Who are the partner schools in Japan affiliated with Study in Asia?
Study in Asia partners with a wide network of reputable institutions across Japan:
Language Schools
- International Study Institute (ISI) (New Name: WeWorld)
- Shibuya LALL Japanese Language
- Shibuya Gaigo Gakuin
- The Kyoto Center for Japanese Linguistic Studies / Kyoto Japanese Language School
- The Naganuma School
- Samu Language School
- Kyoshin Language Academy / OLJ Language Academy
- Osaka YMCA Japanese Language School / Osaka YMCA Gakuin Japanese Course
- Osaka Japanese Language School
- Higashi Osaka Mirai Japanese School
- SAELU Gakuin
- Loop International
Universities & Higher Education
- Sophia University
- Asia University
- Intensive Japanese Language School affiliated with Asia University
What types of higher education institutions are there in Japan?
- Universities (Daigaku): Offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
- Junior Colleges (Tanki Daigaku): 2–3 year vocational/associate programs
- Professional Training Colleges (Senmon Gakko): Focus on fields like IT, healthcare, fashion
- Colleges of Technology (Kosen): 5-year specialized technical education
What language are programs taught in?
- Most programs are taught in Japanese.
- JLPT N2 or higher is usually required for Japanese-taught programs.
A growing number of English-taught programs are available, especially in universities and graduate schools.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
For English-taught programs, applicants must typically submit scores from one of the following tests:
| Test | Minimum Score (Undergraduate) | Minimum Score (Graduate) |
| TOEFL iBT | 61–79 | 79–100+ |
| IELTS Academic | 5.5–6.0 | 6.0–6.5+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 90–105 | 105–120+ |
| TOEIC (less common) | 600–700+ | Case-by-case basis |
Minimum scores vary by institution and program. Some top-tier universities may require higher scores, especially for graduate-level admission.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
Undergraduate Programs
- Completion of 12 years of schooling
- Academic transcripts
- Entrance exam or EJU (for Japanese-taught programs)
- Language proficiency (JLPT or equivalent for Japanese-taught, TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught)
Graduate Programs
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts and certificate
- Letters of recommendation
- Supervisor matching (for some programs)
- Research plan or proposal (for doctorate programs)
- Language requirements (English or Japanese depending on the program)
Language Schools
Applicants must typically meet the following criteria:
- Completed 12 years of formal education in their home country (high school graduate) – not a mandatory requirement as some of our language school partners accept students below 18 yrs old
- Demonstrated interest in Japanese language and culture
- Basic English or Japanese communication ability (interview may be conducted)
- Submission of:
- Valid passport
- Educational transcripts and certificate of graduation (depending on the program applied for)
- Proof of financial ability (usually showing sponsor’s bank balance or income)
- Application form provided by the school
When are the application periods?
- April intake is the main academic intake – apply between September and February
- October intake is available at many institutions – apply by April–July
Language schools may offer January, April, July, and October intakes
Do students need to take any standardized exams?
- EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) – Often required for Japanese-taught undergrad programs
- JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) – Common requirement for Japanese-taught programs. Some language schools offer pathway options as well
Some schools require university-specific entrance exams or interviews
Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes! Students can apply for:
- MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship – full tuition + stipend
- JASSO Scholarships – for language and university students
- University-specific scholarships – merit- and need-based
- Private foundation scholarships – sometimes arranged via the school
How much does it cost to study and live in Japan?
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
| Tuition | ¥500,000 – ¥1,200,000/year (≈ USD $3,500–$8,500) |
| Living Expenses | ¥80,000 – ¥120,000/month (≈ USD $550–$850) |
Can international students work part-time while studying?
Yes! Students can work:
- Up to 28 hours/week during school terms
- Up to 40 hours/week during holidays
They must obtain a “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” from immigration.
Click here for more information
How does the student visa application process work?
Agents should support students with:
- Application for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) via the chosen school
- Preparation of financial and academic documents
- Submitting the Student Visa application at the Japanese embassy or consulate
Click here for more information
Can students stay in Japan after graduation?
Yes, graduates can:
- Apply for a Designated Activities Visa to job-hunt (usually valid for 6–12 months)
- Apply for a Work Visa if they are offered employment in a qualifying field
- Pursue further graduate studies
Click here for more information
What are the best cities in Japan for international students?
- Tokyo: Capital city with global universities and diverse opportunities
- Osaka: Affordable, vibrant, with strong business and cultural ties
- Kyoto: Famous for culture, history, and top academic institutions
- Fukuoka: Friendly, fast-growing tech hub
- Nagoya: Central location, industrial strength, and strong international presence
Why should students choose Japan for their studies?
- World-class education and research institutions
- Rich cultural and historical immersion
- Safe, modern, and highly efficient infrastructure
- Opportunities to work during and after study
- Availability of generous scholarships
Provided by Study in Asia – Your Trusted Partner for Education in Japan