Lori Meadows
Japan has become an increasingly popular destination for international students, with the country reporting 298,980 international students as of May 2023, achieving its goal of 300,000 foreign students two years ahead of its 2020 target. The country offers a range of benefits for international students, including scholarships, English-taught degree programmes, and relatively straightforward post-graduation career opportunities. However, there are concerns about the quality of international student admissions, with some criticising the overemphasis on quantity rather than quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students in Japan as of May 2019 | 298,980 |
| Percentage of international students from Asia | 95% |
| Number of students from China | 114,950 |
| Number of students from Vietnam | 72,354 |
| Number of students from Nepal | 24,331 |
| Percentage of international students from North America and Europe | <4% |
| Cost of an undergraduate degree at a Japanese university per year | 800,000 JPY |
| Cost of a postgraduate degree at a Japanese university per year | 850,000 JPY |
| Average cost of university accommodation per year | 144,000 JPY |
| Average cost of living in Japan for a single person per year | 130,000 JPY |
| Number of foreigners working in Japan as of October 2017 | 1.28 million |
| Percentage of international students among foreigners working in Japan | >20% |
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What You'll Learn
International students boost Japan's economy
Japan has been actively working towards attracting more international students since the 1980s. The country has set a goal of increasing the number of international students to 400,000 by 2033. This is a part of Japan's strategy to boost its economy by encouraging top international graduates to stay and contribute to the workforce.
Additionally, international students contribute to Japan's economy by participating in exchange programs and short-term study opportunities. The Japanese government, local governments, and organizations like the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offer scholarships and exchange programs for international students. This not only boosts the economy through tuition fees but also exposes Japan's culture, traditions, and lifestyle to the world, enhancing its soft power.
Furthermore, Japan is focusing on attracting international students to meet its sustainability goals, particularly in the energy and transportation industries. The country is experiencing a growing demand for skills related to green-driven occupations, such as digital technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy projects. By attracting international students with these skill sets, Japan can support its economic growth and development in these sectors.
However, Japan has faced challenges in its efforts to attract more international students. The country's admissions system differs from the rest of the world, with most universities accepting students only in April and demanding a high level of Japanese proficiency. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp drop in the number of international students, and Japan has had to tighten regulations for universities admitting international students, which may impact its ability to achieve its goal of 400,000 students by 2033.
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Japan's unique culture and language are valuable skills
Japan has a unique and fascinating culture that has been shaped by various influences over the millennia, from prehistoric ancestral groups to Chinese influences and Western influences. Japanese literature, architecture, music, and fashion all showcase distinct characteristics that set them apart from Western and other Asian cultures.
Japanese literature, for instance, has evolved into a distinct style, with works like "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu during the Heian period gaining worldwide recognition. Japanese architecture, while initially influenced by Chinese architecture, has developed unique aspects, such as traditional gardens influenced by Zen ideas. Traditional Japanese music is based on the intervals of human breathing and often slides between notes, a feature not commonly found in Western music.
Japan's indigenous culture and its ability to absorb and integrate foreign influences have resulted in a rich and diverse cultural landscape that continues to influence the world. This cultural distinctiveness is a valuable skill and asset for international students studying in Japan. By immersing themselves in Japan's unique culture, international students gain a deeper understanding of Japan's societal norms, values, and ways of thinking. This cultural knowledge can enhance their academic studies, especially in fields related to humanities, social sciences, and arts.
Furthermore, proficiency in the Japanese language is a valuable skill for international students. Japanese is known for its complex and nuanced nature, with a rich vocabulary and unique grammatical structures. Learning Japanese can improve cognitive abilities and enhance cultural understanding. Fluency in Japanese can open doors to various career opportunities, not only in Japan but also internationally. Many Japanese companies seek graduates with a strong command of the Japanese language and an understanding of Japan's corporate culture. Additionally, proficiency in Japanese can be advantageous for those seeking admission to prestigious MBA or other postgraduate programs, as it showcases a unique skill set and cultural competency.
Japan's scholarship programs, exchange programs, and the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) also demonstrate the country's commitment to attracting international students. The EJU simplifies the admission process, and while most university courses are in Japanese, some universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in English.
In conclusion, Japan's unique culture and language offer valuable skills and opportunities for international students. By embracing Japan's cultural richness and language proficiency, students can enhance their academic and career prospects, gaining a competitive edge in an increasingly globalized world.
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Japan's admissions system is different from the rest of the world
Japan's higher education system has been influenced by various Western countries, including Britain, France, Germany, and the United States, resulting in a unique model that serves its national interests. The country's admissions system differs from the rest of the world in several ways. Firstly, most universities in Japan only accept students for matriculation in April, marking the start of the Japanese academic year. This differs from the admission processes in countries like Canada and the United States, where entrance to universities is primarily based on grade point averages and percentages.
