Dreaming of working as an ALT in Japan but don’t have teaching experience? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of new graduates and professionals from around the world start their journey in Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs). It’s one of the most accessible jobs for foreigners and an excellent way to experience life in Japan firsthand.
This guide explains what it takes to become an ALT in Japan, what schools are looking for, and how to improve your chances of getting hired—even if you’ve never taught before. You’ll also learn how to find ALT job listings on Jobs in Japan.
1. What Does an ALT Do?
An Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) supports Japanese teachers in public schools. You’ll typically help with English conversation, pronunciation, and cultural lessons for elementary, junior high, or high school students.
- Typical Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Salary: ¥230,000–¥280,000 per month
- Visa Sponsorship: Usually provided by your employer
ALTs work as cultural ambassadors as much as teachers. Enthusiasm, communication, and flexibility matter more than formal teaching credentials.
2. Do You Need Teaching Experience?
Not necessarily. Many ALT jobs are open to first-time teachers. Employers usually value soft skills like teamwork, patience, and intercultural communication over formal experience. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required to qualify for an Instructor Visa, but a specific degree in education is not needed.
Helpful skills and backgrounds include:
- Experience working with children or in education (even volunteer work)
- Public speaking or coaching experience
- Interest in Japanese language or culture
- TEFL/TESOL certification (optional but helps your application stand out)
3. What Companies Hire ALTs?
Most ALTs are employed through dispatch companies that send teachers to public schools under contract with local Boards of Education. The major companies include:
- Interac
- Altia Central
- Heart Corporation
- Borderlink
Each company has slightly different requirements, benefits, and placement locations. Many of them post openings directly on Jobs in Japan, where you can filter listings by region or visa sponsorship availability.
4. How to Apply for ALT Jobs
- Prepare your documents: Bachelor’s degree, resume, and passport copy.
- Write a strong cover letter: Highlight communication skills, teamwork, and interest in education.
- Apply early: Hiring seasons are usually January–April and August–October.
- Be flexible: Rural placements often hire faster and may offer housing support.
- Show enthusiasm in interviews: Schools value positivity, reliability, and cultural adaptability.
5. Visa and Sponsorship Tips
If you’re hired as an ALT, your company will typically sponsor your Instructor Visa. The process involves submitting documents like your degree certificate and job contract to Japan’s Immigration Bureau. ALT companies usually handle most of the paperwork, making it one of the easiest routes to legally work in Japan.
6. How to Find ALT Jobs Online
Visit Jobs in Japan and search for “ALT” or “Assistant Language Teacher.” You can filter listings by location (Tokyo, Osaka, rural prefectures etcs) and Full-time or Part-time positions. Each listing will also allow you to see which positions offer visa sponsorship.
ALT openings appear year-round, so check regularly and apply to several companies to improve your chances.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need years of teaching experience to become an ALT in Japan. What matters most is your attitude—be friendly, patient, and eager to connect with your students and Japanese colleagues. Starting as an ALT can open the door to a rewarding career in Japan, or even a path toward corporate or university-level teaching roles later on.
Start browsing ALT job openings today at Jobs in Japan and take your first step toward teaching—and living—in Japan.
