Job Discussion Forums

[Sabine]

Hi,

Do all ALT positions start in April, all at the same time?
If I get offered a job, I would like to start at the end of April/beginning of May and I was just wondering if that would be posible or if everybody has to start at the same time.
I have asked Interac but am still waiting to hear from them.

Thanks!

Sabine

[Nismo]

It depends on the school, but typically (mostly) school years begin in April, which logically means that positions begin at the same time (or a few weeks prior to, as a preparatory cushion).

[lajzar]

Generally, it would be within the first half of April.

[spidey]

Sabine,

I agree with the first two posters.

You should also know that the school year is divided up into 3 semesters. Beginning with (Apr to mid-July) (Sept to late-Dec.) (early-Jan to mid-Mar.) Yes, the bulk of the jobs typically start in April, however, there is usually a need at the beginning of each semester.

S

p.s. You might be waiting for a long time to here back from Intrac. They have a reputation of not being too reliable.

Good luck

[TokyoLiz]

Sabine,

Interac has an orientation in Tokyo for most of its new hires just at the end of March. This might give you as much as a week before work starts. Most schools will be going into session in the first or second week of April.

[homersimpson]

Usually you can expect to start the first or second week in April. However, sometimes there are positions that haven't been filled in late April and early May. You just have to keep your eyes open.

[prlester]

the only time i have looked for jobs in japan is in the "off season" and it stinks. How much easier is it to get ekaiwa/alt jobs in the april time?

[JimDunlop2]

Much worse to be job hunting in April.

Remember, school BEGINS in April. This means you need to worry about getting HIRED anytime between January and March.

At the BoE where I work, most of the positions are JET-like -- they start in September and run until the next July. This means that hiring takes place in May. That's about 3.5 months before the position actually begins.

[prlester]

what do most alt employers look for experience, reference wise? Given the differences in what we consider a good teacher, I find it hard to see a JLT give a glowing recommendation to a gaijin.
other than this site, gaijinpot, ohayo sensei, what's the best way to look for jobs while residing in japan? what positions offer visa extensions or change visa types? Is that unusual? thanks.

[Glenski]

[Willy_In_Japan]

In the off chance that someone starts an ALT job at the start of April and bails, you could be an erergency replacement, but I wouldn't count on it.