Location
  • Japan
    • Tokyo
    • Osaka
    • Fukuoka
    • Sapporo
    • Nagoya
Length
52+ weeks
Classroom Audience
Early Childhood Pre-School Middle School High School

Program Details

Classroom Audience
Early Childhood Pre-School Middle School High School
Housing
Apartment
Age Min.
20
Age Max
60

Pricing

Salary / Benefits
Your experience in Japan will set you apart from your peers. When you teach in Japan, you will find that there is much more to be gained than a regular paycheck. In fact, your experience will shape your future by providing you valuable career experience, experience living in a different culture, and the lifestyle of freedom and growth you have been waiting for. As an Interac ALT, you will most likely receive a gross annual salary of approximately ¥2.4 – ¥3.0 million Japanese Yen per year.
Price Details
There is no charge to apply to Interac.
What's Included
Activities Visa
What's Not Included
Accommodation Airfare Meals
Jan 09, 2024
Apr 23, 2024
171 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Interac teachers enrich the lives of thousands of school and children in Japan every year by delivering interactive and exciting English lessons. Commonly known as ALTs, which stands for assistant language teacher, Interac’s instructors, enrich children’s lives by sharing their knowledge of English and communication skills and giving insights into other cultures.

As an ALT at Interac, you will work in nursery school, elementary, junior high, and high schools throughout Japan. These are our clients. Your job is two-fold: language instructor and cultural ambassador. These two aspects are inseparable, and you, as a successful Interac ALT, will become an expert in both.

You can expect to teach classes on your own, with a Japanese teacher present to help manage the classroom. Although there are variety of Japanese schools, you can reasonably expect to teach in at least two. The company also provides training programs to support those without experience as an English teacher.

Video and Photos

Program Highlights

  • Start things off right with an intensive (paid!) initial training and orientation session.
  • Work Mondays to Fridays with scheduled teaching hours between 8 am and 5 pm.
  • Attend on-going skills development and training programs.
  • Become an important part of your school and local community.
  • Take advantage of Interac’s Staff Preparation Program (SPP) and build portable skills you can leverage in the classroom or take with you into a potential staff position like recruiter, head teacher, trainer, or even office staff.

Popular Programs

Wide, open Hokkaido

Interac North Company is in charge of the Hokkaido and Tohoku area which is the largest area of Japan in terms of land mass. The kind of person who typically comes to Interac North has a more self-sufficient outlook on their time in Japan, compared to other areas. They are looking to get a “real Japan” experience for several years.

See Mt. Fuji!

Interac Kanto North Company covers the area known as the “Kanto-Koushinetsu” region, which is a large span of prefectures to the north and west of Tokyo, the nation’s capital. In this part of the country, there are many hidden towns and an abundance of nature, including hot springs, mountains with upper slopes famous for skiing, and many other delights for you to discover.

Active Yokohama

Interac Kanto South is centrally located in Yokohama, the largest city in Kanagawa Prefecture. Just out of the Tokyo metropolis, Kanagawa is a metropolitan prefecture. Everything is only minutes away from the city centre by train, making it the perfect place to start your teaching career in Japan.

Full of Tradition

Interac Kansai & South Central covers a large part of the central region, based in Nagoya with offices in Hamamatsu and Osaka. There are a wide range of placements and school styles for teachers in Osaka, with many positions being in rural areas or suburbs. The kind of ALT we are looking for within the Kansai area is a teacher who will be looking to get involved in the local community and isn’t just requiring a ‘day job’.

World Heritage

The West Company area is one of the largest across Interac. It encompasses 16 prefectures ranging from Hiroshima to Fukuoka, including Saga and Okayama. This means there is a huge variety of activities and places to visit for anyone looking to teach English in Fukuoka or further!

