JET Programme: Do You Need the JLPT? Levels Explained

You do not need the JLPT, or any Japanese, to apply for the most common JET Programme job: Assistant Language Teacher (ALT). The Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) role is different. It requires strong Japanese, with JLPT N2 or N1 level described as desirable. A JLPT certificate is optional, but it can help. If you are an American learner thinking about JET, the question of Japanese level comes up early. Here is what the programme and its embassies say, how the two main roles differ, and how much Japanese is worth learning before you go. What are the main JET positions? JET (the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme) has several positions, but two matter most for language questions: Assistant Language Teacher (ALT): assists Japanese teachers in English classes at elementary, junior high and high schools. According to a university summary of the programme, ALTs make up over 90 percent of the JET cohort. Coordinator for International Relations (CIR): works in a local government office on international activities. Strong Japanese is required. Because most participants are ALTs, most JET questions come down to the ALT language rules. Do ALTs need to know Japanese? No. The JET Programme USA site states that ALTs are not required to have Japanese language proficiency at the time of application or to take part in the programme. Embassy pages describe the same rule. One embassy FAQ adds that many successful applicants apply with little or no Japanese. The programme still encourages study. Embassy pages say that although Japanese is not required, they encourage JETs to learn as much as possible before departure and while in Japan, and that accepted ALTs are expected to make an effort to improve their Japanese. Is the JLPT required to apply? No. JET USA says proof of language proficiency is not required at the application stage. It also says that if you have passed a proficiency exam such as the JLPT, it is helpful to document it on your application. Another embassy page lists passing any level of the JLPT as a form of language certification that can support an application. So the JLPT is optional for ALTs, and any level can help show your interest in Japanese. What level of Japanese do CIRs need? CIR applicants must have a functional command of Japanese. Embassy and programme pages describe JLPT N1 or N2 level as desirable. Programme FAQs add that you do not need to have passed the actual N1 or N2 exam, but you should have language ability sufficient to do so. One US page notes that CIR applicants may be tested on Japanese as part of the selection process. In short, if you want the CIR role, plan for N2 or N1. If you aim for ALT, the JLPT is a bonus. How much Japanese is worth learning before you go? Even though it is not required, some Japanese makes daily life easier. One long-time resident on a forum says that in some areas a little Japanese is an unspoken requirement, enough to do more than order at a restaurant. That is a personal view, not a rule, but it matches the advice from the programme. A practical target for an ALT is N5, then N4 if you have time: N5: enough to read basic signs, handle simple shopping and understand simple greetings. Our JLPT N5 study plan for working adults shows a six-month schedule. N4: enough for slower conversations on familiar topics. See How many hours to study for JLPT N4 for a time estimate. The programme also supports learning once you are there. According to the JET Programme site, CLAIR provides free online Japanese language courses and grants for the JLPT, among other support. Should I take the JLPT before applying? It depends on your timeline. If you already study Japanese and can sit an upcoming test, a certificate gives you something concrete to include. If the test date does not fit your application schedule, you can still apply without it. In the US, the JLPT is offered once a year, in December, so timing matters. Check our guide to the JLPT in the USA for dates and registratio…