Renowned for its world-class academic standards, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery, Japan is an increasingly popular destination for scholars, currently hosting over 400,000 international students. While the Japanese university application process can seem complex, we are here to simplify every step of your journey.
From selecting your ideal degree program to gathering essential documentation, meeting critical deadlines, and navigating the visa application process, we have compiled everything you need to successfully study abroad in Japan.
Discover our comprehensive guide to navigating student life in Japan here!
Before applying to Japanese universities, it is important to understand the language requirements. While a growing number of institutions now offer English-taught programs, many courses are still delivered in Japanese, requiring proficiency for admission. Let’s walk through the foundational steps of your application.
The need to knows: how the Japanese university system works
Japanese higher education institutions are categorized as public, private, or national. It is important to note that these labels do not necessarily indicate the quality of education or the level of tuition fees.
International students can apply to various institutions, including Colleges of Technology, specialized training colleges, junior colleges, universities, or graduate schools. Most prospective international students pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees through major universities or graduate schools.
Junior colleges and specialized vocational colleges typically offer associate degrees and advanced diplomas, with program durations usually ranging between two and four years.
For a detailed overview of the Japanese higher education system, please refer to the official Study in Japan portal.
The academic calendar in Japan runs from April to March, aligned with the national financial year. Students enjoy breaks during the summer, winter, and spring.
While April is the traditional start of the academic year, many universities have introduced an autumn (September) admissions window to better accommodate international students and global exchange programs.
Applicants have two primary windows to begin their studies. For an April start, aim to apply by the preceding November; for a September intake, ensure your application is submitted no later than March. Always verify specific course deadlines on your chosen university's official website.
Instruction is provided in either Japanese or English. Japanese-taught programs generally require official certification via the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU). English-taught courses may waive these specific requirements, but always check directly with your institution.
The need to knows: how to apply to university in Japan
Now that you understand the academic system, prepare your documentation carefully. A comprehensive guide on how to apply to university in Japan can be found in this resource provided by the Study in Japan website.
Keep in mind that admission criteria and timelines can vary significantly between different universities and levels of study, so verify all details with your specific institution.
Your application requirements will depend on whether you are applying for a Japanese-taught or English-taught program. As globalization increases, many universities now offer specialized international tracks that may require additional documentation. Contacting the admissions office is the best way to ensure your application is complete.
Step 1: Choose your university and programme
Reflect on your academic interests and career objectives when selecting a program. You can browse our rankings to explore available Master’s degrees in Japan if you aren't sure where to start.
Step 2: Ensure your language proficiency results are ready
Most Japanese-taught programs require a minimum N2 score on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). Since this test is held in-person twice a year to align with university admissions, be sure to plan your testing dates well in advance.
English-taught programs may require proof of English proficiency, typically through the IELTS, TOEFL, or, increasingly, the Duolingo English Test. Confirm which tests are accepted by your university and visa processing authorities.
If you are exclusively applying to an English-taught degree program, you will generally not be required to take the JLPT.
Step 3: Apply to your chosen university with prepared documents
Every university has its own specific list of required documents for admission, which may include transcripts, recommendation letters, and identification.
- Completed application form (individual to every institute)
- Application fee payment
- High school diploma (Bachelor’s)
- Bachelor’s diploma (Master’s and other graduate courses)
- Academic transcript
- Passport photos
- Passport
- Personal statement -
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Language proficiency results
Please consult the admissions page of your chosen university to obtain the definitive list of required documentation.
Step 4: Take your university’s entrance examination
International applicants to English-taught programs are often evaluated via document screening, interviews, or standardized test scores. You will typically need to provide academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and complete any institution-specific entrance exams.
Most Japanese universities administer their own entrance examinations. These assessments verify your readiness beyond your academic records. As the University of Tokyo suggests, these exams are designed to test the skills and knowledge you acquired throughout your secondary education.
Because exam protocols vary by institution, confirm the testing dates and administration requirements directly with your university.
Step 5: Take the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
The EJU is a common entrance exam for international students in Japan, covering Science, Mathematics, Japan and the World, and Japanese as a Foreign Language. While scoring requirements vary, a score of 300 or higher is generally recommended.