Program Reviews

4.37 Rating
based on 71 reviews
  • 5 rating 46.48%
  • 4 rating 49.3%
  • 3 rating 1.41%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 2.82%
  • Benefits 4
  • Support 4.6
  • Fun 4.25
  • Facilities 4.3
  • Safety 4.75
Showing 1 - 8 of 71 reviews
Default avatar
Gerrit
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Japan has it all

Teaching teaching English in public schools is not everybody's cup of tea, however I have found being an ALT in Japan a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. I have had lots of laughs and fun, faced and overcame some unfamiliar challenges, and I count the last three years of working at Interac as an ALT as one of the happiest times of my life.

The Interac management staff whom I have been blessed to work with have all been super supportive and generous with their efforts to make my transition to, and settling into Japan as smooth as possible. The Interac policy of providing ongoing training throughout my employment was also of immense value.

As for Japan as a country, adventure and discovery awaits around every corner. From populous cities to beautiful nature, from exciting theme parks to historic castles, temples and shrines. Japan has it all and more.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Shirako, the male prostate gland from certain fish like cod, salmon, squid, or pufferfish. It has a kind of creamy, pudding-like texture and, if prepared well, not a very fishy taste.
Pros
  • Total immersion in a foreign culture.
  • Easy access to authentic Japanese food.
  • Natural hot springs.
Cons
  • High cost of living.
  • Very hot and humid summers.
  • No garbage bins on the streets.
29 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Lancy
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

ALT laifu

My experience as an alt was made unique by the fact that I had such a wonderful school and excellent aupport from the folks over at interac. The students were a joy to work with as they were eager to learn about my culture as well as broaden their English language skills. The community I found my self in was full of friendly people who did not shy away from helping me intergrate. Sure there are some people who act strangely to other cultures, but even they warm up with time.
I would reccomend this programme to anyone!

What was your funniest moment?
The funniest moment was when some 1st grader students asked if I eat a lot of chocolate cause of my skin color, haha
Pros
  • Great students and colleagues
  • Great country to explore
  • Mostly friendly community
Cons
  • Though communities can be friendly, some people can act quite strangely
  • Though Japan is beautiful its also expensive, so need to supplement salary with second Job if you want to do a lot of travelling
31 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Paul
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Living life as an ALT.

I started working as an ALT 7 years ago. My journey with Interac has been nothing but amazing. My first day at school is also the time I started loving Japanese schools. Kids are very lovely and though they don't speak English well, the way they try to communicate with you is admirable. It pushes me to give my best effort to provide engaging and fun way to learn English. Although, it is quite challenging at times as kids have a diverse personality, the key is to become very understanding, affectionate, friendly, and adaptable.

I live with my family in Okayama, located in western part of Japan. Being an ALT gives you more time for your family because of a good work-life balance. Your schedule will typically be from 8:15 pm to 4:45 pm and in other places it could be shorter, It will depend on where your assignment is. With my work as an ALT, I could really do a lot of things outside of work. I can still play with my lovely kids at home, movie time with my wife/family, go to gym for an hour or 2, and play basketball twice a week and join tournaments around Okayama prefecture.

What was your funniest moment?
At school where sometimes you will be asked to join the kids for lunch. The school's lunch is around 12:20 pm and sometimes earlier. But in Japan, the students prepare their own food and and it takes a lot of time. Normally, you will have to bring your food from the office. (By the way, the school lunch is my favorite part of my Japanese school life.) As I was on my way to the classroom where I will have my lunch with kids, I was very hungry. The very tasty looking food I was bringing tempted me to take a sip and taste the soup. I gave in, I tasted it. I didn't notice that the students are watching me from the second floor and they caught me doing it. It was kind of awkward but funny.

