|
|
| JET PROGRAM FAQ |
 |
 |
 Why
do you recommend the JET Program? |
 The JET Program helps promote mutual understanding between Japan and each
participant's home country. No previous teaching or Japanese language experience
is necessary, but the program still provides unique opportunities to gain insights
into the daily life of Japanese people from a wide cross section of society,
with an emphasis on fostering friendships with young people. In addition, it
is the only English teaching and exchange program sponsored by the Japanese government,
rather than by a private language school or company. [back to top]
| What
qualities do you look for in a JET applicant? |
In addition to the JET program prerequisites, applicants must be willing and
able to adapt to a culture different from their own, must be both responsible
and flexible, and should show a genuine interest in learning more about Japan,
Japanese culture and the Japanese language. [back to
top]
| What
are my chances of being accepted into the program? |
Each year, there are many more applicants for the program than there are available positions. Because of this, competition can be very intense. In the past, approximately 25%-35% of our applicants have been offered positions in the program, but this figure is always changing.[back to top]
| How
long is the JET contract? |
Contracts are for one year, beginning and ending in July, and in general, are
renewable up to two times upon mutual consent by the participant and the host
institution. In addition, it has recently become possible to re-contract in some
host prefectures/designated cities for a fourth and/or fifth year as an Elementary
School ALT or Specialist Prefectural Advisor, provided the participant passes
a screening process for these positions. [back
to top]
| How
much is a JET salary? |
 The starting salary for JET participants is \3,360,000 per year, although a part of the cost for mandatory
health insurance, unemployment insurance and pension is borne by each participant
and is deducted from the participant's monthly salary. Assuming you leave without
unmanageable debts here at home, this salary is sufficient to cover average living
expenses in Japan. Furthermore, senior JETs will receive a higher salary the additional number of years that they stay. The salary for Year 2 is \3,600,000, for Year 3 \3,900,000, and for year 4-5 \3,960,000. [back to top] |
| Is
there an age limit for applicants? |
There is no age limit for application to the JET program. While the majority of participants are under 40, the purpose of this program is to foster ties between Japanese youth and JET participants and applicants of any age may apply. [back to top]
| Do
I need to be fluent in Japanese? Do I need a teaching certificate? |
While we certainly encourage interested applicants to learn the language in preparation
for their trip to Japan, Japanese language proficiency is not required for the
Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) position. For the CIR position, however, applicants
must have a functional command of the Japanese language.
In addition, neither a teaching certificate nor TEFL certification are required
to apply for the JET Program. [back to top]
| I'll
be out of the country. Can I apply from abroad? |
Applicants must apply through a Japanese consulate or embassy located in the
country in which they hold citizenship, must interview at their assigned time
at a consulate or embassy in that same country, and must also depart on the assigned
departure date from a designated airport in the participant's home country. If
an applicant is willing and able to fulfill these criteria, he or she may apply
from abroad.
The only exception to this is if you have status as a foreign resident in Japan
and are selected as a JET Program participant, you may be allowed to go directly
to the orientation in Tokyo without returning to the US. Please note, however,
that all applicants, including those living in Japan, must interview in the US. [back
to top]
| How
is my placement in Japan decided? |
 The host institution in which each participant is placed is assigned by CLAIR.
Specific placement requests can be written on the application form, although
these placement preferences cannot be guaranteed. Rejection by the participant
of the post offered will result in disqualification from the program. [back
to top] |
| Where
will I live while on the JET Program? |
Host institutions are responsible for providing adequate housing for each JET;
however, participants are usually expected to pay for their own rent and utilities.
Participants may also be responsible for providing a security deposit before
moving into an apartment. Most JETs live on their own rather than in a homestay
situation or with a roommate. [back
to top]
| Is
it possible for an ALT to become a CIR after a year on the program? |
Strictly speaking, the JET Program does not allow participants to change positions
while in Japan. However, in rare cases, participants have been able to make special
arrangements with their host institution. The best advice would be to apply for
the position you are most interested in from the outset, and expect to fill that
job for the duration of your contract. [back to top]
For more information, please refer to the detailed FAQ of the Consulate-General of Japan in Miami’s JET Program page at http://www.miami.us.emb-japan.go.jp/en/jetprogramfaq.html#e14
|
|
|
