How to apply for JET? (10 Tips to consider)

(disclaimer, this article is written from a South African perspective, but worry not; the information is still relevant!)

It's the start of the year and the JET Programme will be accepting applications in October, but you aren't sure what to do to prepare yourself best for the Application process...

Most people suddenly get overwhelmed when they see the paperwork involved when applying to the JET Programme but remember this line a dear friend told me, "The JET Programme will be probably the most amazing experience in your life. They're renowned for their gracious professionalism and support when living in Japan... also, once you're there you can eat all the Mōchi you want" (Paraphrase from 2017).

So what can you do to prepare yourself best for the application process, I've compiled a list that I used when I applied for the program that span over a year of research I did!

#1: Download the previous year's application forms.

The JET Programme has so much information on your local country-specific embassy page, that it would be crazy to ignore it! The crucial part of this process is taking some time to read through the application to really understand what they're looking for in a potential candidate.

The primary information that you need to gauge is that there are 4 main documents that need to be completed when applying:

1. Application form

2. Self-report of a medical condition

3. Certificate of health

4. Statement of Physician

These forms will help you understand what parameters they need in order for you to meet the minimum requirements.

I would highly suggest reading as many JET application forms from as many countries as possible because going the extra mile for yourself will never hurt!

South African JET Website

American JET Website

English JET Website

#2: Is JET for you?

So you've studied the application forms, but you wonder what the relevance is when it comes to JET...Always keep in the back of your mind that not only is this an opportunity for you to go to Japan and experience the culture, but it's also a work opportunity. To gain some real-life insight into what do JETs actually do, it's always best to use the internet as a tool to reach out and connect!

Spend some time looking for bloggers, Instagrammers and YouTubers to really gain some first-hand accounts regarding the life as a JET.

These are some great Blogs I used as a source of info:

1. Tofugu (とふぐ） 2. My Time In Japan

The prospect of moving to Japan is so exciting, but to some can be overwhelming. Don't be afraid to engage with your feelings to explore all possibilities that the JET programme and Japan could offer you.

#3: Former JETs are friends!

You've watched some interesting videos and read some amazing blogs, but want to know more? Always remember, "Former JETs are friends!"

Being a JET means that not only are you an ambassador for your country, but also for the JET Programme! The JET community has the most open community that is willing to lend a helping hand to get you on the right path. I was very fortunate that I had some great guidance from a former JET participant, which gave me a huge confidence booster when I knew that JET was for me.

Send those email, drop those DMs and slide on to someone's timeline...

#4: Why Japan?

Ask yourself the question, "Why Japan?". This question will come in handy when you are writing your Statement of Purpose essay (referred to later in the article). Answering this question can be daunting, but find fun ways to help you with this question.

TMI TIME: I am a history buff, so for me, I looked at the question that could be defined by answering a question of time. A cool method I used was by writing a list of what I want from Japan i.e. What I was willing to do for Japan and what I would like to learn from Japan. My ultimate goal was to make a positive contribution to my immediate community and hopefully the greater Japan, through the use of digital media combined with innovative educational techniques!

Find your inspiration and what drives you to move to Japan to become a JET.

ALWAYS BE CREATIVE! This is your process of understanding a deeper meaning of what Japan means to you.

#5: Is the teaching life for me?

I've spoken to many friends who have moved over to China, Korea and Vietnam and have said that teaching changed their lives in so many ways! Unfortunately, that's not the case with everyone. Many people use teaching abroad for multiple reasons such as saving money, having a work vacation whilst working in a foreign country or even just as a gap year. Whatever your reason, you are entitled to it!

I've been very fortunate to have worked in multiple creative fields, but the teaching profession has been the best I've ever experienced. I have always loved the idea of being able to share knowledge openly, whilst engaging with like-minded colleagues driven by a passion to change lives daily (apologies for the passionate poetry). Although my heart was in the right place, I wanted to be sure if teaching was actually for me. I made a decision to intern and observe at my old high school, so much so that I extended my internship from 1 week to 1 month.

I wanted the fully immerse myself as a teacher, so initially, I observed lessons after which I transitioned into assisting and eventually I was explaining certain topics and engaging with students daily! I even joined multiple societies and assisted with after-school activities! This is when I realized how much I actually loved teaching.

I would highly recommend speaking with friends that are teachers to gain insight and if possible, go and observe or assist at a local school.

#5: to TEFL or not to TEFL?

To have any sort of teaching experience or teaching qualifications is not a requirement of JET, however, a little practice never hurt.

