What is the JET Program?

What is the JET Program, you ask? As stated in the JET Program application, "The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program seeks to help enhance internationalization in Japan by promoting mutual learning and understanding between Japan and other nations. The program aims to enhance foreign language education as it is taught in Japan and to promote international exchange at the local level through fostering ties between Japanese youth and foreign youth." The JET Program was started in 1987 and has become extremely popular all around the world.

In 2006, the JET Program had expanded to over 5,500 participants from over 44 countries making it the world's largest exchange teaching program. The program is designed to allow university graduates the chance to serve either in organizations at the local government level (as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) or Sports Exchange Advisors (SEAs)) or in public and private junior and senior high schools (as Assistant Language Teachers, also known as ALTs). This is a website that is designed with the ALT in mind.

Who is running the show? The program is run by local Japanese governments cooperating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations. The Program lasts approximately one year, but the participants have the option to renew their contracts (currently a maximum of five years!)

A resourceful book was written about the JET Program. It is called, "Importing Diversity Inside Japan's JET Program" and is written by David L. McConnell, an Associate Professor of Anthropology at The College of Wooster. The book goes into great detail about the origins of the JET Program and also offers insight into Japanese society and its educational system. In addition, the author gives accurate depictions of ALT experiences in Japan.

Now let's cut to the chase: lots of you are wondering how much you get paid. Last time I checked, the program salary is still 3,600,000 yen/year (note: you get paid in yen). Check here to see what the current exchange rate for your currency. Do keep in mind that your salary will vary depending on other factors including: the currency exchange rate, local taxes, Japanese Social Security, and your placement.

A portion of the cost for mandatory health insurance and pension fund expenses is borne by each participant's monthly salary. Assuming you leave without unmanageable debts in your home country, this salary should be sufficient to cover average living expenses in Japan. Worked for me!