Teach English in Japan Program

If you're looking to teach English abroad in Japan, our program offers a structured path into a public school assistant language teacher (ALT) role, so you get step-by-step support from application to arrival.

Direct Interac Pathway

We partner directly with Interac, giving you a trusted and fully supported pathway to teaching in Japanese public schools.

Japan Program Snapshot

Stipend varies by region. Budget for arrival costs and housing deposits.

Life as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan:

Teach, Travel, and Connect

Teaching in Japan is about more than the classroom.

It is about building routines in a place that feels new. It is about learning how your neighborhood works, figuring out your favorite local spots, adjusting to school culture, and finding your rhythm in everyday life.

As an ALT in Japan, you may support English lessons, model pronunciation, help with speaking activities, and work alongside Japanese teachers in the classroom. Depending on the school and program, your role may involve assisting with lesson activities, helping students feel more confident using English, and participating in the broader school community.

Everything Included in Your RVF Program

From program preparation to life in Japan and beyond, we have every detail covered.

Before You Go:

Prep + Paperwork

Guidance on the ALT pathway in Japan
Help understanding what roles may be the best fit
Support with application preparation
Interview preparation and coaching
Timeline and next-step guidance
Help organizing documents and requirements
Pre-departure planning and move-abroad preparation
Housing arranged and transportation arranged by Interac

When You Arrive:

Landing + Logistics

While You’re in Japan:

Day-to-day support + community

Your Future:

Professional + long-term value

Professional development certificate
120-hour TEFL course
International classroom experience
Public school teaching exposure
Cross-cultural communication skills
Resume-building global experience
Support as you think about renewals or next steps

Not included
(so you can plan)

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about Teaching English in Japan

What is an ALT in Japan?

ALT stands for Assistant Language Teacher. In Japan, ALT roles are commonly connected to public school English education and usually involve supporting students with spoken English, pronunciation, classroom activities, and cultural exchange.

Every school is different. Your responsibilities will vary depending on your students, your Japanese teaching partners, and the needs of each school. Flexibility is one of the most important qualities of a successful ALT.

What's the average salary for teaching English in Japan?

As an Interac ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) in Japan, you will most likely receive a gross annual salary of approximately ¥2.4 – ¥3.0 million per year. We pay our English teachers in equal monthly payments, so you’re supported throughout the year.

This is approximately equivalent to:

$16,000 – $20,000 USD per year

While salaries in Japan are generally lower than in some Western countries, so is the cost of living in many parts of the country. Most Interac ALTs find that their salary is enough to comfortably cover everyday living expenses while also allowing them to travel, explore Japan, and enjoy their experience abroad.

Interac also assists participants by arranging housing before arrival, making the transition to life in Japan much smoother.

For comparison, a new university graduate in Japan typically earns around ¥2.4 million per year, meaning Interac’s salary is in line with—or above—the national average for entry-level professionals.

When is my English teaching salary paid?

With Interac, your ALT salary is deposited into your bank account the following month. For example, your April salary is paid on May 20th. When payday falls on a weekend or national holiday, the salary is deposited into the account on the preceding business day, to make sure you are financially covered.

With that in mind, your first salary from teaching English in Japan with Interac will be received approximately six to eight weeks after beginning work, depending on the specific date of when you started.

What is deducted from my salary as an ALT?

National income tax and employment insurance is automatically deducted each month from your salary, just like most countries in the West. However, local residence taxes are not deducted from English teachers in Japan, so it’s important to keep that in mind, and factor it into your monthly finances budget and routine.

Most teachers are enrolled in Social Insurance (Shakai Hoken), which includes health insurance, nursing care insurance, and Employees’ Pension Insurance.

The total cost of these insurances is split evenly between the employer and the employee, with the employee’s portion deducted from their monthly salary. The company covers half of the total insurance cost, not half of the employee’s share.

How much money should I bring with me?

For recruits arriving from overseas wanting to teach English in Japan, you will need to have approximately $3,000 USD available to you in accessible cash (i.e. not credit card!) so you can cover costs associated with setting up your apartment and sustain yourself until the first payday.

What kind of support does RVF provide?

RVF helps applicants better understand the path to teaching in Japan, prepare for applications, stay organized through the process, and feel more confident about the move abroad. That includes guidance around planning, expectations, documents, and next steps.

Is housing included?

Yes. Housing is arranged by our partner, Interac, as part of your start to Japan. Interac ALTs live in standard Japanese apartments, suitable for one person. The exact housing type and location may vary depending on the placement. Specific housing details will be finalized closer to your departure. Move-in costs and ongoing rent are the responsibility of the individual.

Do I need teaching experience to teach English in Japan?

Not always. Some pathways may prefer teaching experience, but many ALT roles are also accessible to first-time teachers who are well prepared, adaptable, and excited to work with students in a cross-cultural setting.

Do I need to speak Japanese?

Not necessarily. Japanese can absolutely help with daily life and adjustment, but some teaching opportunities in Japan do not require fluency. The exact expectation can vary depending on the role and placement.

What kind of schools do ALTs work in?

