Why the JET program is a great way to live and work in Japan?
The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) is a government-sponsored program that aims to promote grass-roots international exchange at the local level between the country and participating nations. Candidates from as many as 51 countries will be applying for positions for the 2024-2025 semester.
The program invites young English-speaking graduates to work as Assistant Language Teachers(ALT), sports exchange advisors(SEA), or coordinators for international relations(CIR) in Japan’s local government offices, boards of education, and elementary, junior, and senior high schools.
As a result, the JET program has received high national and international acclaim for being one of the world’s best and largest cultural exchange programs, which has been running successfully since 1987.
A JET participant can be placed in any part of the country, from rural villages to large cities, as a result the specific tasks can vary depending on the local governmental authority. Also once you accept a JET position, be prepared not to be living in a big city.
Here are some of the top reasons to teach in Japan with JET:
JET program salary
The yearly jet program salary is quite attractive, especially when the yen is strong against the dollar. It is sufficient to cover basic living expenses like utility bills and rent, which are not part of the program.
Still many JET participants save enough to travel within the country after or during the program.
As a JET participant, you can expect to earn approximately $30,390 for the first year, before tax, and $32,560 for the second year. For subsequent years, the increase is about 10% per year.
Please note, in Japan it is mandatory to join national social insurance, contribute to pension funding and pay employment insurance. A part of these costs will be deducted from the monthly pay as participant’s responsibility.
While paid accommodation is usually arranged by the contracting organization, JET participants may be asked to find their own accommodation in some cases.
Job responsibilities
While job responsibilities may vary, working hours rarely go beyond 25 hours a week. Apart from that, you are supposed to act like a good guest, be punctual, appreciate Japan and strive to stay out of trouble.
If you are looking for a job with minimal responsibilities and plenty of free time, the JET program is absolutely perfect. Moreover, the Japanese are warm, cordial and welcome foreigners.
Benefits of JET program
- Flight allowance:
While incoming airfare is paid by the JET program, the return fare is subjected to some conditions like completion of appointment term, engaging in subsequent employment and returning within a month of completing their contract.
- Paid holidays:
Besides weekends and the sixteen national holidays, JET teachers are given between 10-20 days of paid leave.
- Medical insurance:
Accident insurance is included in the
JET program, in case of illness or
injury.
JET may not offer a life-long career, but for young graduates who wish to make a bit of money and experience rich Japanese culture, it provides a wonderful opportunity.