Working at Nova: FAQ'S

I have received a lot of emails and responses on my website about the article I wrote about nova. Sorry if you emailed me and I didn’t get back to you I just started to receive so many emails that I couldn't respond to them all. I have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions I received. Please note all these answers are based on my limited experience that I had at Nova when I worked there for 5 months.

How did you get your private students and find a new job?
If I quit Nova do I lose my Visa?
Does Nova overcharge it’s teachers for housing?
How is the Nova cell phone?
What should I do to prepare for the interview?
Is it possible to study japanese/karate while working at Nova?
Can I really save money while working for Nova?
How much does stuff cost in Japan?

How did you get your private students and find a new job?

Well I started trawling the internet, asking other teachers and looking through some of the magazines written for foreigners living in Japan. Once you get here you will realize that there are loads of other schools in Japan besides Nova. It seemed to me that a lot of the small schools paid better and had more flexibility in your teaching style then I found at Nova. Bottom line is if you have any kind of drive to quit Nova its really easy to find a better job. Nova definitely helps getting your visa though.

If I quit Nova do I lose my Visa?

No, I was worried about this when I quit. But Nova in no way is tied to your visa. The only issue you may have (which I have now) is some of the smaller schools may not be able to help you with a Visa, so if you do leave Nova for another company make sure you ask about this in the interview.

Does Nova overcharge it’s teachers for housing?

Yes and No. Yes you do pay more than the local going rate but on the flipside of this; Yes I paid more than if I rented the apartment on my own. But I also didn’t have to pay any deposit money or key money. My apartment was furnished and if something broke I called up the english speaking accommodation section at Nova and tell them to fix it and it’s done. The rental system in Japan is fucked. For example to rent a 75,000 yen apartment you are going to need in the neighborhood of 350,000 yen to get in. Now once your in you still need to buy all your furniture PLUS a refrigerator and stove. This stuff is not included when you rent here

How is the Nova cellphone?

Terrible, DON'T take the cellphone. Overpriced and when I went to orientation the models they were selling were already out of date. They try to get you to buy the cellphone because you don’t have your alien card yet and can’t get a phone somewhere else. Did I mention Nova gets a kickback on all the phones? Yup. So do yourself a favor wait a couple weeks till you get your alien card and shop around you will get a better phone at a better price. You can survive 2 weeks without a cell phone.

What should I do to prepare for the interview?

Nothing special. Dress apropriately and just sell yourself that it won’t be any kind of problem to fill your contract. That's what they want to see: If we hire this person can they hack it a year?

Is it possible to study japanese/karate while working at Nova?

Its definitely possible.

Can I really save money while working for Nova?

Sure. The money is not bad. Ultimately though this comes down to you as a person. When you are working in your home country can you save money? If not then you probably wont save any money in Japan. I met all kinds of people that teach in Japan. Some have been here for a few years and got zip in the bank but go out every night or travel a lot or however they get their kicks. Then on the other side there are people who save 100,000 yen a month but do absolutely nothing. They work and eat dinner at home and rent videos. For me I was somewhere between the two. I liked to go out sometimes and do a bit of traveling but I also wanted to save some cash. I know it sounds ridiciously adultish but draw up a budget and stick to it and that way you will accomplish whatever it is you are trying to do.

How much does stuff cost?

I dunno tough question, here we go: Starbucks coffee 300 yen, Beer at an izakaya 400 yen, Plate of curry rice 400 yen, Ramen 400 yen, apple(1) 100 yen, Pair of shoes about 3500 yen, Nice dinner (sushi, appetizer, dessert, 1 drink) 5000 yen. Remember this stuff is all ballpark figures…..so take it with a grain of salt….

If you have something to add to this or have a different opinion please share it. Also if you have more questions post em here and ill do my best to answer them.

