Top 7 Questions asked in ALT Interviews

If you want to get a teaching job in Japan, first you have to pass the interview. All ALT companies are looking for candidates with more than just English skills. They are looking for bright, communicative cultural ambassadors.

Of course, interviews can be nerve-wrecking. But if you are prepared, you will have no need to worry. Read our best advice below from our very own Recruitment Manager. Get that ALT job in Japan today!:

Why do you want to be an ALT?

We know Japan is a cool place to live. But we want to know if you have a genuine interest in teaching (not just watching anime!). Be sure to discuss your interest in students and why you enjoy teaching. 

How to answer: 

• Express how and why you will make an impact on students. 

• Discuss why teaching is a good match for your skills and personality.

What are your goals for your time in Japan?

We want to learn if a candidate is motivated and interested in living in Japan long-term. Even if your true goal is to find a girlfriend, instead focus on how being an ALT will fit into your life goals. 

How to answer:

• Use this opportunity to discuss any future career goals or self-improvements.

• This may include Japanese language skills, working in international education or moving to a different industry within Japan.

What do you know about the ALT role?

There is not much point in applying for a position that you do not understand. We want to be sure you know how the role will differ from Eikawa or other teaching jobs. 

How to answer: 

• Take some time to research what is required of the ALT role and typical daily duties. 

• MEXT has some great instructional YouTube videos for ALTs about teaching in Japan.

Would you prefer working in a kindergarten, elementary school or junior high school?

 At RCS,  we offer positions at 3 levels: kindergarten, elementary school and junior high schools. Each of these academic levels have pros and cons. Use this time to be honest and justify your preferences.  

How to answer: 

• Explain which levels you have the most experience with

• Discuss why your top choice is your favorite

• Detail why your top choice is the best match for your skills. 

Do you have any food allergies? / Can you eat the school lunch?

Often candidates will want to appear open and accepting of the idea of school lunch. It is easy to say ‘Yes, I can eat school lunch’ to appear agreeable. 

However, school lunches are a big deal in Japan. Each meal is meticulously planned to be nutritionally balanced. So any food waste is not tolerated. 

Also, school lunch fees are not flexible and it is difficult to cancel them short-notice. You will be charged for any meals you do not like or cannot eat. 

 If you do not eat certain meat, vegetables or generally a picky-eater, please be truthful. It will save a lot of hassle in future!

How to answer: 

• Please be clear about any allergies, including the severity of your allergy. Traces of seafood and nuts can be extremely difficult to avoid.

• If you think you may not be able to finish all school meals, state your preference to bring your own bento instead – many teachers do!

 

How would you handle cultural differences in the workplace?

It is not just the language barrier that can cause miscommunication. Cultural differences in communication, teaching styles and presentation can cause issues. ALT companies are looking for reassurance that you will show respect, adaptability and cultural sensitivity in schools.

Of course, we ask all school staff to be considerate of our ALT’s culture too! But as foreigners, we are guests in Japan. It is our responsibility to adapt. 

How to answer:

• Demonstrate your open-mindedness

• Give specific examples from your past experience, if you can.

What do you like to do in your free time?

This is a chance to really show us your personality. If you are an extrovert that loves social gatherings and being outside in nature, let us know! If you are more of an inside-person that enjoys video games and books, talk to us about it. We want to know who you are outside of work too.

How to answer:

• Let us know what you enjoy doing regularly to relax

• Be honest and authentic. We don’t need to know if you went skiing once 10 years ago. 

• You will receive bonus points for any hobby that includes the local community!

Being an ALT in Japan is a rewarding opportunity to live abroad, expand your resume, and make a lasting impact on students’ lives. We hope this helps you ace that interview.

Author: Beth, Recruitment Manager

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about education, love Japanese culture, and eager to make a difference in the classroom, we want to hear from you.

Check out our APPLY page for more details on how to join our supportive team