Considering teaching abroad in Japan in 2025? Interac is the largest provider in the private Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) industry in Japan and has been around for 52 years. In this post, you’ll learn about teaching in Japan through Interac to see if it’s the right fit for you.
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What are the requirements to teach in Japan through Interac?
To be eligible to teach as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan through Interac, you must:
- Be a native-level English speaker
- Have received an education conducted in English for at least 12 years
- Have a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited university
- Be under 60 years old
- Be a team-player that is professional, flexible, cheerful, and energetic
- Be able to pass a criminal background check
- Have no visible tattoos
To improve your chances of getting hire, it’s also helpful to:
- Hold a driver’s license (this is highly encouraged due to the remote nature of some of the assignments)
- Have some previous teaching experience
- Be TEFL or TESOL certified (if you’re not, you can complete a TEFL here)
- Have studied another language at school or university
- Be able to speak some basic Japanese (click here to take a Japanese class on Preply)
Here are some additional tips on how to stand out during the Interac application process.
Do you fit the eligibility requirements? Apply to teach in Japan with Interac
What makes Interac different from other teach abroad programs in Japan?
The JET Programme is another popular assistant language teacher program in Japan. To learn about JET vs Interac, click here.
Features of the Interac Japan program
Size – Interac is the largest private ALT provider
Longevity – 52 years in the education business
Stability – backed by the Link & Motivation Group, Interac won’t suddenly go under like other private ALT providers
No Proration – some companies don’t pay during holidays, but Interac does
Top Quality Training – Interac’s training is top notch and trainers have even been requested to train JET teachers
Nationwide Support – Support system is the same across all regions of Japan, no matter where you are placed
Compliance – Interac is 100% compliant with legal requirements in the industry and holds a “Privacy Mark” ISO certification for the handling of personal information. Interac is a member of the Immigration Association so visa compliance is solid. This cannot be said for other private ALT providers.
What is it like teaching in Japan with Interac?
Teachers typically start around 8 am and teach 4-6 classes, have lunch with the kids, and have some desk time for lesson planning and preparation. The school day usually ends at 4pm.
Most teachers work with students between 1st and 12th grade, but some teachers are placed in preschool or kindgergarten classrooms. 40% are elementary only, 40% junior high, 10% senior high, 10% preschool or kindergarten.
You may be working in one school or traveling between multiple schools.
Assistant Language Teachers are expected to arrive on time (even better if you are 10 minutes early), be present and proactive during lessons, engage with students in English only, and anticipate the needs of your students.
A head teacher helps ALTs by checking in on them, offering regular training workshops, conducting in-class observations, and offering feedback. ALTs are welcome to reach out to their head teacher for help at any time.
What are the pros and cons of living in Japan as an English teacher?
Pros
- Stable society
- Low crime rate
- High efficiency
- Lack of corruption
- Fast internet
Cons
- Insular social system
- Language barrier
- Low English proficiency
- Housing difficulties for foreigners
- Earthquakes
How much do Interac teachers earn and what is the cost of living like?
Interac ALTs earn 2.4-3.0 million yen per year plus allowances for various locations and transportation. Some companies do not pay 100% of transportation costs.
The cost of living in Japan is generally lower than most places in the US or UK. Here’s an article to learn more about the cost of living in Japan.
Why should I teach in Japan through Interac?
If you want to work in Education with a focus on your students, Interac is the place for you! If you are looking for a reputable company that will support you with your arrival and the initial set-up process, Interac is a fantastic choice.
Ready to apply? Click here to apply to teach in Japan through Interac. Fill out this form to begin your Interac application today!