In my personal life when I was just learning Japanese. We were at our apartment and I was feeding my kids. Someone knocked on the door and I kind of panicked a little. I didn't know what to say, and I just said "Chotto matte. Kodomo wo tabemasu!" It literally means "Wait. I will eat children!" I didn't know how the person reacted and I am guessing he didn't take it literally. I just think he thought that I am a gaijin that didn't know what he's talking about.
Pros
  • Good work-life balance
  • Lots of time during summer breaks
  • Cultural awareness
Cons
  • Might move to different places/cities when the company loses contracts with the Board of Education.
  • Language barrier (could be developed)
33 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Kou
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

In Japan

A great adventure and life starts with an open mind and an open heart to all possibilities. Being an ALT has been a mixed bag of emotions from worrying if your skills as a teacher are lacking or if it is the students who are unwilling to learn and if the teachers understand your lessons. These moments are tense, anxiety-inducing days that test your limits as an teacher, adult and more importantly as a person. However, this honesty is so that you are prepared to try your best in the toughest and when the moments of triumph come they are wonderful and sweet.
You are an ambassador and a student, you must never be afraid. Always try new things and give everything into seeing both yourself and others in a different light.

What was your funniest moment?
As I was working in the back, making flashcards, the students break time had started. Normally, I would be go out and play with some students, but today I had forgotten some things. But when I was coming out of the back a group of 10ish students cheered for me, like I was Gandalf the Grey with fireworks. I went outside and they said, "Monkey tag".
It was through these small moments that they learn and have fun with me as a teacher and see me as a sort-of-uncle like figure.
Pros
  • Helpful staff
  • Good hours
  • Time-off in Spring, Summer, and Winter
Cons
  • Pay
  • Bureaucracy
  • Contractual placements
32 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Kou,

Thanks for your review! I know exactly what you mean about the emotional challenges of working as an ALT. Sometimes you really don't know if it's you or if it's the kids. But as you said the result is a change in perspective. I think a lot of people who join Interac are looking for change in perspective and that's a big sign of success as an ALT and in living in Japan.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Gerrit
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Japan has it all

Teaching English in public schools is not everybody's cup of tea, however I have found being an ALT in Japan a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. I have had lots of laughs and fun, faced and overcame some unfamiliar challenges, and I count the last three years of working at Interac as an ALT as one of the happiest times of my life.

The Interac management staff whom I have been blessed to work with have all been super supportive and generous with their efforts to make my transition to, and settling into Japan as smooth as possible. The Interac policy of providing ongoing training throughout my employment was also of immense value.

As for Japan as a country, adventure and discovery awaits around every corner. From populous cities to beautiful nature, from exciting theme parks to historic castles, temples and shrines. Japan has it all and more.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Shirako, the male prostate gland from certain fish like cod, salmon, squid, or pufferfish. It has a kind of creamy, pudding-like texture and, if prepared well, not a very fishy taste.
Pros
  • Total immersion in a foreign culture.
  • Reliable public transport and facilities.
  • Easy access to natural hot springs.
Cons
  • High cost of living.
  • Very hot and humid summers.
  • No trash cans on the streets.
31 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Frank
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Fountain of Youth.

Being here for almost 5 years has been much more meaningful than just working in another country. I've also learned about new cultures and different ways to live my life.

My life now feels more meaningful and I feel like part of the local and global community.
Being able to teach the future of Japan about my own cultural background will hopefully make a difference on them as well in the future and encourage them to study or work abroad as well. The friends and family I've met here has been life-changing and ill never forget the experiences I've had here.

I couldn't have asked for a better experience than being an ALT in Japan. As I continue to learn from the students, teachers and locals on a daily basis, I always try to keep an open-minded mentality and positive outlook on life.

I now live a much healthier lifestyle here as well and always get compliments of how better i look from people I knew in my home country. They always say that I've " found a fountain of youth". That alone lets me know that I made the right choice to live and work abroad.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Don't worry about knowing so much of the language. In Japan at least, it's best to come here with a clean slate and learn the language from the locals. Also, don't come here with learned stereotypes or knowledge you learned from social media or word of mouth about a certain country. Most of the time, you'll learn that information is false and coming here with an open mind will help you understand the culture and lifestyle.
Pros
  • Living a healthier lifestyle and better medical and health benefits.
  • The workplace is more encouraging and meaningful than it ever was in my home country.
  • Hospitality of locals has made my life less stressful.
Cons
  • I wish more mental health programs were here.
  • Some of the things that you have to pay for additionally with cost of living (I.e. NHK) can be tedious.
31 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Frank,

Thanks for the great feedback! Contributing to the future generation is one of the best forms of satisfaction that a teacher can have, and it's great you've been able to experience that.

