The goal of the JET Program is to enhance internationalization in local communities in Japan, and there is a relatively low demand for JET participants by urban local authorities. Few JET participants are therefore placed in large cities. The majority of JET participants are placed in small to medium sized cities or in small towns
TESOL/TEFL certification is not a requirement for participation on the JET Program but such certification will be an asset during the selection process.
Applicants for the ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) position are not required to have prior knowledge of the Japanese language, although it is beneficial and highly recommended to have some speaking ability before going to Japan. Those applying for the CIR (Coordinator for International Relations) position must have at least a semi-advanced to advanced level of
Applicants selected for Early Placement may depart any time between early April and July 2025. Summer Departure 1: Saturday, July 26th, 2025 Summer Departure 2 (“Group A”): Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 Summer Departure 3 (“Group B”): After August 2nd, 2025* *Exact date will be determined later. This date(s) are reserved for alternates who are upgraded and JET participants
The application for the 2025 JET Program will open in mid to late September of 2024. The 2025 JET application will close on Friday, November 15th, 2024 at 11:59pm HST. Applications for 2026 departures will begin in September of 2025.