A career teaching English in Japan is fulfilling since it provides exposure to a new culture and an understanding of the effort required to master a new language.
Do you find yourself wondering how to get a job teaching English in Japan? You are not alone.
There are a million other people who are thinking the same. Actually, if you want to teach English in a foreign country, Japan is a great option. And in today’s article, we’ll uncover why as well all share all of the relevant important information for anyone interested in getting a job as a teacher in Japan.
Why are so many people interested in teaching English in Japan?
Teaching English is only one of the many reasons people move to Japan. Japan is a great place to teach because of its variety of opportunities, from the country’s impressive ancient buildings, temples, and shrines to its contemporary skyscrapers and bright city lights.
Tourists may feel completely at ease since the area’s security measures are among the world’s most stringent. The salaries of English teachers in Japan are among the highest in Asia. Many foreign English instructors find Japan so rewarding that they remain for years to build a career there.
Can you teach English in Japan without knowing the language?
Proficient knowledge of Japanese is often required for employment in Japan. The ability to speak Japanese is a must for most jobs in Japan, but if you need to learn more of the language, teaching English is a simple way to get hired.
And no, fluency in Japanese is optional for teaching English in Japan. But you have to know it to some extent. You’ll be able to choose from various alternatives regardless of your current linguistic proficiency. What’s more, your coworkers and students will be there to welcome you and assist you quickly in making friends and learning the ropes of everyday life in Japan.
You should also start following the latest news in Japan if you plan on going. It may seem challenging to figure out how to become a teacher in Japan, but if you focus on what is necessary before you step foot in a classroom, you will have taken a big step in the right direction.
Requirements for getting an English teaching job in Japan
Before you start daydreaming about moving to Japan, you first need to know about the process of applying for a job as an English teacher in Japan and maybe a couple of things you should never do in Japan.
If you check out all the boxes, you can kickstart your visa application process, start packing your bags and say your goodbyes. Teaching English can genuinely change your life and worldview in so many ways.
1. Four-Year Degree
Getting your degree should be high on your personal teaching pre-departure checklist if you want to teach in Japan in the future. It’s quite difficult to get a job teaching English in Japan if you don’t have a degree in the subject. Finding work as a foreigner in Japan without a degree is very challenging.
For one thing, you need a university degree (equivalent to a four-year Bachelor’s degree in the US) to qualify for a normal working visa in Japan. Although a degree in education or prior teaching experience is not necessary, if you want to teach English in Japan, you will need to have at least a four-year degree. If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, most Japanese programs and institutions won’t consider your application.
2. TEFL
A TESOL or TEFL certificate is often necessary for a teaching position. Proof that you are competent to teach English is a significant plus, even if the position you desire doesn’t specifically need a qualification to do so. A TEFL course may be taken in person or online and can be taken either full- or part-time, so it’s easy to work into your schedule.
3. Strong language skills
Were you never exposed to Japanese language classes? If you’re interested in teaching, it’s not too late to get work in Japan. This situation relies heavily on your grasp of the English language. Universities, colleges, and other organizations often want students who are not only fluent in English but also nationals of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa.
Foreign nationals may get teaching jobs, but they usually need to demonstrate proficiency in English and a background in the language.
4. Visa
The process of acquiring a visa is simplified if one obtains a teaching position in Japan. To teach English in Japan, you’ll need a visa, but there are plenty of schools and programs that can help you make the transition. Make sure you and your company have completed all essential procedures before boarding the aircraft.
Make sure all of your documentation is in order, so you don’t get yourself in a bind as you prepare to begin teaching in Japan. Getting a visa while you’re already there is very tough.
5. Medical history and background checks
A health and/or criminal record check may be part of the application process for your desired job and/or visa. If you are unable to pass a drug test, it would also be a deal breaker if you’re applying for a job as an English instructor. But if nothing is stopping you, Kokusai Express Japan recommends that you start your moving process as soon as possible.
Final Note
The benefits of teaching English in Japan cannot be overstated. Japan is the ideal place to find a flexible teaching career, whether you choose to work with children or adults in a bustling metropolis or a quiet rural community. In Japan, you might discover the career of your dreams teaching English.
Author: Jassica Mendez
