Complete guide to studying in Japan
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Japan
Five top reasons to study in Japan
- World-renowned universities with strong global rankings
- Relatively affordable tuition and living costs compared to many Western countries
- Wide range of scholarships, including the prestigious MEXT scheme
- Unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation
- Strong career opportunities and pathways to employment after graduation
A quick introduction to Japan
Japan is an island nation located in East Asia, made up of four main islands – Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku, as well as thousands of smaller islands.
It lies in the Pacific Ocean, to the east of the Korean Peninsula, China and Russia. Japan is known for its mountainous landscapes, advanced infrastructure and unique blend of ancient traditions with cutting-edge modern technology.
International students find Japan an increasingly attractive destination for their studies, with over 200,000 foreign students currently enrolled at Japanese universities and colleges.
Students come from across the globe, with large numbers arriving from China, Vietnam, Nepal, South Korea and Indonesia, as well as from Europe and North America.
The popularity of Japan as a place to study abroad is closely tied to its excellent quality of life, high levels of safety and internationally respected education system. Japan consistently ranks highly in OECD (the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) measures of education, employment and healthcare, which makes it a supportive environment for international students.
The country’s higher education sector is world class, with the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University and Osaka University among the institutions regularly appearing in the top international university ranking tables.
Japan is also a culturally rich and diverse nation, with a long history shaped by both periods of isolation and global influence.
Students in Japan can experience everything from centuries-old temples and traditional festivals to some of the world’s most advanced cities, offering a unique and rewarding environment in which to live and study.
Japan’s higher education system
There are more than 780 universities located in Japan, which on the face of it is an extraordinary number for the size of the country.
Of these universities, around 80 are national universities which are run directly by the Japanese government. Roughly 90 further universities are public institutions administered by local prefectures or municipalities.
The majority of universities in Japan are private institutions, with around 600 privately funded institutions offering higher education courses.
Japan’s universities are spread across the country, but the largest concentration can be found in major urban centres such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya. Many institutions operate multiple campuses, often with separate facilities for undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes.
The first modern universities in Japan were established in the late 19th century, during the Meiji period, as the country rapidly modernised its education system. The University of Tokyo, founded in 1877, is the oldest and remains one of the most prestigious institutions in the country.
University education in Japan follows the 3-cycle system recognised internationally. Undergraduate (bachelor’s) degrees typically last 4 years, master’s degrees 2 years, and doctoral programmes 3 to 4 years. Professional degrees are also offered in fields such as law, medicine and business.
The National Seven Universities
Just as the USA has the Ivy League, the UK has the Russell Group and Australia has the Group of Eight, Japan has its own historic group of elite institutions known as the National Seven Universities.
These universities were established by the government to lead research and higher education in Japan and they continue to enjoy a reputation for excellence and strong global recognition:
- The University of Tokyo
- Kyoto University
- Osaka University
- Tohoku University
- Nagoya University
- Hokkaido University
- Kyushu University
Studying at one of these universities gives international students access to cutting-edge facilities, leading academics and strong networks for both research and employment opportunities.
University rankings
If you are at the stage of choosing a university in Japan, it is worthwhile considering university ranking tables as part of your decision-making process.
These rankings provide a useful way to compare the relative strengths of institutions, using metrics that matter to international students, such as teaching reputation, research output, international outlook and student support.
The quality of Japanese universities is reflected in their strong performance across well-known global ranking systems, with 15 of the top performing universities in the rankings shown in the table below:
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| The University of Tokyo | 28 | 84 | =36 |
| Kyoto University | 55 | =187 | 57 |
| Tohoku University | 120 | =308 | 109 |
| The University of Osaka | 162 | =314 | 91 |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology | 195 | 85 | |
| Nagoya University | 201-250 | =354 | 164 |
| Kyushu University | 301-350 | =352 | =170 |
| Hokkaido University | 351-400 | =434 | =170 |
| University of Tsukuba | 351-400 | =510 | =350 |
| Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) | 401-500 | =697 | |
| Hiroshima University | 601-800 | =628 | =480 |
| Juntendo University | 601-800 | =1014 | |
| Keio University | 601-800 | =550 | =215 |
| Kobe University | 601-800 | =709 | =482 |
| The University of Aizu | 601-800 |
Climate
Similar to many parts of East Asia, the weather in Japan is best described as highly varied and strongly seasonal.
