Studying in Japan: an introduction

Japan is a nation renowned for its technological prowess and rich cultural heritage. While not an obvious study-abroad destination, Japan offers a unique and rewarding experience for students seeking a well-rounded education.

Studying in Japan: a guide to higher education institutions

Japan has a diverse range of higher education institutions:

Universities: These cater to a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, offering undergraduate (gakushi) and postgraduate (shushi and hakushi) programmes. Notably, many universities are now extending their reach to international students by offering programmes taught entirely in English.

Junior colleges (tanki daigaku): These two-year institutions provide specialised vocational training, preparing students for specific careers in a focused and practical way.

Vocational schools (senmon gakko): Similar to junior colleges, vocational schools offer practical training in various skilled trades, equipping students with the necessary expertise to excel in their chosen fields.

Understanding these options allows us, as counsellors, to provide tailored guidance based on a student’s specific academic and career aspirations.

The application process

A successful application hinges on meticulous preparation. Here are some key considerations to navigate students through this crucial stage:

Programme selection: In-depth research is paramount. Encourage students to identify universities that align with their academic interests and career goals. The JASSO website serves as a valuable resource.

Admission requirements: Requirements can vary depending on the university and the programme. However, some common elements include academic transcripts, language proficiency tests (JLPT for Japanese; TOEFL/IELTS for English programmes), letters of recommendation from past educators, and a well-written statement of purpose.

Application deadlines: Adherence to deadlines is crucial. Whether applying through general admission, university-specific examinations, or the examination for Japanese university admission for international students (EJU), students must submit their applications well before deadline to avoid any last-minute complications.

The visa process

Applying for a student visa typically requires the following documents:

• Acceptance letter: proof of admission from a Japanese university
• Valid passport
• Visa application form, which can be obtained from Japanese embassies or consulates in the student’s home country
• Proof of financial support: documentation demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses during the study period.

Early planning and meticulous attention to detail are crucial for a smooth visa application process.

Scholarships

Studying abroad can be financially demanding. To bridge the potential financial gap, students should explore scholarship opportunities:

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) scholarships: these prestigious scholarships cover tuition, living expenses and sometimes even airfare. Students must apply through the Japanese embassy or consulate of the country where they are a national (the link above is for UK citizens).  

JASSO scholarships: the Japan Student Services Organisation offers a range of scholarships based on academic merit, financial need or specific research fields.

University scholarships: many universities offer their own scholarship programmes for international students.