Teach English In Japan Without A Degree

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Lillian Said:

How possible is it to teach English in Japan without a degree, but with a CELTA?

We Answered:

Most jobs in Japan need a degree for visa purposes. It's not impossible to find one without a degree but it's not easy.

Probably the best route is to look at getting over there for a month or so and trying to find work by visiting schools - perhaps in the less popular areas or towns - and picking up work on the q.t.

Arlene Said:

Can I teach English in Japan without a college degree?

We Answered:

The 4-year university degree requirement is for the "instructor" work visa, so if you already have a visa, that doesn't apply to you. However, you may have trouble getting your foot in the door at established schools without a degree. You will not be able to get a job in a regular public or private elementary, junior high, or high school, for example.

If you want to teach at an eikaiwa (English conversation) school, I'd suggest going to a school in your town (where do you plan to be?) in person and asking about it.

An alternative is teaching private lessons.

Jennie Said:

Is it possible to teach English in Japan without having a undergrad?

We Answered:

In order to actually live in Japan, you need a visa. And to get a visa, you either have to be studying at a school in Japan, or working at a company in Japan. School costs a lot of money up front. To get a working visa, you MUST have at least an undergrad level degree from an accredited university. You have to provide proof in order to get your visa.
Otherwise, even if you came to Japan, you would only be allowed to stay 3 months - and if you are caught working on a tourist visa, you are barred from entering Japan again. (Along with being arrested, put in jail, and fines galore.)

I do not recommend trying to do something illegal. If you want to work in Japan - get a degree, or save up money and get the degree *in Japan*.

Of course - there is one way to do it without a degree - marriage to a Japanese citizen. But I highly doubt that`s what you are thinking of.

There is no way for a US citizen to do so otherwise. The other answer you got must be someone who lives in one of the work-holiday countries - the US isn`t one of them.

Ben Said:

can i teach english in japan without degree?

We Answered:

Yes. The main qualification for most English teaching jobs is being a native speaker. Some places may even look more seriously at you since you have a spouse visa, and plan on staying in Japan long term.

I had no experience teaching English, but got hired at a small Eikaiwa (English language school). Worked there for a year, getting experience, then found a job at a Kindergarten. I'll start my fifth year there next month.

Here's a good place to start looking for a job
http://www.gaijinpot.com/

Georgia Said:

If I marry a japanese girl in japan, can i then teach english there without a degree?

We Answered:

"But seriously, why would anyone want to learn anything from someone with no college degree or academic credential whatsoever?"
--Shido

Actually I kind of agree with this, but as long you don't go around broadcasting the fact, most people will simply assume that since you're a teacher, you did.

And really in some parts of Japan even now, in the recession, the demand is so high for English teachers they will take anyone, and I mean for full time positions in Jr. High and Elementary schools.

In my travels in rural Japan, I met a French guy whose English was terrible, and he told them he was a "native speaker," and worked as a teacher. (ES) Another time I've met a Taiwanese English speaker whose pronunciation was much worse than her students', (ES and Kindergarten.)

And teaching in Japan, depending on the job, is a lot of form without true content. I wish Shido was correct, that is was a serious job, it is serious, but not intellectually. Being quick and able to explain cultural/language points, help students overcome weaknesses, and having basic people skills are much more important than a Masters Degree, I think.

Can you handle a crying 4 year old who throws his book at you and says he hates English? I know TEFL Masters degree candidates who've never had that experience. Any mother of children would know how to treat this situation, degree or not.

Whether or not you are a good teacher has to with practical ability-- equal parts heart and intellect. That said, why not just get a damn degree? You can get one of those online jobs, they aren't too demanding. Anyway, teaching while getting your degree is perfectly acceptable. Private students and teaching gigs are always available.


And buddy, you do not want to be married in Japan, living there without a degree. It is possible to teach, and to find a job. BUT VERY DIFFICULT. If you cannot speak the language, don't have a degree and are a dependent of a Japanese wife, you are in a precarious position. I can tell you where that marriage will end up. Learn this Japanese word, because when she comes home from work and you're drinking beer on the couch in you pajamas this is what she'll serve you 離婚届

Kelly Said:

can an american teach english/ tutor in english in japan without a college degree?

We Answered:

Some people are saying YES and some are saying NO.

The answer is Yes and No
DEPENDING ON YOUR VISA STATUS.

1. Are you in Japan now?
Do you have a Visa (other then Tourist/Temporary Visitor) to be in Japan?
SOFA does not count.

If your answer is NO, then NO you cannot get a Work Visa in most cases without a Bachelors Degree.

2. If the answer is YES (You have a Visa or will get a Visa other then Work or Temporary Visitor) example you are a married to a Japanese Person, or you are married to a foreigner who is living Japan legally (again who is not a Temporary Visitor/Tourist) then Yes one can teach without a degree. This is mainly because they are allowed to already be in Japan and don't require work Visas.

You cannot teach or tutor legally without the proper visa that allows you to work.

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