 

What do you think?   Great overview of what to expect from Nova. I'm set to depart in 6 weeks and will be living in Tokyo/Yokahama I think/hope. Any advice on purchasing electronics (i.e. a new laptop)in Japan?[[Akihabara if your near Tokyo or Den Den Town in Osaka -never been to Den Den though.]] Sub-question, is it hard to find new technology in export (english) models?[[ It can be, in Akihabara there is a shop called PC Success that has PC's with english OS's.]] Any advice would be appreciated arigato- Aaron - aaronross1@msn.com (3/3/2004 3:01:08 AM) Hi,Nova called me but I told them I will think about it over the next few months. What I was thinking "let me check out any horror stories off the web!" and I am glad I found your website - you have done a nice job in presenting the goods and bads of working for NOVA. 2 questions:What puzzles me is the cost of living. You mentioned that the apartment is furnished but we have to buy our own fridge and stove? Can you clalify that part of the information. If so what do you do with the stuff you brought? [[ Yes so I had to buy a stove, washer, refrig etc. When I moved I sold it back to a second hand shop. Essentially if your in it for the short term it might NOT be worth it to live in your own accomodations.]](Answer: In a Nova apartment everything is provided, even though the rent is higher, in your OWN apartment you have to provide EVERYTHING....)Secondly, these "drone" scare me, I am a friendly, nice outgoing person who would like my students to be comfortable around me and to able to talk me about anything. Having "drone" doesn't sound like I will enjoy the job as much. Am I right? [[Answer: Depends how you deal with these types really.... I always tried to be nice to 'em even though I didn't like them and it all kinda worked out.]]Thanks for reading my email. Skammer - skammer@sympatico.ca (3/5/2004 10:10:04 PM) Hi, I am applying to Nova and have my interview soon. I am reading your journal and it seems that your enjoying it down there. Oh, and thanks for this little FAQ answer a lot of question of mine. Though I have to ask, I was wondering on how I would go about getting a full work visa in Japan. For me its gonna to be a Holiday work Visa which is 6 months long and can be extend by another 6 months. But I am worried that I would love it there and want to stay. Most sites I have been to have me a bit confused on getting a work visa in Japan. So my real question is, how were you able to get yours? [[Answer: Immigration really wants to see 3 things: 1. A job contract 2. You have been paying taxes and 3. No Criminal activity --- With those 3 things your pretty much golden for a renewal.]] Thanks for your time and for all the info you posted. - robmartinez@rogers.com or darkmask@hotmail.com (3/17/2004 1:36:56 PM)http://www.monsterpixel.com hello, thanks a lot for all these informations, - as i want myself go to japan with nova :) - but i'm french and i guess it will be quite different... i was just wondering,do you have some pictures of this appartment you had with nova? And about the flights, did you have to take care of it or nova did book one for you? (i'm asking because i'm planning of coming wih a cat) :Dthanks ... for all! margot. - margot_tortue@hotmail.com (5/16/2004 10:17:09 AM)http://www.20six.fr/margot_tortue Dude reading all the stuff on your page was great for me. See about 5 months ago I moved from FT Lauderdale FL to Osaka.I met my wife in the US while she was studying english.So its about time for me to get a Job we live with here parents in a large home not huge but large and modern. Teaching english is of course the solution Im looking at.Reading a story like yours has got me actually considering NOVA because Before i didnt want to work there cause im a little older then you and was thinking it be nothing but kids working.I also do not have a Degree but seemed to think Nova may overlook this since I live here.Hers a couple of questions Id like to ask 1)Do you think it would have been easier for you to maintain your sanity if you werent constatly in a Nova life IE apartment friends ect...Question 2)Would you agree that the potential to save money is much greater for someone in my situation as i have a life and wouldnt feel the need to party with co workers to fend of the lonliness.You seem like a smart dude and I relate to your way of thinking Id be curious to hear your thoughts.Anyway great site and I also agree learning Japanese is THE HARDEST FUCKIN THING ive ever tried to do C=YA Ryan Kline - redrum352002@yahoo.com (7/15/2004 3:29:23 AM) I see that all of