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FAQ

Commonly asked questions about studying in Japan



ACADEMIC

ACADEMIC




What programs are available in English?

A number of Japanese Universities offer English programs in variety of filelds including Liberal Arts, Science and Engineering, Social Sciences, etc. This list by JASSO might be helpful: https://bit.ly/32DMTLo

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What programs are available in English?


Can I transfer credits that I earned from another school?

Some universities do accept credits transfer, while others don't. Contact the university that you are willing to transfer to.

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Can I transfer credits that I earned from another school?


What month do universities start in Japan?

In Japan, the academic year usually starts in April and ends in March the following year. However, with a growth of international programs, some students matriculate and graduate in September / October as well.

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What month do universities start in Japan?


How many classes do students take per semester?

Generally speaking, students take 8-12 classes per semester. Japanese Universities typically require 124 units in order to graduate (Bachelor). This may differ depending on a university.

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How many classes do students take per semester?


Can I do double majors or minors in Japan universities?

Generally speaking, double majors are not very common among Japanese Universities. Minors, on the other hand, are available at a number of universities, and referred as 副専攻 (fuku-senkou). However this may be limited to Japanese-track programs, or not apply to some universities. Please consult the information of the university you wish to attend.

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ADMISSIONS

ADMISSIONS




Is "Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)" required?

Japanese-taught degree programs usually require EJU, whereas most English-taught programs do not require any Japanese language proficiency at the time of admissions.

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Is "Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)" required?


Do Japanese universities accept A levels / IB?

Yes, the majority of universities in japan accept these credentials. Please check with the individual university on their requirements.

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Do Japanese universities accept A levels / IB?


How do I apply to Japanese Universities?

There is no centralized application system or “typical” application timeline. Please contact the individual university.

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How do I apply to Japanese Universities?


Can I apply if I am Japanese?

Whilst most English based programs of universities in Japan accept Japanese nationals, there are some that cannot. Please check with the university you are interested in.

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Can I apply if I am Japanese?


I am a Japanese national but study overseas, should I be applying as an international student or domestic?

There are various kinds of admissions methods including admissions for international students, domestic students, and Japanese students who study abroad (帰国子女きこくしじょ/ returnee students). Applicants are encouraged to refer to the universities's website as each university provides different admissions methods.

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What is the timeline for applications?

There is no centralized application application timeline. See the websites of each university to find out more.

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When applying for a English-based bachelor program in Japan, which English proficiency test score is required for admission? TOEFL or IELTS?

Typically, TOEFL iBT and IELTS are widely accepted among Japanese universities for English test scores. Some universities also accepts other English tests such as TOEIC and Duolingo.

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Is SAT required for admission?

Required documents for application differ depending on the university. Generally, SAT, and other standardized tests are widely accepted among Japanese universites. Please visit the website of the university you wish to attend.

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Can I apply with IGCSE results?

Typically, Japanese Universities accept A-levels as a qualification to apply for bachelor programs.

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Do Japanese universities accept IB certificate, or do they only accept IB Diploma?

IB Diploma is widely accepted among Japanese Universities. There are some universities and programs that accept IB certificate. Students are encouraged to consult with the admissions offices of the colleges you wish to apply for.

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Test centers are closed due to the pandemic of COVID-19. Do universities accept duolingo, TOEFL ibt Home edition, or IELTS indicator?

In response to the COVID-19 situation, some universities now accepts English tests such as TOEFL Home edition and Duolingo. See each university's requirement for English proficiency.

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FINANCIAL MATTERS

FINANCIAL MATTERS




Where can I find scholarship information?

A number of Japanese Universities provide various types of scholarships to international students. Visit each university's website for details. Examples of scholarships: Individual systems at universities (Some offering up to 100% tuition reduction)・JASSO Scholarships, Local government scholarships・Companies and corporate scholarships・FAFSA (at US-connected universities)・Loans available for Japanese Nationals

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Where can I find scholarship information?


How much does it cost to attend a Japanese University?

National universities are in the region of $5,000 USD per year. Private schools average around $10,000 USD per year before any scholarship.

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How much does it cost to attend a Japanese University?


How much is the living cost in Japan?

"Approximately 103,580-124,580 JPY ($941 to $1,132 USD) *Data from University Students’ Life Survey, conducted in 2017 by National Federation of University Co-operative Association. *Living costs vary depending on student lifestyle and area"

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How much is the living cost in Japan?



SCHOOL LIFE




Do Universities provide accommodation to international students?

A number of universities provide accommodation for international students, including on / off campus dormitories, and campus area apartment.

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Can I work part-time while studying in Japan?

International students are allowed to have part-time jobs both on-campus and off-campus in Japan for limited hours. To have a part time job with the student resident status, you must obtain a work permit. You can apply for this at the airport when you enter Japan or later at the Immigration Office. You should be aware that there are limits on the number of hours per week you can work and also types of part-time jobs you can do.

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What are the extra-curricular activities like in Japan?

There are number of clubs and circles (Term for student organizations) including sports, art, academics, volunteering, business, etc.

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Do I need to be fluent in Japanese?

For English programs there are usually no requirements of Japanese for application. Please check whether the program is fully in English or bi-lingual.

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If students study under English track programs, will they be separated from the rest of the university students who are doing the Japanese track programs? Is it an isolated group?

Some English-track classes are open to students under Japanese-track programs, and vice versa. There are also various University events, student organizations, and learning commons where both groups of students have access to.

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After getting a degree in Japan, is it possible to continue work in Japan instead of going back to our respective countries?

Some students do job hunting in Japan as companies are increasingly keen to hire international students. Typically, students start to job-hunt while they are still in university and find a job before graduation. It is highly encouraged for students to have good commands in Japanese language in order to find a job and work in Japan. Students are accessible to the career guidance services offered at each university.

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Japan University Consortium (JUC)

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