so be sure to stay up to date on deadlines and requirements throughout your time in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Teach-Japan.jpg\" alt=\"Teaching english in Japan\" class=\"wp-image-567\" style=\"width:374px;height:499px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Teach-Japan.jpg 480w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Teach-Japan-228x304.jpg 228w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Teach-Japan-225x300.jpg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>As Cultural Representatives, teachers in the JET Program are expected to experience the fullness of Japanese culture and form bonds with those they meet<\/em>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_the_JET_Program_pay_for_housing\"><\/span>Does the JET Program pay for housing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Housing is not included in the benefits package for JET participants, so this is paid out of the teacher\u2019s salary. However, typically teachers\u2019 furnished housing is arranged by the contracting organization that hires them (you may \u201cinherit\u201d it from the last participant), making the process of getting settled easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also worth noting that housing is not usually included in the benefits package of regular teaching jobs in Japan, outside of the JET Program. In this way, Japan differs from other Asian countries such as South Korea or China, which include this benefit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_are_teachers_placed_in_Japan_in_the_JET_Program\"><\/span>Where are teachers placed in Japan in the JET Program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The goal of JET is to increase English proficiency country-wide, so placements are not limited to big, well-known cities. On the contrary, placements are mostly in smaller to medium-sized towns, including many rural locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>JET does its best to accommodate location requests, giving applicants a chance to request their top three location choices on their application; however, no location can be guaranteed. Applying to this program requires a willingness to \u201cgo with the flow\u201d and teach where you\u2019re needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_are_JET_Program_contracts\"><\/span>How long are JET Program contracts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The short answer is that contracts are one year and renewable for up to five years. The longer answer is that as a JET participant, you are not actually employed by JET but by a contracting organization. Here\u2019s how it works:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you are shortlisted for the program, the Council for Local Authorities in International Relations (CLAIR) manages your placement and begins the process of matching you with a suitable teaching position at a contracting organization somewhere in Japan. For ALTs, the contracting organization is usually a school or local\/prefecture board of education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each organization determines its own terms and conditions for teachers, but generally speaking, you will be offered a one-year teaching contract and will arrive in July or August to begin teaching in the fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-4376\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Biso-3-500x333-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-28667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Biso-3-500x333-1.jpg 500w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Biso-3-500x333-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 500px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/sithembiso-from-south-africa-efl-teacher-in-japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sithembiso, a JET Program teacher<\/a>, (third row, center) with his students<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_duties_of_a_JET_teacher\"><\/span>What are the duties of a JET teacher?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most JET participants work as assistant language teachers, or ALTs, at one or several local elementary, junior high, and\/or high schools. They work general school hours, which are from about 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. As the name implies, ALTs assist Japanese teachers in English classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this role, duties can include:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 1.2em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 1em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 448 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23ff6900&quot; d=&quot;M438.6 278.6c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3l-160-160c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L370.7 256 233.4 393.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0l160-160zm-352 160l160-160c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3l-160-160c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3L178.7 256 41.4 393.4c-12.5 12.5-12.5 32.8 0 45.3s32.8 12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-e402e0b5-a5fa-4037-869d-6fed166c140e\"><div class=\"ub-block-list__layout\" style=\"text-align: left; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 2; \">\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-7c989aa6-b2ee-4353-8ea1-127fce430657\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Supervising language activities\u00a0<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-ad481646-82d7-4209-8cb5-d7c2385212be\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Preparing class materials\u00a0<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-75e84c8b-7512-4f5c-9f4c-cce2ca8e76ee\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Providing information to other language teachers and teachers\u2019 consultants regarding English (such as word use and pronunciation)<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-3535e48d-bc32-413b-bb82-089018f9322f\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Helping out in extracurricular activities and clubs, such as student council, speech contests, or school events<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-40816d36-55e1-4de6-b835-dc5a33d74582\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\">Engaging in local international exchange activities\u00a0<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_JET_better_than_a_regular_teaching_job_in_Japan\"><\/span>Is JET better than a regular teaching job in Japan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not necessarily! The answer to this depends on what you\u2019re looking for. The following are some criteria to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Urban vs. small-town life<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned, most JET participants are placed in ALT positions in smaller towns throughout Japan, not in big cities. This can be a great way to get more involved in the local community, improve your Japanese language skills, and generally immerse yourself in Japanese culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/day-in-the-life-meredith-english-teacher-japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Read an interview with Meredith, a teacher in rural Japan.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you picture yourself in a major city like Tokyo or Kyoto, applying independently to jobs you find on <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/jobs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">job boards<\/a> outside of the JET Program might be a better option for you. There are ALT positions at public and private K-12 schools as well as positions at what are called <em>eikaiwas,<\/em> which are English conversation schools (or privately-owned language institutes). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/jobs\/teach-english-in-japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Learn more about teaching in Japan.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vacation time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like a public school teacher in the U.S., a teacher at a public school in Japan will get more time off than one who works for a privately owned language institute. Therefore, you may get more time off in the JET Program than you would with a regular teaching job if you worked for an <em>eikaiwa<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Teacher pay<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find that pay is about the same for ALTs in or out of the program. Teachers who work at language institutes in Japan may make a bit more money, but they typically work longer hours and have less vacation time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_bring_my_spouse_with_me\"><\/span>Can I bring my spouse with me?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re married and your spouse wants to come with you as a non-participant, you\u2019ll need to secure a \u201cdependent visa\u201d for them through the Japanese embassy or consulate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you and your spouse apply together and are both accepted, efforts will be made to place you in the same school or location. Placement together is not guaranteed and may not be possible in every case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_JET_Program_worth_it\"><\/span>Is the JET Program worth it?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you love Japan and are looking for a year-long (or more!) adventure there as an assistant language teacher, the Japan Exchange Teaching program may be right for you. The application process is long and competitive but the benefits can far outweigh the time it takes to apply. From paid airfare to a secure job waiting at the end of the line, the JET Program is a fantastic way to slip into another culture and immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind teaching experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Get certified to teach English online and around the world with one of these <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\/online\/international\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">international online English teaching certifications<\/a><\/em>.<\/h4>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Have you heard of the JET Program in Japan? This popular Japanese teacher exchange program requires assistant teaching applicants to have a bachelor\u2019s degree and citizenship from a participating country, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":12083,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,10,13],"tags":[68,160,161,255,267,309],"post-language":[],"popular_posts":[],"class_list":["post-2608","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-job-resources","category-pedagogy","category-teach-english-abroad","tag-digital-nomad","tag-japan","tag-jet-program","tag-teach-abroad","tag-teach-english-in-japan","tag-teaching-english-in-asia"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Jet-Program-Alyssa-.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Jennifer Collis","author_link":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/author\/jennifercollis\/"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2608","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2608"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2608\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33220,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2608\/revisions\/33220"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12083"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2608"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2608"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2608"},{"taxonomy":"post-language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post-language?post=2608"},{"taxonomy":"popular_posts","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/popular_posts?post=2608"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}