JET Programme 2027: Salary Scale, Eligibility & Deadlines
By Status: open
JET recruitment for the 2027 intake is run by Japanese Embassies and Consulates, usually opening in autumn. Check the embassy site for your country.
Status last checked September 24, 2026
The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is a government-run initiative that invites university graduates from participating countries to live and work in Japan. Since 1987 it has brought tens of thousands of participants to Japanese schools and local government offices. For graduates who want paid work abroad, cultural immersion and international experience, JET is one of the most established options. It is run jointly by Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education (MEXT) and the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR). This guide explains the 2027 recruitment process, eligibility and what participants receive.
Overview
JET participants work in one of three roles. Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) — the large majority — support English or other foreign language teaching in schools. Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) work in local government offices on international exchange and translation, and generally need functional Japanese. Sports Exchange Advisors (SEAs) work on sports-related programmes. Recruitment is handled by Japanese Embassies and Consulates in each participating country. Contracts are for one year and may be renewed, subject to the host organisation and programme rules.
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen of a country participating in the JET Programme (check the list on jetprogramme.org or your local Japanese Embassy)
- Hold at least a bachelor's degree by the arrival date
- Interest in Japan and willingness to live there and deepen understanding of Japanese culture
- Excellent pronunciation, rhythm and intonation in the designated language (for ALTs)
- Functional Japanese language ability (for CIRs)
- Mentally and physically healthy and able to adapt to living and working in Japan
- Meet any additional conditions on prior residence in Japan or previous JET participation set out in the application guidelines
Benefits
- Annual salary paid by the host organisation (the first-year figure is published in the official JET General Information Handbook)
- Round-trip airfare from your home country, provided under programme rules
- Pre-departure and post-arrival orientations and ongoing support from CLAIR
- Enrolment in Japanese health insurance and pension systems
- Paid leave in line with the host organisation's rules
- Japanese language study support through CLAIR courses
- Access to the global JET alumni network (JETAA)
Application Process
- 1Confirm your country participates and read the 2027 application guidelines on your Japanese Embassy or Consulate website
- 2Choose a position (ALT, CIR or SEA) that matches your skills
- 3Complete the online application and statement of purpose explaining your motivation
- 4Collect academic transcripts, degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation) and references
- 5Submit before the embassy's deadline — typically in the autumn/winter before departure
- 6Attend an interview if shortlisted (often held early in the year)
- 7Receive placement results and complete pre-departure orientation
- 8Travel to Japan, usually in late July or early August
Required Documents
- Completed application form and statement of purpose
- Copy of passport
- Degree certificate or letter confirming expected graduation
- Official academic transcripts
- Two letters of reference
- Self-report of health and any additional forms required by your embassy
Deadline
Application deadlines are set by each Japanese Embassy or Consulate and usually fall in the autumn or winter before the summer departure. Check your local embassy's JET page for the 2027 intake dates.
Visit Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Japanese for the JET Programme?
Not for most ALT positions, although basic Japanese is helpful. CIR positions require functional Japanese language ability.
Do I need a teaching qualification for JET?
No formal teaching qualification is required, but teaching experience or TEFL training can strengthen your application.
How long is a JET contract?
Contracts are for one year and may be renewed, subject to your host organisation and the programme's maximum period.
Which countries can apply for JET?
Only citizens of participating countries can apply. The list changes over time, so check jetprogramme.org or your local Japanese Embassy.
Is the JET Programme paid?
Yes. Participants receive an annual salary and round-trip airfare, as set out in the official JET General Information Handbook.
Conclusion
The JET Programme is a paid, government-backed way to live in Japan, gain international work experience and build lifelong connections. Confirm your country's eligibility and embassy deadline early, and prepare a strong statement of purpose. Would you choose Japan or Europe for your first international role? Tell us in the comments, and read our MEXT and EU traineeship guides for more options.