The EJU is held in June and November, and testing locations outside of Asia may be limited. If you are applying from outside Asia, it is essential to check in advance where and when you can take the EJU.
Applicants for English-taught programs may instead submit standardized test scores like the SAT. For instance, the University of Tokyo’s PEAK program requires high school transcripts, standardized test results, English proficiency scores, and a personal statement, rather than the EJU.
Step 6: Time to celebrate!
Once you receive your letter of acceptance, take a moment to celebrate—you have reached a major milestone in your educational journey!
Step 7: Immigration and visa requirements
With your official university acceptance letter in hand, you can begin the formal process of applying for your Japanese student visa.
First, your university will assist you in obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Regional Immigration Bureau. You will then need to submit this, along with your passport photos and acceptance letter, to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to finalize your visa. Upon arrival, you will receive your Residence Card, marking the official start of your life in Japan!
The need to knows: cost of studying in Japan
Tuition fees in Japan are generally more affordable than in the US or UK, though specialized programs such as Medicine and Pharmacy, or studies at private universities, may command higher costs.
There are numerous scholarship opportunities available for international students; please explore our resources for further assistance.
Study in Japan provides a useful breakdown of average first-year tuition fees, excluding examination, material, and training costs:
National | Local | Private (excluding medical, dental and pharmaceutical programs) | Private (medical, dental, and pharmaceutical programs) | |
Graduate Schools | 820,000 yen | 900,000 yen | 1,100,000 yen | 870,000 yen |
Universities (undergrad) | 820,000 yen | 910,000 yen | 1,300,000 yen | 3,800,000 yen |
Junior colleges | 600,000 yen | 1,200,000 yen |
We have also compiled annual tuition data from top-ranking Japanese universities in our 2026 Metaranking to illustrate the typical range of fees for international students:
Admission fee (UG) | Annual tuition fee (UG) | Examination fee (UG) | Graduate (MAs) annual tuition fee | Law school annual tuition fee | |
282,000 yen | 642,960 yen | 4,000 yen (1st stage) 13,000 yen (2nd stage) | 535,800 yen | 804,000 yen | |
282,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 17,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 804,000 yen | |
282,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 17,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 804,000 yen | |
282,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 17,000 yen | 535,800 yen | 804,000 yen |
Tuition fees can vary significantly by course and institution, and are subject to change. Always confirm current costs directly with your target university.
Cost of living fluctuates depending on your location, with Tokyo being the most expensive. On average, international students should budget approximately 105,000 yen (€560) per month for living expenses, excluding tuition and research fees.
Be sure to account for significant upfront expenses, including admission fees, language proficiency testing, visa application costs, and travel.
Tips for applying to university in Japan
- Research your intended university and make a list of deadlines and necessary documentation ahead of time
- Book examinations as early as you can so, if you need to, you’re able to retake
- Reach out to peers that have studied in Japan to understand their experience and share advice
- While you’re revising for exams, why not stick on some Japanese-language TV so you can pick up more of the language to help you with your studying!
- Always leave buffer time: try and get ahead of the game by at least a few months so that you’re ready for the admissions windows when they come around
FAQ
Can I study in English in Japan?
Yes! More universities are offering English-taught programs, meaning you do not necessarily need to be fluent in Japanese upon arrival. However, learning the language is a highly recommended and rewarding part of the experience.
Do I need to speak Japanese to study in Japan?
Generally, yes, if you are joining a Japanese-taught program, you will need to demonstrate N2 proficiency on the JLPT. Even in English-taught programs, acquiring basic Japanese skills is encouraged for your integration and daily life.
When should I apply to university in Japan?
Most Japanese universities operate on two intake cycles: an April start (apply by November) and a September start (apply by April). Always verify exact dates on your university’s official admissions page.
Is it hard to get a student visa in Japan?
Following your admission, your university will support you in securing a Certificate of Eligibility, which is a required document for obtaining your student visa through the local Japanese embassy.
How much does it cost to study in Japan?
While costs vary, average tuition ranges between 820,000 and 1,300,000 yen annually, with estimated monthly living expenses of 105,000 yen.
Do I need to take the EJU?
Document requirements depend entirely on the specific program language track. You should always consult with your university’s admissions office to confirm the exact paperwork needed for your application.