How to Become an ALT in Japan (2026 Guide)

An ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) in Japan is one of the most popular ways for English speakers to live and work in Japan.

Every year, thousands of people from around the world move to Japan to teach English in elementary schools, junior high schools, and high schools through programs like the JET Programme and dispatch companies like Interac.

This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming an ALT in Japan in 2026, including requirements, salary, daily life, ALT programs, and career options after your contract ends.

What is an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan?

An ALT is a foreign English speaker hired to work alongside Japanese teachers of English (JTEs) in public and private schools across Japan.

Assistant language teachers help students develop English conversation skills, pronunciation, and cultural understanding through interactive classroom activities. ALTs work in elementary schools, junior high schools, and high schools and are typically hired through government programs like JET or private dispatch companies like Interac.

What are the requirements to be an ALT in Japan?

Assistant language teachers need to have these qualifications to teach in Japan.

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree.

A Japan ALT should at least hold a bachelor’s degree to teach English in Japan as it is part of a working visa requirement.

Additionally, it would be most beneficial to have 12 years of schooling taught primarily in English.

2. Native-level English proficiency.

Native English or near-native English proficiency is a requirement for most teaching jobs in Japan.

However, some schools may hire non-native speakers if the individual can demonstrate strong enough skills in speaking, reading, and writing in English.

3. Have a clean record.

To teach in Japan, you can not have any convictions, including felonies or misdemeanors. And if you have a criminal record and want to teach in Japan, you will need a waiver.

Even without a criminal record, a background check is done before being officially hired.

Additionally, you will need to pass a health and drug test as part of a requirement for a work visa to ensure you are healthy to work.

Pass the health and drug test. This test wants to ensure you are healthy enough to work in Japan.

4. Be 20 years and above.

Most ALT programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree, which means you will be at least 21 or 22 when you start.

The JET Programme has no official age limit, and people of all ages are welcome to apply. However, most participants are recent university graduates in their twenties and thirties.

For working holiday visa holders looking to teach, the age limit is typically 18 to 30, depending on your country's agreement with Japan.

Private dispatch companies and conversation schools also have no formal age cap, though many ALT positions tend to attract younger applicants simply because the salary level is more suited to early-career professionals.

5. Follow appearance guidelines.

Many ALT employers, including Interac, have strict appearance policies. Tattoos must not be visible while wearing standard school attire (short-sleeved shirt and shorts). Tattoos on the neck, face, ears, or hands are generally not permitted. This policy reflects Japanese cultural norms in the education system, where visible tattoos can be associated with negative stereotypes. If you have tattoos, check your employer's specific policy before applying.

What visa do ALTs need?

To work as an assistant language teacher in Japan, you will need a work visa. The most common visa categories for ALTs are:

The Instructor visa is used by ALTs who teach at public schools through programs like JET or dispatch companies like Interac. Your employer or the JET Programme will handle the visa sponsorship process, including filing a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) with the immigration office.

The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa is used by some private language schools and conversation schools that hire English teachers.

In both cases, you will need a bachelor's degree and a sponsoring employer in Japan. The visa process typically takes 1 to 3 months for COE processing, followed by about 5 business days for the actual visa at your nearest Japanese embassy.

Bonus advantages

While these items are not required, they certainly do help you get the chance of being hired:

• Have a driver’s license: while Japanese cities have an expansive public transportation system, being able to drive in more suburban and rural areas of Japan will help Japan ALTs get to their schools.

• Have teaching experience: it will show you are familiar with teaching English, engaging with students, and supporting them.

• Have a teaching certificate: for example, TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, and DELTA will certify your skills and knowledge of teaching English. Though it is not required, it certainly does help your position.

• Speak some basic Japanese: While you will be speaking, assisting, and teaching in English, having basic Japanese knowledge lets you communicate with your Japanese colleagues.

How to apply to be an ALT in Japan

The application process depends on which program or company you choose. Here is what to expect for the two main paths.

Applying to the JET Programme

JET runs on a long timeline. The full process from application to arrival in Japan takes about 10 months. Here is the typical schedule based on the 2026 cycle:

September to November: Applications open online through the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to submit a completed application form, a two-page Statement of Purpose essay, two letters of recommendation, official university transcripts, and a copy of your passport. The deadline is usually mid-November.

January to February: Shortlisted candidates are invited to interview. Interviews may be held in person at your local Japanese embassy or online, depending on your country. They typically last 20 to 30 minutes with a panel of 2 to 3 interviewers.

