Savanna Hoffman
Japan is a popular destination for international students, with 300,000 having chosen to study there. The country offers a unique and rewarding experience for those seeking high-quality education and cultural immersion. Japan has a well-developed higher education sector, with 783 universities and junior colleges to choose from. The Japanese government has made efforts to attract international students by offering financial support through scholarships and a variety of English-taught programs. The application process for international students can be complex and time-consuming, with varying requirements for academic and language proficiency. Students will also need to obtain a visa and may need to apply for a residence permit depending on their circumstances.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| School year | Starts in April and ends in March |
| Holidays | Summer holiday over late July and August, and a short New Year's break |
| Intakes | Many top universities offer fall (September or October) intakes |
| Education system | Students graduate from high school with 12 years of education |
| Tuition fees | Competitive |
| Inflation rates | Low |
| Graduate employment opportunities | Increasing |
| Number of universities | 783 universities and junior colleges |
| Language | English-taught programs are available, but limited |
| Entry requirements | Academic and Japanese or English language requirements |
| Previous education | 12 years of high school education required before commencing university |
| Standardized tests | Many universities are standardized test-optional |
| Exams | Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) |
| Scholarships | Available |
| Visa | Required for international students |
| Entrepreneurial opportunities | Students with excellent entrepreneurial abilities can apply for permission to change their status of residence to Designated Activities |
| Internships | Paid internships require a "Permit to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted under the Status of Residence." |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Application process
The application process for Japanese universities can be complex and time-consuming, but here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate it. Firstly, decide what you want to study and the level of education you are interested in. Research the official websites of the universities you are mostly interested in, and contact your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for additional information.
If you are applying for a Bachelor's degree, you will need to take the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). For a Master's degree, you will need to provide proof of English language proficiency through examinations like TOEFL or IELTS. Many universities also accept other English language tests such as TOEIC or Pearson, or even your high school English results. Duolingo English Tests are also becoming more widely accepted.
Most universities will require a personal statement outlining why you wish to enter their program, as well as academic or character references. If you are applying for a scholarship, you may need to write an additional application essay. Many universities also conduct interviews as part of their admissions process.
After you have gathered all the necessary documents, submit your application through the university platform. There is no unified online application platform in Japan, so you will need to apply directly to the university. Pay the application fee and contact the university for any additional information regarding your submission.
Once you have obtained your student visa and prepared the necessary documents for insurance, you can start searching for accommodation options. Choose between a student dormitory, guesthouse, or private accommodation. Finally, you can pack your bags and get ready for your move to Japan!
International Students: Getting a UK Driver's License
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Scholarships and fees
International students can benefit from a wide range of scholarships and tuition fee reduction systems in Japan. The Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) Scholarship is the most popular scholarship for those who want to study in Japan. It has been inviting international students to study at state expense since 1954 and offers seven types of scholarship programs, including research students, teacher training students, undergraduate students, and Japanese studies students. Applications should be made through Japanese embassies, consulate-generals abroad, or Japanese universities.
There are also many other scholarships offered by Japanese universities and associated organisations. Most universities have a generous tuition fee reduction scholarship that can be applied for. The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers a pamphlet, 'Scholarships for International Students in Japan', which is a good place to start your research. Some scholarships can be applied for before arriving in Japan, while others are only available once you have a student visa. The majority of scholarship applications are submitted through the schools at which students will be enrolled in Japan.
It is important to note that scholarships are not designed to cover all the costs of international studies. Most scholarships provide partial support for living costs, tuition, and other major expenses. Therefore, it is recommended to have sufficient financial resources before coming to Japan and to create a dependable economic plan.
Some scholarships cover one flight ticket to Japan and one back to your home country, a monthly living allowance, and school tuition. Others offer tuition reductions every one or two semesters. The requirements of each scholarship vary, and some are only available to Japanese visa holders. It is worth checking the eligibility criteria, such as school level, age, nationality, and major.
To improve your chances of getting a scholarship, you can prepare evidence of any extracurricular achievements, such as academic or sporting awards, volunteer work, and student government participation. If an interview is part of the application process, be ready to speak about why you decided to apply and how studying at the university fits into your career and life goals.
