Required Documents

The application for the 2025 JET Program is closed. Applications for 2026 departures to Japan will open Fall 2025.

This is a list of the documents that are part of the JET Program application. Please note that forms listed here are samples only and cannot be used to apply. All Required Documents should be submitted through our online application portal. Your application will not be considered if the necessary documents are not submitted by the deadline, so read all instructions carefully and contact our office with any questions.

HOW TO SUBMIT DOCUMENTS

All documents must be submitted online through the application portal. Be sure to read all information in the online portal in order to correctly submit your documents. Before beginning your application, you must read the Application Guidelines [For 2025 Program applicants: 2025 Application Guidelines].

If you have questions about any of the Required Documents, please refer to the Application FAQ.

REQUIRED MATERIALS


	Application Form (Sample) Available through the online portal.
	Self-Report of Medical Conditions (Sample) Available through the online portal.
	Statement of Purpose An essay (two-pages, double-spaced) describing your motivation and qualifications for participating on the JET Program. An exact prompt for this essay will be made available through the online portal once the application opens.
	Two (2) Letters of Recommendation To be submitted through the online portal. References should be academic or professional (from a professor, adviser or supervisor).
	College/University Transcripts From ALL colleges and universities attended, including study abroad institutions. Transcripts must be official.
	Proof of Graduation (or Expected Graduation) Showing the conferral of a bachelor’s degree or the date of expected graduation if the applicant is still a student at the time of application.
	Proof of U.S. Citizenship Such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or completed naturalization papers.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS


	Statement of Physician (Sample) Applicants are required to obtain a Statement of Physician form under the following circumstances: If you are consulting a physician or other professional on more than one occasion regarding a physical/mental health issue. If you are taking medication to alleviate a condition, illness or injury such that the prescription is re-filled on one or more occasions. If you are undergoing hospitalization (including surgery) to alleviate a condition, illness or injury (not including dental surgery). If you answer yes to questions 1, 2a, 2b, or 3 as found on the Self-Report of Medical Conditions form
	Criminal History Background Check This is only required if the applicant lists any relevant history in the application. For more information please see the Identity History Summary Information. You must submit an unopened, original document to your interview location. Submission details will be provided to applicants selected for an interview.
	Teaching Certification If the applicant has a state-issued certification to teach (grade level, subject, substitute, etc.)
	TESOL/TEFL Certification If the applicant has completed a certificate in English as a Second/Foreign Language.
	Japanese Language Certification If the applicant has passed any level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).

DOCUMENTS WE DO NOT ACCEPT

Any document that is not a required or supplemental document listed above should not be included. This includes but is not limited to resumes, head shots or other photographs, extra letters of recommendation, etc.

Please note that we will not accept outdated JET Program application documents. For example, you cannot submit a Statement of Physician form from the 2024 JET Program application packet when applying for the 2025 JET Program. Please obtain the most current forms through our online application portal.