March to April: Results are announced. Successful applicants are designated as shortlist candidates. Alternates may be upgraded if positions open up later.

May: Placement notifications go out. You will learn which prefecture and city you have been assigned to. You cannot choose your location, though you can express a preference on your application.

June to July: Pre-departure orientation and preparation. You will complete paperwork, receive your Certificate of Eligibility for your visa, and arrange your travel.

Late July to August: Departure to Japan. All new JET participants attend a mandatory 3-day orientation in Tokyo before traveling to their assigned placement.

The JET Programme acceptance rate is approximately 20 to 25%, making it competitive but achievable with a strong application. Teaching experience and Japanese language ability are not required. TEFL or TESOL certification is not mandatory but will strengthen your candidacy.

Applying to dispatch companies (Interac and others)

Dispatch companies like Interac, Altia Central, Heart Corporation, and Borderlink accept applications year-round. Major intake periods are spring (March to April) and late summer/fall (August to October), aligned with the Japanese school year.

The process is faster than JET. From application to arrival in Japan, expect 2 to 4 months. A typical timeline looks like this:

Week 1 to 2: Submit your online application with your resume, degree certificate, and a recent photo.

Week 2 to 4: Complete a video interview or live interview. Some companies also require a short demo lesson.

Week 4 to 8: If accepted, your employer files a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) with the immigration office in Japan. Processing takes 1 to 3 months.

After COE approval: Apply for your visa at your nearest Japanese embassy (about 5 business days). Book your flight and prepare for departure.

Dispatch companies are less competitive than JET and hire candidates without prior teaching experience or Japanese language ability. Interac, the largest private dispatch company in Japan, recruits from 24 countries.

Important note for all applicants: New ALTs at dispatch companies typically wait 6 to 8 weeks after arrival before receiving their first paycheck. Plan to bring at least ¥500,000 ($3,500 USD) in savings to cover setup costs and living expenses during that initial period.

What is it like to be an ALT in Japan?

Whether you teach in elementary schools or a junior high school, everyone will have a different, yet similar experience being an ALT in Japan.

An ALT job description and responsibilities

Alts are responsible for assisting the Japanese-English instructor by helping students communicate better in English through fun and engaging activities. Additionally, ALTs act as ambassadors to encourage cultural exchange and understanding.

While the responsibilities will vary from schools, programs, and Japanese teachers, you will:

• Assist with lesson planning: collaborate, plan, and prepare English language lessons and activities with the Japanese teachers teaching English (JTEs).

• Provide English language support: you will be leading activities and facilitating language practice sessions by helping students with their pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and conversational skills.

• Support extracurricular activities: as a teacher, you will support your school by helping with clubs and setting up school events as part of the school experience.

• Help with administrative tasks: including maintaining records, preparing materials, and attending meetings.

Additionally, the work culture will vary between schools.

Salary for an ALT in Japan

ALT salaries in Japan vary significantly depending on your employer. Here is a realistic breakdown for 2026:

The JET Programme offers the highest ALT salary, starting at ¥4,020,000 per year for first-year participants and increasing to ¥4,320,000 by year four. JET also covers your flight to Japan and provides housing assistance.

Private dispatch companies like Interac, Altia Central, Heart Corporation, and Borderlink pay between ¥2,400,000 and ¥3,000,000 per year. Interac, the largest private ALT provider in Japan, lists a gross annual salary range of ¥2.4M to ¥3.0M for 12-month contracts.

Teaching at conversation schools (eikaiwa) such as Berlitz, ECC, AEON, or Nova is a separate career path from being an ALT. Eikaiwa teachers work at private language schools rather than assisting in Japanese school classrooms. Salaries at eikaiwas typically range from ¥2,500,000 to ¥3,500,000 per year depending on the company and your teaching experience.

Additionally, many ALTs will also receive other benefits such as housing subsidies, transportation allowances, health insurance, and paid vacation days based on their contract and work policies.

Daily life as an ALT in Japan

A typical ALT workday includes teaching classes in one or multiple schools, including elementary, junior high, and high school, as well as interacting with students and teachers. 

Depending on where you are located, some ALTs may live in school-provided subsidized housing, while others will have private apartments.

Additionally, you may take the train or drive to your classes with transportation costs being covered up to a certain amount.

Work culture as an ALT

The work culture for an ALT in Japan will vary significantly depending on your school and location. Here are some aspects of daily life that many ALTs experience:

Desk warming: On days when you have no scheduled classes, you may still be required to sit at your desk during school hours. This is a well-known part of ALT life in Japan and can feel unproductive, but many ALTs use this time to prepare materials, study Japanese, or plan future lessons.

