HOW TO APPLY

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

ONLINE APPLICATION PORTAL

Since 2018, the USA JET Program has switched to a 100% paperless online application. You will create, manage, and submit your 2025 JET Application completely through your online JET Portal account.

In addition to filling out all relevant parts of the application, candidates must upload their Required Documents to the portal in PDF format. More detailed instructions on completing your application will be provided within the JET Portal. Once you submit your application, you will be able to check the status of your application and report issues or ask questions to Program Coordinators through the JET Inbox. Your interview announcement will also be sent to you via the JET Inbox, so be sure to keep an eye on it.

Please ensure you are eligible before creating an applicant profile.

APPLICATION PACKAGE

The JET Application Package and Guidelines will be provided in the JET Program’s Online Application Portal during the fall application period. We only accept applications submitted in this way.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

The application process requires that all documents be submitted to the JET Program Office via the online portal. Applications which are missing documents at the time of the deadline are not considered, so it is important to provide all necessary materials.

Below is a list of the documents that are part of the JET Program application. Samples of these documents from previous application cycles can be found on the Required Documents page. The samples cannot be used to apply for the JET Program.

  • JET Application Form
    Available through the online portal.
  • Self-Report of Medical Conditions
    Available through the online portal.
  • Statement of Purpose (2-pages, double-spaced essay)
    Describe your motivation and qualifications for participating on the JET Program.
  • Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
    To be submitted through the online portal. References should be academic or professional (from a professor, advisor or supervisor).
  • College/University Transcripts
    From ALL colleges and universities attended, including study abroad institutions. Transcripts must be official; unofficial transcripts and/or student portal screenshots will not be accepted. 
  • 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

  • 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).
  • Statement of Physician
    If the applicant lists medical history in the Self-Report of Medical Conditions form that requires a clearance to participate from a physician or medical specialist. If you are a current applicant and need to download this form, it is available on the ‘Document Checklist’ page within your online portal account. 
  • Criminal History Background Check
    If the applicant lists any relevant history in the application. For more information please see FBI Identity History Summary Information.

DOCUMENTS THAT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

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.