Application Process - JET Programme

Application Process

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Application Process

Applying to participate on the JET Programme is a long and competitive process. However, the rewards of being chosen are well worth the effort. Successful applicants receive a one-year term of appointment with a contracting organisation in Japan.

>> JET Programme leaflet PDF

Participant Recruitment and Selection

Recruitment and selection of participants is conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its embassies and consulates overseas. Individuals interested in becoming JET participants should contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in their country of citizenship.

In addition to conducting regular recruitment activities using posters, pamphlets, and the internet, overseas embassies and consulates hold information sessions at venues such as colleges, universities, and career centres during the active recruitment period (this period may vary slightly depending on the participating country and arrival period in Japan).

Participant Selection Process

Interested applicants should be aware that the application process for the JET Programme is demanding and spans multiple months. Applicants are advised to give serious consideration as to whether they are prepared to commit to living and working in Japan for at least one year.

The recruitment, application, and selection process for new JET participants is conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs via its embassies and consulates in participating countries.

Although CLAIR is not directly involved in the selection of participants, we provide the following general schedule of the application process. As dates vary by country, please contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country of citizenship for further information.

Step 1: [October to Late November/Early December]
Applications Accepted (deadline varies by country)
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs promotes the JET Programme and distributes applications via its embassies and consulates (some countries implement the application process online).
Interested applicants must complete and submit applications to the Embassy of Japan in their home country by the deadline designated by that embassy.
Step 2: [January]
First Notice Sent to Applicants
Applications are reviewed by the Embassy of Japan in each participating country.
Step 3: [February]
Interviews Held at Japanese Embassies and Consulates
Applicants who pass the application review stage are interviewed at the nearest embassy or consulate.
Step 4: [Late March to April]
Second Notice Sent to Applicants
Interview results are announced (notification is sent to those applicants who are selected as either a shortlisted participant or alternate, as well as to those who are not selected).
Applicants selected for April departure depart for Japan and participate in Post-Arrival Orientation in Tokyo.
Step 5: [May-July]
Submit Health Check and Reply Forms
Successful Applicants Receive Placement Information
After shortlisted participants confirm their intent to participate on the Programme and their placement has been decided, they will be notified of their placement results by their nearest embassy or consulate. The contracting organisation will also send participants information about their specific placement.
Step 6: [June/July]
Pre-Departure Orientation
Q&A sessions and preliminary training sessions are held by Japanese Embassies and Consulates for accepted participants. Participants will also attend a pre-departure orientation before leaving for Japan.
Step 7: [July/August]
Departure on Designated Day
Post-Arrival Orientation in Tokyo
The above timeline is simply a guideline and is subject to change. Please contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General in your country of citizenship for specific enquiries.

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Copyright 2015 by the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR)