As we all know, the unemployment rate in India is extremely high due to overpopulation. In fact, according to the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the unemployment rate in India jumped to almost 8% in December 2021. So, many people have opted to start their careers elsewhere. And as a powerhouse in many sectors of the global economy and a technologically advanced nation, Japan is the best place to start or continue your career.
The Land of the Rising Sun has many rewarding job openings for foreigners. Among the many vacancies is for the position of English teacher. The demand for English teachers in Japan is significantly high as the majority of the locals do not speak or understand English enough.
In this article, we will share with you everything you need to know about becoming an English teacher in Japan.
Why Teach English In Japan?
As we have mentioned earlier, the demand for English teachers in Japan is relatively high. If you have the skills, proper documents, and certificates, landing a job as an English teacher will not be very difficult for you.
Moreover, teaching English in Japan is one of the most rewarding experiences you will have because not only will you be living in the Land of the Rising Sun and soaking in the beauty and wonders it has to offer, but you will also get to impart wisdom and knowledge to the minds of young children or youths.
Also read: 13 Steps To Learn Japanese
How Much Do English Teachers In Japan Make?
Generally, the salary of an English teacher in Japan depends on the person’s place of employment, qualifications, and Japanese language skills. Look at it this way; your salary would be much higher if you are a master’s degree holder in English and work for one of the best schools in Japan’s capital city Tokyo. Now, if you are a bachelor’s degree holder in subjects other than English and working in a school in the countryside like Kurashiki, you can expect your salary to be lesser.
However, all in all, the average salary of an English teacher in Japan is 431,000 JPY (approx. 281917.1 INR) per month, according to Salary Explorer.
Do You Need To Know Japanese Language To Be An English Teacher In Japan?
It is not mandatory to know the Japanese language to become an English teacher in Japan. However, some schools may need you to at least be able to understand basic Japanese. We advise that you at least clear the N5 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.
N5 certificate holders can read simple phrases in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. They can listen to and understand everyday conversations. They can also comprehend the meaning of other conversations when spoken slowly.
As most of the Japanese people in Japan speak only their native language, speaking and understanding basic Japanese will make your life in Japan much easier.
What Do You Need To Be An English Teacher In Japan?
Following are the documents, qualifications, and other requirements you would need to become an English teacher in Japan:
- Citizenship from a recognized English-speaking country
- A valid passport
- Certificate of eligibility
- A recent photo of the candidate
- A letter from the future employer or sponsor
- A curriculum vitae
- Flight Itinerary
- Bachelor’s degree
- Clean criminal background check
- TEFL certification (for some)
Different Ways To Find An English Teaching Job In Japan
You could take several routes to find an English teaching job in Japan. Here are some of them:
1. Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program
Started by the Japanese Government in the 1980s, this program focuses on sending native English speakers to work as Assistant Language Teachers in Japan’s public schools. Interested candidates must be bachelor’s degree holders and can contact the Embassy of Japan in India if there are any open positions and when to apply.
Also read: Tips For Learning Japanese Language
2. Japanese Language Learning Institutes
Japanese language learning schools such as AKAL Japanese Academy teach Japanese and offer job opportunities to candidates who want to work in Japan. Apart from teaching English, they also provide many other job profiles such as caregiver or construction worker.
3. Public School Advertisements
In Japan, many public schools privately look for English teachers by posting ads online or using consultancies. If you have the right skills, qualifications, and documents, they will assist you with the transit. Also, many Japanese parents and teachers look for private tutors. So, if you are a student in Japan, you can become a private tutor.
Where To Learn Japanese In India?
Learning Japanese is the key to having a good and hassle-free life in Japan. India has some of the best Japanese language learning schools, such as AKAL Japanese Academy, where you can learn Japanese language and culture. These Japanese Language Institutes, recognized by both the Indian and Japanese governments, take only 4 to 6 months to make you comfortable with Japanese language.
About AKAL Japanese Academy
Akal Japanese Academy offers courses where you will get the opportunity to learn Japanese language and gain insights into the fascinating cultures and traditions of the Japanese. It will also help you find a job in Japan and assist you with the visa application process. Courses are available both online and offline.
To know more and register, visit Akal Japanese Academy or call us at 011 – 40560919 / 9310533001.
Well, now that you have the tools to kickstart your career English teaching career in Japan, we will leave you here with our best wishes.
Until next time, sayonara for now!
