The JET Program

It’s that time of year again! Applications to the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program are now being accepted. What’s that? You’ve never heard of the JET Program before? No worries, here is a brief overview just for you.

The JET Program is for young professionals who want to teach English or work in a local government office in Japan. To date, over 60,000 people have participated from more than 40 countries around the globe since the program’s foundation in 1987. Positions on the JET program are full-time jobs with a minimum required contract of one year. JET contracts can be renewed for a maximum of five years.

The majority of JETs, approximately 90%, are Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs). ALTs work in Japanese elementary, middle, and high schools assisting Japanese Teachers of English (JTEs) in their classrooms. ALTs can make a significant impact inside the classroom by supporting their JTEs in a variety of settings, helping to create lesson plans, and facilitating classroom activities of all kinds. ALTs also serve an important role outside of the classroom as ambassadors of their country and culture.

The remaining 10% of JETs are Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs). CIRs work in local government offices and help promote community level internationalization in a variety of ways, such as organizing events and teaching adult-level language classes. CIRs also play an important role in their offices through translation and interpretation activities.

Outside of work, JET participants have the opportunity to connect with their local community. Many JETs participate in volunteer activities, local festivals, and explore hobbies old and new. Through these activities, JETs build a place for themselves and create friendships and connections that often open doors to new opportunities for JETs to engage with their adopted home.

So, did that pique your interest? No? Then maybe this video from the JET Program USA will!

Please see the JET Program USA website for more information about the JET Program,
or to apply now to be a 2017 JET!