How to Apply (For South African Citizens Only)

2008 JET applications now open : closing date, 11 January 2008

Applications can be downloaded from this site or are available from the Embassy of Japan. Please call 012-452-1607 to request an application.

Please refer to this list when you prepare your application.

Original Signed Application Form: (1 original and 2 copies): There will be an online application available on this page in November of 2006. If you have ever been convicted of any crime other than a minor traffic, make sure that you also include a copy of your criminal record offence.
Self-Assessment Medical Form (1 original and 2 copies): This is part of the online application that will be available in November of 2006. Make sure you fill it out thoroughly and sign the bottom. If you have suffered from any serious physical, mental or emotional illness, nervous or eating disorder, or depression, you will have to attach a letter in your own words explaining your situation AND a letter from your physician stating whether you are fit to participate in the JET Programme, and, as such, to live and work overseas.
Statement of Purpose (1 original and 2 copies): This is an essay, in English, of not more than two single-sided A4 pages, typewritten in 12 point font and double-spaced with 2cm margins. Be sure to include two copies of your statement to your application package.

You should incorporate all of the following points in an essay format:

- Motivation for Participation: The essay should state your reasons for wishing to participate in the JET Programme, why you want to go to Japan, and why you are interested in the ALT position.
- Relevant Experience: Please also make a case for your selection by describing your past/present experiences, professional skills, relevant interests and personal qualities, and how you feel these will be useful to you as an ALT.
- If you have teaching experience, what teaching methods have you found particularly successful? What have you found most rewarding?
- Goals: Also address what you hope to gain, both personally and professionally, and what effect you hope to have on the Japanese community and internationally as a result of your participation in the JET Programme.
Transcripts of all University Courses (1 original and 2 copies): You will be required to provide transcripts for ALL undergraduate and graduate courses you have taken or are currently taking.

If you have earned a Bachelor’s degree already: You will be required to submit 3 copies of your Bachelor’s degree or an official letter from the registrar of your college or university stating the date of graduation and the type of degree. Please do not send your original degree! Copies of your degree will be acceptable.

If you expect to earn your Bachelor’s degree by July 1, 2007 (1 original and 2 copies): You will be required to submit an official letter from the registrar of your college or university stating (1) that you are currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program and (2) the date (month and year) the degree will be conferred. An official document from the registrar with the above information is preferred. However, if you cannot get such a document from the registrar, you may obtain a document (on school letterhead with official signature) with the same information from your advisor or the dean of your school. If you are accepted as a JET Programme participant, you will be asked to submit a document by July 1, 2007 proving you graduated.

Proof of TEFL/TESL Certificate ONLY if applicable (1 original and 2 copies): If you have TEFL/TESL certification, you must provide separate written proof of your certification or enrolment in a programme which will lead to certification and which includes your date (or expected date) of completion .
Proof of South African Citizenship: You will be required to include 3 photocopies of one of the following documents - South African passport – the page which includes your photo, name, passport number and signature OR ID book
Letters of Reference: (1 original and 2 copies of each)

You will be required to include two letters of reference from academic, professional or business contacts. Please avoid using family members or family friends. If you have not graduated by the time you work on your application, one of the references must be from some one related to the university and must contain a reference to your expected date of graduation.

All the above documents must be posted to:

The Embassy of Japan
JET Programme
Private Bag X999
Pretoria
0001

JET Home Page