About the improvement in health, this is something that I've experienced myself. Someone from my home country guessed my age as being 8 years younger than I really am! I was happy to hear that, but when I think about it, living a healthy life in Japan is much easier to do than in other countries. It's really one of the unknown benefits of living here.

Great photos as well, looks like you're having a blast!

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Romeo Dominic
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Major Plot Twist

My journey with Interac has been nothing short of serendipitous. What began as a detour from my original career path as a Japanese language teacher in the Philippines, due to the unforeseen circumstances of the pandemic, led me to unexpected yet fulfilling roles as a farmer, an Onsen Cleaner, and a Front Desk Clerk, before finding my place with Interac.

Transitioning into the role of an ALT wasn't my initial plan, but fate had other ideas. From the seamless document processing to the unwavering support of the Sapporo Branch Staff, Interac made the transition smooth and hassle-free. Despite joining mid-year and starting as an alternate ALT, I found myself embraced by the Interac community, where my dedication was recognized, leading to two fulfilling years as a Substitute ALT.

My experiences with Interac have been enriching and diverse. From stepping outside my home prefecture for extended periods to embracing new cultures and cuisines, every moment has been a testament to the warmth and support extended by the Interac team. Whether within Hokkaido or beyond, the commitment of Interac staff to the success and well-being of ALTs is palpable, fostering an environment where dreams can thrive.

As I continue my journey with Interac, I remain grateful for the opportunity to contribute and grow, always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. If you're considering joining Interac, rest assured that you'll be met with not just a job, but a community dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, no matter where you're from.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
To future applicants considering a position with Interac, my advice would be to embrace flexibility and open-mindedness. As my own journey illustrates, sometimes the unexpected paths lead to the most rewarding destinations. Be prepared to adapt to new roles and environments, and trust in the support and guidance provided by the Interac team. Additionally, take advantage of the opportunities for professional growth and development offered by Interac to enhance your skills and enrich your experience as an ALT. Finally, approach your application with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of students in Japan. Your journey with Interac could be the start of an incredible adventure filled with growth, learning, and meaningful connections.
Pros
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Supportive Community
  • Diverse Experiences
Cons
  • Initial Adjustment Period
  • Variable Placement Locations
  • Contractual Limitations
32 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Romeo,

Very glad to hear about you you were able to overcome the challenges of the covid era and make a comeback with Interac. You mentioned the Sapporo Office and the staff there, and I share your opinion of them; they are great people and do great work.

I agree with your opinion that working as an Interac ALT is a great way to achieve your goals in life. I hope that you make the best of your time with Interac and achive everything you dream to become.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Benjamin
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

How I got to Fukushima

I grew up in rural Australia, and went to a small school of about 70 students. When I was 10 we had a Japanese teacher come to my school, and teach us Japanese for 2 weeks. At the end of it, she gave me an award for the student who learnt the most, and was the most engaged. That's something that's always stuck with me, as I now have a large interest in Japanese culture. I knew I wanted to come here one day. As I got older, I wanted to think about what to do with myself, especially after I lost a really good job just before Covid lockdowns. During the lockdowns, I looked back to what I wanted to do, and what I enjoyed doing. One thing I did during my bachelor degree was assist foreigners with their assignments and homework. I would correct their English on projects, or be their presenter or voice actor for them. I thought, "Hey, teaching would be fun" so I studied to get a TESOL certificate. Shortly after being awarded my certificate, I learned about teaching programs in Japan and knew exactly what I wanted to do.