the posts are from 2004 and am not even sure if you are still responding to questions. Anyway, I am considering moving to Japan and teaching English after I graduate in May 2006. I might try to get my own housing that work with foreigners and don't ask for key money but I can't find any that accept pets. I really don't want to leave my dog behind. Any suggestions? - damaris.poggy@bryancave.com (2/24/2006 10:06:34 AM) Could you name some of the other companies you mentioned that teach english in Japan. Your web page is very helpfull. Thanks - mgrillo2000@hotmail.com (3/6/2006 10:56:42 PM) Just found out I have a job with Nova, very happy but also a little scared! - Claire Johnson (4/25/2006 4:29:56 AM)r0ckin@hotmail.com Hi,My wife and I were considering applying for the Nova teaching position in Japan & have no problems moving and living abroad, but we do have children and wonder if this would present a problem in being considered.Thanks alot! - locke_467@yahoo.com (5/14/2006 9:35:17 PM) were you penalized financially for leaving your contract early? [[No]] - R_Elizabeth_Foster@hotmail.com (5/19/2006 9:11:14 PM) yeah i was wondering if you were penalized in anyway for leaving NOVA early. you said you left after 5 months, and i though the contract was for a year. thanks - thegeckoj@hotmail.com (5/31/2006 3:52:43 AM) Great website. I have my Nova interview on Tuesday next week and I am excited and nervous at the same time.You have some really helpful information on here. Thank you! - Iain (6/7/2006 1:12:19 PM) This is a wonderful site. I was contacted by Nova today requesting an interview. I was wondering if they have anykind of testing during the interview process. - lamp.stand@hotmail.com / Scott (6/12/2006 7:52:39 PM) Is it possible to find accommodation that allows pets? - lindy_kirk@yahoo.com Lindy Kirk (7/10/2006 6:41:49 PM) I want to work in Tokyo only! is this possible? - sarah@bareknucklez.com (7/12/2006 2:46:15 PM) i'm sure this seems like a ridiculous detail to ask about, but will they let me bring my cat? not to work, i mean, but will it be allowed in the apartment? can you even take a cat into the country? - aquearat@aol.com (9/5/2006 5:32:50 PM) I really enjoyed reading your experience, as I am moving to Sanyo-Onada to teach in two weeks. I would like to get an email from you, so I could ask a few personal questions. Also, I was wondering where are some good surfing spots around Japan. - AndyManwsc420@hotmail.com / Andy Mutti (9/14/2006 12:33:34 AM) My girlfriend and I are going with Nova in late October and are wondering if pets would be allowed in a couples apartment or does it depend on which apartment you are in. - timmaht@yahoo.com (9/16/2006 3:19:21 PM) Hey mate!I worked for Nova for over a year so I hear your comments.About the cellphone... You can get one without an alien card! You just need the paperwork that tells people your card is being processed and you need your passport too. Worked for me on my first day no problem :) - mrgamecat@gmail.com (9/20/2006 9:22:45 PM) I'm currently with NOVA (for two months) and I can say that they are not the ideal company to work for. Albeit, I don't have a basis of comparison. They rip you off every chance they get it seems. Don't join their health insurance, I am paying 20 CD as opposed to 68 CD a month and I get more coverage. NOVA apartments are a rip-off. True, it's difficult to find furnished place with no key money and garuntor but it's not impossible. Just research. Yokosuka is hugely populated with American Navy so it's not like there are any services for English speakers. In addition, they are tricky with overtime (which is 125% or 135% max). You have to watch yourself because if you it does not go over 8 lessons they don't have to pay you OT, although they call it "OT". I've heard that NOVA has taken a turn for the worse in the past year. They are losing a lot of teachers. I can understand why. They will also try to keep you on "probation" and almost every teacher never gets off... so you get paid less for one more month. It's shady but I'm sure they all have their good and bad points. The job itself is pretty easy. But heads up... there's no such thing as an end of the year bonus (which is something many teachers all over the world heard at their interview) and also kids are NOT optional. So if you're not a kid fan... well, watch yourself then with NOVA. - beneknee@yahoo.ca (11/17/2006 9:13:21 AM) i love blacknovai love 13i'm h&ji'm danjer - jimijalal@yahoo.com (11/20/2006 8:56:09 AM)http://lightnova.net hey beneknee, which insurance company did you end up going