Tokyo University: A Haven For International Students?

The University of Tokyo, also known as UTokyo, is a public research university in Bunkyō, Tokyo, Japan. It is considered one of the country's most prestigious higher education institutions and has a history dating back to 1877 when it was established as the nation's first modern university. With a student body of over 30,000, including 2,100 international students from 109 countries, UTokyo offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including some taught entirely in English, making it an attractive option for international students. Its five campuses are located in the districts of Hongō, Komaba, Kashiwa, Shirokane, and Nakano, with the main campus in Hongō occupying the former estate of the Maeda family. The university has produced numerous notable alumni, including 15 Japanese prime ministers, astronauts, and Nobel laureates. UTokyo's strong reputation, academic offerings, and vibrant location in Tokyo make it a desirable choice for international students seeking a top-quality education in Japan.

The University of Tokyo's reputation as a good university for international students

The University of Tokyo is widely considered to be the most prestigious university in Japan. It was founded in 1877 as the nation's first modern university and has since produced 17 prime ministers of Japan, 19 Nobel Prize laureates, five astronauts, and a Fields Medalist. The university's alumni have also founded some of Japan's largest companies, such as Toyota and Hitachi, and hold chief executive positions in approximately a quarter of the Nikkei 225 companies.

The university has a strong reputation for its research, with various research institutes and graduate schools specialising in different fields. It also has a highly selective admission process, particularly for its undergraduate programmes. The University of Tokyo offers a range of degree programmes, including undergraduate and graduate courses, with some programmes taught entirely in English to cater to international students.

The University of Tokyo has a diverse student body, with international students comprising 17.7% of the total student population as of November 2023. The university provides various support services and resources for international students, including English-language degree programmes, non-degree programmes, scholarships, and exchange programmes with universities worldwide.

The university's main campus is located in Hongo, with additional campuses in Komaba, Kashiwa, Shirokane, and Nakano. The Hongo campus occupies the former estate of the Maeda family and features landmarks such as Akamon (the Red Gate) and the Yasuda Auditorium. The other campuses offer more modern features and specialised schools and departments.

The number of international students at the University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo, also known as Todai, is one of Japan's most prestigious higher education institutions. It was founded in 1877 as the country's first imperial university. Todai has five campuses: Hongo, Komaba, Kashiwa, Shirokane, and Nakano. The university consists of 10 faculties and 15 graduate schools and has approximately 30,000 students enrolled, of which around 2,100 are international students.

Todai is unique in that it offers several undergraduate programs taught entirely in English, which is unusual for a Japanese university. These include the International Program on Japan in East Asia and the International Program on Environmental Sciences. The university also introduced an all-English undergraduate transfer program in 2014 called the Global Science Course.

The University of Tokyo is committed to fostering a diverse and international student body. It has increased its autumn enrollment opportunities for international students and plans to increase the proportion of female faculty members. The university's reputation, combined with its focus on internationalisation, makes it an attractive choice for students worldwide.

The University of Tokyo's courses for international students

The University of Tokyo (UTokyo) offers a variety of courses for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs, exchange programs, and non-degree programs. Here is an overview of some of the key courses and programs available for international students:

Undergraduate Programs

UTokyo offers undergraduate programs that are taught entirely in English, which is unusual for a Japanese university. These include the International Program on Japan in East Asia and the International Program on Environmental Sciences. The university also provides the Global Science Course (GSC), a transfer program taught in English for students seeking a Bachelor of Science degree. Additionally, UTokyo offers the Programs in English at Komaba (PEAK), a Bachelor of Arts program based on a liberal arts curriculum. While PEAK is taught primarily in English, it includes compulsory Japanese language courses.

Graduate Programs

UTokyo offers a range of graduate programs across its 15 graduate schools. While specific admission requirements may vary, international students can generally apply for graduate programs based on their international qualifications. A wider variety of postgraduate programs are offered in English, making the international student ratio higher at this level.

Exchange Programs

UTokyo has established exchange programs with universities worldwide, providing opportunities for international students to study at UTokyo for a period while remaining enrolled at their home university. Notable partner institutions include Tsinghua University, Princeton University, the National University of Singapore, Yale University, and the University of Paris.