If you are arriving from a country without distinct seasons, you might find the contrasts quite dramatic, summers can be hot and humid, while winters bring snow to much of the country.
Locals are quick to comment on the weather, and there are countless cultural references tied to the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn leaves in fall. You will also hear plenty of advice about coping with humidity in summer, such as carrying a fan or using cooling sprays.
But Japanese people don’t let extreme weather stop them from enjoying life outdoors. Summer festivals go ahead despite the heat and in winter you will see whole regions embrace skiing and snowboarding.
As long as you are prepared with an umbrella for the rainy season and warm clothes for the colder months, you will be ready for anything in Japan.
The country has a temperate climate overall, but the range of weather is wide. In summer, temperatures in many cities, including Tokyo, often reach 30 – 35 degrees Celsius (86 – 95 degrees Fahrenheit), with high humidity.
Winters, by contrast, can be quite cold, especially in the north, with Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps experiencing heavy snowfall. Areas further south, such as Kyushu and Okinawa, remain relatively mild.
Your location in Japan will make a big difference to the climate you experience. Coastal regions along the Sea of Japan often see heavy snow in winter, while Pacific coast cities like Tokyo and Yokohama usually have clearer but colder conditions.
The southern islands of Okinawa enjoy a subtropical climate, meaning hot summers and very mild winters, though they are also prone to typhoons in late summer.
Lifestyle and welfare
Healthcare
You might find it reassuring to learn that Japan offers you a very high standard of healthcare.
Japan has a universal healthcare system, and all residents, including international students, are required by law to join the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme if they are staying for more than three months.
This ensures that you only pay a portion of your medical costs, with the government covering the rest.
The monthly cost of NHI is usually very affordable for students, often around ¥2,000-¥3,000 (approximately €12-€18) depending on your income.
Once enrolled, you will only pay 30% of the total bill for doctor visits, hospital treatments or prescriptions.
Some universities also provide on-campus health centres offering basic check-ups and advice, which can be a convenient first step before visiting a hospital or clinic.
Leisure
Japan offers international students a huge range of cultural and leisure opportunities.
You can experience world-famous traditions such as spring hanami (cherry blossom viewing) or autumn leaf festivals, and join locals in celebrating seasonal events like summer fireworks festivals and New Year temple visits.
For nature lovers, Japan is full of options, from hiking in the Japanese Alps to relaxing in natural hot spring resorts (onsen). Coastal areas and islands also offer sandy beaches and water sports in summer.
Urban life is just as exciting. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are rich in cultural attractions, with everything from ancient shrines and temples to cutting-edge shopping districts and pop culture hubs. You will also find museums, art galleries and an active music and theatre scene across the country.
Japanese people are known for being polite and respectful and international students generally find the local communities welcoming, though the culture can feel more formal compared to Europe.
Transportation
Getting around in Japan is easy thanks to one of the most advanced public transport systems in the world.
The train network is extensive, fast and punctual. Students living in major cities often rely on local trains and subways for everyday commuting, while longer journeys can be made on the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains).
Most students will use an IC card (such as Suica or Pasmo) to pay for public transport. These rechargeable smart cards can be used across trains, buses, subways and even in convenience stores.
Many universities also offer discounted commuter passes if you travel regularly between your home and campus.
Cycling is another popular and inexpensive way to get around, especially in smaller cities and university towns, where bike rental schemes or affordable second-hand options are easy to find.
Food
Japan is a paradise for food lovers, and you will find both international cuisines and traditional Japanese dishes everywhere.