with then? - sinchare@yahoo.com.au (11/29/2006 6:35:38 AM) Hello, I've been thinking about applying with NOVA, but like some of the other commentors, I'd like to hear more about how you got out of your contract. Thanks for sharing your experiences, they're very illuminating. - Will Self (11/30/2006 1:18:29 PM) Hi! I enjoyed your article because, for once, it wasn't a negative rampage about the corporate monster Nova. It actually offered some real insight and objectivity. I have thought about applying to teach English for many years now but something has always been holding me back...mostly boyfriends and the fact that I have finally reached a comfort zone where I live. For the past few years I have done my research and I have heard mostly negative things about Nova and not many things at all about other corporations such as Aeon, Geos, and a few others so it is hard to compare. I was disappointed and surprised with my rejection from the Jet Program after I worked really hard to write them an outstanding paper, in my opinion, but I heard the program isn't worth the trouble. I was about to lose hope until I heard about Nova. Of course, with any endeavor you choose to undertake there will be always the good and the bad. For starters, I realize that Nova will have its shortcomings and I will try not to be disillusioned by its lack of professionalism or organization. But at the same time I wanted to say a few things that many of your students made me realize. For one thing, I noticed that a lot of former Nova students had a hard time adjusting to culture shock and some treated it like it's a bad thing. I just want to say that living in a foreign country is exciting and eye-opening. I have lived most of my life overseas, mainly Europe and the Pacific, because my father is civil service so culture shock is not news to me. In fact, I have only been in the States for 6 years and I can't wait to go back overseas! I'm so sick of the town I live in, the limits on drinking age, fast food, and having to pay high auto bills and maintain a car. I am sick of seeing the same people and doing the same things. I used to live in Germany where I never got carded and I could go out to bars or clubs at any time of night, I was free to drink and not worry about driving plus have access to public transportation, be exposed to healthier and cultural foods, and have the ability to travel across Europe. I also lived in Guam where I had some fond memories of the food, culture, people and travels. I mean who wouldn’t want to live in a beautiful island surrounded by Asia? I had a blast! In fact, my mom still lives there and my sister and I are going to visit her in February. We are also going to Vietnam and it’s my first time! Overall, your 20s is the best time of your life. You should make the most of it. So what if Nova isn’t the best company to work for? It’s a great place to get your foot in the door if you want to travel, meet people, do new things, and get exposure to other similar companies. As for all the complaints about how Nova only thinks of Nova and not much else…what major corporation doesn’t? When I graduated college I was so bitter and disappointed. It took me forever to land a job in my Advertising degree and then when I did I was laid off! The next job I actually resigned from because I realized that I hated it and that my degree was pretty much worthless. Plus, I felt like I was treated as nothing more than a number. Welcome to America. All the corporations here just want to globalize and make that top dollar. I hate to say it but it’s true. Recently, I have come to a crossroads in my life. I have no idea what I want to do…should I go back to school or get a dull corporate job? I don’t have money to go back to school and I am not happy about being debt again. So why not join Nova soon and get a new perspective on life? I’m looking forward to it. - nimsue79@yahoo.com (12/7/2006 5:24:34 PM) It's interesting to read your comments, as I am a NOVA instructor and have been for 20 months... Just a note you might want to change the comments about the textbook, they were completly overhauled over the last two years. I think like anywhere or any company NOVA is what you make of it, what you put in you get out! - BD - Tokyo (2/3/2007 9:47:36 AM) Good article, bit of an eye opener. Although i must say most of the problems with Nova you will encounter it any workplace in the world. - luke_balmain@hotmail.com (2/23/2007 5:07:02 AM) please let me know how easy it is to break contract with nova after 5 months.