Non-Degree Programs

In addition to degree programs, UTokyo offers non-degree programs for international students who wish to pursue short-term studies or research opportunities. These programs can provide a valuable opportunity to experience UTokyo's academic environment without committing to a full degree.

Japanese Language Education

UTokyo also offers Japanese language education for international students who wish to improve their proficiency in Japanese. This can be particularly useful for those considering enrolling in undergraduate programs taught primarily in Japanese.

UTokyo's reputation as one of the top universities in Japan, along with its diverse range of courses and programs for international students, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a unique educational experience in a vibrant and culturally rich metropolis.

The University of Tokyo's campuses

The University of Tokyo has five campuses spread across the districts of Hongō, Komaba, Kashiwa, Shirokane, and Nakano. Each campus has its own unique features, history, and academic focus.

The main campus in Hongō occupies the former estate of the Maeda clan, feudal lords of Kaga Province. This campus showcases traditional Japanese architecture, including the Akamon (Red Gate) and the majestic Yasuda Auditorium, a registered tangible cultural heritage building. The Hongo campus attracts tourists due to its historic landmarks and is also where the university's annual May festival takes place. It is home to many historic buildings, with several of them being declared National Treasures of Japan. The campus was not damaged during World War II air raids, preserving its architectural heritage. Notable buildings on this campus include the Main Gate, the Faculty of Law & Letters buildings, the Faculty of Engineering (Reppin-kan), and the Faculty of Medicine Building 3, designed in the Gothic style known as Uchida Gothic.

The Komaba Campus, UTokyo's newest campus, has experienced a rich history, previously serving as a hunting preserve for shoguns, an agricultural school, and the First Higher School of Japan. It is home to the College of Arts and Sciences, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and the Graduate School of Mathematical Sciences. Approximately 7,000 freshmen and sophomores study at this campus.

The Shirokanedai Campus houses the Institute of Medical Science and is at the forefront of scientific research. The Kashiwa and Nakano campuses have more modern features and cater to various academic disciplines.

The University of Tokyo offers a unique undergraduate experience with a system of two years of general education before students choose their major, providing students with a broad foundation before specialization.

The University of Tokyo's admissions process for international students

The University of Tokyo (UTokyo) is a public research university in Bunkyō, Tokyo, Japan. It is considered one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the country, with a rigorous admissions process. Here is a detailed overview of the admissions process for international students:

Undergraduate Admissions

UTokyo offers undergraduate degree programs taught in Japanese and English. The admissions process varies for these two types of programs.

Undergraduate Programs in Japanese

For students applying to undergraduate programs taught in Japanese, there are two types of admissions tests: the General Screening Test and the Special Screening Test. The General Screening Test is for students who graduated from high schools in Japan, while the Special Screening Test is for students who graduated from high schools abroad. A high level of proficiency in Japanese is required for these programs, as most of the courses are taught in Japanese.

Undergraduate Programs in English

UTokyo offers undergraduate programs taught entirely in English, such as the International Program on Japan in East Asia and the International Program on Environmental Sciences. These programs do not require prior knowledge of Japanese, but compulsory Japanese language courses are included in the curriculum. International students who apply to these programs typically have received most of their school education in languages other than Japanese.

Graduate Admissions

UTokyo offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, with a significantly higher proportion of international students compared to undergraduate programs. Many of these postgraduate programs are taught in English, making it more accessible for international students.

Application Process

The specific application process and requirements can vary depending on the program and the student's background. However, here is a general overview of the application process for international students:

• Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for your desired program, including academic qualifications and language proficiency requirements.
• Application Form: Complete and submit the application form, which may include personal information, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
• Examinations: Depending on the program, you may be required to take standardized tests such as the Common Test for University Admissions or other specific entrance examinations.
• Interviews: Some programs may include interviews as part of the admissions process.
• Notification: Successful candidates are typically notified in March of the same year and are matriculated in April.

Scholarships and Exchange Programs

UTokyo also offers various scholarships, exchange programs, and student support services for international students. These opportunities can provide financial assistance and enhance the overall experience for international students.

Frequently asked questions