Supermarkets and convenience stores carry a wide range of products, so it is easy to adapt whether you want to cook familiar meals or explore local flavours. Popular student-friendly foods include:
- Ramen – hearty noodle soup available in countless regional varieties.
- Sushi – from conveyor-belt restaurants (kaiten-zushi) to fresh market stalls.
- Okonomiyaki – savoury pancakes cooked with cabbage, meat and sauces, especially popular in Osaka and Hiroshima.
- Kare raisu (Japanese curry) – mild curry with rice, a common and affordable meal.
- Mochi – chewy rice cakes, often filled with sweet bean paste or seasonal flavours.
Eating out can be surprisingly affordable, with chain restaurants, noodle shops and convenience store meals offering good value.
Safety
Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, making it a very attractive destination for international students.
Crime rates are low, and it is common to see people leaving personal belongings unattended in cafés or on trains without worry. Public transport is also very safe to use late at night.
Natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons are more common than in many other countries, but Japan is extremely well-prepared, with clear safety procedures and regular drills.
Universities also provide guidance to international students on how to respond in such situations.
Overall, you will find Japan to be one of the safest and most welcoming study destinations in the world, combining a high quality of life with a rich cultural experience.
University cities
With a wide range of prestigious universities across the country, many cities in Japan can offer international students an exciting and rewarding study abroad experience.
We recommend exploring as many places as you can, but to get you started, some of the most popular cities for international students in Japan include:
Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is the largest metropolitan area in the world and home to some of the country’s most prestigious universities, including the University of Tokyo, Waseda University and Keio University.
The city offers international students a unique mix of modern skyscrapers, cutting-edge technology and vibrant neighbourhoods, alongside historic temples and traditional gardens.
With tens of thousands of international students already studying here, Tokyo provides an exciting and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Kyoto
Known as Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto is famous for its traditional temples, shrines and cultural heritage. It offers a quieter, more historic atmosphere compared with Tokyo, but is still home to world-class institutions such as Kyoto University and Ritsumeikan University.
International students in Kyoto enjoy the balance between academic excellence and a city that feels steeped in tradition, with festivals, tea houses and historic architecture all part of daily life.
Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and is well known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant street food culture. It is home to Osaka University, one of Japan’s top research universities, as well as Kansai University and Osaka City University.
For international students, Osaka combines strong academic opportunities with an affordable and lively lifestyle, making it a popular choice for those who want to study in a dynamic urban setting.
Fukuoka
Located on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka has become one of Japan’s fastest-growing student cities. It is home to Kyushu University, one of Japan’s leading institutions and attracts international students with its modern campus and innovative research programmes.
Fukuoka is known for being a welcoming, student-friendly city, offering a more relaxed pace of life compared with Tokyo or Osaka, while still providing plenty of cultural attractions, shopping districts and famous local cuisine such as Hakata ramen.
Nagoya
Nagoya, located in central Japan, is an important hub for industry and innovation, especially in the automotive and technology sectors. Nagoya University is one of the country’s most respected research universities and has produced several Nobel Prize winners.
International students in Nagoya benefit from the city’s strong academic reputation, excellent transport links and a balance of modern city life with access to nearby traditional towns and rural landscapes.
Student visa
International students who want to study in Japan will need to obtain a valid student visa before arriving in the country. This is issued by a Japanese embassy or consulate once you have received a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) from your admitting university.
For programmes longer than 3 months, the student visa is typically granted for periods of 1 or 2 years, and it can be renewed if your studies continue.
The student visa also serves as your residence status in Japan, and you will need to register your address with your local municipal office shortly after arrival.
Costs of studying
Course fees
For international students, tuition fees in Japan are generally lower than in many Western countries.
On average, you can expect to pay around ¥535,800 (approximately USD 3,500-4,000) per year in tuition at public universities, plus an additional one-off admission fee of around ¥282,000 (USD 1,800-2,000) when you first enrol.
