JET: Japan Exchange and Teaching Program
General Information
The JET Program is a competitive employment opportunity that allows young professionals to live and work in cities, towns, and villages throughout Japan. Being a JET is an opportunity to work and to represent the United States as cultural ambassadors to Japan. Most participants serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) and work in public and private schools throughout Japan; some work as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) serving as interpreters/translators.
Founded in 1987, JET has sent more than 82,000 participants from around the globe (up to half of whom are Americans) and seeks participants who are adaptable, outgoing, and deeply interested in Japan. Out of thousands who apply, only the best candidates are chosen to represent the United States. For 2026, there are 5,700 participants from 55 countries in the program.
The JET Program is implemented by contracting organizations of Japan in cooperation with the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC). More information about each of the ministries and their relation to the JET Program can be found on the CLAIR website.
The application period runs from late September through mid-November each year. Early submission of applications is highly encouraged.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE JET PROGRAM
For specific questions, please contact us by e-mail: jethi@hl.mofa.go.jp
You can also find more information on the following sites.