Pros
Jet Programme for me was a life changing experience. I loved my time there and made priceless memories and life-long connections with local friends and my fellow JETs. I enjoyed plenty of culture there, and had plenty of time and money to travel during holiday periods. Salary for an ALT position in Japan is decent. However, in 2025 and with the current exchange rates, it is debatable if it's really worthwhile for those trying to save. You certainly make enough to live in Japan and still enjoy traveling, experiences, etc. Every other aspect of this job is as they call it "ESID." My review is of my own personal experience. I was an ALT for 4 years in a big city. JOB: My teachers were very friendly and supportive. The workload was very light and I was mostly an interactive assistant in the classroom, with little prep beyond games and occasionally exercises. No issues with taking annual leave, getting support (admin, medical, etc). The kids were generally wonderful and welcoming. (Senior High)
Cons
Where I was placed, we got very little assistance in finding our own apartment. My assigned real estate agent essentially told me since I didn't pay upfront a month in advance before even arriving, that I would be out of luck until Sept. No one else assisted me with this. I ended up finding a place on my own, but had to stay in a hotel for some time since we arrive a short period before Obon. JOB: Mentally very uninspiring. Once I had the first year down, I repeated my materials every other year after (the teachers like their routine). I have also heard people on the other end being overworked and left alone in their classes. A wide and varied experience amongst JETs. SUPPORT: CLAIR and JET Programme do not support you much beyond the first week / month you arrive. During my time there, there was very little in terms of mental health support and mediation, should you and your school or board disagree on things. Think of JET / CLAIR as a recruitment agency that pays for your flights and initial accommodation.