OPPORTUNITIES: JET: The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program
The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program is an extraordinary opportunity for young college graduates to live and work in Japan. Sponsored by the Japanese Government, the program’s goals are to improve English language education and promote grass-roots level international exchange in Japan.
Candidates interested in joining the next session of JET which will begin in the summer of 2015 should apply this fall. The application will be online shortly; the deadline has not yet been announced, but will likely be in early November.
JET Program Positions
ALT – Assistant Language Teacher: ALTs assist Japanese teachers in public school English classes and local boards of education. They participate in school and community activities.
There is no Japanese language requirement for ALTs. More than 90% of all JETs work as ALTs.
CIR – Coordinator for International Relations: CIRs are engaged in international exchange activities at the local government level. They receive overseas guests, translate foreign publications into Japanese, teach English and interpret at various events. They also cooperate and give advice in planning and implementing international exchange events. **A good command of Japanese is required for CIRs.
Requirements
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree by July 2015. JET is open to citizens of 40 countries, but candidates must apply in their country of citizenship. The JET Program seeks candidates who are mature, flexible and interested in learning about Japan while sharing their own culture.
Compensation
JET provides transportation to and from Japan and remuneration of JY 3,360,000 per year which JETs use to pay their living expenses including housing. Housing is usually arranged by the Contracting Organization.
Applying
Candidates should apply this fall for positions which begin in late July 2015.
The application information for US citizens should be available soon at www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/JET
Application deadline: exact date TBA but will likely be in early November
Citizens of other participating countries can find further information at: http://www.jetprogramme.
For more information contact: