Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got answers.
Can I sign up if I am not living in Japan currently?
No. Please sign up on our website after you arrive in Japan, as you need to provide a local address and phone number. Records for teachers not living in Japan will be automatically deleted.
Can you help me get a visa?
No. We only accept teachers who are currently living in Japan with a valid visa. We are unable to respond to any questions regarding visa issues.
Can you answer questions about how to get to Japan?
No. Several other web sites may help to cover this topic. For example: teachinginjapan.com or ohayosensei.com. Please sign up with us after you have arrived in Japan and have a valid telephone number and living address.
How long do I have to be in Japan to register?
Four months. Since most of our students want to study for at least a few months and pay for teacher contact information, only teachers who are available for at least four months can sign up.
What do I need to start?
First, get organized. You'll need:
- A schedule book
- File folders for each student/lesson you'll teach
- To become persuasive and friendly on the phone
- To learn the different transportation routes to where you'll meet students.
- Needless to say... teaching materials
You'll need to provide a good generic first lesson for different levels of students to convince them that you are worth returning for more lessons. In addition, you may want to have some business cards for a more professional look.
How do we find students?
Most of our students respond to ads in local magazines and newspapers or through our Japanese language website.
What should I respond to the student when he/she contacts me?
You should probably make the necessary preparations in advance before you get the first call. We suggest that you:
- Decide the meeting place that is well-known and easy to get to.
- Decide your available teaching schedule (date/time).
- Explain to students that you'll meet them the first time and how to get to your study location. It is also good to ask if they've studied before.
It shows that you are interested in teaching and that you are thinking about their level. Since many students want to ask about your method of teaching, you'll need to be ready to explain that too.
How/What should I teach?
Whatever you feel comfortable with. Some teachers prefer professionally published textbooks, some use materials they've made, some use different copies from different books. Using professionally published textbooks seems to be most common.
How should I make schedules with students?
It's up to you. You can give students a fixed schedule each week, or let them choose the next lesson time at the end of each lesson. Letting students decide their next lesson time keeps things flexible. While it works well with only one student, it may be best to have a fixed schedule for a class with three or more members.
How does lesson cancellation work?
We help to schedule both the trial lesson and the first paid lesson. Subsequent lessons should be freely scheduled by both teacher and student. Generally, both parties should notify one another at least 24 hours in advance to cancel. In case of cancellation within 24 hours, the lesson fee could be charged at the next lesson, but we will not guarantee whether the charge will be paid.
What if a student doesn't come back?
Don't take it personally. Many students are "Browse" for the right fit. If they don't return, it could be for any number of reasons. Keep your composure, wish them luck, and keep files of old students, as they sometimes return later.
How do I get paid?
The timing to ask for payment is up to you. You can ask at the beginning or at the end of the lesson. Payment is made directly from the student to you in cash.
Who pays for textbooks?
Teachers and students are responsible for buying their own textbooks. After you recommend a textbook, the student is responsible for purchasing it. Please ensure the book is available at a major bookstore like KINOKUNIYA or online at a site like amazon.co.jp.
If I meet my student at a cafe, who should pay for drinks?
Both teacher and student should pay for their own drinks.
If I'm asked for a receipt, what should I do?
If a student asks for a receipt, you can download and use our official form. Please write your name on it and give it to the student at the end of each lesson.
Download Receipt FormWhen should I delete my profile before I quit?
Please provide at least one month's notice. Since students want to study for at least a few months, please delete your record from the database at least one month before you stop teaching or leave Japan.