Japanese universities also demand a high level of Japanese proficiency from their applicants. While there has been a recent increase in English-taught degree programs, most university courses in Japan are conducted in Japanese. To be accepted into these programs, individuals must pass the N1 or N2 JLPT examination in addition to meeting the standard academic requirements. The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) is another standard examination that simplifies the admission process for international students. The EJU covers Japanese language, science, mathematics, and general knowledge about Japan and the world. It is held twice a year in Japan and selected cities worldwide, and it can be taken in Japanese or English, except for the Japanese language section.
Additionally, the cost of higher education in Japan is relatively affordable compared to other countries. The tuition fees for the first year at Japanese universities range from 820,000 yen for national universities to 1,100,000 yen for private universities, excluding specialized programs. In contrast, universities in the United States and Britain can cost up to 4,900,000 yen and 3,600,000 yen per year, respectively.
Japan also offers various scholarship programs for international students, provided by the government, local organizations, and private entities. The country's unique corporate culture and the high demand for graduates with fluency in Japanese create attractive career prospects for international students. The switch from a student visa to a working visa is relatively straightforward for university graduates, making Japan a desirable destination for those seeking international career opportunities.
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International students face visa challenges
International students play a significant role in Japan's society and economy, with more than 20% of 1.28 million foreigners working in the country as of October 2017 being legally classified as students. However, international students face several visa-related challenges when pursuing their academic goals in Japan.
Firstly, international students must navigate the visa application process, which can be complex and time-consuming. They are required to obtain a "Student" visa by applying for an authorized Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at a regional immigration services bureau in Japan. In most cases, the student's school will act as their proxy during the application process. The specific period of stay granted to international students is determined by the Minister of Justice for each applicant, not exceeding four years and three months. Additionally, students must carry their residence card at all times and register as a resident at the municipal office administering their address within 14 days of arrival.
Another challenge arises from the language requirements for visa applications. While some universities offer courses taught entirely in English, most university courses in Japan are primarily in Japanese, requiring international applicants to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the language. This language barrier can be a significant obstacle for students from non-Japanese-speaking countries.
Furthermore, international students may encounter challenges related to the timing of admissions. Unlike many other countries, Japanese universities typically only accept new students in April, at the beginning of the Japanese academic year. This can create difficulties for international students who need to synchronize their applications and enrollment with the limited intake period.
Additionally, visa challenges may arise for international students seeking employment opportunities in Japan after graduation. While switching from a student visa to a working visa is relatively straightforward for university graduates, the requirements for obtaining a working visa in management-track positions at major corporations can be stringent. Foreign students often need at least a master's degree to secure such positions.
Lastly, international students should be aware of the potential impact of their country's visa exemption arrangements with Japan. While visa exemptions can facilitate shorter stays, they may also come with specific conditions. For example, individuals from countries with visa exemption arrangements may need to return to their home country after passing an exam or within a certain period to obtain a "Student" status of residence.
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Japan's universities need to compete globally
Additionally, Japanese universities should focus on building global standards into their curriculum, instruction, and governance. This includes offering internationally-recognized degrees and highlighting the international career prospects of their graduates. By doing so, Japanese universities can position themselves as attractive options for students who are considering studying abroad.
Furthermore, Japanese universities can enhance their appeal by providing support services for international students, such as offering scholarships and exchange programs. They can also emphasize the ease of switching from a student visa to a working visa in Japan, which is a significant advantage over other destination countries. By addressing these areas, Japan's universities can effectively compete globally and attract a diverse range of international students.
Japanese companies are increasingly looking to hire foreigners, and graduates with experience in Japan's unique corporate culture can be attractive candidates for prestigious MBA programs. Therefore, Japanese universities have a responsibility to prepare their students for success in a globalized and competitive world, both domestically and internationally. This includes helping students develop fluency in Japanese language and culture, which can be a valuable asset in various industries.
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Frequently asked questions
The EJU is a standard examination that simplifies the process of admission to Japanese universities for international students. The exam covers Japanese language, science, mathematics, and Japan and the world. It is held biannually in Japan and selected cities outside of Japan.
Japan offers a relatively easy transition from a student visa to a working visa for university graduates. Additionally, Japan is a desirable place to live and work, with many job opportunities in industries such as electrical technology, banking, pharmaceuticals, and tourism. International students can also take advantage of scholarship programs provided by the Japanese government, local governments, and private organizations.
Most university courses in Japan are only available in Japanese, and a high level of Japanese proficiency is typically required for admission. Additionally, there may be cultural differences that make the experience of working for Japanese companies less alluring to international students.
As of May 1, there were 298,980 international students studying in Japan, with students from Asian countries accounting for 95% of that number. The majority of these students were from China, followed by Vietnam and Nepal.