Club activities: Many schools expect teachers, including ALTs, to participate in or observe after-school club activities (bukatsu). You may be invited to help with sports teams, English clubs, or cultural clubs. Participation is not always mandatory, but it is a great way to connect with students outside the classroom.

Staff room dynamics: ALTs typically sit in the staff room alongside Japanese teachers. The level of interaction varies. Some ALTs are warmly included in conversations and events, while others may feel isolated due to language barriers. Making an effort to speak even basic Japanese goes a long way in building relationships.

School events: Throughout the year, Japanese schools hold events such as sports day (undokai), cultural festivals (bunkasai), and graduation ceremonies. ALTs are generally expected to attend and participate. These events are some of the most memorable parts of the ALT experience in Japan.

ALT programs in Japan

ALT Programs are the most well-known organizations that hire people to be ALTs and then dispatch them around Japanese schools.

1. JET Programme (Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme)

The JET Programme (Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme) is the most well-known and highest-paying ALT program in Japan. It is administered by three Japanese government ministries: the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), in coordination with CLAIR (Council of Local Authorities for International Relations).

Since 1987, over 77,000 people from 77 countries have participated. As of 2025, roughly 5,900 participants from 54 countries were active in the program. About 90% of JET participants are ALTs, with the remaining 10% serving as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) or Sports Exchange Advisors (SEAs).

ALTs hired by the JET Programme are placed in schools throughout Japan, as they work with Japanese teachers to plan English lessons, assist with language activities, and promote cultural understanding.

Those in the JET Programme have one-year contracts, but it is renewable for up to five years.

JET ALT salary

A JET ALT salary increases with each year of participation.

According to the official JET Programme FAQ, salaries before taxes as of April 2025 are:

• Year 1: ¥4,020,000 (approximately ¥335,000 per month)

• Year 2: ¥4,140,000 (approximately ¥345,000 per month)

• Year 3: ¥4,260,000 (approximately ¥355,000 per month)

• Year 4/5: ¥4,320,000 (approximately ¥360,000 per month)

These are gross figures. Mandatory deductions for national health insurance, pension, and employment insurance total roughly ¥39,000 per month. Income tax varies depending on your nationality and length of stay. American ALTs qualify for a two-year exemption from Japanese income taxes under the U.S.-Japan tax treaty.

2. Interac

Interac is a private company that dispatches ALTs to public schools in Japan. The company provides a solution for English teaching around schools in various regions in Japan, including rural areas.

ALTs in Japan support Japanese teachers in charge of English lessons at the school. As such, they will engage with students in English conversations, lead language activities, and help with the English curriculum.

Other dispatch companies

Beyond Interac, several other private companies dispatch assistant language teachers to Japanese schools across the country. Some of the most well-known include:

• Altia Central: Dispatches ALTs to elementary schools, junior high schools, and high schools. Known for placing teachers in the Kansai and Chubu regions.

• Heart Corporation: Provides ALTs to public schools and offers training programs for new teachers.

• Borderlink: A newer dispatch company that has grown rapidly and places ALTs in schools across multiple regions in Japan.

Salaries at dispatch companies are generally lower than JET, typically ranging from ¥2,400,000 to ¥3,000,000 per year. However, the application process is faster, and many offer more flexibility in choosing your location. Some dispatch companies also allow ALTs to take on secondary work such as private tutoring, within the limits of their visa.

3. Private language schools

Private language schools, known as eikaiwa or conversation schools, hire English teachers for their own classrooms. It is important to note that eikaiwa teachers are not technically ALTs. An ALT is an assistant language teacher who works alongside a Japanese teacher of English (JTE) in a public or private school. Eikaiwa teachers work independently at private language schools and teach students of all ages, from children to adults.

That said, many people consider eikaiwa teaching as part of the broader "teaching English in Japan" landscape, and it is a common alternative to ALT work.

The most well-known and largest eikaiwas are:

• Berlitz

• ECC

• Aeon

• Nova

These schools cater to learners wanting more English lessons outside their regular school curriculum.

ALTs in these private settings will work in smaller groups or with individual students, focusing on specific English skills such as conversation, grammar, and vocabulary.

Training and orientation for ALTs

Many ALTs will have some training or orientation to ensure they follow the set rules of the school’s program’s curriculum. 

ALT programs, like the JET Programme, have pre-departure training sessions to provide information about living in Japan, teaching strategies, and expectations.

What to do after being an ALT in Japan?

