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 Arrival for the 2027 JET Program will depart for Japan in the spring of 2027. Early Arrival CIRs: Departure on Saturday, April 10th, 2027 Early Arrival ALTs: Departure on Saturday, May 22nd, 2027 Main Arrival (“Group A”): Departure on Saturday, July 24th, 2027 Main Arrival (“Group B”): Departure on Saturday, July
The application for the 2027 JET Program is opening in the fall of 2026. In the meantime, you can register to receive an announcement via email when the application for 2027 Japan departures goes live on our JET application portal page. Every year, applications open in September and close in November.