Staying in the USA: International Students' Summer Options
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Student visas
To study in Japan as an international student, you will need to obtain a Japanese student visa. This is a long-term visa that is accepted by educational institutions in Japan, such as universities, schools, and vocational institutions. The process for obtaining a student visa can be straightforward, and there are several steps to follow.
First, you will need to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This is a document issued by a regional immigration authority, indicating that you meet the conditions to enter Japan. The application process for the COE can take between one to three months. Once approved, your school will send you the COE, which you will need to apply for the student visa.
Next, you will need to contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to initiate the student visa application process. Some embassies or consulates may not accept direct applications, so you may need to apply through an accredited travel or visa application agency. You will need to submit all the required documents, including the COE, visa application form, photos, and a valid passport. The embassy or consulate may request additional documents or an interview during this process.
After submitting your application, it typically takes between three to seven days for the embassy or consulate to issue the student visa. Once you have obtained your student visa, you can enter Japan and receive your Landing Permission at the port of entry by the immigration officers. If you have a single-entry visa, it will become invalid once you receive the Landing Permission. However, a multiple-entry visa will remain valid even after obtaining the Landing Permission.
It is important to note that a Japanese student visa does not authorize you to work in the country. If you wish to work during your studies, you must obtain a Work Permit from the local Immigration Office. There are also restrictions on the number of working hours and certain occupations that are off-limits for student visa holders.
Work in London: International Students' Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Academic year
Japan has 783 universities and junior colleges offering four-year bachelor's degree programs and six-year professional degree programs. The academic year typically starts in April, with some universities also offering fall admission in September or October.
The academic year in Japan is structured differently from that of many other countries. It mirrors the fiscal year, starting in April and ending in March of the following year. This unique timing allows students to experience the changing seasons in Japan, from the cherry blossom season in spring to the snowy winter months.
Most universities in Japan follow a semester system, with two semesters per academic year. The first semester usually runs from April to September, and the second semester from October to March. Each semester is further divided into quarters, with breaks in between for students to relax and recharge.
As an international student, you should be prepared for a rigorous academic experience. Universities in Japan are known for their high academic standards and dedicated professors. Classes are often organised in small groups to foster better learning and cooperation among students.
To apply for a bachelor's degree program, you will typically need to have completed 12 years of high school education. Universities may require your high school transcript and diploma, as well as standardised test scores such as the SAT or ACT. English-taught programs are available, but you may need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
International Students: E-Filing Made Easy
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Language requirements
To study in Japan as an international student, you will need to meet certain language requirements in Japanese, English, or both, depending on the university and degree program.
If you wish to enrol in a degree program taught in English, Japanese language proficiency is often not required. However, some universities offering English-taught degrees may still have specific English language requirements. For example, Japanese universities offering degrees in English typically require an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 or equivalent. If you have a lower level of English proficiency, you may be able to enter an English acceleration stream for your degree.
If you wish to study at a university where classes are taught in Japanese or in a bilingual Japanese/English program, you will need to demonstrate a higher level of Japanese language proficiency. The specific requirements vary from school to school, but generally, you will need at least an N2 level in the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). At this level, you will be able to read newspapers and simple essays in Japanese, present class projects, and follow most conversations, which is considered a good level for university students. To successfully complete a four-year degree taught in Japanese, you will likely need the N1 level, which is the highest level of fluency.
In addition to language proficiency tests, you may also be required to take an aptitude test called the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). This examination is used to assess the Japanese language proficiency and academic skills of international applicants. It covers subjects such as Japanese, Science, General Subjects, and Mathematics. Achieving a high score on the EJU increases your chances of being accepted into a broader range of universities.
Skipping a Semester: Options for International Students
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
To become an international student in Japan, you must meet the academic and language requirements of your chosen university. This may include taking the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) or an entrance exam set by the university. You will also need to have completed 12 years of high school education before starting university.
Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the university. Private universities tend to have higher fees. However, Japan has competitive tuition fees compared to other countries, and there are also plenty of scholarship opportunities available, as well as tuition reduction and exemption programs.
The Japanese school year starts in April and ends in March, with a summer holiday over late July and August and a short New Year's break. Many top universities now offer a fall intake (typically September or October) to accommodate international students.
