Japan

Country overview

Japan is an island country in East Asia, which is one of the most economically powerful countries in the world. Japan is known as the country of electronics and robotics, high-tech cars and machinery, outstanding universities and researches. More than 300,000 students from over 170 countries and regions study at Japanese universities, according to the Embassy of Japan.
Capital: Tokyo
Official language: Japanese
Language of instruction: Japanese; a growing number of programs offered entirely in English
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Main intakes: April (main intake) and September/October
Student visa: 'Student' status of residence, based on a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)

Why choose Japan

• Excellence in science and technology: Japanese universities are known for their high-quality engineering, technology, and research.
• Affordable national universities: national universities offering a standard fee for all students, which is relatively low for the level of development of the country.
• Scholarships: a wide range of scholarships for international students provided by the Japanese Government (MEXT) and the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO).
• An opportunity to work while studying: while being in Japan on a student visa, with permission from the immigration authorities, it is possible to work part-time to cover some of the living expenses.
• High employability: Japanese companies are interested in employing foreign specialists, including those who have graduated from Japanese universities, and provide opportunities for work, especially for those who know the Japanese language.

Education system

The Japanese education system includes national, public, and private universities, junior colleges, colleges of technology, and specialized training colleges (senmon gakko). The standard for bachelor's degrees is usually four years (six years for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine), master's degrees – two years, and doctoral degrees – three to five years. While the academic year typically begins in April, many universities offer programs starting in September or October, including those taught in English.
Many Indian students, for example, start their studies in Japan by attending a Japanese language school, where they learn the Japanese language for one or two years. After this, they can choose to study at a university, college, or vocational school in Japan. Some students are able to start their studies directly in the universities' English programs.

Cost of studying

The standard tuition fee at national universities is 535,800 yen per year, plus a one-time enrollment fee. Public (prefectural and municipal) universities set their own fees, but they are generally in the same range. At private universities, fees are usually higher. Many national universities provide a reduction or exemption from tuition fees for international students for various reasons. In addition, students who receive a MEXT scholarship or a JASSO scholarship pay significantly lower fees.

Living expenses

The cost of living depends on where exactly you are in Japan, as the cost varies significantly from city to city. According to the Japan Student Services Organization's official 'Study in Japan' website, the average monthly rent for international students is 41,000 yen nationwide and 57,000 yen in Tokyo. The cost of commuting is also significant, as many cities do not have affordable housing near universities.
In addition, Fukuoka, Osaka, Sendai, and Sapporo are major cities with a lower cost of living compared to the capital. Moreover, all foreign students who stay in Japan for more than three months are obliged to take out Japan's National Health Insurance, which covers most medical expenses.

Culture and lifestyle

Japan is a country that combines traditional and modern cultures. Japan has many ancient temples and shrines, and at the same time, very high-tech cities full of bright lights. One of the most famous seasonal traditions in Japan is the viewing of cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn. In addition, Japanese food and cuisine are very famous and sought after all over the world.
Japanese people are very disciplined and punctual, and large cities are clean and safe. Trains are always on time, and life in general is highly organized. Knowing the Japanese language will help you feel more comfortable in everyday life, find a job, and make new friends. This also applies to working part-time jobs while studying in Japan.

Entry requirements

Academic qualifications for bachelor's courses: completion of 12 years of schooling; for Japanese-taught programs: knowledge of the Japanese language (if applying through the EJU exam or the JLPT exam). For programs taught in English: IELTS or TOEFL scores for Japanese-taught programs; contact the university for exact requirements. For Master's programs: a first (bachelor's) degree; for some programs, contact possible supervisors before applying to the university. Language schools: proof of knowledge of the Japanese language at the level of at least N5 (JLPT) or equivalent is often required when applying to Japanese language schools. Visa requirements Enrollment at a university, college, or language school in Japan; A Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) issued by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, which must be applied for through the educational institution; Proof of financial resources (usually provided by a parent or guardian); Submission of a visa application at the Embassy or Consulate of Japan with the CoE and other documents. Working part-time jobs: 'Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted' ('Permission to Work') allows students to work up to 28 hours per week during the academic year and more during long breaks.

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