JET recruits participants from a variety of cultural, personal, and academic backgrounds. Applicants who demonstrate a background in Japanese studies or in TEFL/TESL may have an advantage in the application process; over and above these qualifications, JET seeks flexible, open-minded, and enthusiastic young people with a genuine interest in Japan, English education, and intercultural exchange.
There is no age limit to apply to participate on the JET Program.
Yes. U.S. citizens living abroad are welcome to apply! Our 2025 JET Program Interviews will be conducted online. Candidates for the 2025 application cycle will be allowed to interview from their homes in the United States and from abroad.
The JET Program application is a competitive process. Several thousand applications are received each year, about half of all applications will be invited to interview, and then only the top candidates are selected for participation. General statistics about JETs currently in Japan can be found here.
Applicants to the JET Program in the U.S. must: Be a U.S. citizen Complete a Bachelor’s degree by June 27th, 2025 Have native-level English speaking proficiency Not have lived in Japan for a total of six years or longer in a 10-year period prior to the departure year To see full descriptions of eligibility criteria,