I chose Interac because of recommendations from job providers, friends, and internet personalities. They have been very helpful with handling all the difficulties one may experience moving overseas. They also regularly check in to see how I'm doing, and provide support when necessary.

I didn't know what to expect when I found out I was coming to Okuma in Fukushima, knowing what happened so many years ago, but I was surprised, and very excited to join the community here. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive, and they have taught me so much about Okuma, Japan, and Japanese culture. They also include me in festivals and activities, and greet me whenever they see me. As the town was rebuilding after the incident many years ago, it definitely has been a unique experience.

The community here is still small, so the number of students I teach is also small, but as more people move back to the area, more students come too. I really enjoy working where I do as I get to be creative, and the children and staff are great to work with. Fortunately, I didn't have many problems communicating as most of the other staff could speak or understand English to a degree. I currently teach children from Nursery, up to Junior High school, I also teach Eikaiwa (English conversation) classes for Junior High. The school building officially opened in August last year, before that we were studying in the town hall of Okuma. I assisted with the construction by translating the Japanese names of the classrooms and facilities, which have been put on the new signs around the building.

If I was to offer advice to new or aspiring ALTs, I would suggest making friends with other ALTs in your area, and say yes to every opportunity you are given, within reason. The staff, students and members of the community really appreciate when their ALT gives off the feeling that they want to be there and be involved when they can. I've done many things for the school, and community such as: gardening, farm-work, performed live music, acted in plays, and have taught students who wish to study abroad. Take the opportunity to work in Japan as it is very rewarding, and is a very fun experience.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Natto (fermented soybeans), Mekabu (seaweed) and Nameko Mushrooms. The tastes of these items are fine and quite enjoyable. But the slimy texture makes me sick every time. I don't think I can eat foods with this texture.
Pros
  • Helped me with difficulties moving overseas.
  • Helped me set up a car and apartment.
  • Helps me whenever I need assistance.
Cons
  • I sometimes get news or information later than others might.
  • I travel long distances often.
32 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Benjamin,

I'm fascinated with your experience learning Japanese as a child. I had a similar experience as a child as well, my family hosted Japanese college student when I was an elementary school student. I remember one crazy student named Yohichi who really freaked me out when he drank raw eggs with soy sauce! I also developed an interest in Japanese culture from childhood cartoons like "Star Blazers" and "Robotech," both of which were Japanese.

I think there were a lot of people who were in the same situtation as you during the lockdowns, and many people decided to make a radical change and come to Japan with Interac.

Diving into small town life in rural Tohoku is also something that I know really well. I was in Miyagi to start, so I know what you're talking about. Your advice is also 100% spot-on, building those relationships with people in your area is the key to a good experience as an ALT. Our work is one that allows such a high level of human interaction and it's a built-in perk of the job that some people miss.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Questions & Answers

Hi Jodie, Thanks for your question. We do have positions occasionally in Nagasaki Prefecture, as well as other locations in Kyushu. We cannot promise a position exactly in Sasebo, since the placement situation is fluid each season, however if you choose to make an application and express a desire to be placed in or near the area, we will make an effort to find a position you'll be able to agree...

Hi John, Thanks for your question. We do not have tenure limits, so you are welcome to stay as long as you like. There is also a career system within Interac for advancement within our organization into administrative positions such as Head Teacher, Management Trainee, Trainer, and Managing Consultant. Regards, Interac Head Office Tokyo

Hi Belinda, We do not set a certain number of years of teaching experience as a requirement. Having teaching experience of any kind will definitely help you in the application process, but we have teachers without any previous experience who are excellent in class. We provide thorough initial training so you'll feel confident about standing in front of students. If you have any other questions...

Hi Belinda, The requirements to apply as an Interac ALT are: -Be a native-level speaker of English -Have received an education conducted in English for at least 12 years -Have at least a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited university -Be a team-player that is professional, flexible, cheerful, and energetic -Be under 60 years of age We welcome people with teaching experience of any...