[[very easy]] i was thinking that coming over with nova would be a great way to dip my feet into the culture, then quit...travel for a month and go home. [[If thats your plan, I would just skip the work part and just travel for a month.....save everyone a lot of grief.]]would nova hire me back again in the future if i broke my contract? [[uuuhhhhhh....]] would they charge me extra money for breaking a contract? [[uhhhhh.......]] or make it difficult for me to fly home/move out of thier apartments? [[uh..........]] i'm just worried my plan wont go as smoothly as i would like. please let me know what kind of problems could arise if i left early... oh also... if i request to work in tokyo will that insure that i work in tokyo? [[no]]thanks sooo much for your help... i don't know who else to ask - flotsam@flashmail.com (3/12/2007 10:25:11 PM) this is an great web site, i have just recently applied for NOVA and i have an inteview in London in April which i am very nervous about as i really want to get the job, can you give me any advise and tips and also around how much is a nova apartment to rent per month?? - lauramay77@hotmail.com (3/20/2007 7:46:57 AM) Good info here, i'm going for an interview with nova in a couple of weeks and even though hearing bad things and good things about nova, i appreciate that no one always likes where they work at?!i want to go for the experience and something different after completing my degree at uni. for a female 21 year old going away on my own, i think a good thing about nova is that you can get accomodation with other teachers and even fly over with some... can anyone tell me if this is true? it might change my mind if it isnt! and also, getting accomodation with nova, how expensive is it?any advice would be so much appreciated! - louise_boyle24@hotmail.com (3/22/2007 10:20:51 AM) I really enjoyed reading your short FAQ on Nova Group and I'm currently filling out an application form on their website. However, I have one question that I hope you can answer as soon as possible...I live in Windsor, Ontario, Canada and want to work at Nova Group in Tokyo, Japan. To get there, I'll obviously need to travel by airplane and whatnot, so here's the question:Who pays for that? I mean, do they send me to Japan as part of the job or do I send *myself* there and then find their office?[[ You pay for your own ticket. Nova will offer an agent, but I think it's cheaper to look on your own. If you tell them when you arriving they will meet you at the airport.]]Let me know whenever you can. Thank you. - egm_omar@hotmail.com (4/4/2007 8:17:35 AM)myspace.com/omarmousaly Wow, this is really helpful... I wish i found this before my interviewHow long did you have to wait before you got your confirmation that you're hired after the group interview...[[I think I knew within 2 weeks and yes they let you know by post either way. ]]They'll phone you either way right, to tell you if you got it or not... cuz it would suck if they didn't phone you if you didn't get hired... - jennifer_ng_@hotmail.com (4/6/2007 11:31:27 PM)http://jenniyah.livejournal.com Hey, I'm really happy I found your writing. I was wondering if they offer contracts under a year [[no]] /also I only have a journalism diploma, is that cool? [[You can have a BA in ANYTHING and it's good to go. Needs to be from a accredited college -- Not SpankUniversity.com ]] THanks so much. xo - jencialini@hotmail.com (4/18/2007 1:59:40 AM) Hi, I did Jet for a while and now have applied with Nova. I have some reservations going back since I left rather quickly with Jet due to many issues that i would rather not get into (nothing illegal or anything like that, just some b/s). i have been to japan three times for school and messed up my chance at jet, which i wish that i had stuck with.My main concerns are the money, the dresscode, and the crazy hours. Pretty much the basis for the whole program, ne? I think that Nova gives more support than jet and any thoughts or suggestions from you would be so greatly appreciated you would have no idea. I love japan as a whole but do not know if i am emotionally ready to go. PLEASE RESPOND!! honto arigato gozaimasu!!! [[ Is there a question in here somewhere?!?!]] - honour_huston@hotmail.com (6/12/2007 11:53:44 PM) hello, thank you for the information, have you heard about the recent problems Nova has been having in Japan with over booking students and teachers?