How to Study in Japan? 🇯🇵📚

How to study in Japan?
Step-by-Step Guide for International Students – Start Your Journey Today! ✈️🎓

Studies in Japan - prestige, innovation and unforgettable adventure

More and more students are choosing to study in the Land of the Rising Sun. Why? Because studying in Japan offers not only the opportunity to obtain prestigious education, but also an unforgettable adventure full of completely new experiences. By studying in Japan and immersing themselves in its daily rhythms, young people have a unique opportunity to experience Japan from the inside—as no textbooks can reveal.

Japanese universities offer curricula adopted to national educational requirements, and many lecturers are active researchers involved in international projects. The country excels in fields such as technology, medicine, ecology, and engineering, providing students with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and well-equipped academic infrastructure.

Moreover, Japan offers excellent living conditions for international students, a modern and efficient transportation infrastructure, and a wide range of scholarships and financial support. All of this makes studying in Japan not only a chance to gain knowledge but also a great opportunity to build international relationships and pursue your passions.

Admission rules - who can study in Japan?

Japan is opening up to international students, offering them a wide range of educational opportunities. To be eligible to apply for a university in Japan, you must meet several basic requirements, depending on the level and type of study.

General requirements:

completed high school (for Bachelor’s degree programs),
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for Master’s degree programs in Japan),
Master’s degree (for doctoral degree programs in Japan),
adequate academic performance (required average grade varies depending on the host university),
motivation and academic development plan,
knowledge of English or Japanese, depending on the language in which lectures are conducted.

Additional requirements:

a cover letter and research plan—particularly important when applying for Master’s and doctoral programs;
recommendations from academic staff;
a certificate of completion or anticipated completion of current studies if applying during the final year.

For applications for Japanese scholarships (including the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs MEXT scholarship), additional steps include a written exam and an interview organized by the Japanese Embassy

Who can apply?

high school students planning to begin a Bachelor’s degree program;
final-year undergraduate students or graduates applying for a Master’s degree;
final-year graduate students or graduates planning to pursue a doctorate;
students in the humanities and engineering fields, including Japanese studies and international studies;
those wishing to pursue joint Master’s or short-term programs in Japan;
those interested in the Nikkensei Program (for teachers and graduates).

It is worth noting that Japanese universities value diversity and welcome international students who demonstrate commitment, passion, and a desire to learn about Japanese culture.

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Scholarship programs

MEXT Scholarship Programs – Opportunity for Education in Japan.

The Japanese Government Scholarship, awarded by MEXT (Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology), offers a variety of educational programs for international students. Applications are received by the Japanese Embassy in your country.

Here are the main scholarship program paths:

1. Bachelor’s Program:

The Japanese Ministry’s scholarship is available to individuals up to 24 years with a high school diploma. Applicants complete a one-year preparatory course in Japanese language in Japan, followed by a four-year Bachelor’s degree (or a six-year degree for medical, pharmaceutical, and veterinary programs). A Bachelor’s degree is awarded upon successful completion of the Bachelor’s degree program. Applications begin each spring, with exams and interviews held at the Japanese Embassy in the summer.

2. Postgraduate Program

This MEXT scholarship program is intended for those with a university degree and under the age of 35. Students complete a 1.5–2-year Master’s or doctoral program in Japan. The admission process begins at their home university and is continued by the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA). After being selected by NAWA, candidates take exams and interviews at the Japanese Embassy. Departures take place in April or October.

3. Nikkensei Program – Japanese Language and Culture

This program is designed for undergraduate Japanese studies students aged 18–30. It allows for a year-long stay at a selected Japanese university, during which participants immerse themselves in Japanese language and culture. Enrollment begins in January, and departure usually takes place in September or October. Language programs in Japan are excellent.

Japan Foundation Scholarships – Supporting Research and Language Learning.

In addition to the government MEXT scholarship programs, students and professionals can apply for support from The Japan Foundation. The Foundation runs several scholarship programs that support the development of language skills and research into Japanese culture and society. The Foundation’s activities perfectly complement those provided by the Japanese Ministry of Education, and the scholarship programs themselves support scientific and cultural development.

Main programs:

Japanese Studies Fellowship Program – designed for researchers specializing in Japanese studies. This program allows researchers to conduct research projects at Japanese academic institutions. This is a postgraduate program that can also be pursued by Master’s students and participants in doctoral programs in Japan.
Training Programs for Teachers of the Japanese Language – a language program for foreign Japanese language teachers, allowing them to improve their teaching and language skills. This program offers the opportunity to participate in intensive language classes in Japan.
Program for Specialists in Cultural and Academic Fields – designed for individuals from academic, scientific, and cultural backgrounds whose professional work requires knowledge of Japanese. Participants in this program have a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture and language in practice.

Applications for these programs are announced annually on The Japan Foundation’s website, typically in September. These programs are part of a broader support system, alongside initiatives such as foundation and corporate scholarships and university scholarship programs, providing an important complement for those who do not qualify for the Japanese government scholarship or seek more specialized forms of support.

Other study options in Japan

Although the article extensively describes scholarship programs such as the Japanese government scholarship MEXT and the Japan Foundation Programs, it is worth remembering that these ones are not the only ways to start studying in Japan.

Many students choose to apply directly to Japanese universities on their own, taking advantage of opportunities offered by English-taught programs at universities like the University of Tokyo, Osaka University, and Kyoto University. These programs are often open to international applicants and do not require proficiency in Japanese at the application stage.

Student exchange programs are also available at international universities cooperating with Japanese partners. These programs offer one or two semesters of studying abroad, often with partial or full reimbursement of tuition fees. This is a good option for students of international or Japanese studies who want to study in Japan without having to give up their studies in their home country.

