It has been a long process, but gradually it is becoming increasingly possible to JETs to obtain leave for Japanese language courses or other courses such as teaching skills programs. The process for obtaining leave differs from place to place, but generally involves (in the cases of ALTs) obtaining approval from the school and BOE.

In some case leave is only granted for 2 weeks, in others it may be sufficient to enable the applicant to enroll in a 4 week ultra-intensive program such as Acceleration.

Improving your Japanese proficiency enables better communication with students, teachers and staff in your workplace, as well as increase your independence. It also enables a better understanding of Japanese culture.

Note 1: Obtaining study leave can in some cases take time - and by the time it is granted it is possible that the program you wish to enrol in is already fully subscribed, or the most popular accommodation options already booked out. At Yamasa we advise you to apply first, pay the refundable 25000 yen deposit, and then send the remaining tuition after leave is granted (or when the 35 day payment deadline arrives - which ever comes first).

If study leave is NOT granted, then for the programs offered in Okazaki a 100% refund is easily obtained as per the Refund Policy. At this stage our sister school in Sapporo is unable to offer the 100% refund, so if there is any doubt regarding your ability to complete the program we advise booking the Okazaki options.