[[Yes! I agree with the students on this one big time. Nova is definitely having some PR trouble at the moment. You can read all about it at The Japan Times website.]] - edwardmge@yahoo.com (6/17/2007 10:44:31 AM) wow, great site! i am think about trying out for a job in nova but i am doubtfull of my slim chances here in Hawaii. after reading some scripts from your intoduction i am happy to see that your from Hawaii too! thats great! did you go to UH Manoa? please drop me a line if you want to chat, id be interested in hearing about your stories- James - newjamesu@hotmail.com (6/23/2007 6:22:00 AM) wow. an amazing site - nnleto@yahoo.com (6/27/2007 4:09:23 PM) ATTN:FRIEND , I WORK IN REMMITANCE DEPARTMENT OF GOLF BANK TRUST BANKERS INTERNATIONAL HAS RECEIVED YOUR INFORMATION IN OUR DATA BASE.I WISH TO LET YOU KNOW THAT AFTER OUR RESEARCH WE FINALLY RESOLVE THAT YOU ARE THE RIGHFULL OWNER OF THE SUM OF 3.5 MILLION UNITED STATE DOLLARS DEPOSITED BY ONE OF OUR CUSTOMER WHO SAID THAT HE HAS A TRANSACTION WITH YOU BEFORE , A NATIONALITY OF YOUR COUNTRY AND ALSO YOUR RELATION, NOW HIS DIED.ON PERSONAL INVESTIGATION, I DISCOVERED THAT THE DEPOSITOR DIED IN THE BOMB BLAST IN IKEJA CANTONMENT ON,27 ST OF JAN 2002. WE ONCE AGAIN CONGRATULATE YOU?YOU ARE REQUESTED TO SEND US THIS VITAL INFORMATION: 1.YOUR ACCOUNT INFORMATION2.A COPY OF YOUR DRIVING LICENSE OR INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT.3.YOUR FULL NAME AND CONTACT4.YOUR HOUSE AND TELEPHONE NUMBER/FAX NUMBER.5.YOUR OCCUPATION. FOR FURTHER SECURITY REASONS,WITH THIS WE CAN GO AHEAD TO PROCEED ON TRANSFERRING YOUR FUND TO YOU, WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT. N/B:YOU ARE TO CONTACT BARRISTER ABEL MONDAY OUR ACCREDICTED ATTORNEY FOR MORE INFORMATION.EMAIL(barr_abel.monday@yahoo.com)THANKS JEFFLIN DESMOND EDWARD [[Wow!!! thanks Jefflin that is amazing I am rich! for your extreme kindness I am going to enroll you in my kick ass english class at no charge. Douche.]] - DESMOND EDAWRD (7/13/2007 12:50:19 PM) This website is an excellent idea. I hope it is expanded. - Aaron Jensen/ gokiburi_ninja@hotmail.com (7/22/2007 12:07:24 AM) would you recommend Nova to other people? Overall was ur experience with Nova good or bad? do they try to screw you around with money? - b.maclellan@hotmail.com (8/16/2007 1:08:06 PM) What repercussions are common if you quit NOVA before the end of your one year contract? Is it easy to quit and leave? - take1995@hotmail.com (9/5/2007 6:16:06 PM) All you have to do is substitute the name of any large english language chain with nova and you'll get the same responses. Cell phones, accommodation, wages, salary, textbooks.Those problems are quite common. Some work conditions are common no matter what the country. If you teach adults be prepared to teach them before they begin work AND after. The start finish times may vary but the pattern is the same. If you don't like that then teach kids - usually evenings only and daytime during holiday times. Live close to where you work. Schools usually advrtise travel times from home to work. To be safe, double the travel time. If you live otuside the city, double the time you're given to travel into the nearest large city. It's common recruiting logic to quote travel times of less than 60 minutes unless you're really far from a big city. Also remember two things: There are good schools out there, and people usually post only the bad stuff about a school or a country. You have to possess patience to live ina foreign country, so try to separate the difficulties of cultural adjustment to your work situation. - Dogpound (9/29/2007 11:07:06 PM) Two more peices of information might be helpful. I said comments / problems with cell phones were quite common. When you arrive, you can buy a pre-paid cell phone. Ask around and find out where the nearest US army base / foeigners area / electronics area is. There should be less expensive and/or used cell phones for sale. You can get a regular phone account AFTER you get your alein card. Get some training. CELTA is a great certificate for first time teacheers. Most courses are in intense 30 days but after that you'll be mostly prepared to teach and you won't have as many surprises in the classroom. Finally log on to efl-law. It's a great web site serving english teachers in many countries. It provides solid legal advice and information. That's three bits of advice but oh well. - dogpound (9/29/2007 11:35:29 PM) I am going to be working for Nova (apparently?) as you may know they are in shit creek at the moment. Could you recommend any other companies to work for because I am very unsure as to what is going on with Nova. - bobbymacca@hotmail.com (10/2/2007 6:43:15 AM) www.letsjapan.org for the skinny on what's gong down at NOVA - mukodai@gmail.com (10/4/2007 2:10:26 AM)