Alternatively, private and short-term programs, such as those offered by language schools, offer intensive Japanese language study and empirical meeting with Japanese culture.

Many people may also find it beneficial to self-finance their studies in Japan – both at the undergraduate and graduate levels – through private scholarships, grants, or savings. In this case, it is worth exploring the offers of specific universities, as many offer internal scholarships for international students as soon as they begin their studies.

To sum up – if you dream of studying in Japan, but you do not qualify for official scholarship programs, do not give up your dreams! Japan offers many educational paths that can be adapted to individual needs and possibilities.

Daily student life and the academic year in Japan

Academic Calendar:

The Japanese academic year typically begins in April and lasts until February of the following year. Although some Japanese universities offer studies which commence in September, most students start learning in the spring. Bachelor’s degrees typically last four years, while Master’s degrees last two. Medical, legal, and pharmaceutical programs have extended study periods and culminate in a state examination that grants professional certification.

Student clubs and entertainment:

Student life in Japan is not just about lectures and exams. Students’ daily lives are also filled with social, sporting, and artistic activities. Student clubs in Japan play a particularly important role, bringing together young people with similar passions. Whether it is a football club, a university choir, a language club, or a calligraphy group, participating in such organizations allows you to acquire new skills and strengthen social bonds.

Japanese universities hold annual student festivals, such as gakuen-sai, in which almost all students participate. These events are a time for talent showcases, promoting scientific clubs, and academic integration. Their open nature also attracts high school students interested in what the university has to offer.

Part-time work
Part-time work for foreign students studying in Japan, including participants in Student exchange programs or Master’s degree programs in Japan, is possible, but also subject to regulations.

Firstly, every student, including those receiving a scholarship from the Japanese Ministry, must first obtain the appropriate permit from the immigration office. Without this document, employment is illegal and may result in deportation.

Secondly, the work must not negatively impact the completion of the study program. Students in undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs should always consult their work schedule with the university. Student life in Japan focuses primarily on education, so Japanese universities require students to maintain a proper balance between studies and other activities.

Employment in the adult entertainment industry, even indirectly, is prohibited. Furthermore, weekly work hours cannot exceed 28 hours during the semester, and during academic breaks, the limit is 40 hours per week.

The most common employment options for international students are restaurants (approximately 42%) and shops (approximately 29%). This type of work promotes the development of Japanese language skills and integration with the local community, which is an important element of Japanese student life.

Participants in both short-term programs and longer postgraduate or joint Master’s programs can take advantage of this form of paid employment, as long as it complies with immigration regulations. Universities also offer support in the form of career counseling and job preparation courses, which further facilitates the initiation of part-time work.

Useful information for students

Studying in Japan does not involve only applying to selected programs but also completing the formalities related to a stay. Here is a set of key practical information to help future students plan their trip and begin their studies at Japanese universities.

Student Visa:

Applicants who qualify for a university scholarship program or a Japanese government scholarship (including MEXT) must obtain a student visa in the ‘Student’ category. Visa processing is conducted at the Consular Section of the Embassy of Japan.

Required documents include:

visa application form (available on the Embassy’s website),
a passport,
a recent 4.5 x 4.5 cm passport size photograph.

Those traveling to Japan on Student exchange programs, short-term programs in Japan, or private trips will also be required to present a Certificate of Eligibility issued by Japan. Details are available at the Consular Section of the Embassy.

ZaiRyū card
After arriving in Japan (for selected international airports), students receive a residence card and a stamp confirming the entrance permission (Landing Permission). After accommodation, within 14 days you should register with the local City Hall as a resident. The residence card is a compulsory document and you should always carry it with you.

Registration number – My Number

Each student, after checking in, receives the so – called My Number. This is a 12-digit registration number needed to deal with administrative matters, e.g. health insurance or starting occasional work. The card with the number is sent by the postal service to the address of residence.

Health insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all students staying in Japan for more than three months. Health insurance covers 70% of medical expenses, with the remaining 30% covered by a student. This is especially important when starting a Master’s degree program in Japan.

Living expenses:
Japanese government scholarship holders are exempt from tuition fees. They also receive monthly benefits: an average of 117,000 JPY (2 889,90 PLN; 678,60 EUR; 783,90 USD) for undergraduate and Nikkensei students, and 143,000 JPY (3 532,10 PLN; 829,40 EUR; 958,10 USD) for graduate and postgraduate students. Additional funds no higher than several thousands JPY may be available for those studying in large cities. The largest expenses are accommodation and meals. A more affordable option are student dormitories in Japan, which, although they require fees, are usually cheaper than renting an

Frequently asked questions concerning studying in Japan

Do I have to know Japanese to study in Japan?
Not necessarily. Many Japanese universities offer programs in English, especially at the Master’s and doctoral level. However, it should be remembered that knowledge of Japanese makes everyday life and integration with society much easier.

Can I work during my studies in Japan?
Yes, but it is necessary to obtain a permit from the immigration office. Work cannot interfere with classes and cannot exceed 28 hours a week.

What documents are needed to obtain a student visa?
A passport, visa application, recent photo and – in the event of a government scholarship – Certificate of Eligility are required.

Can I get a scholarship if I apply to a university in Japan?
Yes. Many Japanese universities offer university scholarships for international students after starting their studies.

What are the costs of living in Japan?
The costs depend on the location. The biggest expenses are a flat and food. Dormitories are a cheaper option than private rental. You should also remember the cost of insurance.

Is Japan a good place to study humanities?
Yes. Studies related to Japanese culture, Japanese language, history and philosophy are particularly valued. For Japanese students, it is an ideal learning environment.

When is the best time to start preparations for studies in Japan?
It is recommended to start preparations 12-18 months before the planned trip. Earlier planning increases the chances of getting a scholarship and a visa without any delays.

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