Many ALTs in Japan work in public elementary, junior high, or high schools. The exact setting can depend on the program and the region.

Can I choose where I am placed?

Some programs may allow applicants to share preferences, but placements are usually based on school needs, availability, and final program decisions. Specific locations are often not guaranteed.

Want more details? View all FAQs

What You’ll Need to Join

Simple requirements, big opportunities.

The exact requirements for teaching English in Japan can vary depending on the program or placement route, but many applicants exploring ALT roles will need a strong application, a flexible mindset, and the ability to adapt to a new environment.

U.S./Canada

Bachelor’s degree (any field), at least 4 months in advance from program start date.

Australia/New Zealand

Bachelor’s degree by at least 4 months in advance from program start date.

Placements Across Japan

Teaching English in Japan can look different depending on where you are placed. From snowy northern landscapes to coastal towns, historic cities, and major urban areas, each region offers a different side of daily life in Japan.

Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kansai
Chugoku
Shikoku
Kyushu

Keep in mind that exact placements may depend on partner availability, school needs, and timing.

Invest in the Journey of a Lifetime

One program cost. Flexible ways to pay.

RVF International is not a recruiting agency. We are a service-based international education and exchange company that provides a unique cultural experience, with guidance and support every step of the way. Your program fee makes this possible; covering the dedicated services and personal support that make your move to Japan clear, guided, and human.

$1,899 USD (one-time)

Flexible Payment Options

We know every journey is unique, that’s why RVF offers flexible ways to pay:

You’re Not Doing Japan Alone

RVF International is a real team that helps you teach English in Japan with confidence, so you can focus on the life you came for.

We Handle the Stress…
Visa Confidence We breat the Japanese work visa process into clear steps, in the right order, with reminders so nothing sneaks up on you.
Be Prepared Know what to expect before you go. From Japanese school culture to budgeting on an ALT salary, we help you feel ready instead of guessing.
Interview Ready We help you prepare for your Interac interview so you can show up confident, clear, and calm, not scrambled or stressed.
Document Timeline Support Background checks, visas, transcripts, forms, deadlines. This is the part that overwhelms most people. We keep you on track and help you complete everything in the right order.
Housing Handled Interac arranges your accommodation, and we help you understand what to expect, how move-in works, and how to prepare for your first week in Japan.
Orientation and Arrival Support From arriving in Japan to Interac orientation and your first days at school, you’ll know what to expect before you land.
Real Human Support When you have questions, you won’t be stuck searching forums. You’ll have real people you can reach by email and virtually for guidance.
Interac Pathway Teaching in Japan has structure for a reason. We explain how the Interac hiring process works, what you can control, what you can’t and how to set realistic expectations while staying excited.
RVF Only Perks Connect with other RVF participants across Japan, enjoy community events, social competitions, and surprises throughout the year.

…So You Can Live the Dream
Feel ready on day one You will arrive with a plan, not a pile of unanswered questions.
Settle in faster Your first month is smoother when you know what to expect and who to ask.
A place to belong Teaching abroad hits different when you’re building community, not doing it alone.
Big energy and weekend escapes You will have the structure to thrive during the week and the freedom to explore Japan on weekends.
Peace of mind Clear steps, realistic expectations, and real support make the experience feel lighter.
Connection From fellow RVF participants to local routines, you’ll find your people and your rhythm.
Extra magic The moments you can’t plan for, late-night ramen runs, cherry blossom season, spontaneous train trips, and ‘how is this my life?’ days, happen more easily when the logistics are handled.
Feel confident with money With housing already arranged, you’ll understand what your paycheck really looks like, what to budget for, and how to plan for travel around Japan.
Your future self wins You’ll leave Japan with more than memories, the confindence, skills, friendships, and international experience that stay with you long after your year abroad.

4 Simple Steps to Get Started

Your journey to Japan, simplified.

STEP 1 — Apply

Submit Your Short Application

It only takes 1 minute to apply, so you’ll instantly know if you qualify.

Once accepted, you’ll get a link by email and text to schedule your first Zoom call.

STEP 2 — Discover RVF

Explore What’s Possible With Our Support

Your Zoom call is a relaxed Discovery Session with one of our Program Specialists. We’ll walk through the program, the support you’ll receive, what life is like as an ALT, and answer any questions you may have.

STEP 3 — Map Your Journey

Outline Your Next Steps

After your call, we’ll send you information about the program, timelines, requirements, and what happens after joining so you can make your decision with confidence.

STEP 4 — Enroll

Make It Official and Unlock Full Support

Once you’re ready to move forward, you’ll officially join RVF. Your dedicated Program Coordinator will then reach out to welcome you, kick off the onboarding process, and guide you step-by-step through placement, visa preparation, and your move to Japan.

Why People Love It

Shared by teachers who’ve lived the adventure.

See More Reviews on GoOverseas and GoAbroad

Teaching in Japan Beyond Year One

When one year isn’t enough, RVF makes it simple to keep going.

Can’t get enough of Japan? If year one isn’t enough, there may be a path to renew. RVF will help you understand renewal timing, requirements, and next steps so you can continue in Japan with confidence.