If you are keen to expand your understanding of what it means to become an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher), then I would definitely recommend attending a short TEFL course (1 week) or a TESOL course (1 month). The main objective is that you are gaining not only information and theoretical value but also practical time with TEFL students or a class.

Online vs. TEFL Schools is a common question I have seen that is hotly debated. Well, it comes down to preference, but remember you are trying to be seen as the best candidate possible for the JET position. Having some practical time can go a long way, as you can draw from personal experience when dealing with students whilst on the JET Programme.

Check online for certified TEFL training facilities in your city.

If you are based in Cape Town, South Africa, I would recommend TESOL SA!

If you feel that a TEFL is not enough, then you could always attempt to do a CELTA course, but those are extremely pricey as they are recognized by Cambridge.

#6: 日本語が話せますか。(Do you speak Japanese?)

You tell all your friends that you are moving to Japan and so in a moment of overconfidence you say, "yeah I can speak a little Japanese", but you only truly know how to say hello and name your favourite Japanese foods.

Worry not my friends, JET participants usually don't need to know Japanese before going to Japan (as it is not a requirement), but they do show interest in wanting to learn the language. Having the desired interest in learning the language can certainly be used to help you when applying, as question 16 of the South African Application form asks about your Japanese proficiency.

If you haven't guessed it already, but Japan primarily speaks Japanese (and strangely enough I have many Japanese friends who speak French too). Give the language a chance and ease into by learning some Hiragana and Katakana!

There are some amazing free materials that can be found on YouTube, Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram!

If you are still in university, check if there are any Japanese language programs on offer!

When you arrive in Japan and can already speak some Japanese, this will definitely help you!

If you have no time to study Japanese before applying for the program, the JET program hooks you up with some great materials and in some cases, you can take free lessons at your local community centre!

(100 points for those who get this reference)

#6: Have you ever visited Japan?

The idea of visiting Japan is amazing, isn't it? This is another thing to definitely mention on your application form if you have been before!

A seminar was broadcasted live from New Zealand in 2017 at a Japanese fair about JET and one question that was asked was, "Does it matter if we've never been to Japan?", to which the speaker replied by saying that the answer lies in the acronym of JET, Japanese Exchange and Teaching program. 'Japanese' is the key word to focus on. Visiting Japan can be costly, but if you show your interest in Japanese culture by stating that you visited local Japanese cultural event, spent a day at a Japanese Animation Film Festival or even have Japanese friends come and visit you - all of the above help establish yourself as being invested in Japanese culture.

Being apart of a Japanese society, winning an anime drawing contest and studying Japanese history are all things that you can use in your pursuit to become a JET candidate.

#7: The Statement of Purpose

This essay is a great opportunity for you to paint a picture of who you are! Remember that this is not an opportunity to repeat what is on your application form, but rather it is a way for you to expand on personal experiences with Japanese culture, your personal goals you wish to achieve when you live in Japan and the big question you want to lead with, which is "Why Japan?".

The internet is a beautiful place to find all variations and interpretations to help you on your statement of purpose journey, so don't be afraid to check all avenues!

The most important thing to remember is ALWAYS to get your essay proofread by a friend, colleague, lecturer or partner. I cannot stress how important this is.

(There will be an article on this coming soon!)

#8: TWO GOLDEN TICKET REFERENCES

Having a great reference is always the best not only for having someone vouch for you, but also to have a confidence booster.

Confidence is key to really nailing this application and if you can end off with an awesome reference from a supervisor, employee or subject head then I believe it can make such a positive difference towards your end goal.

Take the time to reach out to these people at least 2 months before applications open, so that you can ensure you have the best reference possible on time. Reach out to 3 or 4 people so that you have options to work with, but remember you can only submit TWO.

#9: CHECK, DOUBLE CHECK, TRIPLE CHECK

Go over the application form requirements page and see if you have any documentation missing.

More importantly, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS. I have read on multiple online discussion boards, that in some cases failure to comply with basic instructions can mean the difference between being accepted and rejected! Failure to submit required documentation will also lead to immediate disqualification, so try not forget anything fam ;)

#10: BE CONFIDENT & POSITIVE

BE POSITIVE. BE CONFIDENT.

Remind yourself daily of your dreams, goals and where you want to see yourself. I am a huge advocate of vision boards, so get creative and make yourself a poster with motivational statements related to your aspirations for the JET Program!

Oh, and always remember these famous words....