Student Criteria To participate in NP:J, students must meet the following criteria: sign and return a completed application and $250 down payment to your teacher before the early decision deadline of November 21, 2011. For the regular decision deadline, submit your application, down payment, and first installment, for a total of $1,186.25 before January 9. 2012. agree to take part in all study activities and return all questionnaires, worksheets, and evaluations. agree to observe and abide by the NP:J Rules and obtain a passport and a valid visa, if necessary, no later than FOUR months prior to departure for Japan.