Private universities are more expensive, with annual tuition fees typically ranging from ¥800,000 to over ¥2,000,000 (USD 5,500-14,000) depending on the course and university.
Programmes in medicine, dentistry and some professional fields can cost significantly more.
Graduate programmes are generally slightly more expensive than undergraduate degrees, though still relatively affordable compared to international standards.
Living costs
The cost of living in Japan varies depending on the city. Tokyo and Yokohama are the most expensive places to live, with accommodation in central districts often costing more than ¥80,000 (USD 550) per month for a small apartment.
In smaller cities such as Sendai, Fukuoka or Sapporo, students may find accommodation from ¥30,000-50,000 (USD 200-350) per month, making these locations more affordable.
Beyond rent, international students should budget around ¥80,000-120,000 (USD 550-850) per month for living expenses, including food, utilities, travel, phone bills and personal costs.
University dormitories can be a cheaper option, but places are limited and competition is high.
Scholarships
There are a wide range of scholarships available for international students in Japan. Many universities offer their own funding schemes, so it is worth checking directly with your chosen institution.
The most prestigious national scheme is the MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho), which is funded by the Japanese government and provides full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend and travel expenses for selected students.
Other options include the JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) scholarships, which provide partial financial support for international students.
How to apply to university
To apply to university in Japan, most international students will apply directly to their chosen institution, following the procedures outlined on the university’s admissions website.
Each university sets its own requirements, which may include entrance examinations, academic transcripts, proof of language ability and recommendation letters.
Some students may also apply through the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students), which is administered by JASSO and used by many universities to assess applicants’ academic ability and Japanese language skills.
Not all universities require the EJU, so it is important to check with your chosen institution.
The Japanese academic year usually begins in April, with a second intake at some universities in September or October.
Application deadlines vary, but in most cases you will need to apply between six months to a year in advance of your intended start date.
To ensure your application is considered in time, it is best to apply as early as possible and complete all requirements well before the stated deadline.
Job prospects for international graduates
Your future job prospects in Japan as a graduate will depend on your chosen field of study and the sector you wish to enter, but there is strong demand for skilled workers in areas such as engineering, information technology, healthcare and research.
Japan’s government has introduced measures to attract more international talent, making it easier for foreign graduates of Japanese universities to find employment in the country.
After graduation, international students can change their residence status from ‘student’ to ‘designated activities,’ which allows them to remain in Japan for up to one year while searching for work. If you secure a job, you can then switch to a suitable work visa, such as the ‘Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services’ visa.
In addition, Japan has introduced a points-based system for highly skilled professionals, which can offer faster routes to permanent residency for graduates who enter in-demand fields.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in Japan?
No. Universities in Japan charge tuition fees, though public universities are relatively affordable compared with many Western countries.
International students at public institutions typically pay around ¥535,800 (USD 3,500-4,000) per year, while private universities can charge between ¥800,000 and ¥2,000,000 (USD 5,500-14,000) depending on the course. Scholarships are available to help with costs.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. If you hold a student visa, you can apply for a separate work permit that allows you to work part-time for up to 28 hours per week during term time, and up to 40 hours per week during university holidays.
Many international students take part-time jobs in retail, hospitality or tutoring.
Can I stay in Japan after graduation?
Yes. After completing your degree, you can apply to change your residence status to allow up to one year in Japan while searching for work. Once you secure a job, you may then switch to a suitable work visa, such as the ‘Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services’ visa.
What language are courses taught in?
Many Japanese universities now offer degree programmes taught entirely in English, especially at the postgraduate level.
However, a large number of courses are still delivered in Japanese, and learning the language is strongly recommended for both academic and career purposes.
Do I need health insurance as a student in Japan?
Yes. All international students are required to enrol in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system upon arrival. This provides affordable access to healthcare, with 70% of medical costs covered by insurance and the remaining 30% paid by the student.