Your ALT experience builds a set of transferable skills that employers value both in Japan and in your home country. These include cross-cultural communication, public speaking, adaptability, classroom management, and time management. If you studied Japanese during your time as an ALT, your language ability opens up even more doors.schools

Here are the most common career paths former ALTs pursue.

1. Transition to a full-time teaching position

Many former ALTs become licensed English teachers at international schools in Japan, where salaries typically range from ¥4,000,000 to ¥6,000,000 per year. International schools often require a teaching license from your home country and prefer candidates with classroom experience, which your ALT years provide.

You can also become the lead English teacher at a Japanese school. Your ALT experience gives you a strong foundation in the Japanese education system, lesson planning, and working with JTEs. Some former ALTs move into curriculum development or train new assistant language teachers joining ALT programs.

2. Corporate English training

Japanese companies increasingly hire English trainers for their employees. Former ALTs with business communication skills find work at corporate training firms or directly with Japanese companies that need in-house English education. Salaries for corporate trainers range from ¥3,500,000 to ¥5,000,000 per year, and the work is typically conducted during business hours with no weekend or evening classes.

3. Translation, interpretation, and bilingual roles

If you reached JLPT N2 or N1 level during your time in Japan, bilingual roles become accessible. Former ALTs work as freelance translators, in-house interpreters at Japanese companies, or in bilingual customer support and marketing positions. Translation and interpretation roles generally require N1 for professional-level work, while many bilingual office positions accept N2.

4. Non-teaching careers in Japan

Many ALTs use their years in Japan as a stepping stone into entirely different fields. Common transitions include recruiting (especially for companies that hire foreign talent), tourism, hospitality management, IT (particularly if you have technical skills alongside your Japan experience), and government or non-profit work in international exchange. Job boards like GaijinPot, Daijob, LinkedIn Japan, and Indeed Japan are the most popular platforms for English speakers looking for work in Japan beyond teaching.

5. Returning to your home country

ALT experience is valued by employers in education, international business, government, and non-profit sectors. The skills you build as an ALT, including managing a classroom, navigating a foreign work culture, and communicating across language barriers, translate directly into roles that require cultural competence and adaptability.

Frequently asked questions

How much do ALTs make in Japan?

ALT salaries depend on your employer. The JET Programme pays ¥4,020,000 per year for first-year participants, making it the highest-paying ALT program. Private dispatch companies like Interac pay between ¥2,400,000 and ¥3,000,000 per year. Eikaiwa teachers, who are not technically ALTs, earn ¥2,500,000 to ¥3,500,000 depending on the company.

Do I need to speak Japanese to be an ALT?

No. Japanese language ability is not required for ALT positions through JET or dispatch companies. You will teach in English alongside a Japanese Teacher of English (JTE). However, basic Japanese makes daily life much easier and helps you build stronger relationships with colleagues and students.

How competitive is the JET program?

The JET Programme acceptance rate is approximately 20 to 25%. Strong candidates demonstrate genuine interest in Japanese culture, flexibility about placement location, and clear communication skills. Teaching experience and TEFL certification are not required but improve your chances.

Can I choose where I live as an ALT?

On the JET Programme, you cannot choose your placement. You can state a preference on your application, but most participants are placed in small to mid-sized cities or rural areas. Dispatch companies offer more flexibility, and many allow you to request a specific region. Eikaiwa positions are almost always in urban areas.

Do ALTs get summer vacation?

Japanese schools have summer break from late July through August, but whether you have time off depends on your employer. JET ALTs may be required to report to their school or board of education office during breaks, even if no classes are scheduled. Dispatch company policies vary, with some offering unpaid breaks and others requiring attendance. Eikaiwa schools often operate year-round.

What happens after my ALT contract ends?

Many former ALTs stay in Japan by transitioning to full-time teaching positions, corporate training roles, or bilingual careers in fields like recruiting, IT, or tourism. Others return to their home country with valuable cross-cultural experience. Your options depend heavily on your Japanese language ability and how much professional networking you do during your ALT years.

Can non-native English speakers become ALTs?

Yes. While most programs prefer native English speakers, companies like Interac recruit from 24 countries, including non-native English-speaking nations such as India, Nigeria, Kenya, Sweden, and France. The key requirement is 12 years of education conducted primarily in English and strong English proficiency.

In closing

Being an ALT is a great way to live and work in Japan, as it opens the opportunity to provide an enriching experience for both you and your students. As you navigate being ALT, remember that being one is a great career stepping stone in Japan.