The Japan Exchange & Teaching (JET) Programme | Consulate-General of Japan at Perth

What is it?

The JET Programme began in 1987, and is aimed at promoting grass-roots international exchange between Japan and other countries. The number of countries sending participants has risen over the years, as has the number of participants. In 2018, there were 5,528 participants on the Programme from 54 countries. No matter where you go in Japan today, you will find JET participants developing strong relationships with their local communities through foreign language education and international exchange activities. After completing their time on the Programme, former JET participants use their experiences in Japan to continue enhancing relations between Japan and their home countries in a variety of careers.

What are the positions?

Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs)

ALTs are placed mainly in schools and Boards of Education. ALTs assist and team teach with Japanese teachers of language (JTL) and are thus involved in the preparation of teaching materials and in extracurricular activities like English clubs or sports teams. More than 90% of JET participants are appointed as ALTs and the good news is, you don’t need any Japanese ability!

Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs)

Those with a functional command of the Japanese language can work as CIRs, placed in local government offices or international exchange organisations. CIRs work for local government assisting with international exchange activities in a variety of ways that may include translation, interpretation, editing and producing pamphlets and advising and planning international activities.

How do I apply?

Applications for the JET Programme are accepted by the Embassy of Japan in Canberra. For application details, forms and key dates, please refer to the Embassy website directly here.
(Applications usually open around September each year with the submission deadline usually early November.)

Want to know more?

You can learn more about the JET Programme here or email any questions you may have to info@pt.mofa.go.jp. To find out about the active alumni community, visit JETAA International and JETAA WA where you can hear about the experiences of past participants.