Question 1

What is the JET Programme and how competitive is it?

Accepted Answer

The JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme is a Japanese government initiative placing native English speakers as ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers) in public schools. Applications open each October for positions beginning the following July. JET is highly competitive — approximately 4,000–5,000 placements from tens of thousands of applicants. A degree is required; teaching experience is a plus.

Question 2

How much do ESL teachers earn in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Eikaiwa chain teachers (NOVA, AEON, ECC) earn JPY 220,000–310,000/month. Dispatch ALTs (Interac, Altia) earn JPY 210,000–260,000. Direct-hire BOE ALTs earn JPY 240,000–300,000. International school teachers earn JPY 300,000–500,000+. All positions include a commuting allowance and national health insurance enrollment.

Question 3

What work visa do I need to teach in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Most ESL teachers use either the Instructor visa (for public school ALT roles) or the Specialist in Humanities / International Services visa (for eikaiwa and private school roles). Your employer applies for the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf — this takes 1–3 months. You collect the visa at a Japanese embassy before departure.

Question 4

Is Japanese language ability required to teach in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japanese language ability is not required for most ESL teaching positions. Schools and students expect English-only communication in most classroom settings. Basic Japanese for daily life (shopping, transport, healthcare) can be learned on arrival and is widely supplemented by English menus and apps in major cities.

Teach English in Japan 2026 | JET & Eikaiwa

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